Tassia Lodge stands as one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari destinations—a community-owned eco-lodge that offers an immersive, off-grid wilderness experience in the heart of Laikipia’s Lekurruki Conservancy. For travellers seeking genuine connection with nature, culture, and conservation, Tassia delivers an unforgettable journey far removed from conventional safari tourism.

A Lodge Born from Community Vision

Tassia Lodge was created through a groundbreaking partnership between local Yaaku (Mukogodo Maasai) elders and conservationists, with the shared vision of building a sanctuary where community, culture, and wild nature thrive together . Constructed in 2000 and opened to guests in 2001, the lodge was built by the surrounding community using local timber, stone, and indigenous techniques—no trees were cut during construction, and the entire project prioritised environmental preservation .

Today, Tassia remains the only lodge within the 60,000-acre Lekurruki Community Ranch, guaranteeing guests complete privacy in a wilderness area largely untouched by tourism . The lodge employs 90% of its staff from the Lekurruki Group Ranch, with revenue split between operating costs (40%) and community projects including water pumps, school bursaries, and infrastructure (60%) .

Location and Setting

Perched dramatically on the edge of a rocky bluff along the Mokogodo escarpment, Tassia Lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Lengishu plains, Lossos Hills, and toward the sacred Ololokwe Mountain and Samburu beyond . The lodge sits within Lekurruki Conservancy, a vital wildlife corridor bordered by Il Ngwesi, Borana, and Laikipia Wilderness Camp .

This privileged location places guests within easy reach of some of Kenya‘s most celebrated conservation areas, while maintaining the exclusivity and seclusion that defines the Tassia experience.

Accommodation: Eco-Luxury in the Wild

Tassia features six to seven en-suite eco-rooms (depending on configuration), each individually designed to mould around the natural rocks and trees present during construction . The rooms embrace an open-air architectural philosophy, with the side facing the view completely open, allowing unobstructed vistas of the wilderness and wildlife below .

Each room includes:

• Luxuriously large beds draped with mosquito netting
• Private terraces or balconies overlooking the savannah
• En-suite bathrooms with showers offering views of the surrounding bush
• Natural colours, stone floors, and rustic wooden furniture that blend seamlessly with the landscape

The lodge‘s distinctive architecture combines thatched roofs, barely-there rock walls, and subtly Moroccan-influenced decor, all designed to highlight the spectacular views . A natural rock swimming pool overlooking the valley provides a refreshing retreat, while the central lounge, well-stocked bar, and dining areas invite relaxation and connection .

Safari Experiences at Tassia

Walking Safaris

Walking is the primary and most celebrated activity at Tassia. With no pollutants of sound or smell, and without the relative safety of a vehicle, guests experience the African bush in its purest form . Guided walks vary in length and emphasis:

• Wildlife tracking with manager Martin Wheeler‘s expert team
• Botanical walks learning traditional uses and medicinal properties of plants
• Cave walks to see where Maasai communities once lived
• Forest walks in the nearby Mukogodo Forest, rich with butterflies and rare plants

Wildlife Viewing

While Tassia is not a Big Five destination in the traditional sense, the conservancy supports remarkable biodiversity. Lekurruki’s wildlife corridor provides sanctuary for elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, Grevy‘s zebras, giraffes, elands, kudu, buffalo, and over 300 bird species . The valley in front of the lodge, filled with riverine trees, is particularly popular with elephants and buffalo .

Cultural Immersion

Guests are invited to engage authentically with the local Yaaku community:

• Learn from local guides and storytellers
• Participate in cultural visits and discover Yaaku traditions
• Visit local villages and community projects
• See how tourism revenue strengthens community livelihoods

Additional Activities

• Night-time camel safaris and bush sleep-outs
• Sundowner excursions
• Bush breakfasts, picnic lunches, and starlit dinners
• Birdwatching and nature photography
• Horse riding safaris (arranged)
• Scenic flights over the area (additional cost)
• Fly camping in the conservancy

Conservation and Community Impact

Every stay at Tassia Lodge directly supports conservation and community development. Revenue from ecotourism funds:

• Community-led wildlife patrols and anti-poaching initiatives
• Grazing management programmes that balance livestock needs with wildlife corridors
• Education and healthcare projects for the 820 families calling this land home
• Sustainable land-use practices overseen by the Conservancy Grazing Committee

The lodge operates fully off-grid, using solar power and energy-saving hot water heaters, with a commitment to minimising environmental footprint .

Rates and Practical Information

Season	Adult (Sharing)	Single	Child (5-12 yrs)
Green Season (1 Apr – 31 May, 1 Nov – 10 Dec)	$250	$290	$125
High Season (6 Jan – 31 Mar, 1 Jun – 31 Oct)	$270	$310	$135
Peak Season (11 Dec – 5 Jan)	$300	$400	$150

Conservation Fee: $45 per adult / $20 per child per night

Inclusions: Full board (all meals), non-alcoholic soft drinks

Exclusions: Conservation fees, alcoholic drinks, cultural visits, transportation, gratuities

Check-in/out: 11:00 am / 10:00 am

Children under 5 years are not permitted .

Why Choose Tassia Lodge?

Tassia offers something increasingly rare in modern safari tourism: an experience that is wild, raw, and authentic. This is not a destination for those seeking opulent five-star luxury or action-packed Big Five game drives. Instead, Tassia invites guests to slow down, walk, observe, and connect—with the land, its wildlife, and the people who have called it home for generations.

For travellers who value meaningful travel, who wish to see their tourism dollars directly support conservation and community empowerment, and who crave an escape from the connected world, Tassia Lodge delivers an experience that resonates long after departure.

Explore Similar Safari Experiences

For those interested in combining Tassia with other exceptional Kenyan safari destinations, consider these complementary lodges:

In the Laikipia Region

• Il Ngwesi Lodge — A fellow community-owned eco-lodge in the neighbouring Il Ngwesi Group Ranch, offering similar cultural immersion and conservation-focused hospitality .
• Borana Lodge — Set on a 35,000-acre private ranch on the Laikipia Plateau, Borana offers luxurious comfort with horseback safaris, rhino conservation, and spectacular Mount Kenya views .
• Ol Malo — A family-owned sanctuary on the edge of the Laikipia plateau, known for its intimate atmosphere and adventurous activities including helicopter safaris, horseback riding, and Samburu cultural experiences .

Sister Properties at Beyond Kenya Safaris

• Tawi Lodge — An eco-award-winning lodge in the heart of its own 3,000-acre private conservancy in Amboseli, offering unpretentious comfort with spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and abundant elephant sightings .
• Ol Malo Lodge — The flagship property of the Francombe family, offering luxury ranch-style accommodation and some of Kenya‘s most varied safari activities, from game drives to cultural visits with Samburu communities .

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Experience the authentic heart of Kenya with Beyond Kenya Safaris. Contact our team to design your personalised itinerary combining Tassia Lodge with other extraordinary Kenyan destinations.

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Nearby Safari Lodges

The area around Tassia Lodge boasts other magnificent safari lodges within the Laikipia region, each offering distinct experiences and adventures:

• IL Ngwesi Lodge
• Laikipia Wilderness Camp
• Borana Lodge
• El Karama Lodge

With a focus on personalized service, conservation, and community, Tassia Lodge is a jewel in Kenya’s safari crown, offering an escape like no other. From the heart-stopping beauty of early morning game drives to the tranquility of a sunset over the African savanna, Tassia is a place to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Similar Lodges in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds. Visitors looking for an experience akin to Tassia Lodge in Amboseli can consider the following lodges:

• Ol Tukai Lodge:-Ol Tukai Lodge is one of the best spots to witness elephants with the backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain. With beautiful gardens, the lodge also offers comfort and a chance to spot other wildlife species in the wetlands.
• Tortilis Camp:-An award-winning eco-camp, Tortilis Camp boasts expansive views of Mount Kilimanjaro and offers a luxurious yet authentic safari experience. Guests can enjoy game drives in open vehicles and bush walks with experienced Maasai guides.
• Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge:-Set against the magnificent backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, with classic safari styling and a Maasai cultural theme, the lodge offers a range of amenities and activities including game drives and Maasai dance performances.

Similar Lodges in Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve is famous for the Great Migration and an abundance of big cats. Those who enjoyed Tassia Lodge might also appreciate these places:

• Governors’ Camp:-As one of the first permanent tented camps in Masai Mara, Governors’ Camp sets new standards in luxury for safari goers, with an unfenced design to allow movement of animals through the grounds.
• Mara Bushtops:-Mara Bushtops is a premium luxury camp offering tents with private views, sunken hot tubs, and wildlife viewing from your own deck. Their conservation efforts and community support are a big part of their ethos.
• Kichwa Tembo Tented camp:-Situated on a private concession bordering the reserve, Kichwa Tembo offers exclusive safari experiences. The camp is known for its panoramic views, elegant tents, and excellent game-viewing opportunities.

These lodges in Amboseli and Masai Mara reflect the spirit of Tassia Lodge, with a focus on sustainable luxury, unique experiences, and authentic cultural interactions, ensuring a memorable safari in the heart of Kenya.

Contact Tassia Lodge today at +254 785 639 497 or Chat with us to plan your exceptional Laikipia safari experience.

Guest Testimonials for Tassia Lodge

Nothing speaks more to the magic and quality of a safari experience than the glowing reviews of past guests. Here’s what some of the visitors had to say about their stay at Tassia Lodge:

“A Breathtaking Retreat”

“Tassia Lodge was absolutely breathtaking. From the moment we arrived, we were treated to stunning views and incredible hospitality. The attention to detail in both the service and the accommodations made our stay unforgettable. This isn’t just a hotel, it’s a truly immersive experience.” – Jessica & Mark, USA

“Close Encounters with Wildlife”

“Our family couldn’t have asked for a more thrilling safari. The game drives were outstanding, bringing us close to Kenya’s majestic wildlife. Our knowledgeable guides made every outing an educational adventure, respecting the animals and their habitats.” – The Khanna Family, India

“Eco-Conscious Luxury”

“It’s impressive how Tassia Lodge manages to provide luxury in such an eco-friendly manner. Knowing that our stay contributes to conservation efforts and the local Maasai community gives our vacation an additional feel-good factor that’s hard to match.” – Emily R., UK

“Exquisite Culinary Delights”

“Every meal was a culinary delight, crafted with fresh ingredients and served with the most picturesque background. Dining under the stars after an exhilarating day was just perfect.” – Giovanni B., Italy

“The Essence of Tranquility”

“Tassia Lodge is the essence of tranquility. The views from our room’s deck were immense, and the peace and quiet were soul-soothing. It’s a sanctuary where one can truly disconnect and be at one with nature.” – Sarah J., South Africa

“An Adventure for the Soul”

“This was more than a vacation; it was an adventure for the soul. The cultural interactions, the breathtaking landscapes, and the wildlife encounters have left a lasting impression on us. Tassia Lodge offers a unique slice of Kenyan paradise that will always hold a special place in our hearts.” – Liam & Sue, Canada

Through the voices of those who have witnessed its wonder first-hand, Tassia Lodge demonstrates its commitment to unforgettable experiences that resonate with guests long after they return home.