Lake Elementaita Mountain Lodge was the stop on our itinerary that surprised me most. We spent the least amount of time here, just one night, but the moment I stepped onto my private balcony and saw the Rift Valley stretching out toward Lake Elementaita, I understood exactly why this place is beloved. If the other camps on our trip were about immersion, this one was about perspective.

Getting There: A Steep Climb with Staff Support

Reaching the lodge requires driving up a steep mountain road. Once you arrive, you’ll notice that the lodge itself is built into the hillside, which means walking to and from your room can involve some serious incline. I walked because I was in one of the closest houses to reception, but the saving grace is that staff are available to drive you between reception, dining, and your room, so there’s no need to haul your bags up and down the slopes if you don’t have to.

A Little House of Your Own

Unlike the tented camps in Maasai Mara or Amboseli, Lake Elementaita Mountain Lodge gives you a small standalone house. The balcony is the feature that steals the entire show. Every unit opens out to its own private panorama of the valley, which is more peaceful and magnificent than a photo can truly capture.

Amenities

Despite being on the edge of the Rift Valley, the lodge doesn’t skimp on comfort. Here are a few highlights:

A spa with a view: Perfect for unwinding after long game-drive days. Just call the front desk and make your appointment.

A spacious pool: The large pool gives a great view of the property’s mountain layout. It’s a great place to cool off in the late afternoon and the surrounding deck has the same view of the lake that you get from your balcony.

Dining: Meals are served in a main dining area that overlooks the lake, and the food is hearty and fresh.

A rose garden: It’s quiet and beautifully maintained for a morning walk around.

My Final Thoughts

The steepest climbs often reward you with the best views, and Lake Elementaita Mountain Lodge is proof. Even though we only spent one night, I will always remember the brilliance of this view.