Frequently Asked Questions

Booking FAQs

Find answers to common booking, reservation and rates questions

What are your rates?

Our rate card can be found by clicking the book your stay button.

How can I book my stay at Ol Gaboli?

Reservations are made through an online enquiry, or by emailing the team at reservations@olgaboli.com. We will review your booking and confirm within 24 hours.

What is included in my stay?

You can see what is included in your stay by making a booking enquiry via the "Book your stay" button.

Do you offer a residents rate?

Yes, we strongly encourage domestic tourism at Ol Gaboli. You can see our current rates by making a booking enquiry via the "Book your stay" button.

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What is the cancellation policy at Ol Gaboli?

Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. Upon confirmation:

More than 120 days prior to arrival: The 20% deposit will be refunded in full
Between 60-120 days prior to arrival: The 20% deposit is forfeited
Between 30-60 days prior to arrival: 50% of the total amount paid will be forfeited
Less than 30 days prior to arrival: 100% of the total amount paid is forfeited

Monies refunded are minus applicable bank charges. No refunds are given for ‘no show’, flight cancellation or early departure from the lodge. In the event of force majeure, we retain the right to amend our booking & payment terms and standard cancellation policy at any time and without notice. Our current Booking Procedures, Terms & Conditions which prevail can be requested by emailing reservations@olgaboli.com

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Are vehicles included in my stay?

Ol Gaboli does not have safari vehicles included in your stay. We offer safari cars to hire from $75 USD per adult per day, or $45 USD per child per day. Operating this way enables us to offer some of the most affordable rates in Laikipia while still offering a luxury lodge.

Do you have a minimum stay?

We strongly encourage you to stay for a minimum of two nights to make the most of Ol Gaboli. Stays of less than two nights are subject to availability, please contact us.

During peak season (Christmas and New Year), we have a minimum stay of five nights.

Do you offer special rates for volunteers?

Currently we don't offer special rates for volunteers.

What's the difference between booking on Airbnb and direct?

We use Airbnb to market Ol Gaboli. From time to time you may see different prices on Airbnb to the rates offered direct. This is because Airbnb charges additional fees to both the host and the guest that we don't always have visibility of. If you're ever in doubt, please contact reservations@olgaboli.com

Do I need special travel insurance to stay at Ol Gaboli?

Yes, medical evacuation cover is required for all guests. We strongly encourage all international guests to take out additional cover to your travel insurance. You can find out more here.

Good to Know

Questions you might not have thought to ask, but are good to consider

Is there internet at Ol Gaboli?

Yes. We have a Starlink connection that offers super fast internet speeds. We have recently installed WiFi in all of our bandas, and will give you the choice of having the connection on or off at check in.

Cellular coverage by Safaricom and Airtel is not available at the lodge, but where required we can drive you to the nearest available signal.

Will we see black leopard?

Ol Gaboli is within the range of Laikipia's famous black leopard, especially Giza. Whilst guests are frequently fortunate to see one, we always remind guests that they are wild animals that can't be predicted.

Are vehicles included in my stay?

Ol Gaboli does not have safari vehicles included in your stay. During booking we will discuss your options with you. Operating this way enables us to offer some of the most affordable rates in Laikipia while still offering a luxury lodge. We no longer permit self-drive.

What is the climate like at Ol Gaboli?

We experience warm days and cool nights at Ol Gaboli. During the day temperatures normally sit between the mid twenties and mid thirties, while the nights are in the mid teens.

Kenya experiences two rainy seasons. At Ol Gaboli this results in a period of short sharp rains during April and May, November experiences a shorter period of rains. For those who are more regular guests, these periods provide exciting variation: the arid bush is transformed into lush vegetation, and the river rises with the water from the Mt Kenya basin.

For occasional guests, we advise travelling outside of these times to experience more reliable sunshine and easier game viewing.

What is Ol Gaboli's approach to tipping?

Tipping is always welcome at Ol Gaboli, but firmly at the discretion of our guests. We encourage a standardised approach to tipping: $15 USD per person, per night.

We encourage our guests to use our digital tipping system, to pay their tips. This reduces the need for cash (not so useful when in the middle of the bush!) and gets shared direct with our staff.

Can you help plan a wider itinerary?

Non-resident guests typically stay at Ol Gaboli as part of a broader trip to Kenya or East Africa. We're always happy to offer suggestions or review itineraries to make sure you're making the most of your time away.

For those staying in Kenya, we particularly recommend pairing Ol Gaboli with a trip to the coast. Lamu offers a historic Swahili trading archipelago characterised by it's Arab architecture. Moving down the coast, Watamu and Malinidi are vibrant coastal resort towns with hotels and holiday homes. Below them is Kilifi, known for it's larger homes and beautiful creek. South of Mombassa, you'll find Diani and Msambweni.

Getting to Ol Gaboli

Getting around Kenya can seem daunting, but is often straightforward

How far is Ol Gaboli from Nairobi and Nanyuki?

Ol Gaboli is approximately 70km from Nanyuki (2-2.5hrs) and 270km from Nairobi (5-6hrs). The route from Nairobi to Nanyuki (200km) is of good highway quality, with the remaining 70km drive to camp on relatively well maintained roads. There's excellent safari viewing in the last hour or so before the camp, so keep your eyes peeled! A 4x4 is required for comfort and better wildlife viewing. Directions from Nanyuki are available here.

Can you help with transfers to Ol Gaboli?

We arrange transfers to and fro Ol Gaboli from all major Kenyan cities and national parks with our transfer partner. Start a reservation enquiry to see our regular rates and get in touch if you'd like us to arrange.

Can I self-drive at Ol Gaboli?

Due to a change in policy at Mpala, we can no longer offer self-drive safari.

I'd like to self-drive, can you hire a vehicle?

Due to a change in policy at Mpala, we can no longer offer self-drive safari. We can help you arrange a vehicle to self-drive from Nairobi.

Can I fly direct to Ol Gaboli?

Live your Out of Africa dreams by flying into Ol Gaboli! We have an airstrip 5km from the lodge, where we will pick you up from. Message us on reservations@olgaboli.com for more information