Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

Kenya's Great Rift Valley is a vast, geologically active region that defines much of the country's safari circuit. The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort sits on the Eburru Escarpment at an altitude of approximately 2,135 metres, granting it a commanding position with panoramic views over the freshwater expanse of Lake Naivasha and the dormant Mount Longonot volcano.

Architectural Style and Design at Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

The resort is built in the style of a permanent, resort-style hotel rather than a traditional canvas safari camp. Local stone, timber, and terracotta-tiled roofs define the central lodge and its accommodation wings. This solid construction offers significant insulation from the midday heat and the cooler evening temperatures common at this altitude. The overall layout feels spacious and integrated with the terrain, with garden pathways connecting the main building to the various accommodation blocks and recreational facilities.

Accommodation Options at Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort divides its accommodation into two primary categories designed to serve couples, families, and larger groups. Guest rooms prioritise functionality and comfort, reflecting the property's mid-range positioning while providing a comfortable base for exploring the region or enjoying the on-site amenities.

Standard Lodge Rooms

The main hotel building contains 30 spacious en-suite rooms, each with a private balcony oriented towards the valley. Solid wooden furniture appoints the interiors, which feature large windows to maximise the views and natural light. These rooms suit couples or solo travellers. Key features include:

• Private balcony with table and chairs
• En-suite bathroom with a shower and amenities
• Satellite television and in-room telephone
• Digital safe and tea/coffee making facilities

Private Longonot Villas for Families and Groups

The Longonot Villas stand slightly apart from the main lodge, offering a more private, self-contained experience ideal for families or small groups. These are two or three-bedroom cottages constructed in the same local stone and timber style. Each villa includes a shared living area with a fireplace, a kitchenette, and multiple en-suite bedrooms, providing a practical and home-like environment.

Golfing and Recreation at Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

The lodge's primary distinction is its comprehensive suite of on-site recreational facilities that extend beyond a standard safari programme. The property is designed as a destination in itself, with a strong focus on sport and relaxation for all guests.

The 18-Hole Championship Golf Course

The resort’s central feature is its 18-hole championship golf course. The course sprawls across the escarpment's rolling hills, presenting a challenging game with significant elevation changes that require strategic play. Due to the high altitude, golf balls travel approximately 10% further than at sea level. A perimeter fence secures the entire property, including the golf course, preventing larger wildlife from wandering onto the fairways and ensuring a safe environment for players. Smaller, non-threatening animals like dik-diks and a prolific variety of birdlife are commonly observed during a round.

Family-Friendly Recreation Beyond the Fairways

The resort provides a robust selection of alternative activities for families and non-golfers. A large, free-form swimming pool with a sun terrace offers a focal point for relaxation. The property also features two tennis courts, a well-equipped games room, and a programme of organised excursions. Available activities for booking include guided nature walks on the property, horse riding, and boat trips on Lake Naivasha to spot its abundant birdlife, including African fish eagles, and to visit the nearby Crescent Island Game Sanctuary.

Travel Logistics for Australians Visiting Great Rift Valley Lodge

The journey from Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to the Great Rift Valley Lodge covers approximately 90 kilometres and takes around two hours, depending on traffic along the A104 highway. For Australian travellers, the most efficient and secure transit is a pre-arranged road transfer through a reputable Kenyan tour operator or directly with the lodge. While self-driving is an option for experienced visitors, a chauffeured vehicle is the recommended choice for navigating local road conditions safely.

On-Site Power, Wi-Fi and Connectivity

The lodge operates on 24-hour mains electricity, providing a reliable power source that supports all in-room and public area amenities without interruption. This dependable power is a key logistical advantage for a mid-range property in Kenya. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the main lodge building and in guest rooms. The connection is generally stable and sufficient for standard communication, email, and web browsing.

Who Should Stay at the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort?

The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is an excellent choice for families and special interest groups, particularly golfers. The property is highly suitable for family holidays, offering a comfortable and secure base with a wide range of activities that are not solely focused on game drives. The perimeter fence creates a safe, contained environment for children, while the multi-bedroom villas provide practical and spacious accommodation. For golfers, the on-site championship course is a significant draw, making the lodge a prime destination for tours that combine a Kenyan safari with sport.