Introduction
Hunters Lodge is a 3.5-star hotel nestled on 25 acres of lush gardens at Kiboko Springs in the Makindu area, along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway in Kiboko Town.
Strategically located approximately 160 km from Nairobi, the lodge serves as an ideal base for travelers visiting Tsavo National Park, Amboseli National Park, and the Chyulu Hills.
The lodge’s picturesque setting by the Kiboko River, surrounded by a thick grove of yellow-fever trees and gigantic fig trees, offers a serene retreat for guests.
Location & Accessibility
Hunters Lodge is conveniently situated along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, making it easily accessible for travelers.
How to Get There
- By Road:
- From Nairobi: Approximately 3.5 hours drive (160 km).
- From Mombasa: Approximately 5 hours drive.
- The lodge’s location along the highway makes it a convenient stopover for travelers heading to or from the coast.
- By Rail:
- The Kiboko SGR Station is nearby, and transfers can be arranged upon request.
- By Air:
- Makindu Airstrip is the closest airstrip for chartered flights, with transfers available to the lodge.
Accommodation
Hunters Lodge offers 50 luxury self-contained rooms, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and tranquility.
Room Features:
- Deluxe Rooms:
- Garden View: Enjoy serene views of the lush gardens.
- Pool View: Overlook the inviting swimming pool area.
- Amenities:
- King-size or twin beds.
- Private balcony.
- En-suite bathroom with shower and flush toilet.
- Air conditioning.
- Satellite TV.
- Telephone.
- Seating area and work desk.
- Tea and coffee-making facilities.
- Safety box.
- Hairdryer.
Accommodation Rates (2025)
Rates are per room per night on a Bed and Breakfast Basis, inclusive of government taxes.
- Single Room (1 Guest):
- $120 USD per night.
- Double Room (2 Guests):
- $150 USD per night.
Children’s Policy:
- Aged 0-2 Years: Stay free of charge.
- Aged 3-12 Years:
- Sharing with 2 adults: Double rate + 50% of half twin rate.
- Sharing with 1 adult: Adult pays single rate + child pays 50% of half twin rate.
- 2 children sharing own room: 75% of double rate.
- 3rd bed in room: 50% of half twin rate.
Dining & Cuisine
The lodge features an on-site restaurant and bar, offering a variety of dining options:
- Restaurant:
- Serves a selection of local and continental dishes.
- Meals can be enjoyed in the indoor dining area or at the seating area overlooking Kiboko Springs.
- Coffee Shop: Offers a range of beverages and light snacks.
- Bar:
- Well-stocked with a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Special dining experiences, such as bush breakfasts or picnic lunches, can be arranged upon request.
Facilities & Amenities
Hunters Lodge offers a range of facilities to enhance guests’ comfort and experience:
- Swimming Pool:
- Outdoor pool flanked by recliner seats and parasols.
- Adjacent pool bar serving drinks and snacks.
- Conference Facilities:
- Three conference halls equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Ideal for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events.
- Business Center:
- Provides essential services for business travelers.
- Children’s Play Area:
- Safe and engaging environment for younger guests.
- Gift Shop:
- Offers local crafts and souvenirs.
- Shared Lounge:
- Comfortable space for relaxation and socializing.
- Wi-Fi:
- Available in public areas.
- Laundry Service:
- Offered to guests for added convenience.
Activities & Experiences
Guests at Hunters Lodge can engage in various activities:
- Bird Watching:
- The lodge is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 100 species recorded around Kiboko Springs.
- Swimming:
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool.
- Trips to Lava Caves:
- Explore nearby geological formations.
- Boating in Kiboko Springs:
- Experience the serene waters of Kiboko Springs.
- Visits to Chyulu Hills National Park:
- Discover the scenic landscapes and wildlife of the nearby park.
- Cultural Visits:
- Explore the famous Makindu Sikh Temple, located close to the lodge.
What’s Included
- Accommodation in the selected room category.
- Breakfast (for Bed & Breakfast bookings).
- Access to lodge facilities, including the swimming pool and children’s play area.
- Wi-Fi in public areas.
- Parking.
What’s Not Included
- Lunch and dinner (unless specified in the meal plan).
- Beverages and snacks from the bar and coffee shop.
- Activities and excursions (charged separately).
- Laundry services.
- Transfers to/from the lodge.
- Tips and personal expenses.
Wildlife & Nature
While Hunters Lodge is not located within a national park, its proximity to natural attractions offers opportunities for wildlife and nature experiences:
- Birdlife:
- The lush gardens and Kiboko Springs attract a diverse array of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Proximity to National Parks:
- Tsavo National Park: Home to elephants, lions, buffaloes, and more.
- Amboseli National Park: Renowned for its elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Chyulu Hills National Park: Offers scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Ideal Stopover Location
One of Hunters Lodge’s biggest advantages is its strategic location:
Midway between Nairobi and Mombasa, it is a natural rest stop for travelers making the long journey between the two cities by road.
It is also a perfect overnight base for those planning to visit Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Chyulu Hills, or even Amboseli, particularly for self-drive safaris or private road safaris.
For travelers on the SGR Madaraka Express, the Kiboko Station is nearby, making it accessible even without private transport.
Check-In and Check-Out
Check-In: From 12:00 PM
Check-Out: By 10:00 AM
Early check-in or late check-out available on request and subject to availability.
Why Choose Hunters Lodge?
Historic Significance: Once home to famed hunter and adventurer Denys Finch Hatton, the lodge carries a legacy of Kenya’s early safari heritage.
Serene Environment: Set in lush gardens by Kiboko Springs, it’s a peaceful retreat from the highway, rich in birdlife and greenery.
Perfect Road Trip Stop: Convenient for travelers between Nairobi and the coast or safari circuits through southern Kenya.
Great for Families and Groups: Family rooms, children’s play area, swimming pool, and ample space to relax make it ideal for groups and school trips. Birdwatcher’s Paradise: The lodge’s riverside location draws dozens of bird species—ideal for nature lovers.
Access to Attractions: Close to Makindu Sikh Temple, Chyulu Hills, and a short drive from the gates of Tsavo National Park.
Suggested Itinerary Addition
Hunters Lodge is best used as:
A first-night stop en route to Tsavo West, Amboseli, or Taita Hills.
A final night retreat before returning to Nairobi after a long safari circuit.
A restful overnight on the way to or from Mombasa by road.
It pairs well with safari accommodations in:
Tsavo West: Finch Hattons, Severin, Rhino Valley, Lions Bluff
Taita Hills: Sarova Taita Hills, Salt Lick Safari Lodge
Amboseli: Sentrim, AA Lodge, Kibo Safari Camp
Final Thoughts
Hunters Lodge is more than just a convenient stop—it’s a cultural and ecological gem that offers visitors a chance to unwind in nature, learn about Kenya’s safari legacy, and enjoy genuine hospitality along one of East Africa’s busiest travel corridors.
It’s a top pick for:
Independent travelers
Families with children
Road trip explorers
Birders and naturalists
Safari-goers wanting a soft landing or easy exit from the wild