After 21 years, Ol Donyo Wuas’ legs were weary, and it was time to give her bit of an overhaul. Instead of a refurbishment, it was decided to give her a whole new physique. At the end of 2007, the original Ol Donyo Wuas was torn down, and over the next 10 months, the new Ol Donyo Was came to life.

Upon opening in July 2008, the immediate feedback was outstanding. The high season was filled with guests soaking up Ol Donyo Wuas’ new energy. And she had plenty to give, the season was a huge success. The reviews have stayed consistent, with high distinction across the industry.

The new Ol Donyo Wuas Lodge consists of ten expansive guest suites in six stand-alone villas. No two is the same design - each suite and villa is designed and positioned slightly differently but all have a dramatic view of the plains and Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance. The décor is luxurious and opulent, while still retaining the atmosphere and sense of place that is an essential ingredient of an outstanding bush lodge. Art from around Africa coupled with the photography of Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher create a commanding space under the high thatch roofs surrounded by cool stonewalls. The design is contemporary and yet traditional.

Each suite has a rooftop “star-bed” accessed from the verandah via a winding stone staircase. The “star-beds” are a fabulous sleep-out option, with utter privacy and all the amenities of the suite just below.

Each suite has a lounge, verandah, indoor and outdoor showers, double washbasins, flush loo and bath. All but two of the suites have their own private pool(s).

The four-bedded private villas are ideal for families or small groups of friends. They are designed to be versatile and function either as family villas or for two couples while still maintaining an element of privacy. Some of the villas function as a private bush home, complete with private vehicle, guide, and chef for full exclusivity.

"I confess, I had envisaged heading into the bush as soon as I arrived but I jettisoned this plan, having been seduced by my cottage. Accommodation at Ol Donyo Wuas is in double thatched cottages; mine, Kushoto (El Mau), turned out to be a palatial home on stilts, the bedroom alone the size of my little London flat."
Laura Bailey, The Sunday Telegraph