Jetsettersblog

The stylish, Olarro safari lodge, situated in an escarpment on the Loita Hills in South Western Kenya is offering a whole new perspective to night-time game drives with the introduction of infra red night vision binoculars.

This exciting and unique activity is the first of its kind in Kenya and offers an innovative insight into the movement and behaviour of wildlife during the hours of darkness.

After enjoying refreshing sundowners guests join an experienced guide and spotter on a 4×4 each with their own set of night vision binoculars in hand.

The spotter uses a spot light to search for nocturnal wildlife as their eyes reflect the light.

Once an animal is found, the vehicle lights and spotlight are turned off, and guests switch on their night vision binoculars to observe the animals in the pitch black.

This minimises the “disturbance” to their natural behaviour and allows guests a clear view of their movements.

There are many “strictly nocturnal” animals that are not active during daylight, and some that can be seen both day and night. Porcupine, ardwolf, aardvark, bush baby, spring hare, striped hyena and a variety of nocturnal birds of prey are all mostly active at night thus allowing guests the chance to see creatures that would normally be seen or at least clearly.

There is also the chance to see two of the most magnificent of predators, the Leopard and Lion. After dark is when these cats are most active and most interesting in hunting and catching prey whereas by day, they like to lie under a shady tree and relax.

After an hour of two of fascinating game viewing guests return back to Olarro for a mouth-watering gourmet dinner finished off with a night cap before heading to bed for a well deserved night’s sleep in one of the lodges sumptuous cottage suites.

Both main Olarro and Little Olarro, offers a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere, fine dining with breathtaking views, a pampering mini spa and the opportunity to take part in an abundance of game viewing activities.

Artistically built with undulating curves mimicking the rolling hillside in which the lodge is set,

Olarro blends effortlessly into its surroundings. Comprising of seven uniquely different cottages, of which six are co-joined through a common sitting area.

The common sitting area is an ideal “private area” where family and friends have the opportunity to socialise and relax in relative privacy. The expansive deck with 180 degree views is the perfect location to enjoy sundowners whilst overlooking this pristine area of Africa. The split level swimming pool provides guests with ultimate privacy and is the ideal place for a cool dip to escape the heat of the African sun.

The inclusion of Little Olarro, a private house, offers extra privacy and seclusion with a luxury suite and master bedroom, smaller twin bedroom, lounge, dining area and veranda all again with spectacular views over the Loita plains. Little Olarro also has its own entrance, private kitchen and deck area.

Not only is Olarro the perfect place to relax and unwind in a serene environment, there are also an abundance of activities for guests to take part in.

Situated in its private conservancy and in addition to the new night drives with infra red binoculars, Olarro also offers bush walks, game drives and specialised bird watching with the licensed guides.

A stay at Olarro is made even more special with the opportunity to fly over the million strong wildebeest and zebra migration using a privately chartered aircraft, hot air balloon or helicopter.

The attentive and friendly staff will prepare picnics for breakfast, lunch or drinks and gourmet appetisers to enjoy out in the bush.

Olarro is a remarkable destination for a truly African experience, one which families, friends and couples will never forget.

4 nights at Olarro starts from £2387pp with Scott Dunn (+44 (0)20 8682 5070, www.scottdunn.com)

Cost includes all meals, drinks, park fee, flights, air taxes and transfers.