Here is a list of activities at Bantu Mountain Lodge. Bantu Mountain Lodge, formerly Mountain Rock Lodge, is tucked away in the woods on the lower slopes of Mt. Kenya, 7 km North of Naro moru, 15 km south of Nanyuki and less than 1km from the main road. It spreads over 19.4 acres of land within the 40 acres leased from the Kenya Forest Service. Much of the lodge is part of the Gaithuru Forest Reserve. The lodge is home to waterbuck, elephants, three species of monkeys, dozens of bird species, a diverse range of plants and insects, and more, all of which are conserved.
Bantu Mt. Lodge was established in 1978 by Gabriel Wanjohi Waweru, who passed away in 2010—his son, Patrick Wanjohi, now runs the lodge. They aimed to provide visitors with a comfortable and lively experience, connecting them to the local communities and nature.
Besides boarding and conference facilities, the lodge offers trekking, mountaineering, forest walks, a walk to the nearby Mau Mau caves, fishing, birdwatching, team building, horse-riding, canopy walks, and plenty of activities for kids.
Bantu Mountain Lodge
Bantu Mountain Lodge at Mount Kenya features lush, open grounds adorned with indigenous trees. The spacious, well-manicured lawns create an ideal setting for relaxation, parties, weddings, and picnics. Each morning, the area is filled with the calls of various bird species, including stunning sunbirds and weaverbirds. Near the forest’s edge, guests have the chance to observe Eastern black-and-white colobus monkeys, Syke’s monkeys, and even Olive baboons with their young on the lawns.
When walking through the forest, you may encounter fresh elephant tracks and droppings, as well as waterbucks. One of the most unusual things you may hear is the nocturnal screams and grunts of the Tree hyrax, a small nocturnal mammal related to elephants and sea cows. You might also spot a couple of them resting during the day in a hollow high up in a tree. Giant Strangler figs have taken root and grown into trees all over the area. It takes six people to encircle the trunk of an especially massive brown olive tree.
List Of Bantu Mountain Lodge Activities And Charges
1. Visit the Mau Mau Caves
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Mau Mau Caves is a must. The cost is Ksh 2500 per person. This site holds great historical significance as it served as a refuge for war veterans who fought bravely for the country’s independence.
A knowledgeable guide will escort you to the caves and provide detailed information about their history. Inside the caves, you will find stunning waterfalls, making it an ideal place to rest and take photographs. Both locals and visitors enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters, so you should give it a try if you’re interested. It’s advisable to bring along bottled water in case the weather gets too hot.
2. Boat Riding
At Bantu Lodge, you can enjoy water sports at their man-made dam. For just Ksh 1000 per session, guests can go boat riding and choose between an engine-powered boat or rowing manually. A guide will be provided for the boat ride. The dam is surrounded by tall trees, adding to its beauty. On hot days, guests can also take a dip and swim in the dam.
3. Canopy walk
Guests walk on a high suspended bridge, which is a perfect way to conquer your fear of heights. From up above, you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the scenery below tall swaying trees and lush green gardens. You can also catch a spectacular sight of the snow-capped Mount Kenya. At dusk, you’ll be treated to the stunning sight of the sun setting beyond the mountain, creating a picturesque view. The charge for the canopy walk is Ksh 200 per person.
4. Visit the Crocodile and Tortoise Park
If you are an animal lover, you should make the reptile park at the lodge your first stop. The entrance fee is Ksh 300 per person. The park is home to numerous breeds of crocodiles of all sizes and ages. It is fascinating to watch them feed or lazily bask in the sun.
A knowledgeable guard will provide you with information about all the crocodiles in the park. A short distance from the area is a tortoise park, which is home to some of the oldest tortoises in the country.
5. Team building activities
The park offers a wide range of facilities designed to bring people together. The cost for the team building package is Ksh 3800 per person. This includes tea with snacks, a buffet lunch with your choice of drink, and a bottle of water. Additionally, a facilitator will be assigned to make your activities even more exciting.
6. Nature Trailing
The Bantu Lodge is surrounded by the expansive Mount Kenya forest, making it the perfect location for a guided nature walk. The sheer beauty of the surroundings, combined with the fresh, crisp air, is enough to steady your mind and calm your nerves.
During the walk, you’ll get to sample different plant species and beautiful flowers. Keep an eye out for the rare colobus monkey, which can be found jumping among the trees in the forest. Engage in bird-watching activities; the forest is home to over 200 bird types, both rare and common. Make stops along the way to catch breathtaking views of the nearby Mount Kenya.
7. Camping
Feel the steadiness of nature as you spend quality time at this lodge. Listen to the soothing sounds of trees and birds with no other distractions. You can camp here for a few days, whether alone or with family and friends. Your safety is a priority, with armed guards on patrol.
Gather around a bonfire and share stories as you keep warm. The lodge has an on-site restaurant offering a variety of delicious meals. You can bring your gear or rent it at the lodge for a small fee. The camping fee is Ksh 1000 per person.
Bantu Mountain Lodge Accommodation
The Bantu Mountain Lodge near Nanyuki can accommodate 37 people single-occupancy or 70 to 100 sharing; its lawns can also be used to set up tents in which another 100+ people can be housed. The rates are Kenyan Shillings 8000 (approximately US$55), including room, food, and conference facilities. The group also has lodges or guest houses at Masaai Mara, Nairobi, and someway up Mt. Kiriyanga.
Bantu Mountain Lodge Contact
Phone: 0721 990385
