Nestled at the foot of the Taita Hills, The Hildana Lodge is a luxurious retreat that promises total privacy and access to amazing wildlife and birding opportunities. I recently had the pleasure of staying at this exclusive property, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience.

From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by the beauty of the lodge and the stunning surrounding wilderness. The luxury rooms were exquisite, providing the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, while the friendly and welcoming staff made me feel at home every step of the way.

The lodge is situated within a private 5,000-acre sanctuary, which means that guests can enjoy a sense of seclusion and immersion in the African wilderness. I loved the fact that I was surrounded by nature, with nothing but the sounds of the bush and the occasional visit from the resident wildlife.

Being situated in the heart of the Tsavo elephant corridor, it allows guests to witness large numbers of elephant herds and other wildlife species passing through the sanctuary. This provides a truly unforgettable and immersive experience, especially as guests can enjoy evening views of the elephants quenching their thirst at the waterholes.

The lodge offers a range of luxury rooms to cater to different types of travelers. I stayed in one of the luxury doubles, which was beautifully decorated and had all the amenities one would expect from a high-end property.

The luxury rooms are a sight to behold. The interior design is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and coastal Swahili styles, creating a harmonious blend of cultures. Each room is an en suite, flooded with natural light, and adorned with elegant furnishings that reflect the lodge’s commitment to luxury and comfort.

The stand-alone cottages are accessible via a meandering paved path that takes you on a short journey through the Kenyan wilderness, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. Once inside, the rooms provide the perfect sanctuary, allowing you to feel completely at home and at ease in your private space. From the beautiful fabrics and soft furnishings to the carefully selected artworks and decorations, each room exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance that will make you want to stay forever!

One of the highlights of my stay was witnessing the incredible wildlife that frequents the sanctuary. The Hildana waterholes are seasonal homes to large numbers of elephant herds and other wildlife species, and I was lucky enough to witness them in their natural habitat. It was truly awe-inspiring to see these majestic creatures up close, and I felt privileged to be in their presence.

The sanctuary is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. I enjoyed taking early morning drives around the lodge to spot some of the resident birds, including eagles, hornbills, and kingfishers.

In addition to the wildlife experiences, The Hildana Lodge offers an opportunity to learn about the local culture and way of life. The adjacent family-owned sisal estate adds to the homely atmosphere and provides a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. The staff at the lodge are also happy to share their knowledge of the surrounding area, including its history, culture, and wildlife.

The culinary experience is nothing short of exceptional. The lodge offers a variety of delicious meals, from a hearty breakfast served with a breathtaking view to a 3-course menu of lunch and dinner. The chefs use the freshest local ingredients to create a range of mouth-watering dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer traditional African cuisine or international dishes, you will be spoilt for choice.

The lodge also offers a variety of dining experiences, from alfresco dining under the stars to intimate meals in the comfort of your private cottage. The dining experience at the lodge is a highlight of any stay, with the stunning views and peaceful ambiance providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.

One of the standout features is the welcoming and friendly staff. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with open arms and warm smiles. Whether it’s the front desk staff who greets you upon arrival or the housekeeping team who ensures that your room is always clean and tidy, every member of the staff goes above and beyond to make your stay unforgettable. The staff’s friendliness and dedication to their guests make The Hildana Lodge a truly special and memorable experience.

Overall, my experience at The Hildana Lodge was truly unforgettable. The combination of luxurious accommodations, access to incredible wildlife, and opportunities to learn about the local culture and way of life made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re looking for a luxurious and private getaway in the African wilderness, The Hildana Lodge is definitely worth considering.

If you’re traveling to The Hildana Lodge from Nairobi or Mombasa, the easiest way to get there is by using the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to reach Voi terminus. The SGR is a modern, efficient train service that runs between Nairobi and Mombasa, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours. Once you arrive at the Voi terminus, a driver from the lodge will be waiting to pick you up and take you to the lodge, which is a short drive away.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to The Hildana Lodge for an unforgettable and truly remarkable experience.I would like to thank the entire team at The Hildana Lodge for their exceptional service and commitment to making my stay unforgettable. It was a true privilege to spend time at this magical sanctuary, and I cannot wait to return. Thank you for an incredible stay.

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