Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge is a 33-room colonial-style lodge on the shores of Lake Elementaita in the Kikopey area, about 90 minutes from Nairobi along the Nairobi–Nakuru highway. It blends historic character with modern mid-range comforts, making it a popular stopover for Rift Valley road trips, birding trips, and short lake-side breaks.
Location & Setting
The lodge sits in the scenic Kikopey area, overlooking Lake Elementaita, the Eburu Mountains, and Sleeping Warrior Hill. It is roughly 5.6 miles from Lake Elementaita itself, about 29 miles from Lake Nakuru National Park, and 30 miles from Egerton Castle, placing it well for day trips to key Rift Valley attractions. Its position just off the main highway makes it a convenient and scenic stop between Nairobi, Nakuru, and the Mara.
Accommodation & Style
Originally a 19th-century colonial farmhouse, the property has been preserved with many original fixtures and fittings, then refreshed under the Jacaranda Hotels brand. It now operates as a 33-room lodge with a classic, slightly old-world feel, set in gardens with lake and mountain views. The style is more heritage lodge than modern resort, with an emphasis on charm and setting.
Rooms & Comfort
Rooms are equipped with satellite TV, minibars, free Wi‑Fi, and en-suite bathrooms, with some featuring canopy beds and traditional touches. The lodge offers a mix of room types suitable for couples and families, and children up to 2 years can stay free in existing beds. Reviews describe the rooms as comfortable and soundproof, with pleasant views, though the overall feel is mid-range rather than luxury.
Dining & Facilities
Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge provides a free buffet breakfast, a restaurant, bar, and terrace, plus gardens and outdoor areas for relaxation. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, a full-service spa, kids’ club, supervised childcare (on request/charge), and barbecue areas. There is also a business centre and two meeting rooms, making it suitable for small conferences and events as well as leisure stays.
Experience & Activities
The lodge is geared toward lake and Rift Valley experiences: birdwatching around Lake Elementaita (a UNESCO World Heritage site), boat trips, visits to Kariandusi Museum, and excursions to Lake Nakuru National Park and nearby attractions. Evenings often centre on bonfires, sundowners, and sunset views over the lake, which are frequently highlighted as a key experience. It works well as a relaxed base rather than an activity-intensive safari lodge.
Atmosphere & Service
The atmosphere is quiet, nostalgic, and family-friendly, with a strong emphasis on the lake setting and colonial heritage. Guest feedback ranges from very positive (scenic location, good food, friendly staff) to mixed (some noting dated aspects typical of an older lodge). Overall, it is seen as a good-value, charming option for travellers who prioritise location and character over ultra-modern polish.
Ideal For
Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge is ideal for couples, families, and road-trippers who want an affordable, scenic lodge on Lake Elementaita with easy access to Nakuru and other Rift Valley sights. It suits guests who value a historic, lakeside setting, a pool and spa, and straightforward mid-range comfort rather than high-end luxury or deep wilderness immersion.
Destination
Kenya Safaris
Style
Lodge
