Magical Place

Our group of seven thoroughly enjoyed our week at Hippo point. The Tower ('Dodo's Folly') is a one-of-a-kind structure and stands on an isthmus between two lakes. It is elegantly furnished and the second floor is a wonderful gathering place open to a verandah completely encircling the tower; from here we were able to enjoy afternoon tea and observe the animals that run freely on the property. Staying at Hippo Point is referred to by the owners as a 'slow safari' as one is able to view many animals on property without having to access a vehicle. Daily walks (twice a day if requested) from the Tower are guided by Bernard who is extremely pleasant and accommodating in addition to being a wealth of information about all the flora and fauna. The bird watching is superb as Lake Naivasha is known as one of the best places in Africa for the quantity and diversity of birds. Walking on property yields endless up-close-and-personal viewing opportunities of giraffe, zebra, hippos, warthogs, monkeys, etc., and boating on both lakes affords viewing opportunities for hippos and birds. It is also very worthwhile taking a night game drive to view the munching hippos and other animals that come out at night. Several off property exclusions to Hell's Gate and Elsamere were worthwhile, but the joy of Hippo Point is remaining on property and being taken care of by the amazing staff. The meals (prepared by chef Paninah) were delicious and healthy, and served with a gracious elegance that made the experience truly wonderful. Sundowners and lunches are served in various locations around the property which made every meal and cocktail hour an adventure. We were fortunate to be able to share both sundowners and lunch with owners Casilda and Dominic and enjoyed their company and perspectives on Kenya. It was our first trip to Africa and Hippo Point was a wonderful first week following which we embarked on a 'typical' safari in the Maasai Mara the following week, an itinerary that I would highly recommend. ”

Exceptional - Pure "Out of Africa" MAGIC!!

What a truly unique and magnificent home - such vision to have created something like this... an African Pagoda soaring among the tree tops of the giant Acacia trees all around the property, with breath-taking views over Lake Oloiden. The sunsets over the glass-like surface of the lake are legendary! One of the highlights is having meals and sundowners in different locations all over the property! They went to such trouble to set up carpets or cushions or chairs or tables with fine china and crystal in the most unexpected outdoor locations - the ultimate in Al Fresco dining! It was such a treat to have all the grocery shopping and cooking done for us - expertly prepared by Chef Paul or Chef Peninah, and beautifully served by Steven and his team. What was amazing for us, having been lucky enough to have done many vehicle safaris in the game reserves of South Africa, was the unique opportunity to walk amongst the game, and have giraffe, zebra, warthog and many antelope wander right past you as you relax on a lounger under the soaring Acacia trees! And at night the Hippos come out to graze right next to the tower - you can hear them munching away from your open door high up in the tower. And then there's the sounds of hyena and jackals hunting at night... all just a few meters away! Bernard, the game ranger/guide, in particular was amazing and our 6-year old son really connected with him... he spent many patient hours answering his endless questions and teaching him so many things about the animals and the bush that he'll never forget! Highly recommended activities - if you can tear yourself away from this oasis of tranquility and comfort - is to go for a boat ride around Lake Oloiden, where you can see even more game and wildlife from the boat. And take a morning to visit Hell's Gate national park, and hike the Gorge there - it's spectacular and a real adventure. The owners, Dominic and Casilda, were the most gracious hosts and we really enjoyed having sundowners with them and getting to know a bit more about their story and their vision for Hippo Point. The staff too, were without exception truly outstanding - warm, genuine, very well trained and flawless in their service. If you ever get the opportunity to experience this truly one-of-a-kind gem, don't hesitate - it's a place you won't easily forget!”

Best Trip Ever!!

Cannot say enough good things about Hippo Point! Nested between Lake Naivasha and Lake Olodien, it is not rare to look out your window in the morning and see dozens of water buffalo strolling by. All of the vegetables are grown in gardens on the property – every meal is a dining experience. The table is always beautifully set with delicate china, lovely linens and bouquets of brightly colored flowers. Chef Paul and Peninah prepare the most delicious meals, we loved the Chicken Curry and rice as well as the homemade sorbets for dessert. Our group stayed in the Manor House, which was perfect for a party of 9. Each room was tastefully decorated with gorgeous bed linens and wood paneling. Our accommodations were nothing short of incredible. Bernard, our wildlife guide is a walking encyclopedia – the man knows everything about the birds, animals, and the flora and fauna at Hippo Point. He has a smile so big it can make your day go from good to great! Each day Bernard would lead us on long walks around the property, various excursions off site, and night game drives. We were lucky enough to see two very stealthy leopards! One of the best parts of each day was the “Sundowner,” drinks and appetizers (or as they staff called them: “bities”) in a different location every night. We cannot sing the staff’s praises loud enough. They were so attentive to every detail and among some of the most gracious people. Thank you to Hippo Point for an unforgettable vacation of a lifetime! Sam Berry and Mary Roos ”

"Amazining Experience!"

It is hard to put into words how wonderful Hippo Point is in Kenya. Dodo’s Tower, where we stayed, was just magnificent. It is an amazing building with beautiful cypress paneling on the walls, hardwood floors throughout, and the furnishings are *over the top*. There isn’t anything that has not been given enormous thought in the Tower. I understand why it was on the cover of Architectural Digest. We arrived by private plane from Nairobi and the Hippo Point staff was there to meet us. Bernard, their game warden, and Mohammed, the driver, took us under their wing and we spent many wonderful hours with them. They took us to marvelous places in a safari type vehicle and gave us an amazing tutorial on Kenya. We walked with Bernard all over the preserve and observed all of the animals up close in their habitat. The game drives at night were fabulous. It was amazing to see all of the animals so close. The hippos were fun to watch as they came out of the water at night and started grazing. Bernard was also an expert on the birds. There are so many beautiful birds in Kenya and they are all colorful and unusual. Chef Panineh and Chef Paul took great care of us. They prepared three gorgeous meals everyday and served them beautifully. It was always a delight to see what *napkin fold* Simon had chosen for the night. They were intricate and unusual. My favorite dish was the vegetable souffles! The meals were absolutely amazing and a delight to the eye. The vegetables came from the Hippo Point organic garden. Everything was fresh and delicious!! We had some meals in the dining room at Hippo Point, some in the garden of the Manor House, some by the pool, and one by the fire in the Manor House living room. It was nice to have the meals moved around to interesting places on the property. Everyday brought a new discovery and new insight into this wonderful place. The proprietors, Dominic and Casilda, were wonderful hosts and made a great effort to ensure our comfort and make this a great experience. We can’t say enough nice things about them!!! The staff was amazing. They were all kind, sweet, and very well trained. We felt that they were like family when we left. Go if you can. You won’t be disappointed!”