Donnie's - Menengai Crater

Discover Donnie's, a unique retreat nestled on the rim of Kenya's impressive Menengai

Location
Menengai Crater, Rift Valley Lakes, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-0.269894, 36.035206
Elevation
1,931m
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 33/100

Nearest airstrip: Menengai Airport (6.1 km)

Wildlife Near This Lodge

585 species observed within 20 km, 46 mammals, 349 birds.

  • Great White Pelican (Aves, 389 observations)
  • Olive Baboon (Mammalia, 343 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 268 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 236 observations)
  • Marabou Stork (Aves, 230 observations)
  • White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 228 observations)
  • African Fish-Eagle (Aves, 209 observations)
  • Yellow-billed Stork (Aves, 208 observations)
  • Augur Buzzard (Aves, 208 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 204 observations)

Best Time to Visit Donnie's

The best months to visit Donnie's are February, March, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 17.35°C, rainfall 53.3mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 62.2%
  • February: Great, temperature 18.46°C, rainfall 28.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 57.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 18.65°C, rainfall 60.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • April: Poor, temperature 17.34°C, rainfall 209.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74%
  • May: Good, temperature 16.95°C, rainfall 138.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 74.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 16.6°C, rainfall 41.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 68.4%
  • July: Good, temperature 16.13°C, rainfall 99.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 69.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 16.14°C, rainfall 109.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 71.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.64°C, rainfall 125.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 70.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.14°C, rainfall 103.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 69.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 16.47°C, rainfall 166.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 74.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 17.08°C, rainfall 39.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do from Donnie's, specifically related to Menengai Crater?

Donnie's serves as an excellent base for exploring Menengai Crater, which is known for its stunning caldera views. You can arrange guided hikes to the crater rim for panoramic vistas or explore the surrounding volcanic landscape. The hotel can assist with local transport and guides for these excursions.

When is the best time to visit Donnie's and Menengai Crater?

The best time to visit Donnie's and Menengai Crater is during Kenya's dry seasons, typically from June to October and December to February. This period offers clearer skies for optimal crater views and more comfortable conditions for hiking and exploring the volcanic terrain.

What kind of experience can I expect at Donnie's hotel near Menengai Crater?

Donnie's offers comfortable hotel accommodation, providing a relaxing retreat after exploring the Menengai Crater area. Guests can expect standard hotel amenities, often including dining options and a peaceful environment away from the main city bustle. It's designed for comfort and convenience rather than a rustic safari camp experience.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Donnie's and Menengai Crater?

While Donnie's is a hotel and not a traditional safari lodge, the Menengai Crater area is home to various bird species and smaller mammals like baboons and hyenas, especially around the crater itself. Keep an eye out for unique birdlife during your hikes and enjoy the natural surroundings.

How do I get to Donnie's and what are the local transport options for exploring Menengai Crater?

Donnie's is typically accessed via Nakuru, a major town in Kenya, from which you can take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer. For exploring Menengai Crater, local taxis or boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are common, but it's advisable to arrange transport through Donnie's or a reputable local tour operator for safety and convenience.

Other Safari Lodges in Menengai Crater

Parks in Rift Valley Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya