Nanjinia Wamuswa talks to DAVID OLE SANKOK, the owner of a unique getaway in Narok that has attracted lovebirds from all over the country to ‘mate’ in a tree house
Lovers Nest is a tree house in Narok at Osim County Lodge. It is the perfect getaway for the adventurous wanderlust. Located 14 km from Narok town along the Narok-Maasai Mara Road on the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River, the lodge is an ideal hideaway and holidaying destination.
The Lovers Nest is clearly the lodge's gem, measuring 4 by 4 metres and perched 37 feet above the ground between four branches of an acacia tree.
"I had to think outside the box to come up with such an idea. The tree house has become such a hit with both locals and foreigners," said David ole Sankok, the owner.
Going up the the house is by means of a steep ladder. The floor of the self-contained room is made of tiles. It has three rooms for guests - living room, bedroom and bathroom.
Sankok explains that, "Since the tree top was already up, we just improved on it and placed a comfortable mattress up there. We didn't see the need of crowding the space with a bed."
The living area is furnished with a traditional table and two chairs. The walls and ceiling are sound-proofed and decorated with romantic solar lights.
According Sankok, the room is meant for only two people. He explains that it is never booked for singles.
The lodge has pocket-friendly rates. The Maasai manyatta standard rooms and tents go for Sh1,500 a night on single bed-only basis Sh2,000 per night on double bed only basis. Executive rooms go for 2,500 per night (single) and Sh3,000.00 per night (double). The Lovers Nest is charged at Sh5,000 per night.
Activities at the lodge include bird watching, spot fishing, kids jungle gym and nature walk, which are offered free of charge.
The popular Lovers Nest is ever booked on weekends. And the ladder leading to the tree house is removed in the evening once guests retire for the night. The guests will however have everything they need in their secluded perch in the tree - food, water and drinks.
Since the room is in high demand, guest have to book in advance.
