Rondo Retreat Centre

We had a very relaxing few nights at Rondo Retreat, which we visited mainly for birding. The accommodations and food are simple, as advertised, but comfortable enough. The grounds and gardens are beautiful, though I do question the exotic plants introduced next to a vulnerable and protected rainforest ecosystem (hopefully they do not become invasive). We enjoyed watching the birds and monkeys from the grounds, including the juvenile African Crowned Eagle practicing his future monkey hunts around the property. I would note that the main server/reception person was a bit surly at times, and he seemed put off by some simple requests/questions, which was the only issue in an otherwise relaxing stay. A few tips from our experience: - You can fly from Nairobi to the Kakamega airstrip on Skyward express (Wilson Airport). It leaves/arrives quite early, but Rondo was accommodating. - If you are a serious birder, you can ask for Job's contact information (a very good local guide). - Although this isn't stated anywhere or offered, you can arrange to have an earlier breakfast if you'll be out birding early (e.g. 6am) and can get coffee/snacks when you come back (lunch isn't until 1pm). - There are some short, lovely forest paths behind Rondo and you can walk along the road, but otherwise you must have a guide to go further into the forest. - They don't offer alcohol but were fine with us bringing our own wine (should have brought some Tuskers!) - There is barely a cell signal and wifi only at the office, which is fine but good to know.

They can't even provide a simple receipt of payment causing me lots of inconvenience. Unless they are being fishy or lack of integrity. Now I am at pains to explain why I can't surrender a receipt yet all my follow up yielded nothing as if there is something to hide

Having popped in here a few years back, I was able to return with a friend, this time for a 24-hour overnight stay. Everything at Rondo is a delight. The manicured and well-tended garden is a perfect contrast to the surrounding forest. The chalets are old, quirky, simple, comfortable, and very clean. Food was good and plentiful, to a set menu. Staff were friendly and welcoming. I got up in the morning pre-dawn, sat in the garden and watched the sky lighten across those spectacular, tall trees. A troupe of monkeys lazily swung by, as the dawn chorus faded. The hikes for us were an absolute high-spot. Our guide Winston was a fund of knowledge, and paced the walk to match our speed and interests. When you climb "the hill" you look down on the forest canopy, and the wide sweep of rugged countryside all round. Descending to the river takes you among a wondrous vista of enormous and varied trees, including the dreaded "strangler" fig. Even the short walk, past the pond, is a gem. Take this rare opportunity to enjoy the simplicity, the peace, the lack of Wi-fi, and the wonders of nature. (All photos thanks to Jim I.)

We spent the entire Christmas weekend at Rondo Retreat. The staff were great (and thanks Julia for your "additional touches). Meals were well prepared. Dining room was charming. The other guests were a wonderful mix of "Kenya's best" - warm, unassuming and interesting. All our hikes were rewarding and our many hours luxuriating out on the lawns provided great entertainment - crowned eagle and black & white casqued hornbill nests towering above us. Monkeys playing for hours on the lawns. Our room in the main house was private and comfortable. It is a long drive from Nairobi but very rewarding. Thanks to one and all for making our Christmas special.

A wonderful place to retreat from the world. Rondo is old-fashioned in a positive way: kind and service minded staff, afternoon tea , books to borrow, comfort food and no wi-fi! The cosy cottages have plenty of space to sit both indoors and on the verandas. The garden is manicured and the whole place sits in the midst of Kenya’s only rainforest. My impression is that Rondo is mainly for adult guests. Bring your own bottle if you want wine or beer, as no alcohol is served.

We visited for the birding in Kakamega Forest – but the Rondo Retreat wove its way into our hearts. What an utterly charming, quirky place to stay – like stepping back in time with the quaint period cottages in the stunningly beautiful gardens. The staff were lovely and it was a peaceful place to stay for 3 nights – we could easily have stayed for longer. Rondo is right in the Kakamega Forest with well-marked trails accessible directly from the gardens. The rooms and food are simple, we enjoyed the candle lit dinners and afternoon tea (made with locally grown Rondo tea) and you are allowed to bring your own alcohol which they will refrigerate for you. NB there is no wifi, pretty limited cell phone coverage and they are unable to take credit card payments so bring cash for any soft drinks. When we were there were some power outages (although there is a back-up generator). Rondo have their own local bird guides and they were very helpful organising airport transfers and an early breakfast. The introduction of daily flights from Nairobi on Skyward Express has made Rondo more easily accessible for a short break. A special thank you to the delightful Kingsley – the charming and gracious waiter. NB this is a simple, old fashioned, somewhat dated retreat - do not expect luxury trappings, .....other than the luxury of being in the beautiful forest.