Description
Borana Lodge lies on the edge of the Samangua Valley in Laikipia, with panoramic views of Mount Kenya, across the Lewa Plains to the Ngare Ndare Forest.
There is a wide range of activities and ways of exploring the extensive local area, including game drives, horse riding, mountain biking and even the opportunity for helicopter expeditions! Moreover, with a herd of over 2000 cattle on the ranch, guests can spend a day learning the challenges of ranching in these hostile conditions. Many have found that a day on the ranch is just as fascinating as observing the game.
Built by local artisans in regional materials, the lodge itself, with its eight cottages, is in keeping with the natural surroundings, while also epitomising comfort and exclusivity.
Delicious organic food is served in the dining room by friendly and attentive staff at a large rosewood table, surrounded by local paintings and sculptures.
Outside the lodge, you are confronted by a dramatically sited swimming pool as you walk through the beautiful garden. Guests can relax in the pool while watching the elephants wandering down a well-trodden path on their way to the watering hole. The pool veranda, furnished with Roman sun loungers, is a favourite place for a laid-back lunch and a chance to lie in the sun.
Accommodation
There are eight cottages at Borana. Four have large double beds and four have twin beds, Four of the cottages have their own veranda. Two sets of cottages share a veranda, both of which has a phenomenal view over the dam. Each cottage also has an open-fireplace lit every evening by the room stewardess; a basket of firewood is kept in each room. The bathrooms are the epitome of luxury: spacious, clean and with exceptional views over wildest Africa.
Childcare
Although there are no specific facilities for children they are most welcome and babysitting can be arranged.
Facilities
Borana has a stunning infinity pool - perfect for relaxing in and around.
Activities
Activities from Borana include: Game drives, bush walks, horse riding, mountain biking and ranch visits. Other interesting activities can be arranged like expeditions to Mount Kenya, helicopter trips around Mount Kenya and fishing trips.
Services
In the dining room at the main lodge guests can sample fresh produce from the Ranch, fresh juice from the Borana orchard and wines from around the world.
When to travel
Borana Lodge is open all year round except in November. The main tourist season is in January and February, when the weather is hottest and driest. At this time, the animals in the wildlife parks tend to congregate more around the watercourses, making them easier to spot.
Northern and eastern Kenya temperatures vary from highs of up to 40°C during the day to less than 20°C at night. Rainfall in this area is sparse and, when it does occur, is often in the form of violent storms. July is usually the driest month, and November the wettest.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Laikipia, Kenya
It is located within the vast area of the Ewaso ecosystem on the Laikipia Plateau: snow-tipped peaks and the glaciers of Mount Kenya to the south; a panorama of mountains and desert to the north, Borana provides an idyllic setting for any African experience.
How to get there
8.5 hour international flight. Borana is a 4-hour drive from Nairobi and a 1-hour drive from Nanyuki. By air, daily scheduled Safarilink and Air Kenya flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to neighbouring Lewa Downs (1-hour drive from the Lodge). There is an airstrip at Borana for charter flights a 10-minute drive from the Lodge.
