Borana Lodge: The Ultimate Luxury Safari Experience in Laikipia
Nestled within a private 32,000-acre conservancy on the Laikipia Plateau, Borana Lodge offers a premier safari experience. Mount Kenya forms a dramatic backdrop as wildlife roams freely across unfenced borders with the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
This family-owned lodge delivers an authentic, conservation-focused safari experience that luxury travellers seek.
An Intimate Hillside Sanctuary
Borana Lodge sits on a dramatic hillside, offering panoramic views over the Samangua Valley and Lewa Plains. Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya’s snow-capped peaks dominate the southern horizon, creating a striking backdrop for guests arriving at this elevated retreat.
At approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, the lodge enjoys a temperate climate. It is malaria-free—a significant advantage for discerning travellers. This climate supports year-round comfort and makes outdoor mornings and evenings pleasant for guests seeking wildlife viewing. Visitors appreciate the ease of a malaria-free stay during safaris and walks.
The lodge comprises just eight stone, timber, and thatch cottages, thoughtfully positioned to ensure privacy while remaining within easy walking distance of the main lodge . Each cottage features:
- En-suite bathrooms with twin washbasins, baths, and walk-in showers
- Open fireplaces, lit by staff each evening
- Private verandas with valley views
- Dressing rooms and comfortable sitting areas
For families, two cottages interconnect to create spacious family units with two en-suite bedrooms sharing a sitting room and private plunge pool . Room configurations range from intimate honeymoon suites to vibrant children’s rooms with playful details . The furniture throughout is crafted from cedar, leather, and hand-painted fabrics, creating a warm, authentic ambiance .
World-Class Facilities
Borana Lodge features a spacious lounge with a roaring fireplace, an elegant dining room, and a well-stocked bar.
The infinity pool overlooks a waterhole frequently visited by wildlife, especially elephants. Guests can enjoy spa treatments at The Wallow Spa, offering a range of relaxing therapies.
Dining at Borana Lodge offers a farm-to-table experience, with most ingredients grown on the family farm or sourced from local growers.
Meals celebrate Kenyan flavors while satisfying the most discerning palates, with fresh produce, homemade breads, and wine from around the world.
Extraordinary Wildlife Encounters
Borana Lodge sits within a conservancy that forms part of Africa’s most successful rhino sanctuaries. Together with neighboring Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the area is home to thriving populations of both black and white rhino, with 21 rhinos reintroduced to Borana in 2013 .
Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with day and night drives available on both Borana Ranch and Lewa Conservancy. There is no fence between the two conservancies, allowing wildlife to roam freely . Species regularly sighted include:
- The Big Five: Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino
- Rare and Endangered Species: Grevy’s zebra (with a population of approximately 300), reticulated giraffe, and African wild dog
- Other Wildlife: Cheetah, gerenuk, impala, eland, and ostrich, plus numerous bird species
Unforgettable Activities
- Rhino Tracking on Foot – Join expert guides to track endangered black rhino on foot, learning the art of reading tracks and signs for an intimate, responsible wildlife encounter .
- Horseback Safaris – Borana offers some of the best riding safaris in Laikipia, with well-trained horses suitable for beginners to experienced riders. Full-day rides venture into the Ngare Ndare Forest, while multi-day horseback adventures include overnight fly camps .
- Mountain Biking and E-Biking – Explore vast stretches of bush on two wheels, getting closer to wildlife than vehicles allow .
- Guided Walks – Experience the smaller wonders of the bush and encounter wildlife at eye level .
- Helicopter Flights – Cover immense landscapes with aerial views of Mount Kenya and the surrounding wilderness .
- Community and Conservation – Visit the anti-poaching unit, learn about rhino protection efforts, and engage with local Maasai communities .
- Ngare Ndare Forest – Explore this ancient indigenous forest, a wildlife corridor and elephant migratory route, featuring a canopy walkway suspended 40 feet above the ground .
Conservation Legacy
Borana Lodge is owned and operated by the Dyer family, whose passion for conservation and the ranch shines through in every aspect of the guest experience . A dedicated team of rangers protects the rhino and elephant populations, and guests can observe their ongoing work, which includes liaising with local communities . By staying at Borana, guests actively contribute to these conservation efforts .
Beyond Kenya Safaris Recommendation
Borana Lodge represents the perfect fusion of luxury, adventure, and conservation. With its intimate atmosphere, exceptional wildlife viewing, diverse activities, and unwavering commitment to protecting Kenya’s natural heritage, it deserves its reputation as one of the country’s premier safari destinations.
Recommended Stay: 3–5 nights to fully experience the range of activities and wildlife encounters .
Best For: Experienced riders, adventurous travellers, families, photographers, and those seeking a conservation-focused safari experience .
Borana Lodge Rates Per Night
| Adult | Single | Child | |
| Peak | $ 1,320 | $ 1,716 | $ 660 |
| Standard | $ 1,025 | $ 1,333 | $ 513 |
Plan Your Stay
Borana Lodge not only promises an unrivaled safari experience but also directly supports the preservation of the region’s rich heritage. For a personalized journey, contact our expert travel specialists to tailor your visit to this enchanting part of Kenya.
As Borana Conservancy’s wildlife numbers & conservation stories go from strength to strength, the conservation fees are increasing to $235USD per adult per night. All conservation fees are invested into the core operational costs of Borana Conservancy which includes wildlife security & protection, a healthcare program, an education program and much more.
Notes
- Valid:6th January 2026 to 5th January 2027
- All rates are inclusive of a 24% contribution to Borana Conservancy’s environmental and social responsibilities, replacing the traditional conservation fee.
- * Inclusive rate accounts for full board accommodation cost and a 24% contribution to conservation. All prices in USD
- Minimum two night stay in standard season, minimum three night stay in peak season.
- Peak stays: 15th June -30th September 2026, 20th December 2026 – 5th January 2027 Standard stays: 6th January -14th June 2026, 1st October -19th December 2026
- Child rate applies to those from 5 to 15 years at the time of travel.
- Children under 5 years stay free of charge.
Includes:
- Mandatory 24% per person donation to conservation Mandatory emergency flying doctors cover
- Full board accommodation with soft drinks, beers, house wines & spirits Local airstrip transfers (Borana Conservancy & Lewa Downs)
- All Borana Conservancy based activities; shared day & night game drives, horse riding, mountain biking, eBiking, bush walks, rhino tracking, behind the scenes of conservation activities, tours of Waitabit Farm and sundowner excursions.
Excludes:
- Gratuities
- Premium spirits, cellar wines and champagne Adventures beyond Borana Conservancy Travel & medical insurance
- Spa treatments at The Wallow
Additional costs per person:
- Afternoon departure with lunch – $90 (room check out 10am) Exclusive use of a vehicle (subject to availability) – $350 per vehicle per day
- Guide / pilot accommodation (excluding conservation fee) – $330 Visit to Ngare Ndare Forest – $60 per adult, $30 per child
- Visit to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – $183 per adult, $92 per child Fly Camping set up fee – $660 per group (two guests minimum) Adventures across Northern Kenya on horseback, e-bike, helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft can be arranged – price on request
Similar Accommodation at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- Kifaru House – An exclusive-use lodge within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this thatched property offers 360-degree views and accommodation for up to 12 guests. Named for the Swahili word for rhino, it provides exceptional Big Five game viewing and has earned top rankings from Travel+Leisure .
- Sirikoi – A multiple Condé Nast Gold List winner, this family-run lodge offers award-winning accommodation with spacious rooms, world-class fine dining, and incredible wildlife viewing in the heart of Lewa .
- Lewa Wilderness Lodge – One of Kenya’s oldest safari camps, established in 1972 and still family-owned and run. Features nine exclusive thatched chalets, home-grown farm-to-table dining, and unique activities including flights in a vintage yellow bi-plane .
- Lewa House – A boutique lodge featuring unique “Earth Pod” cottages with organic, Gaudi-esque architecture, set on a hillside with uninterrupted views of Mount Kenya and the Mathews Range .
- Lewa Safari Camp – A beautiful camp offering excellent value, allowing guests to be part of conservation in action within the 65,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Conservancy .
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Riding Wild at Borana – Horseback Safaris in Laikipia, Kenya!
A thrilling safari experience for horse riders of all abilities
Overview
Imagine cantering alongside a herd of giraffes, crossing open plains where elephants graze, or quietly approaching a black rhino on horseback. Riding Wild at Borana is one of Kenya’s most extraordinary safari experiences, offering a sense of freedom and connection that game drives cannot match. Set within the stunning Borana Conservancy in Laikipia, this horseback safari combines adventure, conservation, and luxury in equal measure. For riders seeking to experience Africa as the early explorers once did – in rhythm with nature – Riding Wild is an unforgettable journey.
Location
Riding Wild is based in the Borana Conservancy, a 32,000-acre private reserve in Laikipia, northern Kenya. Bordering Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this protected wilderness is home to thriving populations of black and white rhino, elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and rare species such as Grevy’s zebra.
The Riding Experience
Guests ride across rolling savannas, river valleys, and acacia-dotted plains on well-trained, home-bred safari horses. Safari rides are led by experienced guides with an intimate knowledge of the land and wildlife.
- Horseback safaris range from short rides from the lodge to multi-day horseback adventures with mobile camps set deep in the bush.
- Wildlife encounters on horseback are quiet and unobtrusive, allowing for closer approaches and a deeper sense of connection.
- Rides cater to different levels, but experienced riders will enjoy the thrill of gallops across open plains and close wildlife sightings.
Accommodation
Riding Wild can be combined with a stay at Borana Lodge, offering luxury stone-and-thatch cottages with private verandas and sweeping views. For multi-day horseback safaris, riders overnight in fly camps – lightweight mobile tents set up in pristine wilderness locations, creating a true adventure under the stars.
Rates
Horseback safari rates vary depending on ride length and accommodation:
- Day rides are often included for Borana Lodge guests.
- Multi-day riding safaris (with fly camps) typically range from USD 950 – 1,200 per person per night, inclusive of accommodation, horses, guides, meals, and conservancy fees.
Recommended For & Length of Stay
- Best For: Experienced riders, adventurous travelers, photographers, and those seeking a unique, conservation-focused safari.
- Recommended Stay: 3–5 nights for multi-day horseback safaris, or add shorter rides during a stay at Borana Lodge.
All advanced riders must be comfortable at a walk, trot and canter in an English saddle.
Non-riders and beginners are welcome at any level.
There is a strict weight limit of 15 stone/210 lbs/95 kg.
itineraries
The itineraries below will give you the opportunity to traverse some of Kenya’s most breathtaking landscapes. Along these journeys, you will be given the chance to ride with wildlife, learn about various conservation models, and sleep under canvas in the comfortable Riding Wild fly camp.
- Half-Day ride:-This is our most popular ride, this gives guests the opportunity to enjoy a morning or afternoon riding safari out of the Borana Head Quarters. You will set off from the stables with a team of experienced guides who will show you the best of what the conservancy has to offer, based on your experience and the location of the wildlife
- Full Day ride:-Experienced riders can spend an entire day on horseback, meeting at the stables after an early breakfast and heading into the Ngare Ndare Forest. This is an indigenous forest to the south of Borana Conservancy which gives guests the opportunity to explore a completely different ecosystem. This ancient indigenous forest acts as a wildlife corridor and elephant migratory route to Mt Kenya. It is also home to the mesmerizing Blue Pools, a secluded swimming spot with turquoise water fed by glacial meltwater from the mountain.In the forest, you will be met by your Borana Lodge guide and enjoy a picnic lunch. After lunch you can explore the canopy walk, a walkway suspended 40ft above the ground, meandering through the treetops of the Forest where your guide will give you information on the trees, monkeys and butterflies.
- OVERNIGHT RIDE:For guests staying three or more nights, riding Wild Borana offers overnight horse rides and fly camp adventures on Borana Conservancy. Traverse the diverse landscape of the conservancy on an exciting horseback adventure, guided by our team of expert riding guides who will share their knowledge of this ecosystem. As the sun begins to set, you will ride into a fly camp, nestled in a glade of yellow fever trees or by a dam, no two nights are ever the same. The fly camp is extremely comfortable with full linens, pillows, duvets, bed frames and a mess tent including a fully stocked bar and sitting room.The camp is accessible via a game drive, on foot, on horseback or on a mountain or eBike, giving those who do not ride the opportunity to take part in this enchanting experience.Sleeping a maximum of twelve on an exclusive basis. Set up fee is $600 USD per night, on top of our standard lodge rates.
Borana -Lewa Ride – 6 nights
Borana Lodge have partnered with Lewa Wilderness Lodge to offer a thrilling horse riding adventure across the Lewa-Borana Landscape. This itinerary combines the best of what both safari lodges have to offer with a night fly camping under canvas with horses on a picket line.
DAY 1
Arrival at Borana Lodge – Upon arrival at Borana Lodge, settle into your rooms and take some time to relax and enjoy the lodge’s amenities, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Borana Conservancy.
Head to the stables after lunch to meet our expert guides and set off on horseback to explore Borana Conservancy.
DAY 2
Borana Lodge Exploration – Start your horse riding safari with a full day of exploring the Borana Conservancy. Ride through diverse terrain, including rolling hills, open plains, and wooded areas, while encountering an abundance of wildlife along the way. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the breathtaking scenery before returning to the lodge for a well-deserved rest and lunch at the lodge pool.
Spend the evening game driving on the hunt for big cats.
Dinner and night at Borana Lodge
DAY 3
Experience Behind the Scenes of Conservation – Head out at first light to join the team of Borana Conservancy rangers as they track rhino on foot. This is a wonderful experience which gives a true behind the scenes view into how a successful rhino conservancy is run.
Return to Borana Lodge for a relaxing lunch and massage before you head out on your riding adventure.
Spend the afternoon on horseback, cantering alongside herds of zebra or jumping fallen logs in a glade of yellow fever trees.
Return to Borana Lodge for a bush dinner at The Hide, enjoying a locally sourced Swahili inspired menu under a blanket of stars.
Dinner and night at Borana Lodge.
DAY 4
Horse Riding to Fly Camp – Set off on an adventurous horse ride towards the fly camp, head into the Ngare Ndare Forest for a saddle bag lunch and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness as you journey through varied ecosystems. Arrive at the fly camp on Borana Conservancy in the evening, where a cozy campfire and delicious dinner await you.
Experience an unforgettable night under the starlit African sky.
DAY 5
Horse Riding to Lewa Wilderness – After an early breakfast, resume your horse riding safari towards Lewa Wilderness. You will leave Borana Conservancy as you cross the Ngare Ndare River and traverse the scenic landscape, encountering diverse wildlife and enjoying the thrill of riding through untouched wilderness. Arrive at Lewa Wilderness in time for a late lunch and settle into your comfortable accommodation.
After a long day in the saddle, you may opt for a relaxed afternoon at the lodge or head out on an evening game drive to discover your new surroundings and look back across the route which you rode from Borana.
DAY 6
Lewa Wilderness Exploration – Take advantage of the lodge’s offerings and spend the day exploring Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Choose from activities such as game drives, guided bush walks, or head out for another horse ride. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity and conservation efforts of the area, appreciating the unique beauty of the Lewa-Borana landscape.
DAY 7
Final Horse Ride and Departure – Enjoy a final morning horse ride through the stunning Lewa Wilderness. Bid farewell to the incredible landscapes and wildlife you encountered during your safari. Return to the lodge for breakfast before departing for your onward journey.
Kenyan Coast – Idyllic Beachfront Serenity
Alfajiri Villas
“Your Private Cliff-top Paradise”
Features:
- A collection of exclusive villas with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean
- Personal butler service and private swimming pools
- Spa treatments and water sports options, including scuba diving
- Fresh seafood and Swahili cuisine with an Italian twist
Peponi Hotel
“A Coastal Sanctuary in Lamu”
Features:
- A family-owned boutique hotel on the Shela beachfront in Lamu
- Rooms with verandas facing the sea, accentuated by Swahili architecture
- Fresh daily catches and a renowned bar
- Dhow sailing trips and cultural tours within this UNESCO heritage site
WaterLovers Beach Resort
“Oceanfront Elegance and Comfort”
Features:
- Eight spacious suites and one villa with ocean views
- Eco-friendly practices in paradise, with a turtle protection program
- Infinity pool, excellent Italian-Kenyan cuisine, and wellness center
- Close to Diani’s vibrantly active coral reef, ideal for snorkeling and diving
Whether it’s embarking on another exhilarating safari in the Masai Mara or unwinding along the pristine shores of the Kenyan Coast, these accommodations offer the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and relaxation to complement your East African exploration. Each location provides a distinctive experience that reflects the unique charm of the surroundings, much like the unforgettable stay at Borana Lodge.
Customer Reviews for Borana Lodge
John K. – ★★★★★
“My family and I had an absolutely marvelous time at Borana Lodge! The guided conservancy safaris were exceptional, as the wildlife was abundant and our guide was both knowledgeable and patient with our many questions. The evenings were just as special, with bush dinners under the stars and the sounds of the wild surrounding us. A true 5-star experience, we’re already planning our return trip!”
Samantha R. – ★★★★★
“Borana Lodge redefined luxury for me. The balance of comfort and sustainability is impeccable. The cottages are private, with stunning views, and the outdoor showers are heavenly. What touched my heart the most was the conservation ethos of the lodge and their engagement with local communities. It’s not often you find such a gem that allows you to indulge while also contributing positively to the environment and the locals.”
Peter and Anne G. – ★★★★☆
“The serenity of Borana Lodge is unparalleled. We spent our honeymoon here and couldn’t have been happier with our choice. The cottages provided an intimate setting, and the staff’s attention to detail was outstanding. The night drives brought a thrilling new dimension to our safari experience. We did feel that the dining options could offer a little more variety, but overall, a highly recommendable lodge with a commendable commitment to conservation.”