Borana Ranch – Conservation, Adventure, and Authentic Safari in Laikipia!
Overview
On the wild northern slopes of Mount Kenya lies Borana Ranch, a place where conservation, community, and adventure come together. Once a working cattle ranch, Borana has evolved into one of Kenya’s leading wildlife conservancies — while still staying true to its ranching roots. Here, the rhythm of pastoral life meets the untamed drama of the African wilderness. Guests can ride horses across rolling savannahs, track rhinos with rangers, or simply sit on a veranda and watch elephants amble past. Borana Ranch offers an authentic safari experience, where every visit directly supports the protection of wildlife and the empowerment of local communities.
Location
Borana Ranch is part of the Borana Conservancy, a 32,000-acre private sanctuary in Laikipia, northern Kenya. Bordering the renowned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Borana forms part of one of East Africa’s most important rhino habitats and is a vital link in the larger Mount Kenya–Laikipia ecosystem.
Experiences at Borana Ranch
Borana Ranch offers a safari with a unique twist — combining the heritage of ranch life with modern conservation and luxury. Experiences include:
- Game drives and walking safaris to spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and rare Grevy’s zebra.
- Rhino tracking with expert rangers and behind-the-scenes conservation insight.
- Horseback riding safaris across open plains and river valleys.
- Ranch life activities, including visits to sustainable cattle operations and community projects.
- Adventure sports such as mountain biking, trail running, and helicopter scenic flights.
- Bush meals and sundowners, surrounded by sweeping Laikipia landscapes.
Borana Ranch Accommodation Options
Borana Conservancy offers a diverse collection of luxurious lodgings—each with its own unique style and vibe—to suit different group sizes, preferences, and experiences. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Borana Lodge
- Type: Flagship eco-lodge, room-by-room bookings.
- Options:
- Four stand-alone cottages: Private verandas, fireplaces, soaking tubs, and exceptional valley or dam views—ideal for couples or small groups.
- Two family cottages: Compartments with twin and double rooms each, shared living spaces—family-friendly and connecting.
- Style: Rustic elegance—stone and cedar built into the hillside, thatched roofs, indigenous gardens, and views over Hyena Valley dam.
2. Laragai House
- Type: Exclusive-use private villa.
- Capacity: Sleeps up to 16 guests across eight en-suite bedrooms.
- Features: Heated swimming pool, games room, clay tennis court, lush gardens, panoramic views, and bespoke design filled with antiques and art.
3. Lengishu
- Type: Exclusive-use eco-luxury home.
- Capacity: Six bedrooms (up to 12 guests).
- Highlights: Sustainable construction using rammed earth and local timber, roll-top baths, heated pool, gym, spa, and minimal ecological footprint.
https://beyondkenyasafaris.com/sirai-house/4. Sirai House
- Type: Contemporary exclusive-use property.
- Capacity: Six suites (up to 12 guests).
- Features: Infinity pool, cinema, spa, gym, landscaped gardens, boma, and sweeping views of Mount Kenya—a fusion of modern luxury and design.
5. Arijiju
- Type: Stylish retreat carved into the landscape.
- Capacity: Five bedrooms.
- Amenities: Gym, spa, tennis and squash courts; design-focused and wellness-oriented.
6. Fuzz’s Camp
- Type: Tented camp, ideal for exclusive use.
- Capacity: Five spacious tents (up to 10 guests).
- Appeal: Intimate, rustic safari experience that blends comfort with nature.
Summary Table Of Accommodation
| Property | Type | Capacity | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borana Lodge | Eco-lodge | Up to 18 guests | Romantic cottages & family rooms |
| Laragai House | Private villa | Up to 16 guests | Entertainment, pool, luxury living |
| Lengishu | Eco home | Up to 12 guests | Sustainable design, high-end comfort |
| Sirai House | Contemporary home | Up to 12 guests | Modern amenities with sweeping views |
| Arijiju | Retreat | 5 guests | Health & wellness focus |
| Fuzz’s Camp | Tented camp | Up to 10 guests | Rustic, intimate safari style |
Rates
Stays at Borana Ranch typically range from USD 900 – 2,500 per person per night, depending on season and lodge choice. Rates include accommodation, meals, game drives, and conservancy fees. Horseback riding and fly-camping experiences are available at additional cost.
Recommended For & Length of Stay
- Best For: Adventurers, conservation enthusiasts, families, couples, and experienced riders.
- Recommended Stay: 3–5 nights to balance game drives, ranch activities, and riding safaris.
Getting There
- By Air: Daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lewa or Borana airstrips (approx. 1–1.5 hours).
- By Road: A 4–5 hour scenic drive from Nairobi, with views of Mount Kenya en route.
Frequently Asked Questions about Borana Ranch
1. Where is Borana Ranch located?
Borana Ranch is in Laikipia, northern Kenya, on the foothills of Mount Kenya, adjoining Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
2. What makes Borana Ranch unique?
It is a private conservancy and luxury lodge that combines world-class safaris with community-driven conservation, including rhino protection.
3. What wildlife can I see at Borana Ranch?
Guests can spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhino) plus Grevy’s zebra, wild dogs, giraffes, and diverse birdlife.
4. What activities are offered?
Day and night game drives, guided bush walks, horseback safaris, mountain biking, cultural visits, conservation experiences, and scenic sundowners.
5. Does Borana Ranch have luxury accommodation?
Yes. Borana Lodge offers eight stylish cottages with panoramic views of Mount Kenya, infinity pools, fine dining, and personalized service.
6. Is Borana Ranch family-friendly?
Yes. The lodge welcomes children and offers family cottages, kid-friendly safaris, and activities tailored for younger travelers.
7. How do I get to Borana Ranch?
You can fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lewa/Borana airstrip (about 1 hour) or drive 4–5 hours by road. Transfers are arranged by the lodge.
8. What is the best time to visit Borana Ranch?
The dry seasons (June–October and December–February) are best for wildlife viewing, though Borana is a year-round safari destination.
9. Is Borana Ranch part of a larger conservation area?
Yes. Borana Conservancy works hand-in-hand with Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, creating a 92,000-acre conservation landscape for endangered species.
10. Can I combine a Borana Ranch safari with other destinations?
Absolutely. Many itineraries combine Borana with Samburu, Laikipia’s other conservancies, or the Masai Mara for a complete Kenya safari experience.
Nearby & Similar Destinations
- Lewa Conservancy – UNESCO World Heritage Site with luxury lodges and rhino conservation.
- Loisaba Conservancy – Wildlife-rich conservancy with stylish tented camps.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Known for its chimpanzee sanctuary and last northern white rhinos.
- Segera Retreat – High-end retreat blending art, wellness, and conservation.