The boutique lodges on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau offer something the Mara cannot: space, conservation, and an intimacy with the wild.
When visiting Kenya, most travellers head south to the Maasai Mara to see the great migration. Those who go north encounter the Laikipia Plateau. No crowds, no gates, with some of the most biodiverse wilderness in East Africa. These five boutique stays give travellers a way into the Laikipia Plateau experience.
The Laikipia Plateau is home to conservancies such as Il Ngwesi Conservancy, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Conservancy, Borana Conservancy and Loisaba Conservancy. This Laikipia region covers around 9,500 square kilometres of mixed terrain, from the snow-capped slopes of Mount Kenya to the acacia-dotted savannah, kopjes, glacial rivers, and cedar forests. Over 80 species of large mammals can be spotted here. The Big Five are present, with even the largest collection of reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebra in East Africa. There are 6,700 endangered black rhinos left in the world, and over 180 of them can be found here. With the help of community-owned and private conservancies, few environments can compare to this land and its wildlife biodiversity.
Boutique Lodges on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau— Our Edit
Sirikoi
The lodge founded by Willie and Sue Roberts, the man who created and established the Kenyan conservancy model, sits within the 62,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Reserve. Accommodating up to 18 guests across the house, cottage and four luxury tents, all facing a stream and waterhole with daily giraffe and elephant guests. Every penny of conservation fees goes directly to Lewa. Best for couples, families and travellers who want their stay to mean something past the game drives.
Sosian
Situated within a 24,000-acre restored private working ranch where cattle and wildlife cohabit. Accommodation ranges from a family house, an Italian cottage and four garden cottages. Horseback riding, rock-top sundowners, walking safaris, and dining in the bush are among the highlights visitors can enjoy, with their meals also a highlight. Best for riding enthusiasts, couples, families and private groups seeking space, adventure and an unhurried pace.
Ol Malo
Founded in 1991 by Colin and Rocky Francombe, the lodge’s revenue helps protect wildlife habitat on the privately owned ranch and game conservancy. Accommodation consists of four luxury cottages with one for families. Sleeping in the treehouse or the leopard hide are popular with guests. The lodge is home to Kenya choppers, offering visitors a different kind of excursion with views of wildlife and the landscape. Best for families, couples with a sense of adventure, and riding enthusiasts.
Elewana Lewa Safari Camp
Located within the Lewa Conservancy, it is the only lodge owned by the conservancy itself. Every dollar that the camp takes in goes directly to the conservancy. Accommodation is between eleven luxury tents and two family tents. With it being in Lewa, visitors are privy to the largest concentration of Grevy’s zebra in the world and over 200 endangered black and white rhinos. Guided walks, horse riding, cultural and conservancy visits are visitor favourites. Best for conservationists, families, horseback riding and honeymooners.
Governors’ Mugie House
Located within the 50,000-acre Mugie Conservancy, which allows visitors to experience wildlife activities without the restrictions associated with national parks. An exclusive-use safari lodge, booked as a whole with dedicated guides, vehicles, and staff solely for your group. The lodge sleeps a total of 18 guests across eight rooms. Visitors can participate in conservation programmes such as the Cheetah and Wild Dog Project and see lions being collared and tracked with Lion Landscapes. Best for families, small groups, couples, honeymooners and travellers interested in conservation-led experiences.
These boutique lodges on Kenya’S Laikipia Plateau offer guests a different African safari experience. History, comfort and connection to the Laikipia Plateau in ways that leave them fulfilled. Northern Kenya — eco-diversity done sustainably.
