Restorative 5BR Safari Lodge & Wildlife Sanctuary in Laikipia

The calm and contemplative space takes inspiration from the Ethiopian monasteries that lie to the North, boasting vaulted archways, stone passageways and a central courtyard, whilst its flat roofs planted with natural grasses and rough-hewn rock see it all but disappear into the untamed landscape. The property boasts five exquisite suites, three flanking the central courtyard and a further two nestled in the olive groves that surround. Each feature the same earthy colour scheme and effortless touches characteristic of leading interior designer Maira Koutoudakis, whilst a sixth 'constellation suite' is available for those nights too beautiful to sleep anywhere but under the stars. Elsewhere, a cavernous dining room, games room, cinema and well-equipped library are available for cooler nights, and with a team of 20 resident staff - ranging from guides and rangers to butlers and chefs - all who ensure that every need is catered for. This is not just a safari lodge but a health and wellness retreat too. The organic cuisine and fresh daily smoothies lend to a healthy lifestyle. There is a spa, Hammam, gym, yoga deck, tennis court and squash court all inconspicuously blending into the valley, with treatments by a highly skilled masseuse and beauty therapist inclusive in the rates, and carefully mapped out trails to offer unique guided 'running safaris' among the Big 5. The Maasai Mara is perhaps Kenya's most famous safari region, its vast open plains and huge concentrations of game have attracted the game spotting enthusiasts for decades. But arguably more rewarding is Laikipia's exceptional diversity, with snow-capped mountains, dense forests and sprawling deserts lying to the North and East and the towering Mount Kenya to the south. As such, this haven offers a truly unrivalled number of ways to explore it and spot the Big 5. The usual 4x4 safaris, complemented by horseback, walking, mountain biking and quad biking safaris. Further afield, stride through the canopy of the Ndare Ngare forest on aerial bridges and spend a night camped in its lush interior, or board a helicopter to soar over hidden ecosystems nestled in the craters of dormant volcano and shimmering mountain lakes pink with flamingo. Or glide above hippo and crocodile on the Esawo river towards the mighty Mount Kenya, and venture North to the sprawling deserts untrodden by tourism. Laikipia is for the adventurous, the curious and the seasoned safari guest in Africa. Superb wellness and fitness facilities including clay tennis court, 25m lap pool, squash court and fully equipped gym. Home cinema, yoga decks, and a rooftop star bed. When To Go: Laikipia is a year round destination, however it can rain heavily in November and lightly in April / May. Accommodation: Five double ensuite bedrooms — one master and two smaller bedrooms in the main courtyard, and two more spacious bedrooms just outside the courtyard. Road transfers are included (1.5 hours from Lewa, 25 minutes from Borana). Rates: Offered on an exclusive-use basis for up to six guests, with an extra charge for additional adults. Children up to age 5 are free of charge; child rate applies from 5 to 16 years old. Rates include all meals and beverages, Borana or Lewa airstrip transfers, babysitting and laundry facilities, game drives and wilderness walks, mountain biking and bush running with experienced guides, use of tennis and squash courts, gym, media room, home cinema, yoga deck, hammam and spa, five hours per day of spa treatments and all local taxes.