Laikipia is an African Eden. Evocative views stretch to Mount Kenya and the distant Aberdares across vast wilderness. Weather is near perfect year round, warm and sunny with crisp cool mountain air. And wildlife thrives in the sanctuary of the Borana Conservancy and greater Lewa Wildlife Reserve. It’s a magnificent piece of Africa, as beautiful and majestic as it ever was.
Now imagine waking up and sipping milky Masai tea and gazing across this wild country, 40 000 hectares of it. Then imagine staying in what has been described as possibly ‘the most beautiful house in Africa’ by Conde Nast and just by doing so you are contributing to continued conservation and community care here. It’s win-win-win.
Next, picture a family home that is so beautifully calm and peacefully monastic that it will take your breath away. Not just that, but it deeply respects the earth and treads so lightly its impact is negligible. Built from stone and earth, with inspiration from the rock-hewn churches in Ethiopia, vast wooden doors from Lamu and vaulted walkways that are reminiscent of ancient Arab architecture, Arijiju is in every way unique. The living grass roofs keep it cool and natural climate control has been optimised throughout, because, before building, the family camped on the very hill to be able to build the home just right.
Walls of hand-cut Meru stone and rustic materials epitomise the family’s love of conservation and sustainability. The house of rock and grass blends into the hillside completely and is solar powered. Inside, colours are also natural with raw stone walls and décor sans colour. Ceiling to floor windows and glass doors bathe rooms in light, which showcases the varied textures within: soft throws on king-sized beds, leather desks, copper baths, crystal wall lights and roaring log fires create a deeply romantic and welcoming suite. Three suites share a garden courtyard across from the living area, library, kitchen, games room and cinema. And there are two more down a private path.
Arijiju is about peace and wellbeing. It’s evident in the healthful cuisine that includes delicious salads, smoothies and fresh vegetable juices – all organic and revitalising. And it’s also in the offerings at the thatched cluster of dwellings that house a spa, gym, hammam and treatment room – and there’s a yoga deck – all with green wilderness views and pure air to breathe. Remember too the infinity pool, which doubles up as a natural watering hole for families of resident elephant. All this, and you haven’t even left the house yet.
What we love!
- Showering with a view of Mount Kenya is rather special.
- Sleeping a night in the rooftop Constellation Suite, safely under the stars and alongside a roaring fire, is the ultimate million-star experience.
- There are so many activities to enjoy – from game drives and bush walks, to helicopter flips and horse riding, spa treatments, fly fishing and various day trips out.
- The library serves as a remote office, with Macs and wifi to use, if you must.
What you need to know…
- The house is for exclusive use only, and sleeps up to 10 adults and 4 children in 5 suites.
- Children are welcome and there are experienced babysitters in house, and a children’s menu and activities are offered.
- There is no malaria.
- Arijiju is a 90-minute game drive from Lewa air strip on a scheduled flight, or 10 minutes’ from Borana air strip on a charter flight, or fly directly to the lodge via helicopter.
Reviewed by Keri Harvey