Rare as the rhino it protects, splendid as the year-round spring climate, ever authentic and beautiful beyond the pale, this is just some of the magic embodied at Sirikoi. In the renowned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – 28 000 hectares of pure lush wilderness, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Sirikoi’s location is unrivalled. Its committed ethos of wildlife protection and conservation, along with the daily practice of authentic living seen through Sirikoi Lodge, make this property an obvious choice for environmentally conscious and discerning travellers. It’s simply sublime.
Wildlife here is so relaxed and prolific that ‘armchair game viewing’ is a defining attraction at Sirikoi. Big herds of elephant are seen almost daily passing the lodge, and shy and rare species also live here, like black and white rhino and leopard, along with cheetah and lion. Lewa is also home to the Northern Five, those unique species found only in Northern Kenya: reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich. Wild dogs traverse the area too, ever on the move in search of food.
Set on sweeping green lawns, under acacia trees at the foot of Mount Kenya, exclusive-use Sirikoi House rests under thatch. The three private bedrooms are all en-suite, spacious and classically decorated to reflect different facets of Africa. Gnarled tree trunks serve as support pillars and fireplace mantelpieces; polished and weighty drapes give a sense of calm and comfort. Huge picture windows throughout make the outside and inside seamless, and the open-sided lounge takes this a step further, as wildlife often grazes just beyond in the wetland area.
Sirikoi Cottage is a smaller version of the House, and has two en-suite bedrooms, living and dining areas and a small kitchenette. It has the same enchanting décor and style and is offered as exclusive use for a family or friends travelling together – and meals can be enjoyed privately or on the main Sirikoi deck. Alternatively, for a larger group, the House and Cottage can be booked for exclusive use for 10 people, as they are conveniently next to each other. So everyone can be invited.
Every day flows exactly as you choose, whether it be out on one of the nature, wildlife or scenic excursions on offer, or chilling back at base. After all, you are in the heart of majestic wildlife country, and if you stay long enough you’ll see all the species without even leaving the deck – though each group has their own private game viewing vehicle too. But there’s still another option. Sirikoi Tents offers a safari experience in decadent comfort – and individual tents can be booked. The four, double, tented suites are exquisitely appointed with relaxing lounge areas and fireplaces, Victorian baths and private decks. It’s as close as you can ever get to a tented safari experience, par excellence. Beautiful in every way and teaming with wildlife, this is old Africa relived.
What we love!
- The décor is a unique blend of leather couches, Moroccan carpets and African carved pieces.
- Faux fur throws on the beds and huge stone fireplaces are cosy and inviting.
- Massive picture windows framed by natural organic wood give the impression of living art.
- Enjoying an afternoon coffee in the lounge, while buffalo graze nearby provides beautiful natural theatre.
- Accommodation is set amidst green lawns, beautiful gardens and shady trees have an almost English country look.
- Handmade organic toiletries and the organic fresh produce garden speak to the tread lightly, sustainable ethos of Sirikoi.
What you need to know…
- Sirikoi House and Sirikoi Cottage are for exclusive use and can sleep 10 in total. Sirikoi Tents has four tents, each sleeping two people – and these tents can be booked as needed.
- There is high-speed wifi across the lodge.
- This is a low-risk malaria area.
- The rainy seasons are April/May and November.
Reviewed by Keri Harvey