Borana Safari Lodge is situated at the foot of Mount Kenya on the edge of the Samangua valley in Laikipia, about 4 hours’ drive north of Nairobi and just 16 miles from the equator and 6,500 feet above sea level. Borana’s geographical situation favours a very wide diversity of wildlife. It’s easy to see why famous celebrities love this place – from the VIP meet and greet at Nairobi airport to the discrete but informal service at each of the lodges, this family run ranch will cater and personalise itineraries to suit everyone’s needs and is great for families.

Owned and run by the Dyer family, this stone and thatch lodge is a supremely comfortable, stylish, yet relaxed. An unaffected bush home, with swimming pool, verandas and panoramic views over the wilderness towards Mount Kenya.

Borana Safari Lodge has a very good selection of horses, from polo ponies and thoroughbreds for experienced riders, to tough crossbreeds for families with children. Riding is varied and can include morning, evening or full day picnic rides, even overnight stays in other lodges, plus the opportunity to join in on some friendly polo chuckers.

There is plenty of game to see from herds of elephant that come to drink at the waterhole below the lodge, buffalo hiding in the thick, shady bush, lion resting under acacia trees and much, much more on the open plains. And this is a place you can take a non-riding partner, as there’s plenty to do other than ride – game drives, guided walks, visits to local Masai or Samburu tribes, fishing, hiking, mountain biking and let’s not forget chilling out at the pool!

Borana Safari Lodge was recently awarded Global Ecosphere Retreat® (GER) status, one of only ten properties to achieve the standard worldwide. The association and guidance with GER has led Borana Safari Lodge to become one of the most sustainable lodges in East Africa. The focus is not just about solar panels and recycling (although these are two very strong areas within the Lodge), it ensures that both community and culture thrive in a conservation environment.

*The Long Run’s GER® standard is considered to be one of the world’s best standards for privately protected areas. It is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and is one of the most rigorous sustainability audits in the hospitality industry. It considers every aspect of the 4Cs: Community, Culture, Conservation and Commerce, and is not only about businesses mitigating their negative environmental impact, but about positively impacting the well-being of the planet and people.