Arijiju

Exclusive private lodge that offers a unique safari and wellness experience in the heart of the Kenyan wilderness, while supporting local conservation and community projects.
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Arijiju is a stunning private lodge that blends seamlessly into the Kenyan landscape, offering a luxurious and exclusive safari experience. The lodge is located on the Borana Conservancy, a vast private game reserve that is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including the Big 5 and endangered rhinos. Arijiju combines elegant design, world-class service, and a range of activities to suit every taste, from game drives and bush walks to wellness treatments and yoga. Arijiju lies on a hillside overlooking the Borana Conservancy, which covers 32,000 acres of rolling savannah, forested valleys, and rocky outcrops. The conservancy borders the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and together they form one of the largest rhino sanctuaries in Africa. The lodge has sweeping views of Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak, and is surrounded by untamed nature.

Sustainability

Arijiju was built with sustainability in mind, using local materials and craftsmen to create a low-impact structure that blends into the environment. The lodge has a living roof that helps regulate the temperature and provides habitat for birds and insects. The lodge also uses solar power, rainwater harvesting, and biodegradable products to minimize its ecological footprint. Arijiju is dedicated to conservation and supports various projects on the conservancy, such as anti-poaching patrols, community education, and wildlife monitoring. A portion of the lodge’s revenue goes towards these initiatives and guests are encouraged to learn more about them during their stay. Arijiju is also a member of The Long Run, a global network of nature-based businesses that commit to a holistic balance of the 4Cs – Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce – as a means to contribute meaningfully to the biodiversity and the people of their local region.

Rooms

Arijiju has five spacious and stylish suites that can accommodate up to 10 guests. Three suites are located in the main house and two are in separate cottages along a stone pathway. All suites have king-sized beds, copper bathtubs, outdoor showers, fireplaces, and arched windows that frame the views. The décor is earthy and organic, with handcrafted furniture, crumpled linen, leather accents, and African artworks. The suites are designed to offer comfort and privacy, while still feeling connected to nature.

Food and drink

Arijiju’s cuisine is fresh, seasonal, and delicious, using ingredients sourced from local farms and markets. The lodge has a talented chef who can cater to any dietary preference or request, from traditional Kenyan dishes to international classics. Meals are served in various locations around the lodge, such as the dining room, the terrace, the poolside pavilion, or under the stars in the bush. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the bar or in their suites, as well as snacks throughout the day.

Things to do

Arijiju offers a wide range of activities to suit every interest and mood. Guests can explore the conservancy on game drives or bush walks with experienced guides who can spot and identify the wildlife. They can also enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, fishing, or helicopter tours for more adventurous options. For those who want to relax and rejuvenate, Arijiju has a wellness center that offers massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and other treatments. There is also a gym, a yoga studio, a steam room, a sauna, and an infinity pool for guests to use at their leisure.

Wider region

Arijiju is located in Laikipia County, one of Kenya’s most diverse and scenic regions. Laikipia is home to many wildlife reserves and conservancies that protect endangered species such as rhinos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs. Laikipia also has a rich cultural heritage, with various communities living in harmony with nature, such as the Maasai, the Samburu, and the Turkana. Guests can visit some of these communities and learn about their traditions, crafts, and livelihoods. Laikipia also offers some spectacular natural attractions, such as Mount Kenya National Park, the Ngare Ndare Forest, and the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Kids

Arijiju welcomes children of all ages and can provide extra beds, cots, and babysitting services on request. The lodge has a cinema room with a selection of movies, games, and books for kids to enjoy. The staff can also arrange special activities for kids, such as treasure hunts, baking sessions, or arts and crafts.

Getting there

To get to Arijiju, you can take a shared scheduled flight to the Lewa Airstrip, which is about 90 minutes drive from the lodge, or a private charter flight to the Borana Airstrip, which is only 15 minutes away. You can also charter a private helicopter to land directly at the property.

Ethical credentials:
  • Limits plastic use
  • Actively reduces consumption
  • Ecosystem preservation
  • Wildlife protection or rescue
  • Solar powered or renewable energy
  • Funds projects
  • Local or organic food
  • Education
Good for:
  • Luxury
  • Wellness
  • Wildlife
Setting:
  • Rural
Facilities:
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Pool
  • Wifi
Room capacity:
  • Up to 2
  • Up to 4
  • Up to 8
  • Over 8
Suitable for:
  • Family
Type of property:
  • Lodge
Activities:
  • Hiking
  • Horseriding
  • Tennis
  • Yoga
  • Safari
Type of tour:
  • Safari or wildlife
Tags: Cinema, Hiking, Horseriding, Large groups, Luxury, Safari, Spa, Tennis, Wellness, Wildlife and Yoga

Price range: £££££
Website
Email: marketing@arijiju.com