Borana Lodge, Kenya
Horses
Type of horses:
Home bred thoroughbreds and thoroughbred crosses.
Nature of horses:
Calm, well schooled, responsive and forward going.
Height of horses:
14.2 hh - 16.3 hh
Weight limit:
95kg
Tack type:
English, Australian Stock and South African Western saddles.
Weather
Current Conditions:
Mostly Cloudy, 20 C
Forecast:
Thu - Showers. High: 24 Low: 15
Fri - PM Thunderstorms. High: 26 Low: 15
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather
(provided by The Weather Channel)
Pricing
Borana Luxury Lodge Based Stay
2012 Prices:
High Season: 1st July - 31st October, 20th December - 2nd January 2012
Per person, per night, sharing a room: £437
Per person, per night, single room: £500
Per child sharing (5-12 years): £237
Kids room (5-16 years): £114
Mid Season: 3rd January - 28th February, 1st - 30th June
Per person, per night, sharing a room: £380
Per person, per night, single room: £443
Per child sharing (5-12 years): £215
Kids room (5-16 years): £114
Low Season: 1st March - 30th May, 1st - 19th December
Per person, per night, sharing a room: £355
Per person, per night, single room: £418
Per child sharing (5-12 years): £190
Kids room (5-16 years): £114
Prices include conservation fees, full board accommodation, horse riding, sundowner excursions, soft drinks, beers, house wines, selected house spirits, shared game drives (day and night), local airstrip transfers, mountain biking, use of swimming pool and laundry.
Price does not include flights, travel insurance or extras not mentioned above.
Long Northern Ride
2012 (Seasons as Lodge Based Stay):
High Season: £4827 per person
Mid Season: £4258 per person
Low Season: £4005 per person
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Mountain Ride
2012 (Seasons as Lodge Based Stay):
High Season: £3811 per person
Mid Season: £3355 per person
Low Season: £3152 per person
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
This rate includes: conservation fees, flying doctor insurance, full-board accommodation at Borana Lodge, the community lodges and the light-weight fly-camp, drinks, horses, guides, vehicles, game drives and all activities. This rate does not include flights or travel insurance.
Seven Day Northern Ride
2012 (Seasons as Lodge Based Stay):
High Season: £4336 per person
Mid Season: £3070 per person
Low Season: £2893 per person
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
Borana Lodge is set on the edge of the Samangua Valley, North-West of snow-capped Mt Kenya in the Laikipia district. It is a working ranch and game sanctuary which offers panoramic views of the Borana plains, rich with wildlife, and the indigenous Ngare Ndare Forest which features some spectacular wildlife such as black rhino. Mt Kenya, standing at a magnificent 17,058 feet, is Kenya's highest mountain and straddles the equator with an eco-system of its own. Heather and bamboo forests crowd its lower slopes which are home to elephant, hardy leopards and lion. It is a place of great natural beauty and is sacred to the Kikuyu people, Kenya's largest ethnic group.
Life on this Kenyan ranch isn’t just about living up close with some of the region's unique wildlife, its impact goes far deeper and the lodge is an important part of the community. Michael, the ranch owner, is largely involved with many groups representing the interests of local landowners and Nicky runs a leather workshop which offers employment to local disabled workers. She contracts beadwork through local women's groups and the couple are both involved in wildlife conservation, promotion of eco-tourism, raising money for local primary schools and in improving AIDS awareness through a mobile clinic.
Borana would not be the place it is today without its horses, as these provide one of the best ways to see big game, enjoy the magnificent views and to roam this interesting environment. The horses here are mostly thoroughbreds and are well-schooled, ridden in snaffles, and cared for by a team of grooms to ensure their health and fitness. Most are forward-going and spirited but there are calmer and more steady horses to suit the less confident riders. Guests can head out to ride after an early morning cup of tea, taking a quick trip to the stables and mounting their horses ready for a wonderful pre-breakfast hack. The secluded valleys offer spectacular spots for a picnic breakfast and guest will often find fresh fruit on the table and bacon and eggs sizzling on an open fire. Alternatively, guests can choose a full day's riding with picnic lunches and sundowners or can opt for one of the safaris rather than a lodge based stay.
Kenya's climate offers warm, sunny days with cooler mornings and evenings, perfect for riding and enjoying the landscapes. The earliest months of the year are the hottest with mid-year providing the coolest temperatures. Borana is situated at 6,500 feet above sea level, so it can be chilly in the evenings, but there are fireplaces in the bedrooms, sitting room and dining room to ensure a warm and cosy atmosphere at night. The Lodge is extremely comfortable and welcoming, the ideal place to unwind after experiencing the area's wonderful sights from horseback.
A stay at Borana is a unique opportunity for total immersion in the life of a working ranch. Guests are welcome to get involved, try one of the other available activities or can just put their feet up, sit back and relax. The food here is another plus as meals consist of delicious home-grown, organic ingredients. Perhaps after a day of riding and a tasty meal you might muster up the energy to drag yourself away from your exclusive cottage for an afternoon massage overlooking Mt Kenya and, of course, the pool.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
Borana Lodge lies on the edge of the Samangua Valley where you can experience panoramic views of Mount Kenya across the Lewa Plains to the Ngare Ndare Forest. The Lodge was built is 1992 by local artisans and only local building materials and dead wood from the ranch were used in its construction. The result is a supremely comfortable and luxurious Lodge which is totally in keeping with its surroundings; it seems to have grown organically from the rocks on which it was built. There are eight cottages at Borana Lodge which are unique in style, comfortable and cosy with fireplaces and private verandas. There are four double rooms and four twin rooms and each has its own luxurious bathroom. The dining and sitting rooms are situated within the main lodge.
Borana Lodge overlooks a dam which fills with the floodwater flowing off the surrounding hills. It is the local watering hole for all the wildlife in the area so there is constant activity for the guests to watch. There is also a game blind built right on the edge of the dam so that visitors may go down and see the activity at close range: elephants swimming is a favourite.
Borana Lodge is built primarily for privacy; each cottage is exclusively sited with its own special view, totally secluded from its neighbour. This ensures guests have a chance to appreciate the wilderness and loneliness of Africa.
There is a central dining and sitting area: comfy leather sofas surround a huge fireplace with picture windows looking onto the valley below. A massive rosewood table in the dining room is where meals are served by friendly and attentive staff. Local artists' paintings and sculptures decorate the Lodge, and are also available for sale. You will also find a telephone service at Borana, as well as a satellite phone for overseas calls. Internet and email facilities are available at the Lodge and Laragai.
All food is freshly prepared using vegetables and natural produce from the farm and is accompanied by freshly squeezed juice from their orchard and wines from around the world. Borana uses clean water for their food preparation and they take great pride in their exceptional menu, fresh fruits, salads, vegetables, tempting light lunches and exotically delicious dinners.
Activities
Borana has a fleet of custom-built four wheel drive vehicles driven by supremely knowledgeable drivers/guides. Since Borana is private property, there are no Game Park rules and no one else will ever obscure your view of the big game that lives there. One of the best ways to see wildlife is on a guided bush walk where experienced guides lead the hike, giving you the benefit of their extensive knowledge of the bush and its ways. Alternatively, you could opt for some serious exercise on one of their mountain bikes where you will get to experience vast amounts of stunning scenery and herds of game. Some sharp descents will add to the excitement, making this an adventure to remember.
Many guests have found that spending a day on the ranch is equally as interesting as looking at the animals and Michael, who runs the ranch, is happy to take guests on his rounds. The lodge also has its own swimming pool from which you can watch the elephants on their way to the watering hole. The pool veranda, furnished with roman couches, is a favourite place for a relaxed lunch and offers a chance to lie in the sun. Just above the pool is the Borana shop which gives guests the opportunity to purchase some of the best of African art, as well as beadwork from the local tribesmen, handcrafted jewellery and many other knick-knacks from Kenya.
Kalacha is an oasis in the middle of the Chalbi desert where the Gabbra people live. Here there is a small community lodge where guests visiting in the appropriate season can shoot sand grouse. These gather in the evenings to drink at the water-hole.
Trips to climb Mount Kenya can be arranged through Borana Lodge. The climb takes a minimum of three to four days and requires no specialist equipment. Helicopter trips can also be organised to take you around Mt. Kenya or into the Northern Frontier.
A massage can be arranged, to ease aching muscles, or simply to help you relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Further Details
Languages: English.
Health requirements: None so long as riding fit.
Age limit: None. Children are welcome, though will need to be aged 12 yrs and over if they wish to ride out on safari.
Tuition: No
Included: Conservation fees, flying doctor insurance, full-board accommodation at Borana Lodge, the community lodges and the light-weight fly-camp, drinks, horses, guides, vehicles, game drives and all activities.
Not included: Flights, transfer fees and travel/medical insurance.
Travel Information
Getting to Kenya: Kenya is well served by major international airlines, which fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) or Moi International Airport (Mombasa).
Leaving Kenya: Airport departure tax of US$40 per person, or its equivalent, is payable when leaving Kenya. This fee is often included in your international airfare, unless stated otherwise. Please check with your flight agent when purchasing your international tickets. A local departure tax of Kshs 200 (approx. US$3) per person, per flight, is payable for internal Kenyan flights.
Airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi
Alternative Airport: Moi International Airport
Programmes
Borana Luxury Lodge Based Stay
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This fabulous luxury lodge offers the ideal setting for a relaxed but memorable holiday in the heart of Kenya. Riding can be arranged to suit from an early morning hack to a full day adventure through the spectacular wildlife at the slopes of Mt Kenya. The game roaming the plains is easily viewed from the back of a safe but spirited horse and guests can even enjoy watching the animals from the swimming pool. The Lodge overlooks a dam which fills with floodwater from the surrounding hills and this acts as the local watering hole for many amazing African creatures. The nearby Ngare Ndare forest is full of amazing plantlife and some beautiful wildlife including black rhino, monkeys, elephants, a variety of birds and butterflies. This is just one of the area's highlights. There is a high altitude rose farm or an organic essential oil distillery to be visited and there are a host of other activities available. In addition to the horses there are mountain bikes, 4x4s for game drives, guided game walks, cross-cultural experiences and plenty of excuses for a fly camp experience. When the Dyer family first came here the horses were the only means of personal transport. Today, all their farms still have stables and they have horses to suit all levels of rider from beginners to experts. The stables at the lodge house a number of horses suitable for capable riders and these are used for the based stay - short hacks, full day rides or exploration of the working ranch. Michael is happy to take you on his rounds around the ranch where you can learn much about the 2000 Boran cattle, most of which are kept for beef production with a small herd for dairy purposes. Further up the slopes towards Mt Kenya the family keep a stable of Polo ponies which offer great fun for the experienced rider. At the foot of the slopes is the Ngare Ndare River where Rose keeps a stable of horses that are suitable for novices. They are patient and safe horses which have been trained to be careful with children and non-experienced riders. There is a tree nursery here which was founded in 2000 and now produces over 30,000 trees annually for reforestation projects on the ranch and within the surrounding communities. This small aspect of the lodge is just one example of why this is such a special destination and such a fascinating and enjoyable place to visit. |
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| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Beginners to experienced |
| Type of ride: | To suit |
| Total riding time: | Tailor made to suit |
| Departure dates: | To suit all year round |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Long Northern Ride
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This ride takes you between a variety of lodges and fly camps, the trails being rich in culture and beautiful scenery. Forests, vast riverbeds and the harsh beauty and wildlife of this region mean this ride is a fantastic safari. Ride through the day and relax in the evening, perhaps enjoying a game drive or simply the chance to enjoy your surroundings. Day 1 - Enasoit
Arrive JKIA - transfer to Wilson Airport and fly / drive to Enasoit or there is the option to charter direct. On arrival you will be greeted by the staff and visit the horses in the afternoon. You will then go for a short ride offering the opportunity to see game. Overnight Enasoit. Day 2 - Enasoit
After a delicious breakfast you will explore the Lolldaiga Hills on horseback in the morning. You will enjoy lunch at the pool, relax and enjoy an evening walk. Dinner and overnight in Enasoit. Day 3 - Ole Naishu
Today is a long riding day. You will receive breakfast at Enasoit, ride through Lolldaigas onto Ole Naishu. There will be a picnic lunch on the way. Dinner and overnight fly camp on Ole Naishu. Day 4 - Borana
Breakfast will be in camp and then you ride onto Borana. A late lunch will be enjoyed at the lodge. The evening will be spent relaxing followed by a game drive etc. Dinner and overnight at Borana Lodge Day 5 - Borana
Today you will explore Borana on horseback with a delightful picnic breakfast. There will be time to walk and relax in the evening. Dinner and overnight Borana Lodge Day 6 - Mukogodo Forest
Today you leave Borana on horseback and take part in an evening ride into the Mukogodo Forest. You will experience culture in the forest. Dinner and overnight in the fly camp. Day 7 - Tassia
You leave for Tassia after a delicious camp breakfast and arrive for a late lunch. There is the chance to swim, relax and walk in the evening. Dinner and overnight in Tassia. Day 8 - Tassia
Breakfast is followed by a ride out from Tassia down the dry river beds and into the Ngare Ndare river. Today is a fun riding day. During the afternoon you head back to Tassia for a relaxed evening. Day 9 - Ngare Ndare
Early breakfast before jumping onto the horses, follow the Ngare Ndare River and ride up the escarpment and onto Borana with picnic lunch en route. After a long days ride you enjoy dinner and overnight in the flycamp. Day 10 - Borana
Breakfast will be in camp before you ride up to the lodge from the river. You arrive back at Borana in time for a delicious lunch at Borana. There will be time to relax before an evening game drive. Dinner and overnight Borana. |
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| Minimum group size: | 4 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: |
Experienced rider, fit and secure in the saddle at all paces. Much of the riding is at a walk due to the terrain, but there are fast gallops. Tailor-made itineraries will go at a pace to suit the group, although since you are riding in an area of dangerous game, these safaris are not suitable for novice riders. |
| Type of ride: | Safari trail |
| Total riding time: | As detailed by programme |
| Departure dates: | To suit all year round |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Mountain Ride
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A mix of lodges and fly camps takes you through forests rich in culture, mountain views and riding along vast river banks, even offering the chance to try your hand at fishing. This stunning ride also offers the opportunity to see rhino as well as the chance to relax and sleep under the stars. Day 1 - Borana
You arrive at JKIA and transfer to Borana either by private charter (recommended) or on the scheduled flight to Lewa Downs. On arrival you will have an introduction and meet the staff and horses before enjoying an evening ride. Dinner and overnight in the Borana Lodge. Day 2 - Borana
Your day starts with a morning ride out of the stables to enjoy a delightful picnic breakfast. Relaxed lunch and afternoon at the lodge. Game drive or walk on Borana. Overnight Borana Lodge. Day 3 - Ngare Ndare
You leave after breakfast and ride east through Borana down to the Ngare Ndare River. Lunch will be en-route. Dinner and overnight in the fly camp under the stars. Day 4 - Kisima
Following a camp breakfast you ride through the famous Lewa Wildlife Conservation with an opportunity to see rhino from horse back. There will be a saddle bag lunch en route to Kisima, the family home of the Dyers. Today is a long riding day. Overnight Kisima. Day 5 - Lake Rotundu
Today you leave Kisima early after breakfast and ride up onto the moorland. You will enjoy a picnic lunch on the mountain where you will find stunning views. Riding continues to the log cabins at Lake Rotundu. Dinner and overnight at Rotundu. Day 6 - Lake Rotunu
Today you can try your luck at fishing at Lake Alice before embarking on another lovely ride over the moorland. Dinner and overnight at Rotundu Day 7 - Kisima
Following breakfast you ride back over the moorland and into the rosewood forests of Mt Kenya to Kisima House. There is the option to visit the flowers or the farm in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight in Kisima. Day 8 - Borana
Leaving after a delicious farm breakfast at Kisima, you ride down through the Ngare Ndare Forest where a picnic lunch awaits you at the blue pools. An amazing opportunity to swim in the crystal clear spring water before your ride continues on over Samangua and back to Borana. Dinner and overnight Borana. |
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| Minimum group size: | 4 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: |
Experienced rider, fit and secure in the saddle at all paces. Much of the riding is at a walk due to the terrain, but there are fast gallops. Tailor-made itineraries will go at a pace to suit the group, although since you are riding in an area of dangerous game, these safaris are not suitable for novice riders. |
| Type of ride: | Safari trail |
| Total riding time: | As detailed by programme |
| Departure dates: | To suit all year round |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Seven Day Northern Ride
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The Ngare Ndare River offers fun riding as well as the chance to relax and experience an evening game drive. Day 1 - Borana
You arrive at JKIA and transfer to Borana either by private charter (recommended) or on the scheduled flight to Lewa Downs. On arrival you will have an introduction and meet the staff and horses before enjoying an evening ride. Dinner and overnight in the Borana Lodge. Day 2 - Borana
The morning starts as you explore Borana on horseback with a delightful picnic breakfast. Your day continues exploring, leaving the evening free to enjoy a walk or simply relax in the stunning surroundings in the evening. Dinner and overnight Borana Lodge. Day 3 - Mukogodo Forest
After breakfast and free time you leave Borana on horseback in the afternoon and ride into the Mukogodo Forest. Culture in the forest. Dinner and overnight in the fly camp. Day 4 - Tassia
Today you ride out of the camp on the road to Tassia after a delicious camp breakfast. You will arrive in time for a late lunch. You will have time to swim, relax and walk in the evening. Dinner and overnight at Tassia. Day 5 - Tassia
Following another delicious breakfast you ride out from Tassia along the dry river beds and into the Ngare Ndare river. Today you will enjoy a fun riding day. You return back to Tassia for a relaxed evening, dinner and a good nights sleep. Day 6 - Ngare Ndare
You start with an early breakfast before getting on your horse, to follow the Ngare Ndare River. You then ride up the escarpment and onto Borana, before stopping for a picnic lunch en route. This is a long days ride. Dinner and overnight in the fly camp. Day 7 - Borana
Breakfast will be in camp before you ride back up to the lodge from the river. A welcomed lunch will be enjoyed at Borana. You have some free time to relax. This evening you will experience an evening game drive. Dinner and overnight Borana. |
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| Minimum group size: | 4 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: |
Experienced rider, fit and secure in the saddle at all paces. Much of the riding is at a walk due to the terrain, but there are fast gallops. Tailor-made itineraries, will go at a pace to suit the group, although since you are riding in an area of dangerous game, these safaris are not suitable for novice riders. |
| Type of ride: | Safari trail |
| Total riding time: | As detailed by programme |
| Departure dates: | To suit all year round |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
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