Loisaba - Mind, Body and Soul by Will Jones

The Loisaba Wilderness area sits on the northern end of the Laikipia region, an area that is the second largest wildlife habitat in Kenya – some 6,000 square miles which boasts the greatest biodiversity after the Serengeti/Mara ecosystem.

The original home of Count Ancilotto has been converted into a luxurious lodge with some of the most dramatic views of the Laikipia highlands and Mt Kenya beyond. The lodge is beautifully furnished although some of the smaller original rooms, which were not knocked down, have limited appeal.

Loisaba does have two ‘starbed’ sites where guests have the opportunity to sleep under the stars on wooden platforms raised up into A frame units. This is a fantastic ‘night out’ fully hosted by the local Maasai. Can get a bit windy and damp.

Loisaba is probably best know for its considerable range of activities which allow you the opportunity to walk and ride on camels or horseback, as well as the chance to look for wildlife in open Landrovers both during the day and at night. They have two helicopters which they use to explore the surrounding countryside and offer heli-camping and heli-fishing – both fantastic. Flying over the deserts of northern Kenya in the choppers is an exceptional experience. The pilot, Captain Humphrey Carter, is wonderful company and a great character.

Another fun activity is to spend a night in the lookout, a hide built at the source of a spring. This affords one the chance to see the elusive leopard, as well as a variety of other nocturnal species. Depending on rainfall, they can also offer a raft trip on the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Why go: starbeds, helicopter safaris, private ranch, activities