Horseback Riding in Kenya

Laikipia Safari

Overview

This safari presents a unique perspective of Kenya, since most of the ride is on vast private ranches up to 100,000 acres. It affords fascinating insights into the relationships between wild game and cattle as well as into the life of the Kenya ranchers who pioneered this wilderness soon after the turn of the century. This area with Mount Kenya in view is home to the big five and a host of other species such as Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe and Black Rhino.

Spacious 10ft x 9ft sleeping tents with camp beds (double on request), mattresses, sheets and blankets. Towels, soap and torches provided. There is a gas lamp and hurricane lamp in each tent. There is a loo tent for each double tent and hot showers always available.

All food is fresh. Dry ice and cubes are carried and the camp is self sufficient for one week. Bread is baked daily on open fires and our chefs are extremely good. You will again be pleasantly surprised.

  • Overview:
    The horses are Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred cross that have been bred and raised on local ranches. They are accustomed to the wildlife and riding in the bush, are well trained and fit, and are used for polo when not on safari. Traditional English saddles and snaffle bridles are utilized, although many of the horses neck rein. Some McClellan saddles are available. Saddlebags are attached to carry raincoats, water bottles, cameras, binoculars and a picnic lunch on moving days. Some seat savers are available, but riders are welcome to bring their own.
  • Horse Breeds:
    Somali/Thoroughbred Cross
  • Trip Pace:
    Moderate to fast with opportunities for lengthy canters and gallops
  • Tack:
    English
  • Weight limit:
    200 lbs

Non-riders are welcome to join and take part in game drives and all other non-riding activities as described in the itinerary.

Nairobi

Tour Itinerary

Day 1

Private Camp Borana

Arrive Borana either by private charter or scheduled flight. Borana is a cattle ranch turned conservation area in pristine countryside on the Northern slopes of Mount Kenya with beautiful views to the snowcapped peaks of the Mountain in the south and the rugged mountains of the Mathews Range, Bodich and even Marsabit on the way to the Ethiopian border. It is home to the big five and a host of other species such as Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe and Black Rhino. Have lunch in Camp in a grove of euphorbia trees.

Day 2

Private Camp Borana

A full day exploring Borana by horseback and vehicle, and a picnic lunch on the Ngare Ndare River. Borana is on top of an escarpment and the scenery is spectacular. A great variety of species is to be seen. Borana is home to hosts Nicky and Michael Dyer, who own and run Borana Lodge.

Day 3

Private Camp Loldaiga Hills

Today is our first moving day, as we ride westwards with a picnic lunch. We cross Ole Naishu and onto Lolldaiga, winding past large Kopje’s interspersed with cedar forest, before reaching Lolldaiga North Camp.

From this camp we will enjoy two days of spectacular riding in the northern areas of the ranch, exploring up into the hills and valleys which harbour elephant and buffalo.

At one point we shall be on the western edge of the Lolldaiga Hills with spectacular views over the Laikipia Plateau below, where we shall traverse over the coming days.

Day 4

Same as above

Day 5

Private Lolldaiga South Camp

This morning head out of camp and ride in a southerly direction across this beautiful ranch and conservancy with so many hidden valleys to explore. Lolldaiga is 55,000 acres and probably one of the most beautiful farms in Africa. Reach camp at the head of a beautiful valley surrounded by cedar forest where you stay again for 2 nights.

Day 7

Private El Karama Camp

Today is moving day as you head out across to Enasoit, another private conservancy, through a hidden valley on elephant and buffalo tracks interspersed with little dams. From Enasoit cross onto the specialist cattle ranch of Mogwooni, home to the Kenyon family where we will stop for lunch on the Nanyuki River. After lunch head across to El Karama Conservancy for the next 2 nights.

Day 8

Private El Karama Camp

A full day exploring this pretty 13,000 acre wildlife conservancy by horse and vehicle with the option of a game walk along the river, before lunch. El Karama is home to world renowned wildlife sculptor, Murray Grant, and a visit to his studio is a fascinating experience. There is a host of game including Grevy’s zebra, the rare endemic Jackson’s hartebeest, elephant, giraffe and hippo in the river.

Day 9

Departure

A last ride followed by breakfast in camp and our transfer back to Nairobi in time for your onward travels.
 
Sadly, time to say Kwaheri (goodbye)!
Itinerary Addendum

**This itinerary is flexible. Changes may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.**

Tour Map

Tour Dates & Pricing

Departure Dates

Trip Starts
Trip Ends
Mar 23, 2024
Mar 31, 2024

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $11,130

  • Single Supplement
  • $920Not required if willing to share

Departure Dates

Trip Starts
Trip Ends
Feb 8, 2025
Feb 16, 2025

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $12,280

  • Single Supplement
  • $900

    Not required if willing to share

Additional Pricing Information:
Insurance Required. Ride price is set, guaranteed and final at the time deposit is paid.


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Contact Megan Barrett

From the moment I arrived at Monte Velho I could feel the magic in the air. The accommodations were designed to allow you incredible views of the countryside and the barns that housed their beautiful Lusitanos were meticulously kept. The staff was always very friendly and the level of instruction was outstanding. Having the opportunity to ride their highly schooled lesson horses was a thrill and I watched everyone who rode throughout the week, including myself, make incredible advancements with their riding skills. The days we were able to hack out over the beautiful countryside were exciting, especially during the times we were encouraged to gallop with abandon. The food was extraordinary with a variety of delicious options to accommodate everyone's palates. And I discovered that Portuguese wine is DIVINE. I have experienced many riding holidays around the world and have always said that I don't have time to return to a particular place because there are so many places yet to experience. But I can assure you that I will indeed return to Monte Velho next year!

Foose, 2022

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