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Laikipia - Kenya's Northern Gem

Author: Victoria Langmead

Unfailingly popular, Kenya is one of Aardvark’s top selling destinations. Victoria Langmead was despatched in December to see for herself why it has earned this title.

Having heard so much about Kenya it was wonderful to see it for myself, and I can understand why it is such a hit with the sales team and Aardvark clients alike. Towards the end of my three week trip, after visiting the Masai Mara, Amboseli, the coast and – it seemed – all other areas between, I arrived in the Laikipia region.

I’d already been impressed with Kenya’s scenic beauty but this area of vast open plains, spectacular soaring mountains, dense forests and remote tribal villages, quite took my breath away. I found that after the twice daily game drives in the National Parks (which I adored) and delicious east African camp food, that it was wonderful to be able to don the walking boots, explore on foot and have the opportunity to participate in the other numerous activities on offer in here.

If you are planning an itinerary, Laikipia can feature at the start (a place to relax and unwind after the long international flight), the middle (in between safari destinations) or at the end (to reflect after a safari before returning home).

WHY GO TO LAIKIPIA

The Scenery. Laikipia is on an epic scale and is a true unspoiled wilderness. There are soaring mountains, wide open plains and dense forests. On clear days the views of snow capped Mount Kenya in the distance are magnificent. It really does have a serious wow factor.

The wildlife & birds. Not originally known for its wildlife, Laikipia is gaining recognition as a wildlife destination in its own right and has been ranked second in Kenya to the Masai Mara. Amazingly for an area no bigger than Wales, Laikipia is home to more endangered mammals than any other area in East Africa. The crème de la crème of my visit has to be my wild dog sighting at Borana.

Remote and exclusive. One of the main appeals of Laikipia is the opportunity to get away from the major tourist trail and to have a truly private game viewing experience. There aren’t any national park or reserve regulations so visitors have the opportunity to game view on foot and enjoy night game drives.

WHAT TO DO IN LAIKIPIA

• camel riding
• guided walks and hikes
• game drives
• swimming in the river & rock jumping
• bird watching
• cycling
• fishing
• helicopter excursions
• quad biking
• experience the culture and visit the ‘singing wells’ of Sarara
• climb Mount Kenya

WHERE TO STAY

• small, owner run tented camps: Kitich, Sarara, Ol Malo, Sabuk
• community owned and run lodges: Il N’gwesi
• tree houses and open air “star beds”: Loisaba Koija and Kibiko Starbeds
• Private houses for exclusive use: Ol Malo House, Loisaba House, Laragai
• Lodges with spa facilities: Loisaba
• Private mobile walking and camping safari: Alex Hunter, Karisia.
  
  
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