Laikipia is a sight like no other, from its rolling hills and valleys to the wildlife that freely grazes on plains that envelop the boundless savannah.
At a distance, Mt Kenya stands in all its glory with its exquisite snow-capped peak. The journey along these naked plains is one characterized by unmarked dirt roads often frequented by wandering herds. The beauty of the area lies in the tiniest of details although there is nothing epic or grand about the larger conservancy area but in comes Arijiju. At rates starting from $10,000 a night, this retreat lives up to its price point and the reviews it’s raked up in the years it has been open. Winding paths up a hill lead to this architectural wonder which many describe as the most beautiful lodge in Africa. It sits in its opulence, towering over its surroundings.
Arijuju’s architecture
is heavily influenced
by the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia and the austere 12th century Cistercian Le Thoronet Abbey in southeastern FraIts. Its walls feature stones quarried from Meru, carefully carved by local masons that gives it an aura almost similar to a fortress.
The design feels both contemporary and ancient at the same time, as though its walls and vaulted arches have stories to tell for the centuries they appear to have stood.
On entry, an open-air
courtyard bound by an
Eden of roses,
lavender and lemon. The silence in the surroundings is often broken by a faint melee among the trees below, followed by an elephant waltzing towards the waterhole they often frequent.
Sitting on the Laikipia Plateau, the grass-roof design that borrows from Swahili and Ethiopian cultures blends effortlessly with the hillside on which it lies. Enormous wooden doors lead through aisles and well-manicured gardens to a 25 meter infinity pool with picturesque views of the waterhole.
Three of Arijiju’s bedrooms
are directly off the courtyard
while a further two individual guesthouses are nestled further up the hill, the focus on details is astonishing.
Each suite is unique and is well lit through archways of glass, magnificent furniture, fireplaces, copper baths, and outdoor showers for guests who seldom shy away from taking risks.
The villa effortlessly matches simplicity and extravagance in this meticulous fusion of an European and African aesthetic. From the earth tone palettes, to it’s grand Lamu style doors, Moroccan carpets and French style mirrors- not even a wall hanging seems out of place in this luxurious kenyan palace.
Surrounding the expansive
savannah,
forests encircling crystal clear pools and a snow capped mountain towering over all that lies beneath it, Arijiju offers an immersive experience to it’s guests to experience bespoke adventures unlike any other. The options are numerous for guests to see and feel nature and its wonders from a new perspective. Venture out into the conservancy on your own adventure courtesy of their unlimited game drives, or swim in the icy pools in the Ngare Ndare Forest. Explore the wild and enjoy the sights on horseback alongside herds of game or get a bird’s eye view of all the spectacles on a helicopter safari. There are no limits to all the opportunities that await you on this heaven and earth.
For a post-adventure reward, their spa therapist offers world class treatments through natural and handcrafted facials and scrubs offering all guests tranquility and relaxation after a long day. And as the sun sets over the clear skies, Arijiju stands majestically in it’s luxurious and simplistic beauty. Lit candles and crackling fires lay waiting for the guests upon their return from the day’s adrenaline filled escapades. The open terrace suffices for an ideal sight for evening drinks as guests gaze into the star-filled skies. Not so many places offer lavish retreats in the untouched wild and bespoke, refined service like Arijiju does. This retreat nestled in the middle of nowhere is the epitome of luxury, an experience that will leave you yearning for more.
