For the first time ever, the famous Borana Wildlife Conservancy in Northern Kenya is inviting guests to actively participate in their invaluable wildlife conservation efforts. For one week commencing March 2nd 2017, guests can be part of the ranger team helping to track, locate and count game species for the annual Big 5 Wildlife census – the most important conservation tool in measuring the success of their unending projects. Guests can also take part in several other conservation activities during their safari as well as enjoying the luxuries of three fantastic and high-end African safari lodges: The Emakoko, Lewa Wilderness and Borana. (see below) This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness and partake in the behind the scenes action, and make a difference while on safari.

Both Borana and Lewa are flagships in Kenyan conservation, not only in Laikipia but indeed Kenya, holding an abundance and diversity of wildlife comparable to any of the national parks. Critically endangered species, rhino not withstanding, on Lewa, such as the Grevy’s Zebra, the Jackson’s Hartebeest and African Wild Dog had now become commonplace on Borana and Lewa and were significant contributions to their respective populations in Kenya.

Itinerary – 2nd – 9th March 2017

-Fly from the U.S. To Kenya arriving 2nd March 2017

-2nd March: 1 night at The Emakoko, Nairobi

-3rd March: Fly to Lewa from Wilson Airport

-3-5th March: three nights at Lewa Wilderness

-6th March: Road Transfer to Borana Lodge

-6-8th March: Three nights at Borana Lodge

-9th March: Fly to Nairobi Wilson

-Day room at The Emakoko -International flight home or onwards travel

The Emakoko -1 night

The Emakoko is a boutique lodge uniquely positioned on the edge of the Nairobi National Park.  It is located a short 45 minute drive from either of Nairobi’s airports. The drive through the park itself, with its beautiful scenery and abundance of plains game is a spectacular way to start any East African safari.   With only 10 rooms The Emakoko offers an exclusive and personal environment for our guests to enjoy.  Five rooms are situated at the main level and five built into the cliff face higher up. The climb to the upper rooms is worth it for the spectacular views! The room designs and interiors are designed for comfort, from huge, luxurious beds to the black-out curtains. Each room has its own private veranda.

Lewa Wilderness – 3 nights

Situated near the base of Mt. Kenya – Africa’s second tallest mountain – Lewa Wilderness is one of Kenya’s oldest and most private safari ventures. The Craig family has passed down from one generation to the next a distinct passion for wildlife, conservation and tourism, and they proudly continue to run Lewa Wilderness lodge and Walking Wild camel safaris. This place is as much a home as it is a truly unique and personal safari experience.  The lodge has nine exclusive rooms: six thatched cottages tucked into the hillside overlooking Lewa’s Eastern Marania Valley, and three thatched garden cottages set in the beautiful green lawns. Each cottage is tastefully decorated with some of the Craig’s own antique and handmade furniture, giving each rustic charm and the character of a ranch homestead.

Borana Lodge – 3 nights

With panoramic views over the Samangua Valley and the Lewa Plains to the Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya beyond, The Lodge offers eight romantic and unique cottages, each with an open fireplace and private veranda.  The grandfather of the present owners of Borana fell in love with the wildness and soul-enriching isolation of this land. In building the lodge, the Dyers took care not to lose this while ensuring that the Lodge offers the ultimate in luxury and comfort. All cottages are entirely secluded and have private views from both bedroom and bathroom of the valley below.  All areas of the Lodge overlook a lake that is a popular watering hole for the local animals so there is constant activity for guests to watch. Our top tip – Take a guide and walk down to the dam to enjoy a close-up view of elephants swimming!

Contact us for more information and to book this unique opportunity to really make a difference whilst on safari.