A Journey of a Lifetime!
This extraordinary adventure combines the thrill of close encounters with the Big Five and endangered black rhinos, with luxurious accommodations at the stunning Borana Lodge, perched high on a hillside overlooking the vast plains.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by Borana’s diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to lush forests. Spend your days embarking on exhilarating horseback rides through the conservancy, tracking rhinos on foot with expert guides, and even venturing into the Ngare Ndare Forest for a canopy walk and picnic lunch. A highlight of the trip is sure to be the overnight stay at the Riding Wild Fly Camp, where you’ll sleep under a blanket of stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African night. This is more than just a safari; it’s a chance to connect with nature on a profound level, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
PLEASE NOTE:
- Non-riders are very welcome to join the safari experience! If you prefer not to ride, you can still fully immerse yourself in the adventure by participating in daily game drives in a specially outfitted Land Rover, on foot, or by mountain bike and eBike – the experience is just as mind-blowing.
- The riding safari is designed for riders who are comfortable and confident with cantering, and galloping, and are able to mount and dismount their horse from the ground independently. For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, if your riding ability does not meet the required standard upon arrival, you will unfortunately not be permitted to ride, but you can continue to safari in a safari vehicle – you won’t miss out!
- Weight limit strictly: 15stone/210lbs/95kg.
- The USD price may differ upon booking due to the exchange rate at the time.
- The below itinerary is just a guide, you can decide how much riding you do and there are always safari vehicles available. The fly camp night is also optional.
Trip Highlights
Big Five Encounters
Experience thrilling close encounters with lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos
Horseback Safaris
Explore Borana’s diverse landscapes on horseback, riding alongside zebra, giraffe, and more
Ngare Ndare Forest
Discover lush forests, enjoy a picnic, walk among the treetops, and swim in natural pools
Rhino Tracking
Join conservationists and track endangered black rhinos on foot
Luxury Fly Camp
Sleep under the stars at Riding Wild Fly Camp, surrounded by the African wilderness *Optional
Game Drives
Explore Borana in open-air vehicles, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities
Sundowners at Pride Rock
Enjoy breathtaking views and drinks at the iconic spot that inspired The Lion King
Wildlife Photography
Capture stunning images of Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat
Conservation Immersion
Learn about vital conservation efforts and contribute to protecting its wildlife
Cultural Connection
Learn about the local culture and traditions of the communities surrounding Borana
Private Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Visit
Visit the baby orphan elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – an exclusive visit for just us!
*Subject to numbers
Gallery
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Nairobi – Your Adventure Begins
Morning:
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be warmly greeted by your guide who will escort you to your accommodation for the night. This is your first taste of the adventure that lies ahead, so take a moment to relax and settle in. Nairobi, a bustling hub of Africa’s energy, marks the starting point for your journey to the wilds of Borana.
Afternoon & Evening:
Spend the afternoon unwinding, and enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers. This is the perfect opportunity to exchange excitement and anticipation, share stories, and bond before embarking on your 9-day safari. The evening will be filled with the promise of adventure, and as you relax, you’ll feel the pull of the wild beckoning you.
Day 2 - Journey to Borana Conservancy – The Magic Begins
Morning:
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your scenic drive to Borana Conservancy. As you leave Nairobi behind, the landscapes begin to change, from the city scape to lush hills, the journey offers an early glimpse of the African wilderness as you pass small villages, bustling farms, and breathtaking views of the countryside.
Lunchtime:
Arrive at Borana Lodge by lunchtime, where you’ll immediately be struck by the sweeping views of the conservancy and its incredible wilderness. Your cottage offers a tranquil retreat with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the vast expanse of nature. Once you’ve settled in, enjoy a mouthwatering lunch that showcases the finest local produce.
Afternoon:
After lunch, it’s time to meet the Borana horses and guides who will be looking after us for the week before heading out on your first game drive in a safari vehicle. As you travel across Borana, you’ll begin to see the magic unfold. The plains are teeming with life – giraffes towering over acacia trees, zebras grazing peacefully, and the thrill of seeing your first lion or elephant as the sun begins to set over the savannah. The day concludes with sundowners at Pride Rock, where you’ll stand in awe of the same views that inspired The Lion King. Enjoy your drink, and take in the magic of the African sunset.
Evening:
Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, where you can share your excitement and experiences from the day. Relax under the vast African sky and settle in for the evening, reflecting on your first taste of the Borana Conservancy.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Dinner
Day 3 - Morning & Afternoon Horseback Riding – Ride Through the Wild
Morning:
The day starts early. You’ll be introduced to your well-trained mount, and our expert guides will ensure you’re comfortable with your horse. Saddle up and head out into the conservancy. Riding through Borana on horseback offers an unparalleled way to connect with the landscape. The sound of your horse’s hooves and the rhythmic motion of the ride create a profound sense of unity with nature. As you ride, you’ll come across herds of zebra, impala, and giraffe, which seem to glide effortlessly across the plains. You might even encounter elephants at close range—an experience that leaves you breathless as you watch their majestic movement through the landscape.
Lunchtime:
After your morning ride, return to the lodge to relax and enjoy a delightful lunch. You’ll have plenty of time to unwind, swim in the pool, or perhaps treat yourself to a treatment at The Wallow, Borana’s spa inspired by nature. The tranquil atmosphere of the lodge is the perfect spot to reflect on the morning’s ride and prepare for the afternoon adventures.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, mount up again for a different ride through Borana’s diverse terrain. Each trail reveals new aspects of the conservancy, from the open plains to thick, wooded areas. Riding through these landscapes, you’ll encounter even more wildlife, possibly spotting predators like cheetahs or jackals. Every ride presents a new discovery, and each moment is an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with this breathtaking landscape.
Evening:
Return to the lodge for another gourmet dinner, and take in the peace and quiet of the night. Reflect on the day’s adventure and enjoy the calm of the African bush as the sounds of the wilderness surround you.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Dinner
Day 4 - Full Day Ride to Ngare Ndare Forest
Begin your day with an early breakfast at Borana before setting off on a breathtaking horseback ride into the lush Ngare Ndare Forest. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes, immersing you in the beauty of Kenya’s wilderness.
Upon arrival, the Borana Lodge team will have prepared an unforgettable picnic experience in a picturesque forest setting. Here, you can rest your horses on a picket line and explore the forest from a new perspective with a canopy walk, offering sweeping views of the treetops. For those looking to cool off, a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear blue pools awaits before settling down for a leisurely picnic lunch.
After lunch, take in the serenity of the forest before mounting your horses for the return ride to Borana. The journey back allows you to soak in the changing afternoon light and the incredible scenery surrounding you. As the day winds down, arrive back at Borana just in time to enjoy sundowners, reflecting on a day of adventure and natural beauty in the heart of Kenya.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Rhino Tracking & Conservation – A Day of Insight & Adventure
Morning:
Today, you’ll join Borana’s anti-poaching team to track black rhinos through the conservancy on foot. Tracking rhinos in this way is both exhilarating and humbling. As you quietly move through the bush, you’ll learn about the rhino’s behaviour and the critical conservation work that is taking place to protect these endangered species. The thrill of hearing the rustle of the bush and possibly spotting a rhino in the wild will stay with you long after the experience.
Lunchtime:
Return to the lodge for lunch and some time to relax. After an early start, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s exciting events, or perhaps book a massage.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, saddle up once again for a ride through Borana’s beautiful and varied landscapes. Ride past giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife, soaking in the scenery as you continue to explore this stunning conservancy.
Evening:
Head back to the lodge for dinner. Reflect on your day spent learning about rhino conservation and wildlife tracking, while enjoying a well-earned meal.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Ride to Fly Camp – Sleep Under the Stars
Morning:
Today we can ride, eBike, walk or go for a drive – let’s decide when we get there. Sometimes, embracing the moment makes for the best experiences. After an exciting morning exploring the landscape, return to the lodge for a relaxing and delicious lunch.
Afternoon:
Head off after a hearty lunch to ride into the Riding Wild Fly Camp. The journey will take you across rolling hills, past expansive plains, and through thick bush, with the incredible Mount Kenya as your backdrop. As you ride, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, from zebra grazing peacefully on the open plains to giraffes ambling gracefully in the distance.
Feel the rhythm of the horse beneath you as you experience the wildness of Kenya in an authentic, intimate way. This is the perfect chance to witness wildlife up close, often in a way that vehicle safaris simply can’t match.
Sundowners:
Upon arrival at Fly Camp, enjoy a cocktail in the heart of the wilderness. The camp is luxurious yet deeply connected to nature, offering a truly magical experience. Take in the sounds of the African bush, from the distant calls of birds to the rustling of leaves. The magic of Fly Camp is in its simplicity — the intimate setting under the African sky, the stars above, and the proximity to wildlife that makes you feel like you’re part of the landscape itself.
Evening:
As the day draws to a close, you’ll gather around a campfire to enjoy sundowners and reflect on your extraordinary ride. The sun setting over the African horizon is a sight you won’t soon forget — the sky filled with rich oranges, purples, and reds. The quiet of the bush, coupled with the distant sounds of animals, creates a sense of serenity that will stay with you long after you leave.
Once the stars come out, you’ll retire to your luxurious tent, complete with full linens and bedding, to sleep under the magnificent African night sky, with your horses on a picket line nearby. The crackling fire, the cool breeze, and the chorus of nocturnal creatures provide the perfect lullaby to end your adventurous day.
** PLEASE NOTE: The fly camping is totally optional. Should you choose not to do this, you can return to the lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Ride from Fly Camp & Afternoon Game Drive – Adventure Continues
Wake up under the stars, feeling completely at peace. After an early breakfast, mount up for the ride back to the Borana stables. The morning light casts a beautiful glow over the savannah as you ride past herds of elephants, giraffes, and maybe even a lion or two. The wildlife here is extraordinary, and seeing it on horseback offers an unmatched connection to the land.
Lunchtime:
Arrive back at the lodge for lunch, where you can relax by the pool or enjoy the serenity of the conservancy from your cottage. Take this time to rest and reflect on your journey to Fly Camp and the wild beauty you’ve experienced.
Afternoon:
After lunch, spend the afternoon relaxing at Borana Lodge or embark on an afternoon game drive. This is your last opportunity to explore Borana’s diverse terrain by vehicle. Your guide will lead you on a thrilling journey through the conservancy, where you may encounter more wildlife, from elusive predators to towering herds of elephants. The drive provides one final chance to witness the abundant life that flourishes in this special place.
Evening:
Return to the lodge for a celebratory dinner. As the sun sets over the savannah, enjoy a final evening of fine food and great company. Share memories of your adventures, and savor the peaceful atmosphere that comes with being deep in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Riding – A Day of Discovery
Morning:
Start the day with a thrilling morning game drive. The safari vehicle allows you to cover more ground and observe animals from a different perspective. You might be fortunate enough to witness predators in action—perhaps a lioness stalking a herd of antelope or a leopard lounging in the shade of an acacia tree. The wildlife viewing on these drives is exceptional, and your guide will share their deep knowledge of the land and animals, enriching your experience.
Lunchtime:
Return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and time to relax. Maybe take a dip in the pool or read a book, allowing the beauty of Borana to soak into your soul as you recharge.
Afternoon:
After lunch, saddle up once again for a ride through Borana. This is the perfect time to venture into parts of the conservancy where the terrain gets even more varied—perhaps you’ll ride through rocky hills or along riverbeds, encountering new wildlife along the way. Whether you’re galloping across wide plains or meandering through shaded valleys, every moment on horseback is an intimate, thrilling adventure.
Evening:
Return to the lodge, where a delicious dinner awaits. Share stories of your sightings and experiences from the day, and relax under the stars as the sounds of the African bush lull you into a sense of tranquillity.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Departure – A Bittersweet Goodbye
Morning:
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the magnificent Borana Conservancy. With memories of the past week’s incredible experiences etched into your mind, we’ll make our way back to Nairobi. The journey gives you one last chance to reflect on the stunning landscapes, the wildlife, and the unique moments that made this trip truly special.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Nairobi, we’ll make a stop for lunch before visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet orphaned elephants and learn about the vital conservation efforts being made to protect these magnificent animals. The Trust’s remarkable work is helping to ensure the survival of elephants for future generations, and your visit will leave you with a deeper understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation. It’s a powerful and moving experience, making it a perfect conclusion to your time in Kenya.
* Please note: This visit to the orphanage is subject to numbers
Evening:
Now it’s time to head to the airport for your departure. This is your chance to share stories, reflect on the unforgettable moments of the past nine days, and bid farewell to your fellow travellers.
You will then head to the airport for your departure, carrying with you a lifetime of cherished memories. From galloping across the plains on horseback, spotting lions and elephants, to immersing yourself in Maasai culture, your 9-day safari at Borana Conservancy has been a once-in-a-lifetime adventure — one that will stay in your heart forever.
Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Please Note:
- This is a sample itinerary, and the order of some activities may vary.
- You can choose how much riding you want to do, this is your trip!
- The USD price may differ upon booking due to the exchange rate at the time.
Our Accommodation & Location
Borana Lodge – A Sanctuary in the Wild
Perched on a stunning hillside with sweeping panoramic views, Borana Lodge is a haven of luxury and tranquillity in the heart of the African wilderness. From the infinity pool, watch as elephants and other wildlife wander down to the dam below, creating a breathtaking backdrop to your relaxation.
Each room offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Lunch is served buffet-style in the open-air pavilion overlooking the pool, while evenings invite you to unwind in the lodge’s cozy sitting room and bar before enjoying a delicious dinner in the elegant dining room or under the stars at The Hide.
Blending comfort with adventure, Borana Lodge is the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Kenya’s untamed beauty.
Whether you’re riding horseback across the plains or embarking on game drives, every moment spent in Borana is a chance to immerse yourself in Africa’s raw beauty. From vast savannahs to rugged hills, Borana is a haven for wildlife, including the Big 5 and endangered species like the black and white rhino. The conservancy’s community-driven conservation efforts also ensure that the land remains protected for generations to come.
Borana Conservancy & The Surrounding Wilderness
Nestled in the stunning wilderness of northern Kenya, Borana Conservancy is a 32,000-acre private sanctuary where the magic of the wild truly comes to life. Just south of Mount Kenya, the conservancy offers an extraordinary safari experience, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. It is also home to Pride Rock, the iconic inspiration for Disney’s The Lion King, where you can stand in awe of the views that inspired one of the most beloved films of all time.
Additional Information
Riders
Please note that this riding safari is designed for experienced riders who are comfortable and confident with cantering, and galloping, and are able to mount and dismount their horse from the ground independently. A riding hat must be worn at all times whilst riding.
For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, if your riding ability does not meet the required standard upon arrival, you will unfortunately not be permitted to ride. Our priority is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, so we encourage you to carefully assess your riding skills before booking. If you are unsure about your ability, please feel free to contact us for further guidance – info@wildheartedadventures.com.
Weight limit strictly: 15stone/210lbs/95kg.
Daily Alternatives
If you prefer a vehicle over horseback riding, game drive vehicles are available daily as an alternative to the horse riding experiences. Explore the wildlife and beauty of Borana from the comfort of a four-wheel-drive vehicle with the guidance of expert safari guides.
Non-Riders
Non-riders are also welcome to join the safari experience! If you prefer not to ride, you can still fully immerse yourself in the adventure by participating in daily game drives in a specially outfitted Land Rover, on foot, or by mountain bike and eBike – the experience is just as mind-blowing.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Borana Conservancy and witness the incredible wildlife, including the Big 5, from the comfort of your vehicle.
Whether you’re observing the majestic elephants or catching sight of a lion on the prowl, no one will miss out on the excitement of this unforgettable safari. All activities are designed to ensure that every guest, regardless of their preferred mode of exploration, enjoys a truly exceptional experience.
Other Information
Please be aware that Borana Lodge is located in the wild, and room sizes vary. Where a single room is booked, sometimes this will be a lodge on it’s own, and sometimes a room within a larger lodge. They will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage booking early.
We reserve the right to adjust hotel accommodations if necessary. Rest assured, we strive to maintain the highest level of comfort and service.
Our travels will be conducted exclusively as a group, and wherever possible, tours will be private, provided we meet the minimum participant numbers required.
FAQ
What's Included
All accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
All meals as specified in the itinerary
Drinks are included at Borana (not in Nairobi) – Soft drinks, beers, house wines and spirits
All land transportation, and airport transfers with local driver
Local English-speaking guides at most sights during the tour
All other services as mentioned in the program above
- Pre-departure support (facebook/whatsapp group)
- On-site support
What's not included
International Flights in and out of Nairobi International (NBO) – Please ensure departure flights depart after 9pm on departure day or book an additional night
Any service surcharges
Travel insurance
Meals not stated in the itinerary
Drinks not stated in the itinerary
Visa (ETA)
Guide & Driver tipping & portage charges
Incidental expenses (such as room service, minibar, telephone calls, laundry)
Personal expenses, (souvenirs etc)
Optional Excursion(s).
Your hosts
This incredible Kenyan riding adventure is hosted by Anna, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. With Anna at the helm, our adventure promises to be an enriching blend of adventure and camaraderie.
Anna Miller
Anna is the visionary founder of Wild Hearted Adventures, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. Her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm will inspire you to embrace every moment of this experience.
She is also a travel writer and the creative mind behind the popular family travel blog, Twins and Travels.
At times, unforeseen circumstances may require a change in your assigned host. However, rest assured that you’ll always be in the capable hands of a passionate, knowledgeable, and exceptional host from the Wild Hearted team, ensuring an unforgettable experience.