The new Kenya lodge with exclusive safari access

The Laikipia highlands of Kenya are characterised by abundant wildlife and the lush landscapes that support it. Yet it is much less crowded than the Maasai Mara.

Traditionally occupied by the Maasai, the Samburu and others with a culture of herding, the area also has a troubled history. Many of these occupants were moved on by British settlers and residual conflicts have persisted, with clashes reminding Kenyans of their turbulent past.

Moving into Laikipia for the first time, safari company andBeyond is treading cautiously and respectfully.

For starters, the site of the new andBeyond Suyian Lodge was chosen to allow for a meaningful contribution to the local community, as well as conservation efforts within Kenya alongside global conservation charity, Space for Giants.

Space for Giants founder and chief executive Max Graham says when guests stay at this lodge, they not only directly support the protection of wildlife but also “the wellbeing of the people who share this landscape”.

Excursions include the opportunity to walk with herders on the 18,000-hectare Suyian Conservancy on which the lodge is built.

Guests also have exclusive safari access to the conservancy, a rare luxury in the world of Kenyan wildlife drives. And given Suyian Conservancy offers rare access to northern Kenya’s most elusive species, including Grevy’s zebra, Laikipia hartebeest, reticulated giraffe, African wild dog and, if you’re lucky, black leopards, that’s a massive advantage.

Head of andBeyond, Joss Kent, says “meaningful interaction” is a key part of the experience.

The lodge itself reflects andBeyond’s commitment to great design. Created by a trio of studios, its architecture and interiors include earthy textures, hand-crafted details, and “a philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection”.

Each of the 14 suites (including a family suite) features private plunge pools and expansive views.

The wellness centre offers two treatment rooms, a steam room and a cold plunge pool alongside a gym and yoga studio.

Once a cattle farm, the land has been rewilded and the herders now share space with wildlife. With andBeyond holding sole tourism rights, the land is owned by the Suyian Conservancy Trust, a Kenyan not-for-profit, and managed by Space for Giants.

See andBeyond.com