SEGERA RETREAT, LAIKIPIA
This spot is nestled between the majestic Mt Kenya to the East and the Great Rift Valley to the west. Moments that make it stand out include when a tower of elegant giraffes lope across the plains, just in front of your private veranda, or you catch sight of an elephant grazing peacefully as you take a dip in the swimming pool. The home of entrepreneur Jochen Zeitz, Segera also hosts the world’s largest contemporary African art collection.
OL LENTILLE SANCTUARY
Ol Lentille is a prime example of sustainable tourism, community partnership and world class architecture, offering complete privacy in a private conservation area. Much more than just game drives, it has four, fully-staffed private villas with majestic views of northern Kenya and is ideal for couples, friends and families. At one of the highest points in Laikipia, couples can’t do better than The Eyrie, a round bedroom where from the comfort of your round bed, you can feast your eyes on the mountains outside. This can be either a relaxing retreat or adventurers’ paradise. Rates: starts from Ksh 25,200.
TUSITIRI DHOW, LAMU
The Enasoit dhow, ‘Tusitiri’, has been carefully restored and is today a majestic and comfortable vessel. Try taking this dhow for a night for something completely different; chefs whip up tasty fare in the open-air galley, while guests sleep out under the stars. Life on board is laid back and centered on the dhow’s wide deck; sumptuous cushioned seating areas line it while a dining area is centered around the solid wooden mast. Rates on request.
MANTA UNDERGROUND RESORT, ZANZIBAR
250m from the shore and anchored in an ocean floor anomaly, the floating underwater rooms here define the word ‘innovative’. Encapsulated within a turquoise blue bubble, watching shoals of reef fish swim by, sometimes in three or four layers of different species, is a truly breathtaking yet awakening experience. The floating structure, Swedish engineered, provides three levels, those above the water clad in local hardwood. Three days minimum stay required when booking an underwater room, and rates are available on request
