Arijiju House is an exclusive-use luxury retreat; a beautiful, private residence in the game-rich, Kenyan Highlands with rare, truly wild luxuries—a spectacular retreat on the Borana Conservancy on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau.
Overview of Arijiju
Arijiju's architectural design reflects the Kenyan custom of arranging rooms to accommodate multiple generations, featuring three suites in the main house and two spacious cottages along a stone path. It stands as a grand private villa, boasting a chic grass-thatched roof that merges effortlessly with the hillside, setting a new luxury benchmark for the region.
The shared spaces of Arijiju Retreat are a fusion of African and European influences – echoing the iconic monasteries of nearby Ethiopia, with the entire edifice sheathed in indigenous Meru stone, complemented by European elements like elegant chandeliers and high-end western furnishings.
Food & service
The service at Arijiju Retreat is exceptional—attentive, stylish, friendly, and highly professional. The kitchen embraces a farm-to-table approach, catering to both health-conscious guests and food enthusiasts. Inspired by Ottolenghi, the cuisine beautifully combines modern, classic, and local flavors. The dining area boasts two large fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling arched windows, while meals can also be enjoyed on various decks and patios or even in the conservancy.
Guests are invited to customize their dining experience, ranging from lavish to light, with options for vegan and gluten-free diets.
There is a candle-lit lounge and bar area, a library and office, a spa house, a gym, a yoga studio, tennis and squash courts, and an infinity pool with views over a waterhole frequented by elephant, rhino, cheetah, giraffe and many other species. There is a fourteen-strong staff in attendance, including the butler, chefs and a ranger. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
The indulgent 19 m (65 ft) infinity swimming pool, often also enjoyed by elephants to quench their thirst, offers the ideal respite after a warm Kenyan day’s adventure.
To the north and east of Arijiju lie snow-capped mountains, dense forests and sprawling deserts, while to the south looms Mount Kenya. Open fences and corridors allow for safe passage for animals on migration, while radio collars on elephant matriarchs and roaming lions help inform and divert human-wildlife conflict. As such, Laikipia has emerged as the only region in Kenya where wildlife numbers have increased over the past 20 years.
Conservation at Arijiju
Arijiju Retreat is thoughtfully designed and operated with a strong commitment to sustainability and the well-being of the local community. Every aspect of the retreat has been carefully crafted to minimize its environmental footprint. From eco-friendly building materials to energy-efficient practices, every detail reflects a dedication to preserving the natural surroundings while supporting local livelihoods.
