Borana - North Ride

A large indigenous garden surrounds the main lodge, a tranquil, thatched structure that blends into the environment. There's a sitting room with a large open fireplace and comfortable seating, and picture windows overlooking the plains below. In the dining room, guests can sample fresh produce from the ranch, award-winning wines, and cuisine from the immensely talented chef. Paddle in the infinity pool and watch the elephants at the watering hole, or relax on your veranda and gaze to the horizon.

The eight cottages with large double or twin beds are spacious and beautifully decorated in chic rustic style. Four cottages have their own verandas, while two sets of cottages share verandas and are perfect for families. Each unit also has an open fireplace and a stone-walled bathroom. Rooms 7 and 8 are ideal for families with teenage children as they're furthest from the lodge, but have their own plunge pool and facilities for independent eating, if they wish.

Horse-riding safaris are clearly the main attraction. (Feeling adventurous? The seven-day North Ride is the most exhilarating for competent riders). You can also explore on a game drive, take a bush walk, mountain bike or view the wildlife in action from a blind or a treehouse. Overnight in a fly camp and venture into the huge Mukogodo Forest, home to magnificent podo, red cedar and African olive trees, and birdlife to match. Visits to a local village can be arranged.