December 10-16.2025

The Golden Hoofbeat

Where the silence roars louder than words, and hooves whisper through the golden grasslands...

LET’S RIDE

Echoes of Laikipia

IMMERSE IN UNTOUCHED NATURE

Laikipia is one of Kenya’s last truly wild frontiers—a sprawling highland plateau stretching from the edge of the Great Rift Valley to the foothills of Mount Kenya. It’s a land of sweeping savannahs, rocky escarpments, and acacia woodlands, where wildlife thrives in freedom and ancient migratory paths remain untouched. Unlike the busier national parks, Laikipia’s private conservancies offer an unfiltered, intimate experience of Africa—far from the crowds, steeped in stillness, and rich in biodiversity. Lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and rare antelope species all share this unspoilt wilderness.

LEARN ABOUT CONSERVATION

Get behind the scenes of African conservation. Ride with rangers, meet sniffer dogs, and visit the nerve center of Laikipia’s wildlife protection efforts. Gain a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to protect this wilderness.

EXPERIENCE AFRICAN LUXURY

African luxury is not defined by marble floors or butlers in white gloves. It’s the luxury of space, silence, and connection—to nature, to self, to something ancient and unspoken. You’ll sleep in private canvas tents lit by lanterns, where the sounds of the wild lull you to sleep. You’ll wake with the sun, coffee in hand, watching giraffes move through the morning mist. Whether it’s a night under stars in a fly camp or a soak in the infinity pool at Lodo Springs, every place you stay is chosen for its soul—not just its style.

THE ROMANCE OF SAFARI

There’s a timeless charm to the African safari—a heritage steeped in adventure, elegance, and quiet ritual.

This journey draws inspiration from the golden age of exploration, where days were spent on horseback and evenings unfolded beneath canvas, candlelight, and stars. It’s the romance of leather saddlebags and brass buckles, of vintage binoculars and hand-written journals, of windblown linen and silhouettes cast by a setting sun.

We embrace this aesthetic not as artifice, but as homage—an invitation to slow down and savor the details:
the whisper of canvas in the breeze, the scent of woodsmoke at dusk, the glint of a copper teapot warming on the fire.

It’s a safari not just of place, but of feeling — where every moment is styled by nature, and every hour holds a story waiting to be lived.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Overall trip duration - 8 days / 7 nights (+ 1 night in Nairobi after the trip depending on the date of departure)
Accommodation - 1 night in Nairobi, 3 nights in canvas tents, 2 nights in fly tents, 1 night in luxury safari lodge. Accommodation is shared except for the night in Nairobi.
Group size - up to 8 people
Average daily time in the saddle - 2-5.5 hours
Find more information in Q&A section here
Rider’s experience level: Advanced (you should be comfortable at all paces, must be able to control your horse at all times and follow instructions of the guide)
Type of riding saddles: English
Weight limit: 85 kg

MEET THE TEAM

Zhenya Savina

International photographer, Travel Writer and Entrepreneur

Zhenya Swan is an international travel and lifestyle photographer, writer, and creative guide whose work has appeared in Vogue Australia, National Geographic, L’Officiel Voyage, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure, among others.

Over the past eight years, she has explored the African continent with a camera in hand and curiosity in her heart — drawn to its wild edges, its quiet stories, and the way time slows in the presence of something greater. Her work has brought her behind the scenes of Africa’s most renowned lodges and camps — from Kenya to Namibia to South Africa — where she’s captured the essence of true hospitality and learned what makes a safari not just luxurious, but truly unforgettable. This depth of experience allows her to bridge the gap between high standards and heart-led adventure.

Zhenya began guiding horseback expeditions in Patagonia, where she led two consecutive seasons of immersive journeys. Guests left not just amazed, but deeply moved — by the landscape, the rhythm, and the space to reconnect. After these resounding successes, she now brings her unique blend of hosting, storytelling, and soulful leadership to Africa.

She’s not just your guide — she’s your companion on the trail. A calming presence. A creative mentor. A keeper of detail and mood. With her easy energy and keen artistic eye, Zhenya ensures every moment is lived fully — and beautifully captured.

She speaks fluent English and German.

Zoe Davison

Lead Guide, Equestrian, Field Guide

Zoe brings energy and dynamism to everything she does, thanks to her professional sporting background. Her bravery and keen sense of adventure make her one of the most exciting up-and-coming equestrian guides in the field.

With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of the industry—having ridden on safaris across the globe—Zoe crafts truly tailored trips for her guests. Her professionalism is complemented by her natural energy and ability to cultivate a fun, vibrant team, ensuring a positive and engaging experience for all.

A skilled horsewoman and videographer, Zoe captures the stunning beauty of her safaris, often using her drone from horseback. Fun yet relaxed, Zoe ensures every experience is uniquely unforgettable, and with a thrill for exploration at her core, these safaris are for the fit, fully committed, and gung-ho!

Roxanne Boyes

Expedition Curator, Naturalist, Guide

Roxanne is contagiously passionate, interested, and curious about the natural world. She has ventured into some of the planet’s last remaining wildernesses, and her greatest joy lies in sharing their magic and wonder with others.

Born in South Africa and now based in Nairobi, Kenya, Roxanne’s heart is deeply rooted in Africa, which serves as her launching pad for both local and global expeditions.

From the sweeping savannahs of Africa to the pristine ice sheets of Antarctica, she crafts extraordinary journeys of discovery. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and a touch of elegance, Roxanne ensures every adventure is as unique and unforgettable as the landscapes they are in.

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Arrival & Introductory Ride

Touch down in Loisaba Conservancy, your 62,000-acre playground for the next week.
After a game drive into camp and a relaxed lunch, meet your safari horses and set off for a gentle afternoon ride to Colcheccio Dam — home to elephants and hippos.
🕒 2 hours | 🏕️ Galago Private Canvas

DAY 2
Savannah Gallop & Sunset Safari

Rise with the sun and ride across wide savannahs with the wind in your hair. Stop mid-ride for coffee and a full bush breakfast overlooking the Karissia Mountains.
After a restful siesta, enjoy sundowners at Carletto Dam and a night drive under the stars.
🕒 5.5 hours | 🏕️ Galago Private Canvas

DAY 3
Hidden Adventures & River Walk

Expect the unexpected. We set off for a mystery ride—keep your swimsuit handy! Return for lunch and spend the afternoon walking along the Palagalan Lugga with a crisp G&T in hand.
🕒 2 hours | 🏕️ Galago Private Canvas

DAY 4
Run with Rangers & Sniffer Dog Encounter

In the morning we head south with Mt Kenya in our sights. Skimming past Mafuta dam to check for fresh tracks and heading into thicker bush, the perfect environment for black rhino. We arrive in camp for lunch and enjoy the shade of yellow fever trees and horses grazing around us. After a hot shower, dinner around the camp fire, it will be time to rest as you shut your eyes to a blanket of stars above.

🕒 4 hours | 🏕️ Fly Camp at Acacia

DAY 5

Ride South Toward Mount Kenya

A sunrise run with the rangers is a true favorite—there’s something deeply powerful in its rhythm, every footstep landing in perfect sync. Running through the bush alongside Kenyan rangers creates a connection and energy that words can’t quite capture—you have to feel it for yourself. Afterward, meet the incredible sniffer dogs as they demonstrate their remarkable skills, followed by an inside look at the control and operations center that keeps Loisaba running seamlessly.

🕒 1.5 h riding + 3h activities | 🏕️ Fly Camp at Acacia

DAY 6
Final Ride into Luxury

We say goodbye to authentic luxury and hello to classic luxury. Moving to our 3 and final camp. Enjoy riding across open savannahs and rolling escarpments before reaching Lodo for lunch. It is the perfect ending to an action packed adventure; you can fully relax and unwind by the infinity pool or get the party started with a sundowners view with the animals joining at their local watering hole!

🕒 4 hours | 🏕️ Lodo Luxury Camp

DAY 7
Farewell Ride

Our final morning brew with a magical sunrise and dawn chorus followed by a hearty breakfast and maybe bloody mary! Followed by the best airport drop off on 4 legs and a final farewell.

🕒 2 hours

TOUR DATES: DECEMBER 10-16 2025

LOCATION: LAIKIPIA, KENYA

*The arrival in Nairobi is on the 9th and the departure is on the 16th or 17th (depending on the international flight you choose)

Tour Investment: $9,850 USD per person sharing

Non-Sharing Option: Available for $10,900 USD total

To reserve your spot:
A 30% deposit ($2,955 USD) is required upon booking and is due no later than April 30th, 2025.
The remaining balance is due 50 days after booking.

*Please note: Deposits are non-refundable unless a replacement for your spot is found.

INCLUDED:

7 nights accommodation
(6 nights at Loisaba + 1 night in Nairobi)
All conservancy park fees;
Horse riding, guided wildlife game drives and conservancy activities;
Full-board catering with tea/coffee and bush sundowners,
Gourmet meals (à la carte or buffet-style using fresh local ingredients at Lodo Springs)
Curated welcome dinner on the day of arrival at Cultiva restaurant in Nairobi presenting their harvest menu for the guests
Alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages
Internal flights between Nairobi and Loisaba (here the price may slightly vary - the flight costs are based on estimates and may fluctuate depending on time of confirmation as all flight costs)
Medical evacuation with rescue;
High-resolution photo gallery (150–200 edited images from the trip and minimus 15 individual photos of each guest)
Hosted experience with Zhenya Swan as your personal guide and photographer

NOT INCLUDED:

International flights
Insurance
Gratitudes
Visa fees
Items of a personal nature

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The adventure is calling…

WHY IT IS WORTH THE INVESTMENTS

Book a call!

If you're unsure whether this journey is right for you, would like to hear more about the itinerary, or simply want to connect and ask Zhenya anything directly — you're warmly invited to book a consultation call.

This is a relaxed, no-pressure chat where you can receive all the information you need, dissolve any doubts, and get a real sense of what this experience is all about.

If you don’t see a time slot that suits your schedule, just send us an email — we’ll be happy to find a time that works for you.

How many places in the world still exist where you can ride a horse through untouched, untamed nature — side by side with wild animals, without the hum of engines, without filters, without distraction?

This is one of those rare places.
Where you can sleep under the stars in canvas tents, yet still enjoy the comfort and quiet luxury of a well-curated journey.
Where the rhythm of hooves and the silence of the wild replace noise and routine.
Where you reconnect — not only with nature, but with yourself.

Yes, this is a financial investment.
But more than that, it’s an investment in yourself.

Journeys like this are journeys of self-discovery.
Out there, something shifts.
New meanings rise to the surface.
Epiphanies appear.

You come back changed — expanded, grounded, alive.

And what is that worth?

Quite simply, it’s priceless.

FAQ

Your stay is a journey through three distinct layers of African beauty and comfort.
We begin with three nights at Galago Private Canvas Tents—elegant and thoughtfully appointed, with proper beds, en-suite toilets, and hot showers. These tents offer just the right balance of wilderness immersion and refined comfort.
Next, we move to two nights in a remote fly camp, simpler in style but still beautifully prepared to ensure warmth, rest, and all essentials are in place. Here, you’ll sleep under the stars in true safari spirit.
Our final night is at the exquisite Lodo Springs, a luxury lodge by the Elewana Collection—sophisticated, serene, and utterly unforgettable.
Additionally, on the first night, we’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in Nairobi, conveniently located near the airport to make your early morning departure to Loisaba seamless.
While horseback riding is at the heart of this journey, there’s a rich variety of activities to explore beyond the saddle.
Guests can enjoy bush game drives, walking safaris, sundowners in the wild, bush runs with the rangers, and even participate in a sniffer dog demonstration—a fascinating glimpse into wildlife protection. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the conservation center and meet the rhino monitoring security team, gaining meaningful insight into the land’s preservation.
If you’re traveling with non-riders, they’ll never be left out. Non-riding guests can choose from all other activities or even join the riders in a game vehicle, ensuring they witness the magic of the safari from a different but equally thrilling perspective.
Whether you're an experienced rider or simply along for the adventure, every guest will be fully immersed in the wonders of Laikipia.
We don’t accept children on riding safaris. For this particular journey, we welcome guests aged 18 and over only.
✔ Riding helmet
✔ Riding boots and chaps
✔ Rain gear / waterproof coat
✔ Gloves
✔ Sun hat
✔ Riding trousers
✔ Long-sleeved cotton shirts
✔ Short-sleeved T-shirts
✔ Trainers
✔ Flip flops
✔ Swimming costume
✔ Sun glasses
✔ Sun block
✔ Lip balm with SPF
✔ Wet wipes
✔ Head torch
✔ Water bottle
✔ Camera
✔ Power bank
A detailed packing list will be sent to all guests after securing their spot on the ride.
All alcohol and soft drinks are included. Most sprits, wine and beers are available, but please let us know should you have any special requests.
Please note that exclusive or premium alcohol, such as champagne and top-shelf spirits, is not included but can be arranged upon request at an additional cost.
Sundowners, bush cocktails, and fireside nightcaps? All part of the experience.
Loisaba Conservancy, spanning 58,000 acres in northern Kenya, is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a model for conservation. Home to the Big Five — elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and both black and white rhinos — it also shelters rare species like the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and African wild dog. With over 260 bird species, it's a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Loisaba's commitment to conservation is evident in its recent reintroduction of 21 eastern black rhinos, marking a significant milestone in wildlife preservation. Whether on horseback, foot, or vehicle, every exploration here contributes to and benefits from ongoing conservation efforts.
For internal flights within Kenya, there is a strict luggage limit of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person. This is due to the small aircraft used to reach Loisaba. We recommend bringing soft-sided duffel bags rather than hard suitcases to make handling and storage on the plane easier.
You’re welcome to bring two pieces of luggage—simply leave the items you won’t need for the riding portion of the trip in Nairobi, where they will be securely stored until your return.
You should check VISA requirements with your travel agent or relevant consular authority before travelling. You can obtain Kenyan Visa online on the official website.
Normally it takes up to 10 working days, but may take longer in certain cases.

Food is a deeply meaningful part of this journey—more than just fuel, it’s an experience in itself.
We take great care to ensure every meal is not only delicious and nourishing, but beautifully prepared and joyfully shared. From hearty breakfasts and open-air lunches to elegant bush dinners, we want you to walk away with memories of flavor, warmth, and the art of good food in the wild.
Guests are encouraged to share their dietary preferences and restrictions in advance, so we can thoughtfully accommodate all needs. Tea, coffee, snacks, sundowners, and standard drinks are included throughout the journey. (Please note that luxury alcohol like champagne is not included.)
Meals may take place in the comfort of camp or out in the wilderness—on a scenic ridge, beside a river, or under a canopy of stars. No matter the setting, every bite is crafted with attention and intention.
We begin with a shared welcome dinner in Nairobi at Cultiva, a vibrant restaurant known for its seasonal signature crafted menu and amazing atmosphere. Transfers, drinks, and the harvest-style meals are all included.
A medical kit and a satellite phone for emergencies is on hand in camp and in the saddle. All of the guides have gone through the First Aid training. Nonetheless, please advise us of any allergies or relevant medical history.
Guests should plan to fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya.
If you need guidance on which flights are best based on your departure city, we’re happy to advise you personally—just reach out and we’ll help you find the smoothest route.
From the moment you arrive in Nairobi, we’ve got you covered. Upon request, we can arrange private airport transfers to your hotel. From there, we’ll handle your domestic flight to Loisaba, where your horseback safari begins.
All you need to do is arrive—we’ll take care of the rest.
Your safety is our top priority.
We carry public liability insurance and take every possible measure to ensure your wellbeing throughout the journey. However, it is essential that all guests have their own comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including coverage for horseback riding accidents.
Additionally, it is mandatory to have emergency evacuation insurance, which provides access to helicopter rescue in the event of a serious incident in the bush. This service is already included for guests for the peace of mind in remote areas.
Our daily rides range from 1.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the day’s route, terrain, and energy levels within the group. Some mornings are long and adventurous; others are slower and scenic.
That said, flexibility is key. If at any point a guest feels tired or simply prefers a different pace, they’re welcome to join the group from a game vehicle instead of horseback. Whether you ride every day or take breaks along the way, we make sure the experience is fulfilling, comfortable, and inclusive for all.
The goal is for you to feel free—never pressured.
Galago Camp operates on a robust solar system with a 1200W inverter and lithium battery storage. To support sustainability, guest usage is thoughtfully managed:
- Each tent is equipped with a 20,000mAh power bank;
- Phones, cameras, and small devices can be charged via USB;
- A shared charging station is available for laptops and DSLR batteries — please ask your host if you need access.
Acacia Fly Camp runs on an emergency solar lighting system only.
- There are no guest charging stations, so we recommend bringing fully charged power banks;
- Headlamps and solar lanterns will be provided for personal use.
Lodo Springs Luxury Tented Camp offers the most comprehensive setup:
- A full solar power system with 24/7 electricity;
- Charging stations are available in each room;
- Ambient lighting is provided throughout, including bedside lamps and deck lanterns.
There will be WiFi in the canvas tented camp & the lodge but not in the fly tents - this is off grid. Starlink provides wifi in the canvas tents so it is available but can be on / off if lots of overcast.
The horses are a carefully selected mix of Boerperds, Warmbloods, Thoroughbreds, Friesians, Percheron crosses, and Draft crosses — offering a wide range of heights, builds, and temperaments.
This variety allows the team to match each rider with the horse that suits them best — not just in ability, but also in personality. It’s something the team takes real pride in, because that connection between horse and rider is at the heart of everything we do. It’s what makes the experience truly special — and what makes you fall in love with the ride.
December in Laikipia is a delightful time to explore the wilderness. As the short rains taper off by mid-month, the landscape transforms into a lush, verdant expanse, offering stunning backdrops for your safari adventures.
Daytime temperatures are comfortably warm, averaging around 23°C (73°F), while evenings and early mornings can be cooler, dipping to approximately 12°C (54°F).
With approximately 9 hours of sunshine daily and the bush at its most vibrant, December offers an idyllic setting for your safari journey.

Argentine 'recado' saddles with sheepskins and traditional, rawhide bridles. All of our horses are trained to neck-rein.
Tipping is entirely optional and never expected. Our team is here to offer you the best possible experience, regardless.
However, if you feel moved to express your appreciation, a recommended range is $25–$50 per guest per day. This is simply a guideline — some guests choose to tip more, others prefer not to tip at all. Both are absolutely welcome and respected.
To ensure the best possible experience for every rider, we kindly ask you to provide a few important details in advance. This helps us match you with the most suitable horse — one that fits not only your age, weight, height, and riding experience, but also the temperament and personality you feel most comfortable with.
Additionally, we’ll need your dietary preferences, drink choices, and — most importantly — any health conditions or relevant medical information we should be aware of. This is essential for your safety and comfort throughout the journey.
Our goal is to create an experience that feels seamless, tailored, and deeply enjoyable — and your openness helps us make that happen.
Each guest will be required to fill out an indemnity form upon arrival.
Riding in the Kenyan wilderness is not like a typical trail ride — it requires confidence, skill, and quick reflexes. This experience is designed for rather advanced riders. You need to be comfortable and balanced at all paces — walk, trot, canter, and gallop — and able to respond quickly and calmly to instructions from your guide.
Because you’ll be riding in open, untamed landscapes among wild animals, it's essential that you’re able to react instinctively, maintain control of your horse, and — if needed — move swiftly and safely in case of any sudden changes or danger. This is what makes the ride exhilarating, immersive, and deeply connected to nature — but it also requires respect, readiness, and responsibility in the saddle.
If you're unsure about your riding level, feel free to reach out to us.
We’ll be happy to help assess your experience and advise whether this ride is a good fit for you.
Please bring all the riding gear you feel most comfortable wearing, including your helmet, boots, chaps, and any additional protective equipment you typically use.
If you’re missing something, riding helmets can be provided — but this should be requested in advance so we can prepare accordingly and in the best way possible.
A single supplement is available for guests traveling solo who prefer not to share accommodation.
(All prices listed are based on per person sharing.)
If you wish to have a private tent or room throughout the trip, the total cost for a single supplement stay is $10,900 USD.
Each ride is limited to a maximum of eight guests. This ensures a comfortable group size where everyone receives individual attention, feels supported, and is able to fully enjoy the experience.
The group is small enough to allow for personal connection with guides and fellow riders, but large enough to create a sense of companionship and shared adventure throughout the journey.
Loisaba Conservancy offers a diverse and captivating landscape, ideal for adventurous horseback riding. The terrain encompasses vast grassy plains, bushy trails, rocky outcrops, and occasional dusty paths. Riders will navigate through open savannahs, gentle valleys, and forested areas, providing a dynamic and engaging experience.

ARE YOU JOINING?

Please, fill out this form to get all the details on the tour, dissolve your doubts and book a spot on this wild adventure!

Still have any questions left? Feel free to send an email to zhenyaswan@gmail.com or fill out the form above! We will get back you within the next 24 hours!