Is this the best safari house in Africa?
Africa has a range of private safari houses on offer, but the newly launched Sirai House in Kenya has no equal. Located at the foot of snow-capped Mt. Kenya in the private Borana Ranch conservancy, this luxury retreat is the epitome of elegance combining a true sense of place with internationally acclaimed architecture, art and design.
'This is an extraordinary property on a par with top-end European villas,' says Richard Smith, owner of Aardvark Safaris. 'Surrounded by Kenya's most dramatic scenery and wildlife, Sirai is a perfect house for families or groups of friends who want uncompromising service and style in a safari wonderland." Aardvark Safaris has pioneered the use of private homes and exclusive-use camps for multi-generational family safaris and is thrilled to add Sirai House to their portfolio.
In addition to six ensuite bedrooms, a drawing room, library and billiards room all boast breathtaking views from every angle, Sirai House embraces outdoor living with its verandahs, terraced lawns, covered dining places, croquet lawn, boule pit and heated infinity pool.
Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and countless other species roam the 30,000 acre Borana Ranch, while nearby Lewa Conservancy offers Kenya's best black and white rhino sightings. Custom safari vehicles, walking safaris led by one of the country's top guides and game viewing on horseback are all on the menu at Sirai.
If guests tire of the endless parade of wildlife and stunning views, it's a short helicopter hop to Mt. Kenya for fly fishing and a picnic or a visit to the famed Singing Wells where the bead-adorned Samburu, Laikipia Masai and Boran tribes water their livestock. A bi-plane ride to Lake Bogoria in the Great Rift Valley to see the shimmering flocks of flamingos in their thousands or the ancient Nile crocodiles basking on the shores of Lake Turkana are within easy reach. For the adventurous (or the truly romantic) a night of fully staffed "cadillac camping" under the stars can be arranged.
Sirai House - which comes complete with its own gym, stables, 3,000 bottle wine cellar and private cinema - offers contemporary creature comforts in an age old setting. A state of the art communication system and private security detail are complemented by a full staff including the experienced management team, equestrian specialists and butlers. While there is a highly trained kitchen team in place, Sirai can also bring in top flight chefs from around the world. Designed by the international firm of Fox Browne, the house redefines the concept of the bush home confirming that travel is the only thing we buy that makes us richer.
Combining well with other exclusive, benchmark properties like Cottar's House in the Masai Mara and private North Island in the Seychelles, Sirai House is accessible by a 50 minute private charter flight from Nairobi and can be booked through Aardvark Safaris.
For more information, visit aardvarksafaris.co.uk.
