As someone who appreciates a great travel experience, I was excited yet skeptical about Lengishu, a luxury private property nestled in the Borana Conservancy, not far from the prestigious Arijiju. My name is Grace from Crystal Tours and Travel Ltd., and here’s my honest take on this exclusive destination.
Imagine crafting your perfect home with the best location, materials, and builders, only to find out that it’s right next to the iconic Palace of Versailles. No matter how incredible your creation is, it struggles to compete with history. This is what Lengishu faces when compared to Arijiju—two nearby masterpieces with their unique appeal.
The Property
Lengishu is an exclusive-use, six-bedroom property offering a private retreat within the Borana Conservancy. The conservancy covers 32,000 acres, with a mix of camps and exclusive-use properties like Sirai House and Arijiju. While not entirely private, it feels incredibly exclusive. During my stay, I was surprised by how incredible the experience turned out to be, far exceeding my expectations.
The property features a rustic design made from local materials, seamlessly blending into the environment. Its charm lies in its classy, yet comfortable feel. Unlike some luxury lodges, Lengishu exudes understated elegance without going overboard.
The Main House and Facilities
Upon arrival, I was struck by the welcoming design of the Main House, which uses natural materials like stone and wood to create an inviting atmosphere. The central living and dining room, with its high ceilings, felt grand and imposing, making it an impressive first impression.
While the pool area is relaxing and has ample seating, the distance from the rest of the property was a downside. It felt isolated at times, making the transition between activities feel disjointed. Plus, the lack of Wi-Fi near the pool was a bit of an inconvenience, but overall, the space offers relaxation and beautiful views.
The Rooms
The rooms at Lengishu are divided into six exclusive bedrooms spread across the property. Each room, including the master suite, offers an open-plan design with large living spaces and panoramic views. The decor is sophisticated yet comfortable, and small touches like nightly fireplace lighting and hot water bottles add to the cozy atmosphere. My personal favorite was the Fish Eagle suite, which boasted magnificent views and a unique design that made it truly special.
The Experience
While Lengishu doesn’t boast the same grandeur as some larger lodges, it makes up for it with its authenticity and intimate experience. The food was fresh and thoughtfully prepared, with each meal tailored to personal preferences. Though the portions were smaller than expected, I appreciated the delicate approach. Meals were served across different areas of the property, depending on the weather and mood.
The lodge is situated in an area of Borana that offers a wealth of activities beyond the typical safari drive, such as walking tours, horse riding, and night drives. The flexibility in these experiences made it feel more dynamic, unlike traditional game drives.
Activities and Safari
The highlight of my stay was the safari experience. The sightings were nothing short of incredible—witnessing a cheetah mother hunting with her cubs and a dramatic encounter between rhinos and lions was unforgettable. If you’re looking for a true adventure, Lengishu offers more than just game viewing; it’s about being immersed in the environment.
The Good, The Bad, The Luxurious
The Good:
- Food and rooms were top-notch.
- The location offers a sense of exclusivity and privacy.
- Excellent activities beyond game drives, such as horse riding and walking safaris.
The Bad:
- The lack of a spa was a disappointment.
- The property, though beautiful, is not as grand as some competitors.
The Luxurious:
- The property offers extreme privacy and breathtaking views.
- It’s a luxury experience without the overwhelming scale of some larger lodges.
- There’s a wide variety of activities to make your stay exciting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lengishu offers a fantastic safari experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and rejuvenated. It may not have the same grandeur or amenities as nearby Arijiju, but it’s a truly special place for those looking for an exclusive retreat.
For inquiries or booking your next safari adventure, contact Crystal Tours and Travel Ltd. via info@crystaltourskenya.com or call +254 721 994 205.
Let us make your dream African safari a reality!