Arijiju lies in the Borana Conservancy, a vast private game reserve within Laikipia, which rolls from Mount Kenya, across the equator and up to the semi-desert plains of the north.

Arijiju’s architecture borrows from the Kenyan tradition of grouping rooms to house multi-generations, with three suites in the main house and two generous cottages along a stone pathway. All have indulgent copper bathtubs, outdoor showers and vast arched windows, while open fireplaces and slouchy, crumpled linens nod to old-world safari. A constellation suite on the roof offers unbridled views of the expansive night sky.

To the north and east of Arijiju lie snow-capped mountains, dense forests and sprawling deserts, while to the south looms Mount Kenya. Whichever way you face, it is towards adventure.

A peaceful retreat at the heart of the house, the study can be used for work or play, with reliable wifi, a browsing library, and multiple desks for guests use.

An ancient olive tree provides natural shade beside the cantilevered pool, suspended above the Sieku valley and fed by our well. Stretch out on a Lamu daybed as swallows skim the surface and elephants stop to drink from the lip. Breathe in the scent of jasmine and wild basil, and allow yourself to be hypnotised by a chorus of birdsong.

The vast, light-filled living and dining rooms have open fires, the raw stone and wood accents offset by decadent chandeliers. Iconic arched windows frame the views beyond

The cinema room is ideal for cosy family movies, while the games room is well-stocked with table football and a broad selection of board and card games.

Spa therapists and yoga instructors, Frida and Eunice, blend established techniques with Samburu and Masai medicinal traditions to create delicious, effective treatments. Their sumptuous scrubs, deep tissue massages, rejuvenating facials and soothing body wraps use foraged and local ingredients like wild honey, Kericho green tea, brown sugar, lime and avocado. Up to six treatments per day are included with the house.

Laikipia is home to the most mammals in East Africa and one of the country’s largest elephant populations, so you’ll spend daily safaris surrounded by the Big 5, from cheetah and prides of lion to striding giraffe and the iconic black and white rhino.

The Borana Conservancy provides a vital wildlife corridor between Mount Kenya and the Northern wildernesses. It is the last stronghold of Kenya’s endangered black rhino.