Sosian Lodge: Kenya’s Untamed Safari Hideaway in Laikipia
- Craig Howes
- Sep 6
- 7 min read
A Wild Welcome to Sosian Lodge
On the edge of Kenya’s vast Laikipia Plateau, where golden savannahs roll into acacia woodlands, lies Sosian Lodge, a 24,000-acre ranch turned luxury safari retreat. Unlike the more crowded Maasai Mara, Sosian feels like a secret: a private world of galloping horses, roaring lions, and warm ranch-style hospitality.
For those seeking an authentic Laikipia safari, Sosian seamlessly blends wilderness with comfort, conservation with culture, a rare mix that makes it one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari experiences.
We highly recommend doing the walking safari and the fly camping! The night we spent on the platform in the tree overlooking the lake with hippos was one of our best safari experiences in Africa“
Where Is Sosian Lodge?
Sosian sits in northern Kenya’s Laikipia conservancies, a region fast gaining recognition as an alternative to the Mara. Accessible by light aircraft from Nairobi or by private charter, the lodge is perfectly positioned for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari in Kenya.
Here, you’re not competing with convoys of vehicles; it’s just you, the open plains, and the rhythm of the wild.
“Your care and professionalism were outstanding and it was your fun and enthusiasm that made our stay so incredibly, incredibly amazing… You have a truly brilliant team in place.” – Tor Stewart, UK
What Makes Sosian Lodge Special?
The heart of Sosian lies in its history: a colonial ranch house lovingly restored into a boutique lodge. Yet its spirit is far from colonial formality; Sosian feels more like a luxury ranch lodge in Kenya, where guests are welcomed like family.
What sets Sosian apart?
Horseback safaris in Kenya can be cantering alongside a giraffe or quietly approaching an elephant.
Camel treks and walking safaris for a slower immersion experience.
A chance to swim beneath hidden waterfalls after a day on the plains.
Evenings around a fire, sharing stories under the Laikipia stars.
Sleeping in the Wild: Fly-Camping at Sosian
One of the most unforgettable touches at Sosian is the fly-camp night. Imagine riding or driving out midday to a remote plains campsite, tents pitched under a canvas of stars, a simple campfire dinner, distant lion calls and the spring breeze for company. It’s not glamping, but raw, soulful, and deeply connected.
“We loved the fly camping and bush dinner by the river. The bush breakfast in the tree canopy was also fantastic. The staff looked after our every need…” Trip Advisor Review
As one guest shared, “Having the opportunity to camp out in the bush was a really wonderful experience that I would recommend to anyone who goes out to Sosian”
It’s not glamping, it’s roughed-up magic. On calmer nights, guests spend time nestled in a raised platform, watching hippos surface in the lake below.
Others hailed the fly camping and bush dinners by the river as “fantastic,” with attentive staff making the night seamless
This is true sleeping under the stars, an immersive, primal moment that stays with you long after the ride ends.
Wildlife at Sosian
A safari here is no less rich than Kenya’s big parks. The Laikipia wildlife includes:
Big cats: lion, leopard, and cheetah.
African wild dogs are a highlight for many.
Elephant herds crossing the Ewaso Narok River.
Reticulated giraffe and endangered Grevy’s zebra.
Over 350 bird species.
And then there’s the legend of Laikipia, the black leopard. Rare, elusive, and almost mythical, melanistic leopards have been photographed in this region in recent years. While sightings are never guaranteed, Sosian’s wild landscapes offer one of the few places in Africa where travelers might encounter this extraordinary predator.
As one guide told us: “Laikipia is about intimacy, not numbers. Here you can watch wild dogs hunt — or, if you’re fortunate, glimpse the black leopard — without another vehicle in sight.”
Activities Beyond Game Drives
Beyond traditional game drives, Sosian offers experiences that feel emotionally transformative. Try river tubing or jumping off waterfalls when the Ewaso Narok runs high:
Horseback safaris (the lodge’s signature)
Camel trekking safaris
Guided walking safaris
Fly camping under canvas
Fishing, swimming, and waterfall hikes
Samburu cultural encounters
A Tennis court in the heart of the wilderness
This is a lodge where every day feels different, yet deeply connected to the land. The range is breathtaking: night drives, tracking, camera-trap setups, camel and horseback safaris, and cultural visits to local Samburu or Turkana villages are all part of the menu.
“Guests can experience fly camping too or spend some time messing about on the Ewaso Narok, swimming and tubing – and even diving for the daredevils!” Yellow Zebra Safaris
Conservation and Community at Sosian
Sosian isn’t only about guest experiences; it’s a model of conservation tourism in Kenya. The lodge supports anti-poaching patrols, community conservancy partnerships, and sustainable cattle ranching that coexists with wildlife.
Guests play a role simply by staying: each visit helps preserve Laikipia’s landscapes and supports local Samburu communities.
Hospitality & Atmosphere at Sosian
“Your care and professionalism were outstanding and it was your fun and enthusiasm that made our stay so incredibly, incredibly amazing. You have a truly brilliant team in place…” Tor Stewart, UK
Sosian’s charm isn’t just its activities, it’s its heart. The lodge itself blends warmth with tranquillity, offering a “home-away-from-home” ambience in restored colonial cottages, candlelit bush suppers, and welcoming communal dining rooms.
“This place is heaven on earth. … Horse riding with zebra, camel trekking, safari drives, camping in luxury… Memories like these last a lifetime” African Horse Safaris
Who Should Visit Sosian Lodge?
Sosian is ideal for:
Families: it’s one of the best family safari lodges in Kenya, with safe spaces for children and engaging activities.
Adventure seekers: horse riders, walkers, and those who want to feel the bush up close.
Luxury travelers: who prefer authenticity and intimacy over glitz.
Planning Your Stay at Sosian Lodge
The best time to visit Laikipia depends on your travel style:
Dry season (June–October): wildlife viewing at its peak.
Green season (November–March): lush landscapes, birding, and fewer visitors.
Most guests stay 3–5 nights, often pairing Laikipia with the Maasai Mara or even a beach escape to Lamu.
Sosian Lodge vs. Other Kenyan Lodges
Compared to the Mara’s bustling camps, Sosian offers space, solitude, and variety. Few lodges in Kenya can match its horseback safaris or its blend of ranch heritage and wilderness intimacy.
Is Sosian Lodge Right for You?
Dream of riding alongside a giraffe, watching wild dogs without another soul around, or introducing your family to Africa in a safe, authentic setting. Sosian may be your perfect match.
Here, in the wild north of Kenya, luxury is not about excess. It’s about space, silence, and soulful connection.
FAQs About Sosian Lodge
Where is Sosian Lodge located?
Sosian Lodge is in Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau, a private conservancy north of Nairobi.
What wildlife can I see at Sosian Lodge?
Expect lions, leopards, elephants, wild dogs, giraffes, and endangered species like Grevy’s zebra.
Can you see the black leopard at Sosian Lodge?
Laikipia is one of the few regions in Africa where the rare black leopard (melanistic leopard) has been documented. Sightings are extremely rare and never guaranteed, but Sosian guests are in the right place for a chance encounter.
Is Sosian Lodge family-friendly?
Yes, Sosian is considered one of the top family safari lodges in Kenya, with activities tailored for children.
What activities does Sosian Lodge offer beyond game drives?
Horseback safaris, camel trekking, walking safaris, fishing, cultural experiences, and even waterfall swimming.
When is the best time to visit Sosian Lodge?
Generally, June–October for peak wildlife, or November–March for lush, quieter safaris.
In the end, Sosian isn’t just a safari, it’s a felt experience, often described in heartfelt terms.
“This place is heaven on earth … Horse riding with zebra, camel trekking, safari drives, camping in luxury… Memories like these last a lifetime…” African Horse Back Safaris
About the Author
Craig Howes is the founder and editor of African Safari Mag, a South African-born photographer, filmmaker, and award-winning safari storyteller named the 2020 World Safari Influencer of the Year. He has documented over 100 safari lodges across Africa, from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to Kenya’s Laikipia. He believes “safari content should be honest, beautiful, and rooted in real experience.” When not in the wild, he’s behind the camera, shaping feature stories that bring Africa’s soul to life.
About African Safari Mag
African Safari Mag is a collective of passionate safari experts, photographers, and storytellers, to connect global readers with the wild soul of Africa. Their content blends conservation, culture, and experience-focused storytelling. Founded by Craig Howes, the brand embodies authentic safari narratives that transcend logistics to celebrate emotional discovery.
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