What we offer.
We aim to provide a unique and affordable holiday option in Laikipia.
Riding through the African bush on horseback is an amazing experience that allows you to get right in amongst the wildlife, immersing yourself in the sounds and scents of the wild like no other mode of transport can.
Our stunning ranch-style house is also available to those simply looking for time out, somewhere to stop and just breathe.
We are proud to have partnered with two of our neighbors, home to some of Laikipia’s best properties El Karama Lodge and Ol Jogi Conservancy, if you are looking for the full lodge experience please follow either of these links and book your rides with us through them.
The Riding.
All our tack is english style and we are acutely aware that there are risks involved in any activity carried out in the wild with a variety of wild animals in the area. As a result, we encourage all our guests to wear suitable safety helmets and footwear. We ask that all our clients have some riding experience. We do not allow children under the age of 12 years on bush rides unless they are very experienced riders.
All our horses are trained extensively with wildlife around them ensuring their reactions and responses are as predictable and reliable as possible. We also spend a minimum of 2 hours each week schooling each horse so you are guaranteed a mount that will listen to your commands and give you a genuine equine experience.
We offer bush rides from 2-6 hours with sundowoners or bush lunches. We also offer an overnight fly camping option in partnership with El Karama Lodge see the following link for details https://atta.travel/member-news/2021/09/el-karama-lodge-new-horseback-riding-adventure/
Where we are.
The Laikipia Plateau stretches from the slopes of Mt. Kenya to the edge of the Great Rift Valley. A haven made up of cattle land and wildlife conservancies.
Conservationists, Ranchers, and Communities have joined hands to create a wildlife refuge roughly the size of Wales which supports large numbers of game including the endangered Black Rhino, Reticulated Giraffe, African Wild Dog and the iconic Grevy Zebra. The wildlife is protected and thriving and the region promotes a personal and small-scale approach to adventurous and often luxurious safari tourism.
Laikipia is rapidly being recognized as one of Kenya’s best safari regions and is home to some of Kenya’s most encouraging conservation success stories.
Why Choose Us
Over 30 years experience.
Claudia and Roanna are both Kenyans bought up in Laikipia, they know this land and the animals in it like the back of their hands. Both are accomplished horsewomen and they personally guide every ride.
Rides and mounts to suit you.
Carefully schooled horses selected for their reliability in the bush are then matched to each rider ensuring your experience will be one to remember.
Safety comes first
Saftey is paramount at Saddlebags Adventures, not just the safety of our guests but that of the wildlife whose space we are sharing also. Your guides will ensure their space is respected at all times resulting in a chance to really see the game in its natural state.
Our yard.
Our Neighbours
The impressive conservation efforts have resulted in a fantastic eco system supporting a wide variety of game in large numbers.
Your guides know the animals in the area intimately and will be able to share information and anecdotes about them as you encounter them.
Grevys Zebra
This critically endangered species is making a comeback.
The Bee Eater
The little people are often the most rewarding to watch!
Elephant
Definately the most awesome creature out there!
“We had the amazing privilege of growing up in Laikipia on little wild ponies surrounded by the most incredible wildlife. Our love for horses and the area started at a very young age. There is no better place to be and no better way to see it than from the back of a horse. As a result Saddlebags Adventures was born. We want to be able to share our experience with others, raise awareness of the importance of our wild spaces and contribute in a small way to conserving the flora and fauna still so abundant in Laikipia. Growing up, we had ponies that taught us a lot, especially about the wildlife! And thankfully now we are pretty good at dodging the odd angry elephant or rhino. Come take a break from the real world, let us show you ours and we promise you memories which will last a lifetime.”
