EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC COUNRTY LIVING:
Two Exceptional Farm Stays in Kenya.
Escape the bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Kenya’s countryside with our two charming farm stay properties, each offering a unique blend of comfort, nature, and authentic rural charm. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo retreat, or a group holiday, these homes provide the perfect base to relax and reconnect.
The two homes are privately owned by Mr. and Mrs. Gerard Besseling, passionate advocates of sustainable living and rural tourism. Mr. Besseling and Mrs Lydiah Besseling are both the Directors of Amicabre Travel Services Limited, a renowned Kenyan travel company committed to delivering exceptional experiences across the country.
Each property is thoughtfully curated to offer an experience that’s as enriching as it is relaxing, set amidst scenic landscapes and steeped in Kenya’s agricultural heritage. The Kitale Farmhouse—also known as Jacob’s Farm House—serves as the base for an award-winning herd of Fleckvieh cattle, a dual-purpose breed for both milk and meat introduced to Kenya by Mr. Besseling himself. These hardy, natural grazers roam the grounds freely and are a testament to the Besselings’ commitment to high-quality, sustainable farming. Guests will have the rare opportunity to observe and learn about this unique breed in a working farm setting.
THE KAREN COUNTRY HOME
– Nairobi’s Idyllic Outskirts
Nestled at the serene foot of the Ngong Hills, just a stone’s throw from the famed Karen Blixen Museum, this rustic country home offers an ideal blend of nature and convenience. Located in the lush and leafy suburb of Karen, Nairobi, the home welcomes guests into a cool, refreshing atmosphere with panoramic views and the soothing sounds of nature.
JACOB’S FARM HOUSE
– At the Foot of Mount Elgon
For those seeking deeper immersion in Kenya’s agrarian charm, Jacob’s Farm House in Kitale offers an exceptional countryside experience. Located on a working farm in the shadow of Mount Elgon, this property is surrounded by verdant fields, grazing cattle, and the tranquil rhythms of rural life.
The Karen Country Home
– Nairobi’s Idyllic Outskirts
Nestled at the serene foot of the Ngong Hills, just a stone’s throw from the famed Karen Blixen Museum, this rustic country home offers an ideal blend of nature and convenience. Located in the lush and leafy suburb of Karen, Nairobi, the home welcomes guests into a cool, refreshing atmosphere with panoramic views and the soothing sounds of nature.
Set on a beautifully maintained property, the farmhouse combines traditional architecture with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in the spacious living areas, enjoy a dip in the private swimming pool, or take a morning walk along nearby trails that wind through the hills.
Key Features:
- Accommodates families, individuals, and groups
- Fully equipped kitchen and cozy living space with a fireplace
- Lush gardens and shaded outdoor seating
- Close proximity to cultural and natural attractions
- Private swimming pool
In addition to holiday stays, the Karen Country Home is ideal for hosting weddings, birthday parties, and corporate team bonding events, offering a picturesque and Event-friendly venue for social and corporate gatherings
Activities from the Karen Country Home include:
- A guided hike to the scenic Ngong Hills
- Visits to the Karen Blixen Museum and Giraffe Centre
- Relaxation and recreation by the swimming pool
- Access to nearby nature trails and birdwatching opportunities
JACOB’S FARM HOUSE
– AT THE FOOT OF MOUNT ELGON
For those seeking deeper immersion in Kenya’s agrarian charm, Jacob’s Farm House in Kitale offers an exceptional countryside experience. Located on a working farm in the shadow of Mount Elgon, this property is surrounded by verdant fields, grazing cattle, and the tranquil rhythms of rural life.
Key Features:
- Accommodates families, individuals, and groups
- Working farm with Fleckvieh cattle and diverse crop cultivation
- Peaceful and private environment perfect for retreats
- Easy access to birdwatching, hiking, and park excursions
- Private swimming pool
- Suitable venue for meetings and conferences
In addition to enjoying the serene farm environment, guests can take part in a variety of local experiences, including:
- Relaxation by the private swimming pool and strolls through manicured gardens
- Visits to local villages for cultural exchange and community engagement
Other Activities from here include:
MOUNT ELGON TREKKING
Mount Elgon, an extinct shield volcano straddling the Kenya-Uganda border, offers a truly unique trekking experience. Trekkers can explore the mountain from the Kenyan side, with routes that may include a cross-border element—ascending in Kenya and descending into Uganda. While the Sasa Trail (starting in Budadiri, Uganda) is well known, the Kenyan side also boasts excellent trails through Mount Elgon National Park, accessed from Kitale or Kimilili.
Highlights of Trekking Mount Elgon from Kenya:
- Challenging & Varied Terrain: Trek through lush montane forests, expansive moorlands, and dramatic rocky cliffs—ideal for seasoned hikers and adventurous spirits.
- Wildlife Encounters: The park supports a variety of wildlife, including forest elephants, zebras, and numerous bird species, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities.
- Unique Geological Features: Explore the Kitum Caves, carved over centuries by elephants in search of salt. Guided tours can follow wildlife trails for added adventure.
- Whether you’re seeking remote natural beauty, high-altitude hiking, or a less-traveled route compared to Mt. Kenya, Mount Elgon is a rewarding destination.
Saiwa Swamp National Park – Kenya’s Hidden Wetland Gem
Tucked away in Kenya’s western highlands near Kitale, Saiwa Swamp National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and Kenya’s smallest national park. Despite its size, it is a critical sanctuary for rare and endangered species.
Key Features:
- Sitatunga Antelope Habitat: Home to the elusive and endangered semi-aquatic sitatunga antelope, visible from raised boardwalks that wind through the reeds and swamp.
- Primate Diversity: The forest is also a stronghold for the rare De Brazza’s monkey, often seen moving through the tree canopy.
- Exceptional Birdlife: With over 370 species of birds, Saiwa is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a haven for bird watchers.
- Botanical Research Hub: Trees in the park are labeled and cataloged, including notable finds like the Meru “Khat” tree. Saiwa has become a center for ecological and academic research, and is notably the doctoral research site of H.E. Dr. William S. Ruto, Kenya’s first Deputy President.
Saiwa offers a tranquil, educational, and immersive nature experience—a perfect destination for eco-tourists, researchers, and conservationists.
Ndura Park (Kitale Nature Conservancy) – A Living Classroom of Biodiversity
Located just outside Kitale town, Ndura Park is a 200-hectare private conservancy dedicated to environmental conservation and education. Also known as the Kitale Nature Conservancy, this lush landscape combines natural beauty with scientific learning.
Highlights:
- Botanical Gardens: Home to over 800 indigenous tree species, the park serves as a living exhibit of Kenya’s native flora.
- Nature Trails: A 1.5-kilometer trail through riverine forest offers opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other native species.
- Caged Wildlife Enclosure: The conservancy hosts rescued animals including De Brazza monkeys, horses, and a rare collection of animals with physical deformities, used as a focal point for research and awareness on genetic mutations.
- Biblical Mountain: A unique spiritual and symbolic feature, often used for reflection, team-building, and events.
- Educational Center: Ndura is also a hub for environmental learning, frequently visited by schools, conservation groups, and researchers working on topics such as gene variation, reforestation, and climate adaptation.
Whether for recreation, education, or conservation engagement, Ndura Park offers an inspiring and thoughtful day trip destination in Western Kenya.
Jacob’s House is also well-suited for hosting conferences, team retreats, and group events, offering spacious accommodations and inspiring natural surroundings that promote reflection and collaboration.
Both properties are designed to offer comfort and serenity in beautiful natural settings, with warm hospitality and all the amenities needed for a relaxing stay. Whether you’re looking to explore Kenya’s heritage and landscapes or simply unwind in a peaceful countryside setting, these farm stays provide an unforgettable experience.
Book your stay today and discover the heart of Kenya – naturally.
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Amicabre Travel Services Limited! Your preferred Tour and Transport company in EAST AFRICA.