Luxury travel and conservation company Beyond has unveiled a significant expansion into Kenya’s Laikipia region. Through a multi-decade partnership with global conservation charity Space for Giants, andBeyond gains exclusive access to develop a luxury lodge and safari experience on the vast Suyian Conservancy. This partnership signifies a major commitment to wildlife conservation and responsible tourism in Kenya.
A Strategic Expansion for andBeyond
The addition of Suyian Conservancy to andBeyond’s portfolio represents a strategic move for the company. Here’s a breakdown of the significance:
Prime Location: Laikipia boasts a higher concentration of wildlife than anywhere else in Kenya outside the Masai Mara, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts.
Conservation Focus: Laikipia is critical for the survival of endangered species, aligning perfectly with Beyond’s commitment to conservation.
Impactful Experiences: The partnership allows Beyond to offer unique safari experiences while contributing to the protection of wildlife and local communities.
Joss Kent, CEO and Executive Chairman of andBeyond expresses his enthusiasm: “Our expansion into Laikipia fulfills a long-held desire to amplify our impact and lodge footprint in Kenya. This pristine and private conservancy offers a world-class game experience and aligns with our goals of securing endangered wildlife and empowering communities.”
Finding the Perfect Partner in Space for Giants
Space for Giants, founded by Dr. Max Graham, emerged as the ideal partner for Beyond’s vision in Laikipia. The organization’s expertise in conservation and focus on community empowerment perfectly complement Beyond’s values. Dr. Graham emphasizes the significance of the partnership:
“Suyian is the soul of Space for Giants. Partnering with andBeyond allows us to realize our dream of creating one of the finest conservancy and lodge operations in Africa.”
Through Space for Giants’ efforts, Suyian Conservancy is now owned by a Kenyan not-for-profit trust, ensuring its long-term protection for wildlife and local communities.
Suyian Conservancy: A Haven for Wildlife and Adventure
Suyian Conservancy boasts a diverse landscape, encompassing grasslands, savannas, rocky outcrops, and river frontage. This rich environment provides a habitat for a remarkable variety of wildlife, including:
Endangered Species: Melanistic leopards, African wild dogs, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and more.
Large Mammals: Healthy populations of elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
General Game: Dik diks, giraffes, Laikipia hartebeests, Beisa oryx, and lesser kudus.
Beyond traditional safari drives, Suyian offers unique experiences like walking safaris, camel safaris, and horseback riding adventures. Guests can also participate in:
Botany Walks: Explore the diverse flora of the conservancy.
Cultural Encounters: Interact with local communities like the Samburu and Pokot people.
Conservation Activities: Participate in ongoing conservation and research projects.
The conservancy’s convenient location allows for easy access by air or road from Nairobi. Additionally, Suyian serves as a gateway to further adventures, including helicopter safaris and excursions to Kenya’s Northern Frontier region.
A Symbiotic Relationship: Conservation and Community Development
Suyian Conservancy has transitioned from cattle ranching to a land management model that prioritizes conservation with a limited number of cattle for rotational grazing. This approach benefits both wildlife and the environment:
Improved Soil Health and Biodiversity: Rotational grazing promotes healthier grasslands.
Diversified Income Stream: Combining tourism with limited cattle ranching creates a more sustainable economic model.
Community Development: andBeyond is committed to supporting local communities through various projects.
This aligns with the existing goals of Suyian Conservancy, which include land stewardship, wildlife protection, and community support through education and healthcare initiatives.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The partnership between andBeyond and Suyian Conservancy holds immense promise for the future:
Exceptional Guest Experiences: Beyond’s expertise will create unforgettable safari experiences while adhering to strict conservation ethics.
Enhanced Conservation Efforts: Combined expertise will strengthen wildlife conservation initiatives in Laikipia.
Community Empowerment: The partnership fosters sustainable development opportunities for local communities.
Joss Kent concludes by highlighting the unique value proposition of Suyian:
“Suyian offers the perfect potential for andBeyond to contribute to conservation and communities while creating an exceptional experience for our guests. Its untouched nature and focus on responsible tourism will make this a truly unique safari destination.”
