The writing residency
Make progress on a dissertation, manuscript, article or proposal, with a room of your own and company when you want it.
Discuss a writing stayThe residency
Academic residencies
& retreats in Kenya.
Stay for a project, a fieldwork season or a few days with colleagues. Researchers, educators, independent scholars and professionals from every discipline are welcome.
Independent residencies
Work to your own schedule.
Your days are your own. Work when you feel most productive, join others for meals and make time to enjoy the highlands.
The research base
Prepare for a day in the field, then come home to dinner and time with your notes. Tell us where you’ll be working so we can discuss transport.
Discuss a research stayProfessional & study retreats
Step away from your usual routine to study, plan a course, develop a professional project or take a sabbatical. Colleagues can also arrange a retreat or workshop together.
Discuss a retreatFlexible stays
How long would you like to stay?
Choose an initial timeframe. We will confirm availability, the room arrangement, and a written quote.
Included services
Meals, laundry and workspace.
Meals prepared by our private chef and laundry are included. Safaris are optional and charged separately. Let us take care of the everyday details while you make time for your work.
- Room type, occupancy, and length of stay
- Included private chef service and your dietary preferences
- Included laundry service and housekeeping arrangements
- Included safari experience and itinerary
- 5G Wi-Fi, in-room and rooftop workspaces, and a private library
- Conference room available for group sessions
- Airport transfers available by prior arrangement
Meals prepared by our private chef and laundry are included. Safaris are optional and charged separately. Meal schedules, dietary needs, and laundry frequency are agreed before arrival. 5G Wi-Fi is available. Discuss current speeds, backup power, specialist equipment, and your specific access needs before booking.
A possible day
Set your own schedule.
An early start or a slow breakfast? Make the day your own.
Morning
Enjoy breakfast before settling into your research or heading out for a day in the field.
Afternoon
Take your notes to the library, exchange ideas with a colleague, or step outside for fresh air.
Evening
Share dinner and the day’s discoveries, then linger with a book or enjoy an early night.
Student residencies
Space to study. A stay within reach.
Introductory student rates for 30 nights, with meals included. Choose shared accommodation or a room of your own.
Shared Twin Room
US$599
Per person · 30 nights · two sharing
Share a room with another resident, with separate beds. Twin-room availability and room-sharing arrangements are confirmed before booking.
Request availabilityPrivate room
US$899
One guest · 30 nights · private room
A room of your own, with a workspace for reading, writing and research.
Request availabilityDeluxe Suite
US$1,199
One guest · 30 nights · private suite
A deluxe suite for your residency, with meals and everyday essentials included.
Request availabilityAll three student options include three daily meals prepared by our private chef, weekly laundry, 5G Wi-Fi, and access to the library and room and rooftop workspaces.
Prices are in US dollars. Airport transfers and safaris are optional and charged separately. Shared-room pricing is per person, not per room. Your written quote confirms availability, the total payable, taxes and any extras. Ask about shorter stays, university groups and conference-room use.
Disciplines we welcome
Disciplines we welcome.
Bring your own research, writing or professional project.
Psychology & mental health
Human development, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives.
Global & public health
Health equity, prevention, community health, and stronger health systems.
Women’s & gender studies
Gender, identity, women’s lives, care, and social change.
Sustainable agriculture & food systems
School gardens, food security, agroecology, and the relationship between land and livelihoods.
Environment, climate & conservation
Biodiversity, climate resilience, environmental justice, and sustainable communities.
Education & child development
Learning, inclusive education, childhood, and the places where young people grow.
Social work & community development
Family wellbeing, social policy, community practice, and access to support.
Human rights, law & governance
Justice, migration, public policy, and accountable institutions.
Humanities, arts & creative writing
Literature, history, philosophy, cultural studies, and creative practice.
Don’t see your field? Tell us what you are working on. Interdisciplinary projects and other areas of study are welcome.
Bring an independent project, a manuscript, or a question you want time to explore. Share your plans with us and we will help you arrange a stay.
Tell us about your workScholarships
Accommodation scholarships are available. Tell us about your project, preferred dates and the support you need.
Your written award confirms what is covered. Meals, laundry, safari experiences and transfers are included only if specified.
The rooftop
A breath of fresh air.
Take your coffee onto the rooftop and look out towards the Aberdares. It’s a welcoming spot to read, work through your notes or take a break with another guest.
Planning a stay?
What would you like to work on?
A short description of your project is enough to start. You do not need a formal research proposal to enquire.
Start a residency enquiry