What if the places that changes us the most are the ones that people do not talk about more often?
Ever heard about the Solio Lodge, absolutely not. Solio Lodge is a luxurious hidden gem located in the outskirts of Laikipia on Solio Conservancy or Solio Game Reserve, the only destination in Kenya where you can spot the endangered black and white rhinos in huge numbers and other wild animals like lions, cheetahs, buffalos, zebras and giraffes offering panoramic views of the Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro.
In this piece, Adequate Safaris will discuss in detail about Solio Lodge, one of the best lodges in Kenya and why should a must-visit.
Let’s dive in!
Why Visit Solio Lodge
- The Solio Lodge gives you a golden opportunity to experience a private rhino sanctuary up close.
- While staying at the lodge you get to enjoy breathtaking view of the Mount Kenya.
- Solio Lodge offers excellent high-end services to its guests ensuring you are comfortable.
Solio Conservancy
Solio Conservancy is a wildlife sanctuary in Laikipia region, Kenya known for protecting the endangered black and white rhinos that kicked off in 1970. Therefore, visiting the conservancy gives you a great opportunity too see these rhinos in their natural habitat up close, a rare thing that is seen in most game parks and reserves in Kenya.
In addition, Solio Conservancy offers beautiful views of the Mount Kenya making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
History of Solio Lodge
Solio Lodge is a luxurious privately-owned property inside Solio Conservancy of about 18,000 acres that started in 1966. At first, it was a simple ranch. This is because the owners were passionate about conservation and fenced it to protect the indigenous wildlife. The owners later realized when visitors visit the sanctuary to see the rhinos they have to travel all the way looking for accommodation to spend a night and that is how the lodge came into existence.
How to Get to Solio Lodge
Getting to Solio Lodge depends with whether you are travelling by road or by air.
By Road
Solio Lodge is located in Solio Conservancy about 22 km from Nyeri town approximately 3 to 4 hours journey by road.
Travelling by road is the most common option that most travelers prefer as they enjoy the amazing views from Nairobi as you enter the countryside where you get to see the rolling green hills, tea plantations, rural farms, open air markets etc. As you approach the lodge, you will catch stunning views of Mt. Kenya.
By Air
Travelling to Solio Lodge by air is the fastest and the easiest option taking the shortest time possible about 35 minutes as you enjoy Kenya’s aerial views. Your journey will kick off from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Nanyuki Airstrip. Adequate Safaris organizes a transfer from the airstrip to Solio Lodge which is few kilometers from Nanyuki airstrip.
This option is mostly preferred by travelers who want that luxurious feel.
Solio Lodge Feel
Solio Lodge offers exclusive high-end 5 to 6 luxury cottages with accommodates very few guests in a serene, tranquil and peaceful environment. Note that each cottage is always a spacious mini private villa with large floor to ceiling windows with perfect views of nature and wildlife, a private veranda, spa with wood-fired sauna, dining area, fire place, and a huge ensuite bathroom with a bath tub, rain shower and double sinks.
Not forgetting the families, there are family cottages that has 2 connected bedrooms that can accommodate a family at a time comfortably.
Note that, stay at the Solio Lodge are all-inclusive from meals, drinks, game drives, other safari activities etc.
Best Things to Do while Staying at Solio Lodge
At Solio Lodge is where conservation, adventure and luxury come together giving you a golden opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife in a not so crowded destination making your whole travel experience personal and private.
Here is a breakdown of the activities you should not miss experiencing;
- Private game drives in the rhino sanctuary
- Guided bush walks
- Horse riding alongside wildlife
- Mountain biking across open plains
- Birdwatching
- Cultural visits in the local communities
- Exploring Mt. Kenya
- Sundowners in the wild
- Farm to table dining under the stars
Best Time to Visit Solio Lodge
Solio Lodge is an all-year round destination but different seasons offer different experiences. For instance, the dry season from June to October offers perfect views of wildlife as they often gather on water sources to drink water whereas during the wet season it is difficult to spot them since they mostly go into hiding.
Advantages of Visiting Solio Lodge
- You will get to see a huge number of both black and white rhinos all at once in one place. In addition, during your safari in the Solio Conservancy you can spot other wild animals like lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants etc.
- The destination is less crowded with first class hospitality services.
- Beyond game drives and guided walking safaris you can enjoy exclusive experiences such as horseback riding, helicopter safari and enjoy the aerial views of Mt. Kenya.
What to Pack
On your trip to Solio Lodge here are some of the things that should not miss in your packing list;
- Personal essentials
- Enough safari outfits and remember to stick to the safari colors Khaki, beige and olive to blend with the environment.
- Comfortable shoes for walking safaris and sandals to wear while relaxing at the lodge.
- A pair of binoculars and a camera to capture wildlife pictures.
- Sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin from direct sunlight during the game drives.
- A Pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed safari hat
Conclusion
In conclusion, Solio Lodge is an ideal destination if you are seeking tranquility, a luxury retreat and private personalized hospitality services. Perfect for solo travelers, first timers, couples, families and groups of friends.
When you stay at the Solio Lodge you directly contribute to conservation and local community upliftment.
