Solio Game Reserve

Solio is a sanctuary in every sense. Tucked between Mount Kenya and the Aberdares, it is one of the best places in Africa to photograph both black and white rhinos.

Overview

Solio Conservancy is one of Kenya’s most important strongholds for rhinos. Privately owned and beautifully managed, it sits in a valley between the Aberdare Mountains and Mount Kenya, offering a quiet contrast to the busier safari circuits. What Solio lacks in crowds, it makes up for in impact. The sheer number of rhinos here is staggering, often seen grazing peacefully in open grasslands with Mount Kenya rising in the distance. Black rhinos browse through acacia scrub while their larger, more placid white cousins dot the plains in small groups. It is not unusual to see twenty, even thirty rhinos in a single drive. But Solio is not just about rhinos. The conservancy is home to lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe and plains game, all moving through a landscape that feels both open and alive. Birdlife is rich, and the changing light on the valley floor makes every drive feel cinematic.

Best Time to Visit

Solio is accessible and rewarding throughout the year. The dry seasons from June to October and January to February offer clear skies, great visibility and concentrated wildlife sightings. Will recommends March or November to all photographers looking for those big clouds.

April and May bring the long rains, painting the conservancy in shades of green and attracting a wealth of birdlife, but expect tougher game viewing. Roads remain accessible, and sightings continue, just with fewer people around. November and December bring short rains and a burst of green across the valley. Thanks to its altitude and layout, Solio remains one of the most consistent and comfortable safari options, no matter the month.

Note that August and September have the knock on effect of migration season in the Mara and tourist numbers rise.

Jan

Excellent

Feb

Excellent

Mar

Excellent

Apr

Excellent

May

Good

Jun

Excellent

Jul

Excellent

Aug

Excellent

Sep

Excellent

Oct

Excellent

Nov

Excellent

Dec

Excellent

Known For

Rhino Photography - This might be the most accessible place in Kenya to photograph white rhino. While perhaps not as pretty as Borana or Lewa those looking for clear shots of these ancient wanderers are best placed heading here.

See all Properties in Solio Game Reserve

Will's Favourite

Solio Lodge

Nestled between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, Solio Lodge offers an intimate safari experience on a private conservancy renowned for its thriving rhino population. With luxurious cottages and diverse activities, guests enjoy unparalleled wildlife encounters and serene landscapes.

Explore

Wildlife

Big Cats

Big cats include species such as lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars. These animals are known for their strength, agility, and hunting prowess. Each species has adapted to its environment, with unique behaviors and characteristics. For instance, tigers are solitary hunters, while lions are social animals that live in prides. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent creatures from habitat loss and poaching.

The Big Five

The Big Five includes the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. These animals are not only significant for their size but also for their importance in the ecosystem. The term was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot. Today, the Big Five are a major draw for wildlife tourism, symbolizing the rich biodiversity of the African continent.

Gallery

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.

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Ideal Pairing

“As Solio is primarily a photography destination it’s best paired with a trip to Amboseli, allowing you to conquer Africa’s two heaviest hitters, rhino and elephant. October is the best time to take this pairing on.”

Experience Solio Game Reserve today

Begin your safari today. Will replies to all enquiries within 24 hours and tailors each itinerary according to your specific interests

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