Solio Ranch

Pros & Cons

• A chance to support a successful rhino breeding program
• Excellent photo opportunities of black and white rhino
• Stunning views of Mount Kenya
• One of the most luxurious lodges in Kenya
• Very small reserve with small game-drive circuit
• Unnatural number of rhinos and interactions between black and white rhino

Wildlife

Solio Ranch supports a big population of black rhino and white rhino – the breeding program has been so successful that many individuals have been translocated out of Solio. The reserve also protects zebra, buffalo, giraffe and several antelope species. All the usual predators including the big cats are also present.

• More about Solio Ranch's wildlife

Scenery

Solio Ranch is located in the valley between the dramatic, snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains. Most of the terrain consists of grassy plains, and the acacia-lined Moyo River traverses the entire reserve.

Weather & Climate

Throughout the year, there’s little change in temperature because of Solio’s proximity to the equator. But it gets significantly cooler when the sun dives – worth remembering when you’re dressing for an early-morning game drive. The Dry season (June to September) is generally sunny. The Wet season (October to May) starts with the ‘short rains’ and ends with the ‘long rains’, with a drier period in between.

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time to Visit

November, near the start of the Wet season (October to May), sees the closure of the ranch thanks to that month’s characteristic downpours. You can track animals at other times in that season, but inaccessible roads and scattered wildlife need to be factored in. The drier months are more reliable for watching animals. Even though these coincide with the local high season, the lodge hardly ever gets booked out.

• More about the best time to visit

Want to Visit Solio Ranch?

• Solio Ranch safaris and tours
• Tour operators for Solio Ranch