Solio Ranch is a compact property entirely enclosed by fencing, allowing visitors to observe most of its animals within a couple of days. The ranch boasts excellent concentrations of black and white rhinos, with black rhinos often camouflaged in the trees and more challenging to spot compared to white rhinos. Lion sightings are also a possibility. Additional wildlife found here includes zebra, giraffe, warthog, and buffalo. Antelope species such as eland, Coke’s hartebeest, Beisa oryx, waterbuck, and impala are also present.
Rhinos are the highlight of this compact reserve. White rhinos roam the grassy plains in small family groups of three to four individuals, though occasionally larger herds of up to 15 can be spotted. Black rhinos, known for their shy nature, prefer denser vegetation. Interestingly, both species sometimes mingle in mixed groups. The reserve is also home to resident predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, or they pass through regularly.
Wildlife viewing at Solio is consistently rewarding due to the reserve’s compact size. However, rain can disrupt game drives and overall enjoyment of the environment. Therefore, the optimal times to visit are during the Dry season (June to September) and another dry period from December to February, which also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Bird watching at Solio Ranch is excellent year-round, with prime viewing from December to February when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa are present. These migratory species can be observed from November to April, though it’s advisable to avoid peak rainfall periods. This timeframe overlaps with the Wet season (October to May), during which many species display their vibrant breeding plumage while nesting.
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Nov to Apr
The dry season brings mostly sunny days, occasionally interrupted by showers, in a temperate climate with average temperatures around 22°C/72°F. Warm clothing is essential for nighttime and early morning temperatures dipping to around 10°C/50°F.
June & July – Expect sunny weather with sporadic showers, and typical afternoon temperatures of 22°C/72°F.
August & September – These months see a slight uptick in rainfall, with average afternoon temperatures remaining around 22°C/72°F.
From October to May, the region experiences both rainy and drier periods. October and November begin the short rains, with average afternoon temperatures around 23°C (73°F).
December to February is a drier period, though some rain still occurs as it transitions between the short and long rains.
March to May marks the long rains, with April being the wettest month. It usually rains at least part of the day, and early morning temperatures can drop to 11°C (52°F). Driving can be difficult due to waterlogged tracks.
Your entry point to Kenya will likely be Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), located 15 km (9 mi) southeast of Nairobi. Solio Ranch is 180 km (112 mi) from Nairobi, about a 3-hour drive. It’s also 45 km (28 mi) from Nanyuki, the gateway to Laikipia. This makes combining visits to Solio with trips to Ol Pejeta, Lewa, and other Laikipia conservancies easy. Aberdare and Mt. Kenya National Parks are also nearby.
Please check Skyscanner to find airlines that fly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and to compare ticket prices.
The easiest way to reach Solio Lodge is by arranging a charter flight to the private airstrip located just 10 minutes from the lodge. These charter flights can be booked as part of the tour package with Bush 2 City Adventure.
Alternatively, you can take a scheduled domestic flight from Nairobi to Nanyuki airstrip, followed by a 45-minute transfer to Solio Lodge. Scheduled flights to Nanyuki depart from Wilson Airport (WIL), located 6 km (4 mi) south of Nairobi. The following airlines offer flights to Nanyuki:
AirKenya: Flies to/from Lewa Downs, Loisaba, Meru, Wilson Airport (Nairobi), Samburu, and the Masai Mara.
Safarilink: Flies to/from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) and the Masai Mara.
Please visit our Kenya page to find information about passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements.
Visiting Solio Ranch is generally very safe, especially on an organized trip with Bush 2 City Adventure. For additional information about safety in Kenya, please check the government travel advisories on the ‘Safety & Security – Kenya’ page (see link below).
You may need several vaccinations before traveling to Kenya. Please consult your healthcare provider. Due to the high altitude, there is little to no risk of malaria at Solio Ranch. However, if you plan to visit other areas in Kenya, you should consider taking antimalarial medication.
Wildlife viewing at Solio Ranch is very safe. Your guide will provide you with instructions and guidance during the safari. For more details, please refer to the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ below.
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