JW Marriott Unveils a Mindful Sanctuary in Kenya’s Solio Game Reserve
JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy, announces the opening of JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp in Solio Game Reserve, Laikipia. Nestled between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, the camp introduces a wellness‑focused safari experience where guests can slow down, reset, and connect with wildlife and vibrant flora.
A Conservancy of Legacy
Solio Game Reserve spans 45,000 acres and is renowned for rhino conservation, home to one of Africa’s largest populations of black and white rhinos. Alongside them roam leopards, lions, zebras, gazelles, and prolific birdlife. Guided sunrise and sunset drives, night safaris, and walking excursions immerse guests in the rhythms of the land, while evenings at the fire pit invite reflection and storytelling.
Design Inspired by Nature
The camp’s 19 tented suites, including a two‑bedroom suite, blend discreetly into the landscape. Designed by LW Design, architecture draws inspiration from the quiet presence of the rhino: timber and canvas structures sit lightly within the savannah, roll‑up walls dissolve boundaries between interior and exterior, and private decks with plunge pools frame sweeping views. Interiors layer Kenyan craft — woven textiles, carved timber, and artwork from artisans such as Kitengela Glass and Safari Bronze — into a calming palette of earth tones and soft greens.
Shared spaces include the Map Room, library, and games room, while a boutique showcases beadwork and textiles from local makers.
Enriching Safari Experiences
Beyond game drives, guests can join cycling and birding safaris, or access professional Canon photography equipment with guidance from resident experts. Bespoke adventures include helicopter excursions, trout fishing on Mount Kenya, and painting sessions at sunset. An educational visit to the Solio Rhino Orphanage offers rare insight into rehabilitation and conservation efforts.
Nourished by Nature
Dining celebrates seasonality and place. The signature garden supplies herbs, fruits, and vegetables for menus, and hosts “The Garden Table” multi‑course experience. Mavuno restaurant blends Kenyan flavours with global influences, Ember Bar offers fireside drinks, and the “Five Elements” cocktail programme draws on smoke, spice, earth, honey, and fire. Bush dining under acacia trees or beneath the stars extends the culinary journey.
Serene Wellness
The Spa by JW offers treatments rooted in regional healing traditions, using botanicals from Kenyan skincare brand Jani. The signature Solio Passage half‑day programme combines volcanic stone therapies, botanical massage, hydrotherapy, and cedar forest bathing. A fitness centre, outdoor pool, and quiet reflection spaces complete the wellness offering.
Stewardship of Place
Sustainability is embedded across operations: solar energy, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, composting, and upcycling. Ninety‑five percent of staff are Kenyan nationals, supporting local employment and skills development. The Lazizi Welfare Foundation provides daily meals at Riacho Comprehensive School, while the Solio Women’s Empowerment Project integrates handcrafted beaded bracelets and crochet rhinos into the guest experience, with proceeds returning directly to the community.
Getting There
The camp is accessible via Nanyuki Airstrip (30‑minute flight from Wilson Airport) or a three‑hour drive from Nairobi. Private charters to Solio Ranch Airstrip reduce transfer time to 10 minutes.
Rates start from $1499 per person, per night (all‑inclusive).
