Solio so good

At its finer end, East African tourism has developed a tendency over recent years to deliver something extraordinary – which is to combine world-class accommodation and magnificent settings with a genuine ethical purpose. One leading in this new class of tourist destination is Solio, a lodge and conservancy in Kenya which we were thrilled to visit for ourselves a few weeks ago.

Chic and comfort

The lodge itself is nothing short of a delight in which to spend time, and will give design aficionados plenty to smile about. Its series of buildings are gorgeous, sculptural structures, each topped with stunning thatched roofs that resemble hills and blend into the landscape from a distance.

Inside, the rooms are styled with relaxed, organic features against soft white walls, with organic shapes and natural materials aplenty and the underside of those vast thatched roofs providing a sweeping textured canopy. This rustic African look is given a contemporary twist with zingy hits of orange and bold art and artefacts. And, beautiful as the rooms are, they rightly yield to the stunning scenery outside by having vast panoramic windows.

But more than simply looking good, Solio offers sumptuous luxury and service. The bedrooms and bathrooms are generously sized, and we loved the stylish freestanding bathtub. There’s also an open fireplace in each cottage – being located at a fairly high altitude, this region feels fresh in the evenings, so the fire brings a welcome element of comfort and cosiness. The lavish experience is completed by fantastic food, much of it grown at the lodge, and staff who are friendly, warm and only too happy to help.

Thrilling wildlife experiences

If you can pull yourself away from the charm and comfort of such a chic interior, a breathtaking slice of Africa awaits outside. A private conservancy such as this always offers a unique and exclusive way to witness Africa’s wild wonders. In an open grassy landscape flanked by the dramatic Mount Kenya and Aberdare Mountains, game drives at Solio promise a feast of wildlife encounters. You might spot anything from giraffes and antelopes to leopards and lions.

But the creatures for which Solio is best known are rhinos. You can expect to see both the white and the rarer black species on your adventures around the reserve (you can see a pair we managed to photograph above). Solio has become recognised as one of Africa’s most important refuges and breeding grounds for rhinos, iconic animals whose populations have dwindled and whose future has become uncertain. Solio’s conservation programme has been so successful that it has been able to trans-locate over 160 rhinos to other parts of East Africa to replenish populations.

For us, the combination of achingly gorgeous style and luxury with thrilling wildlife insights and the creditable ethical motivation which underpins it, makes Solio an absolute winner. If you’re thinking of experiencing it for yourself, let us know and we’ll discuss how Solio could be part of your own dream safari itinerary.

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