Saruni Rhino

Saruni Rhino is an exclusive retreat nestled within the Sera Community Conservancy in northern Kenya, offering an intimate connection with one of Africa’s most critically endangered species—the black rhino. Since its opening in 2017, this lodge has been the only one in East Africa dedicated to tracking these magnificent creatures on foot, providing guests with an unparalleled wildlife experience.

The lodge is built along the banks of the seasonal Kauro River, among beautiful doum palms, creating a natural haven where the landscape dictates the design. With just three rooms (and a family banda), Saruni Rhino promises exclusivity and a deep immersion into the wilderness. The architecture reflects its environment, with stone and thatch structures that blend seamlessly into the surroundings, offering comfort without compromising the natural aesthetic.

The primary draw here is not just the luxury of the accommodation but the conservation story of the Sera Rhino Sanctuary. This sanctuary, within the larger conservancy, is the result of community efforts to protect local wildlife from poaching, leading to the reintroduction of black rhinos in 2015. Every stay at Saruni Rhino directly supports this conservation effort, making your visit a part of a larger narrative in wildlife preservation.

Location:

Located in the Sera Community Conservancy, Saruni Rhino is about a two-hour drive from Samburu National Reserve, accessible via either the new Ethiopian highway or a rugged dirt track. This journey itself is an introduction to the rural life of the Samburu people, offering glimpses into their daily activities and the harsh yet beautiful landscape they call home.

The lodge sits on the edge of the Kauro River, or ‘lugga’, which, despite being seasonal, hosts a permanent waterhole attracting a variety of wildlife. This setting not only provides for wildlife viewing from your room but also sets the stage for the lodge’s unique activities centered around rhino conservation.

Accommodation:

Saruni Rhino offers:

• Bandas:
  • Ntangaswa: Named after the first rhino born in the sanctuary, this banda accommodates 2-4 guests with a flexible sleeping arrangement, featuring a double bed and an option for an additional single bed.
  • Loijipu: A smaller, cozy banda for two, named after another rhino born in the sanctuary, focusing on intimacy and direct nature connection.
  • Nashami: A family-friendly option with two bedrooms, perfect for small groups or families, offering views of the wildlife-rich waterhole.
  • Napanu: The newest addition, ideal for honeymooners or couples, with a romantic setup and views over the dry riverbed.

Each banda is designed with open fronts for ventilation, rustic stone walls, thatched roofs, and canvas doors/windows, providing both privacy and a connection to the outdoors. The interiors are simple yet comfortable, with mosquito nets, electric fans, and en-suite bathrooms featuring natural stone showers.

Amenities:

The amenities at Saruni Rhino are crafted to enhance your conservation-focused safari:

• Dining:
  • Cuisine: Meals emphasize fresh, local ingredients with an Italian influence, served communally or under the stars by the riverbed.
  • Dining Experience: From breakfast with fresh fruits and eggs to dinners featuring dishes like tilapia with local sides, dining here is both an event and a taste of the region.
• Rhino Tracking:
  • On-Foot Safaris: Guided by experts, these walks offer close encounters with black rhinos, teaching guests about tracking and conservation.
  • Safety and Education: Briefings ensure safety, while the experience educates on the challenges of rhino conservation.
• Cultural and Wildlife Activities:
  • Singing Wells: Witness an ancient Samburu tradition where cattle are coaxed to drink.
  • Reteti Elephant Sanctuary: Visit to see the rehabilitation of orphaned elephants, a short drive away.
• Leisure:
  • Swimming Pool: A new addition for cooling off in the Kenyan heat.
  • Starlit Dinners: Enjoy meals in the open air, surrounded by the sounds of the night.
• Community and Conservation:
  • Support Conservation: Through your stay, you contribute to the Sera Rhino Sanctuary’s efforts.
  • Local Interaction: Learn about Samburu culture and conservation from local guides.