Overview
Solio Ranch conservancy is located in the Laikipia region. It is between Aberdare Mountains and Mount Kenya. It is a privately-owned ranch. It covers about 15,500 acres of land. It is the best place to spot rhinos, leopards, and many other species of mammals and birds. It borders other great destinations such as Ol Pejeta and Lewa. It is an accessible destination. Why should you visit Solio Ranch?
Solio Ranch wildlife
Solio Ranch is a great place to spot white and black rhinos. These are some of the endangered animals in Kenya. It is one of the successful places that protect and breed rhinos in Kenya. Rhinos roam around the grassy plains. Mostly, you will spot them in groups of 3 to 4. But you can spot large herds of up to 15 members. Other common animals are zebras, buffalos, cheetahs, lions, leopards, and giraffes among others.
The best time to visit Solio Ranch conservancy is between July to September and January to March. November and April to May receive a lot of rainfall. This may interfere with your safari in the park.
Birdlife
Solio Ranch is rich in birdlife. Laikipia Plateau has recorded over 350 bird species. Being a part of the plateau, Solio Ranch is a great place to enjoy bird watching. Some common species are Hildebrant’s starling, crowned hornbill, and black-winged lapwing. The best time to watch migrants from north Africa and Europe is between November and April. Resident birds can be watched at any time across the year.
Climate
Solio Ranch is usually cool. It is close to the equator. As a result, temperatures don’t change as much. The dry season is between June and September. Average temperatures are around 23°C. They drop at night to around 9°C. You need warm clothes for early morning drives.
The wet season is between October to May. Short rains are between October and November. Afternoon temperatures are around 25°C. The rains break from December to February. Then, long rains resume from March to May. Drives in the park can be more challenging.
FAQs About Solio Ranch
- Solio Ranch location?
Solio Ranch is located in Laikipia Plateau in Kenya. It is about 180 km from Nairobi. This is a 3-hour drive from the capital city to the Ranch. Its coordinates are -0.2194 and 36.98868. You can easily get to the ranch by road or flight.
- What to see in Solio Ranch Conservancy?
Solio Ranch is home to white and black rhinos. You can spot the other Big Five in the ranch. These include buffalos, elephants, leopards, and lions. Predators such as wild dogs are common. You can spot other animals such as Serval cats, cheetahs, Gerenuks, reticulated giraffes, and Grevy zebras. It is also home to many species of birds.
- Is Solio Ranch safe to visit?
Solio Ranch is a very safe destination in Kenya. Kenya is one of the most visited countries in Africa. The government ensures that all destinations are safe for locals as well as tourists. Tour operators also ensure that every tourist is safe and sound in the country.
- Which is the best time to visit Solio Ranch?
The best time to visit Solio Ranch is between January to March and July to October. Visitors from across the world visit the ranch during these months. It is the best time to spot wildlife. The grass is not taller compared to the wet season. But it is green to attract more animals.
- How to get to Solio Ranch?
From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you can get to Solio by road. This takes about 3 hours. For a more convenient safari, you can fly to the nearest airstrip. This is located about 10 minutes from Solio Lodge. You can also take a scheduled domestic flight to Nanyuki airstrip. Your tour operator will then pick you up and transfer you to your lodge. You can combine a Solio Ranch safari with other neighboring destinations.