London, July 2026: JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has announced the opening of JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp in Solio Game Reserve, Laikipia, Kenya. Nestled between the slopes of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, the camp introduces a wellness-focused safari experience where guests can slow down, reset and connect with the reserve's extraordinary wildlife and vibrant flora.
Located within Solio Game Reserve, a 45,000-acre private conservancy renowned for its longstanding role in rhino conservation, the camp offers guests the opportunity to experience one of Africa's largest populations of both black and white rhinos alongside leopards, lions, waterbuck, zebras, Thomson's gazelles and abundant birdlife. Guided wildlife experiences include sunrise and afternoon game drives, while night drives offer the chance to spot predators such as leopards, lions and spotted hyenas, as well as elusive nocturnal species including servals and caracals. Guests can also unwind around the camp's fire pit, reflecting on the day's memorable encounters.
The safari camp features 19 tented suites, including a spacious two-bedroom suite, each thoughtfully positioned to provide privacy and sweeping views of Mount Kenya, the Aberdare Mountains, nearby waterholes or the surrounding savannah. Designed by LW Design, the architecture is inspired by the quiet presence of the rhino, allowing the structures to blend seamlessly into the landscape. Low-slung timber and canvas construction creates a refined yet understated sense of luxury.
Roll-up canvas walls allow a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting the sounds and scenery of the conservancy into every suite. Private decks, plunge pools and freestanding indoor bathtubs encourage moments of relaxation while remaining immersed in nature. Interiors feature warm earth tones, soft greens and charcoal hues complemented by woven textiles, hand-carved timber and handcrafted furnishings. Artwork and décor sourced from Kenyan artisans, including Kitengela Glass, Safari Bronze and Ceramiqa, celebrate the country's rich artistic heritage.
The camp also features shared spaces designed to enrich the guest experience, including the Map Room for planning daily adventures, a library, games room for younger guests, and a retail boutique showcasing contemporary Kenyan crafts, beadwork and textiles created by local artisans.
Beyond traditional game drives, guests can enjoy guided walking safaris, cycling excursions and birdwatching experiences led by expert guides, offering deeper insight into the region's diverse ecosystems and more than 300 recorded bird species. Photography enthusiasts have access to professional Canon camera equipment and guidance from resident photographers. Bespoke experiences, available on request, include helicopter excursions, trout fishing on Mount Kenya and sunset painting sessions.
Dining at the camp celebrates seasonality and local produce. At the heart of the culinary experience is the signature garden, where herbs, fruits and vegetables are grown on-site and incorporated into seasonal menus. Guests can also enjoy The Garden Table, an intimate multi-course dining experience featuring freshly harvested ingredients.
The camp's signature restaurant, Mavuno, presents seasonal menus inspired by Kenyan flavours, global influences and open-fire cooking, while Ember Bar and Lounge offers a relaxed fireside setting for drinks and sharing plates. The Five Elements cocktail programme showcases flavours inspired by smoke, spice, earth, honey and fire, alongside botanical infusions and cold-pressed juices made with fresh local ingredients. A dedicated wine room offers curated tastings and private dining experiences. Guests can also enjoy bush breakfasts, candlelit dinners beneath the stars, bread-making workshops and Kenyan cooking classes.
Wellness is central to the JW Marriott experience. Spa by JW offers restorative treatments inspired by regional healing traditions and highland botanicals using premium products from Kenyan skincare brand Jani, featuring ingredients such as highland moringa, wild aloe, Laikipia honey, cedar and clove. The signature Solio Passage half-day wellness journey combines volcanic stone therapy, botanical massage, glacial hydrotherapy and cedar forest bathing into a comprehensive restorative experience. Additional wellness facilities include a fully equipped fitness centre, a tranquil outdoor swimming pool and quiet spaces for reflection.
Operating within Solio Game Reserve, the camp embraces conservation-focused tourism practices that prioritise low-density experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves more deeply in the natural environment. Guests can also participate in an educational visit to the Solio Rhino Orphanage, where they gain insight into the rehabilitation of orphaned rhino calves and other wildlife before their reintroduction into the conservancy.
The camp supports several community initiatives through the Lazizi Welfare Foundation, including a daily meal programme at Riacho Comprehensive School to promote student well-being and education. It also contributes to the conservancy-led Solio Women's Empowerment Project, where women from surrounding communities create handcrafted products such as beaded room-key bracelets and crochet rhinos. These items are incorporated into the guest experience and sold in the camp's boutique, with proceeds directly supporting the project.
Sustainability is embedded throughout the camp's operations through solar energy infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, composting and selective upcycling practices. Ninety-five percent of the workforce comprises Kenyan nationals, supporting local employment, skills development and long-term economic growth within the region.
The camp is located near Nanyuki Airstrip, approximately a 30-minute flight from Wilson Airport or a three-hour drive from Nairobi. Guests may also choose a private charter from Wilson Airport to Solio Ranch Airstrip, followed by a 10-minute drive to the camp.
Rates start from US$1,499 per person, per night on an all-inclusive basis. The package includes accommodation with a complimentary minibar, full-board dining and beverages (excluding select premium wines and spirits), one bush breakfast and one sundowner per stay, twice-daily shared game drives led by expert guides, one night drive per stay, guided walking and cycling safaris, access to professional Canon photography equipment with expert guidance, Wi-Fi, laundry services, Wilson Airport meet-and-greet assistance, and return transfers from Nanyuki Airstrip.
