Opening in February 2017 ‘Saruni Rhino’ will be offering the first walking safari in Kenya specifically focused on tracking the endangered black rhino, on foot. Guests will undertake this unique experience alongside an expert Saruni guide and a highly-trained Sera Community Conservancy ranger, equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology and using ancient samburu tracking skills.
Saruni has a portfolio of four existing luxury properties in Kenya and Saruni Rhino will be its fifth. Saruni Rhino will be located in the Sera Community Conservancy, a vast wildlife reserve nearly 1,400 square miles situated in northern Kenya.
In 2015, Sera Community Conservancy made history by becoming the first community conservancy in Africa to host a viable population of black rhino. The translocation of 10 animals from elsewhere in Kenya marked the return of the endangered species to an area where it has been absent for quarter of a century.
The rangers carry transmitters connected to a microchip inserted in the horns of the 11 rhinos who reside within the spectacular 200-square-mile, fenced-in sanctuary. This will enable guests to track within yards of the rhinos. The program’s aim is to educate and encourage the further protection of the species for future generations.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. Don’t forget the Samburu specials (oryx, gerenuk, ostrich, Grevy’s Zebra, reticulated giraffe), as well as buffalo, antelope and elephants.
Stake out by the waterholes at dawn and dusk to see thousands of sand grouse swoop to take the water, the flapping of their wings en masse creating a marvellous natural spectacle. Sera is also known to be the birding enthusiast’s playground.
Saruni Rhino will be open with two stylish ‘bandas’ (open stone cottages) which sleep 4-6 and a main ‘mess’ cottage just outside the sanctuary. Saruni Rhino later plans to add an additional tented camp inside the sanctuary.
The conservancy fees paid to Sera by Saruni will be split 60/40 – with 60% going towards annual operating costs of the rhino sanctuary, and 40% going towards community projects.
Bookings from 1st February 2017, current nightly Saruni safari rates apply per person sharing with additional payment for rhino tracking requires of US$175 per day/night (special conservation fee) and it is open to guests over the age of 16 only.
