Sweetwaters Serena Camp

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Set in the beautiful Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweetwaters Tented Camp is an exclusive oasis of luxury.

Accommodations at the camp consist of fifty-six elegant tents. The two rows of tents are reached via a series of stone pathways, which wind through beautifully landscaped grounds. Each of the tents have canvas interiors, solid floors, and separate thatched roofs as well as a choice of a king-bed or two twins. The en suite bathrooms feature plenty of hot and cold water, showers, and flush toilets. Fourteen of the tents are set on raised platforms with private balconies, while the rest have private verandas, all with safari chairs and tables. A nightly hot-water bottle keeps toes toasty warm during the cool evenings.

The camp overlooks a busy waterhole and is located on the 110,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Southern Laikipia. Out of all of the parks and reserves in Kenya, Ol Pejata Conservancy possesses the highest density of wildlife. Some animals frequently sighted are here buffalo, leopard, Grevy’s zebra, and Jackson’s hartebeest. It is also a working wildlife conservancy and cattle ranch, and guests are encouraged to take part in the camp’s special Interactive Conservation Safari, a 4-night experience. With almost 100 rhinos in residence, Ol Pejata is the largest rhino sanctuary outside of South Africa. The conservancy also hosts the only sanctuary for chimpanzees in Kenya.

Daily game drives are conducted by expert guides in comfortable 4×4 vehicles. Night drives capture the nocturnal activities of many animals including the elusive leopard. Guided nature walks and bird watching walks explore the conservancy in greater detail taking in the smaller flora and fauna often missed from the vehicle’s vantage. For a more unique way to travel, there are camel safaris available. But the lodge also has some unique activities as well like a visit to the chimpanzee sanctuary, home to almost fifty rescued chimps transferred from another sanctuary originally started by expert Jane Goodall. Ol Pejata researchers and rangers educate guests about wildlife and offer opportunities to track local lion and rhino populations. There is even recurve target archery.

The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager’s house of the former colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. The main building also houses the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centers around a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar is built in the style of a game-viewing hide and overlooks the active waterhole. The refreshing pool overs a cool escape from the afternoon heat. There is also a conference room, gift shop, and business center. A family-friendly property, babysitting services are available.