About Solio Game Reserve

Solio Game Reserve is a private wildlife sanctuary in Kenya, nestled between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains. It’s famous for its pioneering rhino conservation efforts and is home to one of the largest populations of black and white rhinos in Africa. Visitors can enjoy game drives, birdwatching, and stunning scenery in this peaceful, exclusive setting.

History of Solio Game Reserve

1966

Courtland Parfet purchases Solio Ranch in Laikipia, central Kenya—then a cattle ranch with abundant indigenous wildlife.

1970

Solio Game Reserve is established when Parfet sets aside a large fenced area to protect endangered wildlife. Kenya’s Wildlife and Conservation Management Department relocates the first 5 black rhinos to Solio, creating the country’s first rhino sanctuary.

1978

Southern white rhinos are introduced to the reserve, expanding its conservation mission.

1980

Solio becomes home to 27 black rhinos relocated from 9 regions, as Kenya’s rhino population plummets due to poaching—from 20,000 in 1970 to just 1,500.

1990

Only 400 black rhinos remain in Kenya. Solio plays a critical role in breeding and protecting the species.

1991

The reserve expands to 68 sq km to accommodate the growing rhino population and enhance security.

2000s

Solio begins supplying black and white rhinos to parks and conservancies across Kenya and East Africa, including Nakuru National Park, Lewa Conservancy, Ol Pejeta, and more.

2023

Njamba, a baby white rhino, becomes the first resident of Solio’s new orphanage, marking a new chapter in rhino care and rehabilitation.

2024

The new Solio Rhino Orphanage is officially built, providing specialized care for orphaned and vulnerable rhino calves.

Today

Solio is the world’s oldest private Eastern Black rhino sanctuary and hosts the second-largest private rhino population globally. It has bred and translocated over 145 rhinos, making it a cornerstone of rhino conservation in Africa.