Serena Camp

Location: Serena Camp sits on the quiet shores of Lake Elmenteita, within Kenya’s Soysambu Conservancy - a privately-owned sanctuary that feels wonderfully off the radar. You’re halfway between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, which means easy access to some of the Rift Valley’s best birdlife and game viewing, but with far fewer crowds. The lake itself shimmers with soda-rich shallows that regularly draw in flamingos, pelicans, and other waders, while the surrounding bush and grasslands are home to plains game, leopard, and even the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. It’s a peaceful, scenic setting with big skies and a sense of space that’s increasingly hard to come by.

Rooms: The tents here strike that sweet spot between comfort and character. Raised slightly on platforms and spread out for privacy, each canvas tent has a solid roof and polished wooden floors, so it feels more like a rustic cottage than a typical tented room. Inside, you’ve got a proper bed with crisp linen, en-suite bathroom with hot running water, and a private veranda that looks straight out over the lake. Décor is earthy and natural, with a few thoughtful flourishes - nothing flashy, but all very tastefully done. It’s a peaceful place to wake up, especially when you unzip the canvas and catch sight of the lake in the early morning light.

Amenities: While the camp keeps its footprint light, it still manages to offer everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable stay. The main mess tent serves as a dining area and lounge, with soft seating and panoramic views of the lake - ideal for birdwatching with a coffee or sundowner in hand. Meals are freshly prepared using local ingredients and often served under the stars. There’s a small pool tucked away in the gardens, perfect for a midday dip, and a firepit area where guests gather in the evenings. Service is warm and personal, with staff who genuinely go out of their way to make you feel at home.

Activities: Days here can be as active or as laid-back as you like. Game drives in the Soysambu Conservancy are a real highlight, with a good chance of spotting giraffe, buffalo, warthog, and even lions if you’re lucky. The birdlife is superb year-round, with over 450 recorded species, including the dramatic arrival of flamingos when conditions are right. You can also head out on guided nature walks with local guides who know the area inside out, or take a trip to Lake Nakuru National Park for a more traditional safari experience. Cultural visits to nearby communities can be arranged too, offering an insight into local life away from the safari trail.

Sustainability: Serena Camp operates with a strong commitment to conservation and community, which shows in the details. Being part of the Soysambu Conservancy means your stay directly supports habitat protection and wildlife conservation in a critical part of the Rift Valley. The camp uses solar power for much of its energy, recycles greywater, and sources produce locally wherever possible. Staff are hired from surrounding communities, and Serena runs training and education programmes to build skills and create long-term employment. It’s a thoughtful, low-impact operation that puts genuine care into treading lightly while making a positive difference locally.