Sleeping Warrior

Top choice in Southern Rift Valley


Inside the private Soysambu Conservancy and named for the shape of the mountain formation that cradles it, the Sleeping Warrior is exquisitely remote – it took us 90 minutes to reach it from the main road. You'll be richly rewarded for doing so; its stark beauty is softened by luxurious, arty lodges with sleek balconies and plunge pools; there's an attached tented camp.

Firefinches flit through the trees and buffaloes and giraffes graze down below. The restaurant, although a little stiff, serves fine food and wine. You'll need a 4WD to reach the lodge (pickups can be arranged).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Southern Rift Valley attractions

1. Soysambu Conservancy

1.46 MILES

This private conservancy offers quite extensive wildlife viewing, as well as camping. It is home to colobus monkeys, Rothschild's giraffes and about 450…

2. Lake Elmenteita

6.4 MILES

Serene and framed by shaggy hills, Elmenteita is quieter and prettier than the lakes to its south, although its relatively open surrounds ensure that it…

3. Kariandusi

7.31 MILES

Kariandusi is signposted off the A104 Hwy near Lake Elmenteita. It was here in the 1920s that the Leakeys (a family of renowned archaeologists) discovered…

4. Makalia Falls

9.74 MILES

The modest Makalia Falls, at the extreme southern end of the park, swell after the rains when they're at their best. You can camp at the nearby park…

5. Out of Africa Lookout

13.07 MILES

To get the best view that takes in much of the park, head up to the rocky Out of Africa Lookout. Less frequented by tour groups than the lower Baboon…

6. Lake Nakuru National Park

15.18 MILES

Just two hours' drive from Nairobi, Lake Nakuru is among Kenya's finest national parks. Flanked by rocky escarpments, pockets of forest and at least one…

7. Baboon Cliffs

15.62 MILES

This popular viewpoint and one-time lunch spot has superlative views out over the lake, with some fine aerial vistas down onto the flooded lake shore…

8. Murals

17.65 MILES

Lining the western side of the road on the approach to Lake Nakuru if you're coming from town, these eye-catching murals depict everyone from George and…