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Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

★★★★·8.8/ 10Recommended
·Lodges
Offsite parking discounted rates availableGuest education on local ecosystems and cultureSwimming poolFamily roomsLuggage storageSafety deposit boxAll 60 facilities +
Review
Property information · Hotelbeds

Located deep in the arid North Country of Kenya, along the Great North Road, the Shaba National Reserve forms part of a trio of reserves quite different from the ones normally found in Kenya. The hotel takes its name from Mount Shaba (1,525 m), a volcanic mountain that became dormant around 5,000 years ago and lies on the border of the reserve. The lodge is built in an oasis around the natural terrain of this breathtaking volcanic desert, about 350 km and 5 hours by road or 45 minutes by air from Nairobi and 2 hours from Nanyuki and Meru. The bus station is around 10 km away and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is situated approximately 75 km away. This lodge offers a unique experience that extends beyond game drives in the reserve. Comprising 85 guest rooms, the establishment features a lobby with 24-hour reception, a hotel safe, currency exchange facilities, a games room, a TV lounge, a kids' club, a bar, a pub and a restaurant. Business guests are sure to appreciate the conference facilities. Wireless Internet access, room and laundry services and a car park provide additional convenience. The rooms are attractively laid out in chalet style, overlooking the Ewaso Ng'iro River. They are equipped with private balconies or terraces with a view of the river and game park and en suite bathrooms with permanent showers, bathtubs and WCs, running hot and cold water and razor outlets with 220 and 240 volts. The double or king-size beds come with mosquito nets and duvets. All rooms also offer overhead fans with 240-volt power from 6 am to 12 am. The rooms have a TV and individually regulated air conditioning. The lodge has a plethora of activities to indulge in from bird watching to camel safaris and the viewing deck along the river to feed and watch crocodiles, making it a destination in itself. Guests may take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool and children can take advantage of their own swimming area. The hot tub and massages ensure a relaxing stay.

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Guest scores & sentiment

From 253 guest reviews · multi-source · as of 2026-07-11

Guests praise the lush oasis setting, excellent food, and attentive staff accommodating dietary needs. Common complaints include dated rooms lacking AC/fridges, poor access roads, and occasional service inconsistencies.

Dimension scores · cross-source

Value9.0
Service9.0
Location9.0
Surroundings8.8
Rooms8.7
Cleanliness8.7
Facilities8.6
Wi-Fi7.5
+ PraisedBeautiful natural environment · Delicious and varied food · Enthusiastic staff service · Attentive and friendly staff
- ComplaintsAging facilities · Noise disturbances · Unfriendly staff attitude · Undisclosed high park entry fees

KEYIdeal for nature and food lovers. Check for AC/fridge availability and allow extra travel time due to rough access roads.

FAQ · grounded in hotel data & reviews

locationWhat is the location and environment like?+
Nestled in the Shaba Game Reserve by the Ewaso River, it offers a tranquil, oasis-like setting (Location score: 9.0). Guests love the unique wildlife views, though access roads can be rough.
diningHow is the dining service? Can they accommodate special diets?+
Dining is highly praised, with chefs accommodating special diets and allergies (Dining score: 9.0). Unique experiences like Bush Breakfast are highlighted, though buffet consistency varies occasionally.
familyIs this hotel suitable for families? What facilities are available?+
Highly suitable for families (112 reviews). Features pools, kid meals, and game rooms loved by children. Note that some rooms lack AC, and high park entry fees may incur extra costs if not disclosed early.
coupleHow is the experience for couples? Is it quiet?+
Couples appreciate the tranquil, oasis-like setting and personalized service (Location score: 9.0). Dining accommodates allergies well. Downsides include hot rooms without fridges and weak WiFi.
businessIs this suitable for business travelers?+
Suitable for those seeking tranquility (16 business reviews). Excellent service and comfort are praised. However, the strong natural atmosphere and lack of AC in some rooms may not suit those needing intense office work or cool environments.
roomWhat are the room facilities like? Is there AC and a fridge?+
Rooms offer modern amenities like mosquito nets and minibars (Rooms score: 8.7). However, many guests report dated facilities, frequent lack of AC and fridges, leading to heat at night. Confirm specific room configurations before booking.
Guest reports describe individual stays. Confirm important facilities, benefits and arrival arrangements with the hotel.
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