Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa

Lake Nakuru National Park anchors the Great Rift Valley's ecosystem, providing a critical sanctuary for both black and white rhinos and prolific birdlife.

Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa occupies a site within the urban landscape of Nakuru town, approximately 160 kilometres from Nairobi. It offers a comprehensive, full-service base of operations a short drive from the park's main gate.

Location and Access to Lake Nakuru from Sarova Woodlands

The hotel's position within Nakuru town provides a key logistical advantage. This urban setting offers a different operational dynamic compared to a traditional safari lodge located inside the park.

The typical travel time from the hotel entrance to the Lake Nakuru National Park main gate is approximately 15 to 20 minutes by vehicle, subject to local traffic. The hotel’s location gives guests direct access to urban infrastructure.

A range of local restaurants, cafes, supply shops, and banking facilities are available within a short taxi ride, allowing for a degree of flexibility and local engagement not possible from an isolated bush camp.

Hotel Accommodation and Guest Facilities at Sarova Woodlands

The hotel features a multi-storey main building constructed from permanent materials, housing the property's 147 guest rooms and extensive public areas.

The hotel’s design creates a secure and controlled environment, effectively buffered from the activity of the surrounding town and set within contained, manicured grounds that create a peaceful urban retreat.

Standard and Executive Guest Rooms

Sarova Woodlands offers 147 guest rooms, all built to a consistent mid-range hotel standard. The rooms prioritise comfort and practicality over rustic immersion, featuring solid walls, large windows, and contemporary furnishings. Each room includes standard amenities expected of a hotel in this category.

• En-suite bathroom with shower and complimentary toiletries
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access
• Flat-screen television with satellite channels
• In-room safe and minibar
• Tea and coffee making facilities

Lounge, Gardens, and Swimming Pool

The ground floor houses the main reception, a spacious lounge, and the primary dining facilities. The property's manicured gardens and central courtyard provide a controlled outdoor space for relaxation. The outdoor swimming pool is a key feature and serves as a central point for guest recreation during warmer parts of the day.

Dining Options and Service Standards at Sarova Woodlands

The main restaurant at Sarova Woodlands serves as the primary dining venue. The restaurant provides buffet-style service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu featuring both international dishes and local Kenyan cuisine.

An à la carte menu is also available. A casual café offers lighter meals and beverages, while a dedicated bar and lounge provides a venue for evening drinks. Service is professional and aligns with the standards of an established hotel chain.

The Tulia Spa and Wellness Centre

The full-service Tulia Spa and wellness centre is a significant facility at the hotel. The spa offers guests a place for relaxation and rejuvenation, particularly after a full day of safari drives. The spa’s range of treatments elevates the hotel beyond a simple safari outpost into a more comprehensive hospitality destination. The outdoor swimming pool offers another avenue for recreation and leisure on the property.

Safari Logistics for Lake Nakuru National Park

While Sarova Woodlands operates as a city hotel, its services are geared towards facilitating safari excursions. The concierge team can arrange guided day trips into Lake Nakuru National Park.

These packages typically include a 4x4 safari vehicle and an experienced driver-guide. Guests should confirm if park entry fees are included in the quoted price when booking transfers and game drives.

Sarova Woodlands Hotel At a Glance

Who Should Stay at Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa?

Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa suits families, business travellers, and safari-goers who prioritise the comforts and amenities of a full-service hotel over an immersive wilderness experience. The property's primary value lies in its logistical convenience, reliability, and security.

The hotel is an excellent choice for travellers wanting a secure and comfortable base for day trips into Lake Nakuru, while retaining access to urban infrastructure and facilities like a swimming pool and a professional spa. The hotel is less suitable for travellers seeking an isolated, in-the-bush safari atmosphere.