At Sera Conservancy, the black rhino is more than just a symbol of conservation success; it is a living, breathing inspiration for collaboration and local leadership. Founded in 2015, the Sera Rhino Sanctuary is the first and only community-owned and operated black rhino sanctuary in East Africa. We began with 10 rhinos – five male and five female – brought here in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and the Northern Rangelands Trust. Today, that number has grown to 26, with zero incidents of poaching. This 16% annual growth rate is well above the national average and is a powerful reminder that when people are truly invested in protecting wildlife, extraordinary things can happen.
In 2024, we welcomed the arrival of four southern white rhinos and were proud to see the first white rhino calf born the same year. Every birth marks a step forward for the species and a moment of pride for the men and women that protect them. We are deeply committed to continuing this work, not only for the rhinos, but also for the future of conservation led by communities.
Sera is a haven for bird enthusiasts. With over 300 species of birds, including majestic hornbills, eagles, and vultures, birdwatching in the conservancy is a truly rewarding experience. Explore our diverse landscapes, from savannah to wetlands, as you encounter a variety of resident and migratory bird species.
There’s no better way to get a feel for Sera than on foot. With one of our local guides, you’ll take in the conservancy slowly, the crunch of dry ground underfoot, the scent of wild herbs, the soft calls of birds in the distance. It’s a peaceful, rewarding experience, and one that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Experience the thrill of rhino tracking in the heart of our sanctuary. The Sera Rhino Sanctuary is home to both black and white rhinos, providing unique opportunities to get up close to these incredible creatures while learning about our conservation efforts. Guided by experts, visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences, contributing directly to rhino protection and monitoring.
Rate:
*Only people above the age of 16 are allowed to participate in the rhino tracking experience.
Sera offers the opportunity for thrilling game drives (in guests’ own cars) through its expansive wilderness. Explore the conservancy’s diverse habitats, home to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators like leopards and lions. Our experienced guides will share insights into the region’s ecology and wildlife, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.
Rate:
**Only people above the age of 16 are allowed to participate in the rhino tracking experience.
The Samburu people have a long cultural history, shaped by their identity as pastoralists. They once moved across the landscape with their livestock in search of pasture, and although those movements have slowed in recent years, many traditions continue. Visiting a manyatta offers a close-up view of this way of life – where homes are made from mud, cattle remain central to daily routines, and longstanding customs are still part of everyday life.
One of Sera’s quieter highlights is a little-known rock painting near the Kisima Hamsini waterhole. Thought to be thousands of years old, it offers a rare glimpse into the past – simple red ochre markings, believed to have been used in early ceremonies. The walk to the site is peaceful and undemanding, and standing before the rock, it’s hard not to feel a sense of connection. It’s a reminder that this landscape has been home to people and their stories for far longer than we might imagine.