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SAROVA
Nearly five decades ago, in the bustling city of Nairobi, Kenya, three legendary visionaries embarked on a remarkable journey that would transform the hospitality landscape of East Africa.
Sarova Hotels and Resorts was established, a brand that would quickly become synonymous with luxury, impeccable service, and unforgettable experiences. Sarova places a strong emphasis on excellence. Top-notch service is delivered with a warm attitude, and its entire brand is built on customer obsession.
Focus is placed on key characteristics that make any guest feel that Sarova is indeed ‘The Place To Be’. Over the years, Sarova has expanded its portfolio and established eight stunning properties with a total of more than 1,200 rooms across Kenya’s top traveller destinations. Each hotel is carefully designed to embrace the local culture, heritage, and natural surroundings, offering both a unique and wholesome experience to guests.
Whether on safari, at the beach, or in the city, Sarova’s customers are always well catered for, and this outstanding reputation has positioned Sarova as a dominant player in Kenya’s hospitality and tourism industry. Sarova’s popular branches are illustrated below: Within Nairobi City, Sarova Stanley and Sarova Panafric are two unmissable, iconic landmarks. Sarova Stanley holds the distinction of being the oldest hotel in Nairobi, boasting a captivating history that dates back to 1902. The hotel seamlessly blends Victorian elegance with modern amenities, offering guests a delightful fusion.
The Thorn Tree Café, a popular meeting spot for travellers, adds to its charm. Sarova Panafric is a vibrant and contemporary hotel that pays homage to African heritage and culture. Its rooms and suites feature spacious layouts adorned with African-inspired decor, with a lush garden and a large swimming pool, providing guests with a serene oasis in the busy city.
The Flame Tree Restaurant is one of two stylish dining venues at the hotel, serving a combination of continental and Pan-African cuisine. Sarova Stanley and Sarova Panafric are located in the heart of Nairobi City a short distance from each other. They both enjoy convenient proximity to major tourist and visitor attractions, including the famous Nairobi National Park: the only national park within a city.
Perched along the picturesque Bamburi Beach in Mombasa, Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. It is one of the largest beach resorts in East Africa, and caters to guests’ desires for both relaxation and adventure. The impeccable resort offers an array of activities and amenities such as water sports, a kids’ club and its renowned Tulia Spa which provides rejuvenating treatments.
Sarova Woodlands Hotel and Spa, located in Nakuru’s upscale Milimani area is just a short drive from the city centre. It features luxurious air-conditioned rooms, a leather bar, and a stylish courtyard restaurant, among several other amenities. It is most ideal for business travellers, romantic and family getaways.
Sarova’s latest city property is the Imperial Hotel in Kisumu. Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, and a mere 10-minute drive from the Kisumu International Airport, Sarova Imperial embodies a blend of modern elegance and timeless hospitality, establishing it as the preferred choice for both business and leisure travellers in Kisumu. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant social and arts scene that the city has to offer.
Sarova Mara Game Camp, nestled in the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve, offers a luxurious safari experience. Guests stay in opulent tents equipped with en-suite bathrooms, immersing themselves in the authentic spirit of the African wilderness. The camp features an outdoor swimming pool and a spa, allowing visitors to unwind amidst nature’s beauty between exhilarating game drives.
It is particularly celebrated for providing exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including the renowned annual wildebeest migration: one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Moreover, the game camp has partnered with nearby cultural villages to support the local community and preserve Maasai culture. Within the awe-inspiring Shaba National Reserve in Samburu County sits Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, showcasing a unique landscape that captivates guests.
Located on an unspoilt oasis along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, the lodge offers comfortable accommodations and enables visitors to savour the beauty of the reserve. Guests can indulge in the lodge’s outdoor swimming pool and activities, enhancing their relaxation while surrounded by nature’s splendour.
Kitchens of Sarova, the outdoor catering arm of the Sarova brand has, over the years, excelled at providing premium banqueting and outdoor services. From large scale catering for over 10,000 guests at state and global functions, memorable weddings, and even small intimate gatherings, the catering arm conceptualises and delivers unique culinary experiences that are a true testament to great skill, high standards and consistent delivery of fresh, flavourful food.
Sarova leads the way in adopting responsible tourism practices, focusing on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs anchored on key pillars like community support, economic empowerment, wildlife conservation, water and energy conservation, and tree planting. Sustainable sourcing of produce from local farmers and service providers, in addition to extensive organic gardens set up in all the Sarova lodges further promotes the brand’s commitment to green goals.
Sarova actively seeks and values guest feedback. The brand has established channels for customers to share their experiences, suggestions, and concerns. By actively listening to their customers, Sarova can continuously improve their services and promptly address any issues. Led by Jimi Kariuki as Managing Director (MD), Sarova’s assortment of establishments in Kenya exemplifies a dedication to opulence, extraordinary service, and indelible encounters. With their distinctive features, these establishments invite guests to embark on remarkable journeys filled with comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion, a truly customer-obsessed tradition.
