Unveiling the Luxurious Maasai Embrace of Sarova Maiyan
Nestled amid Kenya's Aberdare Mountain ranges, a different kind of haven beckons the curious traveler. Sarova Maiyan, a name that rolls off the tongue like a tribal song, isn't just a luxury resort; it's an immersive journey into the soul of Nanyuki, a town steeped in history and adorned with the vibrant spirit of the Maasai tribe. But first, a few fun facts about this beautiful landscape.
Iconic Equator landmark in Nanyuki town
Founded in 1907, Nanyuki derives its name from "Enkare Nanyuikie", which is Maasai for river of blood. It earned this phrase from the Nanyuki River turning a reddish color during the rainy season due to soil erosion from the slopes of Mt Kenya. It was a famous spot for elite white settlers who occupied large tracts of land, “borrowed” from the native people during the colonial era, and ideal for their shooting safaris which involved hunting for pleasure at a time when wild game roamed free. Nanyuki lies along the Equator at an elevation of 1,947m above sea level & a British settler named Logan Hook once, in 1921, designed his hotel with the Equator running right through it. A key part of the Laikipia Plateau, Nanyuki gets plusher every year and remains in a league of its own, making it one of the most preferred locations for experiential travel. Every visit here is as thrilling as it is transformative.
Interior of a villa living area
Sarova Maiyan, (Maiyan meaning God’s blessings) sits in this breathtaking expanse & allows visitors to immerse themselves in the heart & soul of the region quite famous for its ranches and wildlife conservancies as well as serving as the base point for climbing majestic Mt. Kenya. Indeed, the resort offers vantage views of the snow-capped mountain on an early morning as the sun rises, breathtaking to say the least.
Designed to resemble a village, the resort consists of a cluster of 10 villas, each with 6 rooms surrounded by open green spaces. A private rooftop pool on each villa becomes your personal watering hole as you soak in views of the terrain beyond.
Sarova Maiyan rooftop jacuzzi & plunge pool
Sarova Maiyan’s CEO Sam Mwai, a man with a deep appreciation of the great outdoors and one with a wealth of experience in Kenya’s hospitality scene says the resort has come full circle, having been developed in phases. "From a horticultural farm to a thriving hospitality facility in the middle of the Laikipia plains, this is the outcome of a dream by our founders James & Joan Mworia", quips Sam. A stay at the resort will ignite your sense of adventure thanks to many unique family activities.
"Today I can happily say that following the partnership with Sarova Hotels, Maiyan is a thriving, bustling resort with guests enjoying swimming, golf, entertainment from our animation team, and farm visits. The Naibor community has embraced and supported the resort which is also a source of training and employment for the neighborhood" he adds.
Sarova Maiyan CEO Sam Mwai
Sarova Maiyan Animator Fred Sampaiyo
While at Sarova Maiyan, an encounter with Fred Sampaiyo, the ever-enthusiastic animator with a knack for remembering minute details about his surroundings is a must. Fred is a wonderful testament to what it looks like when work marries play. While on an invigorating tour of the resort, crisp morning air filling your lungs, Fred will narrate & paint wonderful pictures of how it all came to be, from dry bushland to the current oasis teeming with lush flora & fauna.
A plated meal at the resort's Ukarimu Restaurant
The culinary journey at Sarova Maiyan is equally captivating and consists of dishes infused with the colorful flavors of the region fresh off the resort’s organic garden. The garden is one of several sustainable practices carried out here including solar power use for lighting & water heating and wastewater treatment and recirculation.
Leaving Sarova Maiyan isn't just leaving a resort; it's leaving a piece of your heart nestled amongst the rolling hills of Nanyuki. From its raw natural beauty and heritage to comfortable accommodation & delightful cuisine, our doors are open to welcome you where luxury dances with tradition.
A morning view of Mt. Kenya from Sarova Maiyan
Category: Sarova Hotels
Author: admin
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