Serena Mountain Lodge is 193 km (120 mi) from Nairobi and nestles unobtrusively into the primeval forest that clothes the slopes of Mount Kenya.

The mountain is Kenya’s highest at 5.199 m (17,057 ft) and Africa’s second highest behind Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

This tranquil lodge is constructed from timber and blends easily into the surrounding trees. Each of the 41 rooms are en-suite and they all have a private balcony overlooking the water-hole.

Many species, including elephant and buffalo, visit the water-hole throughout the day. The wildlife can also be viewed from the al fresco observation-decks. To get you even closer to the action, there is a wonderful underground hide reached via a tunnel; a great place for photography.

The excellent restaurant serving buffet and à la carte cuisine, is at tree-canopy level allowing you to watch the birds as you enjoy your meals.

You will have the opportunity to join a guided forest walk accompanied by a local naturalist who will identify the flora and fauna and will explain the complexities of the forest ecosystem. Fascinating lectures and slide-shows are held in the evenings.

If you wish, the staff will call you at night if your selected animal comes to the water-hole; you can then get out of bed and watch from the privacy of your private balcony. Just tell the receptionist which animals you are most interested in.

Viewed from the lodge, sunrises are spectacular as the first rays strike the snow-covered summit of Mount Kenya.

This is one of the best places in Kenya to capture truly glorious sunrises with your camera; the air is crisp and clear and the snow acts as a giant reflector.