luxury safari camps in kenya

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20 of Kenya’s Best Safari Camps and Lodges

Antoinette van Heerden

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Antoinette van Heerden

Published: 1 October 2022

Last Update: 30 January 2024

Kenya is often thought of as the ultimate safari destination , and it’s easy to see why. The country is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Not only does Kenya have some of the best safari camps , but it also has many lodges, hotels, guest houses and accommodation options.

Kenya’s safari landscape includes everything from snow-capped mountains to palm-fringed beaches. Its vibrant culture is on display in bustling cities and traditional villages. Whether you’re looking for an African adventure or a relaxing beach vacation, Kenya has something for everyone.

In this post, we’ll take a look at twenty of the best accommodation options in and around Kenya:

1. Tortilis Camp, Amboseli National Park

This luxury Kenyan safari camp in the shade of beautiful acacia tortilis trees has stunning views of snow-capped Kilimanjaro  and Mount Meru in Tanzania. It offers guests roomy tents set well apart ensuring privacy, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners. However, there is a family tent as well.

The  luxurious Tortilis Camp  tents have comfortable beds, gorgeous ensuite bathrooms and private verandas. The beautiful swimming pool area, with tempting loungers invitingly set out, simply compels relaxation.

The safari camp has a private entrance to Amboseli National Park  renowned for its magnificent elephant herds. Mouthwatering Italian cuisine and superb service makes a stay at Tortilis unforgettable!

2. Ol Donyo Lodge, Chyulu Hills

Situated between Tsavo East and Amboseli National Parks,  ol Donyo  (meaning ‘large mountain’) is located on the Masai-owned Mbirikani Group Ranch. It nestles picturesquely in the foothills of the  Chyulu Hills  in Kenya’s renowned Amboseli National Park.

The lodge combines Masai culture and contemporary design to create the perfect setting for a luxury safari. Guests stay in six-roomy ensuite villas with well-appointed lounges, verandas and private plunge pools. Roof terrace star beds allow you to sleep out under the stars in a peerless experience of nature. An executive chef and his skilled team ensure fine cuisine matched with hand-picked wines and impeccable service!

The open-air hide ensures fantastic wildlife viewing. Horseback and mountain bike excursions, and expertly guided nature walks complete this unparalleled wildlife experience.  

3. Alfajiri Villas , Diani Beach

Condé Nast Traveller rated Alfajiri Villas amongst the most luxurious in the world, and they offer the ultimate in relaxation, comfort and personalised pampering. Located on stunning Diani Beach, washed by the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean, these villas ensure a magical beach holiday . Vibrant  Mombasa  is just 30km north.

All three of the exclusive-use villas come with their own personal butler service, meals tailored to your taste, and private swimming pools. A masseuse is on hand for daily massages, and the owner will personally arrange all your activities, like snorkelling, kite surfing, golf and skydiving. And you’ll enjoy some of the most delicious and freshest sea-to-table seafood you’ve ever tasted!

An excellent choice after staying at one of Kenya’s best safari camps.

4. Kinondo Kwetu , Galu Beach

If barefoot luxury in a relaxed setting is your style, Kinondo Kwetu is the place for you! Located on the pristine Indian Ocean shoreline just south of Diani Beach, this beautiful hotel is the only one on private Galu Beach.

It is surrounded by verdant coastal forests and offers water activities like swimming, sailing, boating, diving and snorkelling. Beach and forest horse riding, tennis, yoga, golf and wood-fired saunas are also on offer. You can enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach, take in a cultural visit to a local village, or book a boat trip to Paradise Lost Island.

Or just ensconce yourself in a hammock under some whispering palms with a drink or a book while the balmy Indian Ocean breezes gently waft your cares away …  

5. Loisaba Tented Camp, Laikipia

There can be few better views than Loisaba’s across Laikipia’s marvellous landscape all the way to Mount Kenya, over the 56 000-acre private conservancies. And nowhere are the views better than from Loisaba’s  magnificent infinity pool! Relax in the pool with a delicious sundowner whilst watching families of elephants forage below the camp.

Large, high-ceilinged, and airy tents all feature huge floor-to-ceiling windows and doors and windows. The sophisticated decor stylishly combines African influences with modern state-of-the-art lighting systems and showers. The service is impeccable, the food delicious, and a night in your private outdoor star bed will create an indelible memory.

Camel treks, horse riding and mountain biking excursions are all on offer, as are expertly guided bush walks to see rare species like Grevy’s zebra and wild dogs.  

6. Segera Retreat, Laikipia

Located on the rim of the Great Rift Valley,  Segera Retreat  is a sanctuary for numerous species, including endangered African wild dogs, the patas monkey and rare Grevy’s zebras.

Established by  conservationist and art collector Jochen Zeitz , this retreat offers luxury, privacy and stunningly beautiful surroundings and gardens. Coupled with excellent service, delicious cuisine, fine wines, ‘sleep-outs’ under the stars, and an indulgent spa, this unique retreat has it all.

All six thatched and superbly appointed villas have a villa attendant who takes personal care of guests during their visit. Pathways link the villas to tempting daybeds, swimming pools, and bar and lounge areas. Private decks overlook the savannah and the stunning Sculpture Garden. Guided game drives, helicopter excursions, and hidden hides ensure guests have excellent game viewing.

7. The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Laikipia

Snuggled into the lush hills of Laikipia’s northern escarpment, the  Ol Lentille Sanctuary combines unsurpassed views with privacy, seclusion, and opulent luxury. Its four uniquely designed, butler-served villas are ideal for honeymooners or couples on safari .

Guests can explore 40 000 acres of pristine wilderness through jogging, quad biking, horse riding, cycling and camel trekking. Guided game drives and bush walks are available, as are kayaking and river-rafting excursions for more adventurous souls.  International cuisine, fine wines and a sumptuous spa and wellness centre put the final seal on this Kenya safari tour of a lifetime!

8. Loldia House, Lakes District

Situated on one of Kenya’s earliest farms near Hell’s Gate National Park, Loldia is a luxury safari lodge that has it all – dormant volcanoes, serene lakes, mind-boggling canyons, and even hot springs!

Ideal for couples and families, it offers luxurious accommodations, fine cuisine, and flawless service. Its relaxed colonial ambience calls more relaxed and gracious times to mind where playing croquet on a velvety lawn and evenings spent talking before a fire was the norm.

A paradise for bird-lovers, Loldia has stupendous views of Lake Naivasha and the extinct volcano, Mount Longonot. Guests can see millions of flamingos on the nearby lakes, rare colobus monkeys, endangered black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, and many other species. You can enjoy boat excursions, horse riding, golf, tennis, fishing, swimming and yes, of course, croquet! And evenings soaking up the peace in front of the fire.

9. Manda Bay, Lamu Archipelago

Part of the Lamu Archipelago, Manda Island lies just off Kenya’s north coast. This gorgeous island is tailor-made for visitors looking for a far-from-the-madding-crowd escape, or a fabulous end to their African safari tour .  

Manda Bay is a tranquil boutique beach resort that offers frequent sightings of humpback whales, dolphins and turtles. A wealth of activities like swimming, waterskiing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing and dhow safaris is on offer. Enjoy some of the delicious food, indulge in a massage, or just relax and soak up the peace.

10. Kifaru House , Lewa

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy’s 62,000 acres lie in the foothills of majestic Mount Kenya, and is an internationally acclaimed success story of collaborative conservation between tribal communities. Luxury lodge Kifaru House is an oasis of incredible views and sweeping lawns overlooking a popular waterhole.

Home to some of  East Africa ’s most thriving populations of black and white rhinos, Lewa also houses the Big Five, cheetah and endangered Grevy’s zebras and black rhinos. Activities include game drives, walking safaris guided by Samburu rangers and an enchanting canopy walk and picnic in Ngare Ndare forest. Horse riding, camel trekking and instructive visits to local Samburu homesteads or  manyattas  will make your eco-safari even more memorable.  

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11. Lewa Wilderness Lodge, Lewa

Dating back to 1924, this innovative luxury Lewa Wilderness Lodge  is centred around the original family farmhouse of the Craig family who still run this conservation-centric resort. Guests sleep in nine beautiful, thatched cottages.

Fireplaces, inviting lounge areas and private verandas with incredible views all add to this resort’s unique ambience. Couples, families and ecotourists will all love it. Dining is either private or communal; your choice.

Activities include night and day game drives, guided walks, fly camping, tennis, swimming, horse riding, camel trekking or a visit to the gym. You can have a flight in a vintage bi-plan, or enjoy a magical canopy walk in Ngare Ndare Forest with its numerous waterfalls. A visit to Il NGwesi village will inspire you, as will meeting the anti-poaching dogs that protect this ‘safe house’ for rhinos.

12. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve

Aptly meaning ‘suspended in midair’ in Swahili,  Angama Mara’s two ultra-luxurious safari camps sit atop two koppies on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Each enormous tent has a 10-metre-wide glass front that assures unrivalled vistas and game viewing. This includes the crocodile-dense Mara River, the scene of many a drama-filled river crossing during the yearly Great Wildebeest Migration  from August to November!

There’s a magnificent swimming pool, and you can have a massage or a workout in the gym. The camps also have Wi-Fi connectivity, childminders, and laundry facilities.

Guests enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, hot-air ballooning and delicious cuisine and wines. Birdwatchers will be ecstatic with more than 570 recorded bird species! Photographers will love the onsite photography studio.

13. &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve

Bateleur Camp  enjoys a superlative location with its stunning infinity pools seeming to do just that – look out on infinity! Its two camps sit at the foot of the massive rock walls of the Oloololo Escarpment and a primaeval riverine forest. Each has nine sumptuous suites tucked away among the trees.

Each ensuite tent is furnished with fine antiques and handcrafted artefacts and has its own shaded deck with chairs and a table. You’ll even be supplied with a pair of Swarovski Optik binoculars to use during your stay, and a personal butler will look after you. Guests enjoy outstanding cuisine, candlelit dinners in a forest clearing, sumptuous bush breakfasts, guided bush walks and hot-air balloon safaris.

An ideally placed deck with tempting armchairs is so inviting that monkeys and warthogs drop in from time to time! &Beyond’s staff are renowned for their excellent service and attention to detail, making this one of the finest safari camps in Kenya.

14. Sanctuary Olonana, Masai Mara National Reserve

Intimate, luxurious,  award-winning Sanctuary Olonana Lodge  nestles scenically in a forest on a private stretch of the iconic Mara River. Apart from excellent game viewing all year round, it guarantees you easy access to the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet – the Great Wildebeest Migration.

You’ll have the best seats in the house to see thousands of wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara with its gauntlet of Nile crocodiles. The large numbers of predators that stalk them add to the excitement.

Olonana offers family-friendly accommodation in 14 spacious en-suite glass-sided suites with private decks. Game drives, sundowners, delicious dinners in the bush, cultural visits to a Masai village, scenic flights and magical hot-air balloon excursions are all on offer. There’s even a mini spa to help you relax!

15. Elsa’s Kopje, Meru National Park

This luxurious, romantic and award-winning lodge is named after  Elsa , conservationists Joy and George Adamson’s beloved lioness of  Born Free  fame. The camp is crafted into rocky Mughwango Hill just above the original campsite where the Adamsons raised Elsa in Meru National Park.

The Park is real lion and elephant country, and is famous for rhino conservation. Guests can watch game drinking at a waterhole just below the lodge.

All the ensuite cottages have incredible 360° views from their private decks with romantic outdoor bathtubs. You can enjoy bush dinners or breakfasts, picnics, guided 4X4 game drives with sundowners, and rafting on the Tana River. Or have a swim or a relaxing massage, or browse the gift shop or library. And those essentials, wi-fi and a laundry service, have not been forgotten!

16. Giraffe Manor, Nairobi

Want to have dinner with somebody  really  tall, utterly beautiful, and gentle? Then you must stay at  Giraffe Manor in Kenya’s capital , Nairobi. Built-in 1932, it’s a small boutique hotel modelled on a Scottish hunting lodge, so plenty of old-world charm!

The Manor is world-famous for its commitment to conservation and its resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. You can feed the giraffes from your breakfast table, or from the window of your second-storey bedroom.

But you will have to book well in advance – the Manor has only 12 much-in-demand bedrooms! Some of the famous people who have stayed here over the years include Brooke Shields, Johnny Carson, Richard Chamberlain, Richard Branson, Ewan McGregor and Walter Cronkite. The latter even had a resident warthog named after him! Now that’s fame for you!

17. Saruni Samburu, Samburu National Reserve

Built into a massive volcanic rock face ensuring spectacular views from its open-air cliff-top reception area,  luxurious Saruni Samburu  is known for its avant-garde design, architecture and décor. Each of the six stunning villas are unique and offer the last word in comfort.

Guests can go on both morning and evening game drives to view Samburu’s Special Five – the endangered Grevy’s zebra, the Somali, or reticulated, giraffe, the Somali ostrich, the East African or beisa oryx, and the graceful long-necked gerenuk gazelle. You can explore the ancient rock art and abundant wildlife of the region on nature walks with Samburu rangers.  Children will love the junior rangers programme, and scrumptious picnics and bush dinners can be arranged. Saruni Samburu is simply one of the best safari camps in the region.

18. Sasaab Camp, Samburu National Reserve

Sasaab luxury tented camp  has a stylish Moroccan ambience and offers riveting views of the endless plains of the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya. Nine uniquely styled tents offer guests deluxe four-poster beds, spacious seating areas, en suite luxury bathrooms, ceiling fans, wi-fi, and roomy verandas with plunge pools.

A spa is available for indulgent pampering, as are in-room beauty treatments and massages. Guests are spoilt with twice-daily game drives, spotlit night drives, guided walking safaris, mountain biking, cultural excursions, camel treks, fly-camping and all-day trips to the Samburu Reserve. Superb Moroccan-styled cuisine is served, and the camp is famous for its pizzas!

19. Lentorre Lodge , Southern Rift Valley

Secluded, sumptuous and serene, Lentorre Lodge is ideal for that breakaway far from the madding crowd. Situated on the Nguruman Escarpment in the remote Southern Rift Valley, Lentorre is the only lodge on the  Olkiramatian Conservancy .  

A natural spring behind the lodge ensures a constant supply of pristine water. It also sustains a historic grove of tamarind trees where elephants still come to feast on the ripe fruit.

With exclusive access to the Olkiramatian Conservancy, guests enjoy day and night drives with unrivalled game viewing. Scenic helicopter flights are on offer, as is the opportunity to join in herding livestock with traditional Masai villagers. You can meet some baboons as they go about their daily activities, or float down the Ewaso Ng’iro River on an innertube!

20. Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp, Tsavo National Park

Named after Robert Redford’s  Out of Africa  alter ego, aristocratic safari leader  Denys Finch Hatton , Finch Hattons is a top-rated tented camp in Tsavo National Park, Kenya. The Kenya safari camp overlooks a freshwater spring that’s a potent draw-card for animals ensuring incomparable game viewing, including elephant sightings right outside the camp.

The camp has only 17 superbly appointed luxury suites with private viewing decks with heated plunge pools. Facilities include a yoga room, fitness centre, spa, home theatre and children’s entertainment room. Daily game drives, crater climbs, and scenic fights are on offer.

The sumptuous Karen Blixen Lounge simply demands relaxation, as does the library. Then add a lookout tower, a magnificent palm-fringed infinity pool, a cushion- and rug-strewn star-gazing terrace, superlative food and wine… Wow!

Choosing from Kenya’s best safari camps and safari lodges

Kenya is a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. From the grassy plains of the Serengeti to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya , there is something for everyone. And of course, Kenya is home to some of the best safari parks in Africa, where visitors can see lions, elephants, and other iconic animals in their natural habitat.

Reach out to our expert team today to plan your Kenyan safari experience at one of Kenya’s best accommodations.

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Live on the Wilder side of life

Luxury Kenya Safari Camps

Embark on a luxury safari camp holiday in Kenya with The Wilder Group, the region’s premier group of luxury tented camps and unique experiences. We offer guests immersive wildlife safari holidays across Kenya’s wilder places with luxury tented safari camps in the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, the Olerai Conservancy, and soon Ol Pejeta Conservancy too. Look no further for your ring-side seat to Kenya's wildebeest migration, vast spaces, and intimate wildlife encounters.

Kenya Awaits With Our Luxury Safari Camps & Holidays

The best that the world of luxury wildlife safaris can conjure up is on offer at our luxurious tented camps in the heart of Kenya. From traversing the iconic Maasai Mara and witnessing the wildebeest migration, to Big 5 sightings and uniquely immersive experiences in the Kenyan wild, reclaim your Wilder side with a luxury safari camp holiday.

Fly over Maasai Mara Game Reserve in a hot air balloon

There’s nothing like launching at sunrise and floating effortlessly over the vast Maasai Mara Reserve plains to admire the wildlife and landscapes from a bird’s-eye view.

Glide along Lake Nakuru as the wildlife wakes to give you a show you’ll never forget.

Learn about the conservancy and indulge in some of the most exclusive wildlife activities.

Become one with Africa’s wildlife by trotting along on horseback in the Maasai Mara Reserve.

Support the local cultures and wildlife

Everything we do is centred around being a force for good, protecting our environment and the wildlife we interact with. By staying at our lodges and delighting in our adventures, you also make a difference.

"Outstanding place and the kindest staff. It was our last stop in Kenya and the experience was impressive, from the food to the guide, everything was great. The tent was always perfect, their morning call coffee and tea is amazing, food is delicious and staff always keep an eye on your needs. Also Joseph the guide was great."

"ilkeliani is incredible. we found it hard to decide where to stay in the mara but our guide gave us great recommendations. not only is ilkeliani conveniently located in the middle of the park, it is also easily accessible by the main roads of nairobi.", "this is hands down the most incredible place i've ever stayed (and i've been all over). the location is stunning, the staff are the kindest and most thoughtful, food is delicious, drinks are fabulous, game drives and boat safari are nothing short of epic, pool and spa are spectacular, the setting is one of a kind...the cliff a quiet, calm escape from the world and no detail is overlooked. i've rarely been as sad to leave a place as i was this morning, and already thinking about my return trip. can't recommend highly enough".

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Wild Luxury Safaris

Luxury Safaris in Kenya & Tanzania

Our family-run Bushtops Camps are dedicated to the most luxurious and exciting wildlife viewing on the planet – but also something more.

Many hundreds of thousands of years ago, our African ancestors gathered around fires to tell stories and share warmth. Today, our historic locations, wild encounters and Bushtops campfires help guests reconnect with our shared history and what really matters to all of us: nature, people, time – and the human spirit.

The Great Migration

Nothing surpasses the sight of wildebeest and zebra in their millions, on an endless migration in search of food and water. No one ever forgets the spectacle of a river crossing, as nervous herds splash past the snapping jaws of expectant crocodiles. Simply following the migration’s progress adds an awe-inspiring highlight to any African adventure.

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Roving Bushtops

Some camps are set in magnificent surroundings but fixed: others offer game viewing on the move, at the expense of five star facilities. As its name implies, Roving Bushtops offers the best of both worlds.

Masai Mara, Kenya

Mara Bushtops

Mara Bushtops is a byword for the highest standards in luxury safaris. We enjoy the perfect location, with a vast private game Conservancy surrounding the Camp and the Masai Mara game reserve on our doorstep. Our restaurant overlooks a salt lick which attracts a near-constant stream of wildlife – and when the excitement becomes too much, it’s time to visit our multi-award-winning Spa. This is wild luxury at its finest.

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No one ever forgets seeing Serengeti Bushtops for the first time, or the wonders to come. One of the world’s most comfortable safari destinations, in one of Africa’s most stunning locations, the Camp emerges from the heart of vast plains, surrounded by timeless vistas. Here, our guests don’t just visit nature: they are immersed into it, whilst revelling in luxurious facilities, a genuinely warm welcome and an abundance of thrilling wildlife. This is the perfect gateway to the Serengeti and the boundless wonders of the African Bush.

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Welcome to the new home of Saruni Basecamp, the newly merged company that brings together Saruni and Basecamp Explorer Kenya.

We are a portfolio of pioneering, innovative and ethical safari lodges and camps rooted in community-based conservation and tourism.

Our 12 properties are based in Kenya’s most important private conservancies, from Samburu to the Masai Mara and offer exclusive experiences of African wildlife, culture & wilderness in partnership with the communities.

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Discover kenya, experiences, each of our twelve saruni basecamp camps and lodges in masai mara and samburu in kenya are situated with all the iconic wildlife right at its doorstep..

Swipe right to discover more of our Safaris

Exclusively Mara Safari

Iconic masai mara.

Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife destination.

3 nights / 4 days

Family Explorer Safari

Quality family time in the bush.

Make memories that will last a lifetime.

4 nights / 5 days

Great Migration Safari

Nature’s greatest spectacle.

A true bucket-list experience.

Exclusively Samburu Safari

Iconic samburu.

The distilled essence of northern Kenya.

From US$3,305 per person sharing

Wildebeest Tales

See kenya anew.

Feast your eyes on the best of Kenya

Magical Mara Safari

The essence of safari.

The Kenya you’ve always dreamed of.

5 nights / 6 days

Savannah Secrets

Iconic kenya.

Venture into the heart of the wild.

Mara Under Canvas Safari

Off the beaten track in kenya.

See the true soul of Kenya.

6 nights / 7 days

From US$3,940 per person sharing

The Supreme Safari

Unforgettable encounters with wildlife and people.

Wildlife hotspots and hidden gems.

From US$5,075 per person sharing

The Best of The Mara Safari

Experience the energizing vastness of the Mara grasslands.

8 nights / 9 days

Protect & Change Express Safari: How Nature Works

Lewa, masai mara.

Experience how ecotourism and conservation are making a difference in Kenya’s wildlife hotspots.

From US$6,120 per adult sharing

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Kenya’s hidden gems.

Explore the side of Kenya most tourists never see.

7 nights / 8 days

From US$6,775 per person sharing

The Best of Bush and Beach Safari

Safari meets beach time.

Thrilling and relaxing.

From US$6,880 per person sharing

Kenya’s Top Three Remarkable Wildernesses Safari

Samburu, lewa, masai mara.

Explore the remarkable diversity of Kenya’s best wildlife destinations.

9 nights / 10 days

From US$8,315 per adult sharing

Protect & Change Safari: How Nature Works

See how ecotourism and conservation are making a difference in Kenya’s wildlife hotspots.

9 Nights / 10 Days

From US$8,520 per adult sharing

Your Heavenly Honeymoon Safari

The romance of safari.

In the footsteps of your African ancestors.

From US$10,150 per couple

Ultimate Family Safari

From US$15,720 for a family of 4

Enjoy a hassle-free Safari when you travel with Saruni Basecamp. Simply book your international flights, and we take care of the rest. From personalized pick-up upon from the international airport to arranging air and ground transfers to Masai Mara and Samburu, we ensure a seamless experience.

Curate the trip of a lifetime choose from our diverse camps or lodges spread across two distinct wildlife ecosystems, offering local culture, wildlife encounters, and immersive experiences. allow our experts to plan the perfect safari just with you in mind., explore kenya with saruni basecamp. allow us to craft your kenyan safari beyond maasai mara and samburu, we can connect you with other destinations including the kenyan coast and mount kilimanjaro, ensuring a seamless experience., our pristine wildlife ecosystems on private conservancies offer exclusive game drives, allowing for close-up views and encounters with wildlife., frame the wild, protect the wilderness, and stand a chance to win your dream safari valued at usd 6,000.

• Guest Reviews

A Safari and Beyond

“ Saruni Samburu exceeded all expectations with its incredibly open and friendly staff, always eager to make accommodations that catered to our unique needs. The Safari guides were not only highly knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing insightful details about the rich Samburu culture.”

Saruni Samburu

A superior safari.

“An outstanding, luxury lodge in a conservancy adjacent to Masai Mara. The game viewing is outstanding. And because the lodge is in the conservancy, it is not overrun with too many vehicles.”

Saruni Mara

Saruni wild, samburu and mara north.

“Africa is a vast wonder. The Saruni group, however, turns it into a personal, magical experience. Everywhere we went, from Samburu to Mara North to Saruni Wild , we were greeted with the variety and comfort of the places themselves”.

Saruni Wild

Trip highlight.

“Wow, our stay here was a highlight of our trip. We were treated like royalty here. The rooms were so beautiful, the food was AMAZING and all of the staff were excellent! We were in Africa for a month, here for two nights. Joseph was our guide, and he was the best we had all trip”

Saruni Rhino

A really wonderful place and experience.

“We had a really wonderful stay at Leopard Hill . The experience in the camp was fabulous. The game drives were beyond all expectations. Our guide Nash, was so clever to find us prides and prides of lions, including cubs and leopard with cubs”

Saruni Leopard Hill

Fabulous wildlife and lovely people

“The team at Eagle View helped make this a truly memorable experience. The setting on a hill overlooking the plain is fantastic and there was a constant stream of animals coming down to the waterhole. We had specifically chosen to stay within a conservancy and we were delighted to learn that this really does result in tangible benefits going back to the local Maasai community”

Saruni Eagle View

Once in a lifetime experience.

“Once in a lifetime experience. Wonderful camp, great service, and delicious food. Saw all the Big 5 within just two game drives”.

Basecamp Masai Mara

World-class safari experience given by locals.

“Everything about Wilderness camp was far above expectations. The camp has been recently renovated and every item is finely chosen to offer a luxury experience. The guide made our safari experience very special, he cares about nature and about making guests feel welcomed”

Basecamp Wilderness

Awesome stay.

“We had the entire 3-bedroom house to relax in, including a living room area with a fireplace where we enjoyed evening drinks after our day’s activities. Our Maasai Safari guide, Senior, was part of the staff, and super informative. The Basecamp Mara houses are amazing!”

Basecamp Mara Houses

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See our thoughtfully curated offers designed for the most immersive experiences in nature

All Masai Mara lodges & camps

Countless accommodation options are available in Masai Mara National Reserve and Mara conservancies. From designer lodges suspended in the air to family-oriented tented camps and anything in between, you can rest assured to find the perfect Masai Mara safari lodge just for you.

Please make use of the filters below to search for accommodation options within your budget. Specific rates are displayed on each individual lodge description page. You can also search for accommodation located in Masai Mara National Reserve proper or search for accommodation in the Mara conservancies .

• Price $$$$$

Basecamp Wilderness

lodge location Naboisho Conservancy

Discover Basecamp Wilderness, an eco-luxury retreat in the heart of Naboisho. Experience authentic safari adventures, sustainability, and community-led conservation in one of Kenya's most breathtaking settings. Connect with nature like never before.

from US$ 399 per person per night

Mahali Mzuri

lodge location Olare Motorogi

Next-level glamping in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy at the northern edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. With only twelve safari tents, Mahali Mzuri offers guests the best of the bush but without the mass tourism elements that take away from the experience.

from US$ 1,100 per person per night

Basecamp Adventure

lodge location Near Talek Gate

Experience eco-luxury at Basecamp Adventure, nestled near Talek Gate in Masai Mara. Our budget-friendly tents offer stunning views and a gateway to thrilling wildlife encounters and Maasai cultural experiences. Embrace the spirit of adventure and sustainability.

from US$ 249 per person per night

Richard's River Camp

lodge location Mara North

Sprawled out along the green, lush banks of the Ntiakatek River lies Richard’s River Camp, one of the area's most exclusive safari camps. Richard's Camp's warm and hospitable staff will make sure your Masai Mara safari adventures are truly unforgettable.

from US$ 985 per person per night

Mara Expedition Camp

lodge location Masai Mara

The Mara Expedition Camp boasts five spacious, light & airy tented suites. Sprawled out among a grove of African ebony trees, each tent has an en-suite bathroom and is outfitted with a lovely hot-water brass safari shower. Simple yet safari chique!

from US$ 835 per person per night

Little Governors' Camp

Candlelit dinners, an 'Out of Africa' full-on luxurious safari tent, incredibly friendly Maasai guides and camp staff and every creature comfort you could wish for. Little Governors' Camp offers guests all of this... plus it’s very own waterhole teeming with wildlife.

from US$ 495 per person per night

Basecamp Masai Mara

lodge location near Talek Gate

A beacon of sustainable eco-tourism, on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve, this riverside camp is a mid-sized tented community perfect for families and couples alike. Plus, did we mention the Obamas visited back in 2006?

Governors' Camp

As one of the best known and most popular camps in the Masai Mara, Governors’ Camp is a tranquil and traditional tented camp with unrivalled and uninterrupted views of the Mara’s natural landscape where guests enjoy the sweeping Kenyan plains.

from US$ 412 per person per night

Eagle View Camp

lodge location Naboisho

A small camp of nine tents set on an elevated viewpoint overlooking countless miles of lush green - a popular playground for Kenya’s magnificent large animals and birdlife. Basecamp Eagle View is an ideal mid-range camp for a comfortable, yet thrilling, safari.

Ol Seki Hemingway's Mara Camp

Stunning private tented camp in one of the wildest parts of Kenya. Each of the camp's 10 tented suites offers guests an incredible 270 degree view of the Mara Plains. Ol Seki Hemingway's offers warm Kenyan hospitality and a tailor-made safari experience.

from US$ 694 per person per night

&Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

lodge location Mara Triangle

Kenyan hospitality meets Maasai-inspired luxury on the lush green banks of the Saparingo River. &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp lies on the edge of the Oloololo escarpment, where riverine forest meets the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara.

from US$ 435 per person per night

Elephant Pepper Camp (Elewana Collection)

Hidden away deep in a fig and elephant pepper tree grove lies an intimate and exclusive refuge from everyday life. The Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp is ideally situated in a wildlife hotspot and is the perfect home base for adventurous safari activities in Kenya.

from US$ 600 per person per night

Mara Kempinski

Experience unparalleled luxury at Mara Kempinski, nestled in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy. This exclusive camp offers spacious tents, bespoke safari adventures, and breathtaking views, ensuring a memorable escape into the heart of the Greater Masai Mara.

from US$ 919 per person per night

Sala's Camp

Tucked away in the southernmost reaches of the Mara, just a stone's throw away from Tanzania, lies Sala's Camp. The remote atmosphere and just seven spacious tents, will make you feel as if you’re staying at your own private game reserve.

from US$ 1,259 per person per night

Saruni Mara

Saruni Mara is a one of its kind intimate, deluxe safari lodge. Each cottage is stylishly furnished according to a theme. You can choose from cottages with names such as the Love Shack, the Photographer’s Studio, the Observatory, and the Natural History Suite.

from US$ 500 per person per night

Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp

lodge location Olderkesi

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp offers guest vintage luxury at its best. Cream-coloured tents decorated in 1920s epic safari style, professional Maasai safari guides and above all a sense of elegance and class - this safari camp has it all.

from US$ 1,059 per person per night

Elewana Sand River Camp

Ideally situated in one of the most remote parts of the Mara, Sand River Camp pays homage to romantic 1920s safaris. Its design reminds guests of the many African adventure themed Hollywood movies in that time period.

from US$ 670 per person per night

&Beyond  Bateleur  Camp

Two intimate camps, each with its own refreshing infinity pool and nine elegant and spacious tented suites. The &Beyond Bateleur Camp is an oasis of luxury on the fringes of a dense Kenyan forest at the foot of the Oloololo Escarpment.

from US$ 1,150 per person per night

Mara Serena Safari Lodge

Ideal setting for visitors seeking a blend of safari adventure with a village hotel feel. Mara Serena Safari Lodge, the largest safari property in the region, has a strong reputation and models itself on local mud-hut villages. Hotel luxuries include a swimming pool and bar.

from US$ 329 per person per night

Sanctuary Olonana Safari Lodge

An exclusive hideaway, Sanctuary Olonana is where families and couples go to retreat from the outside world. With a swimming pool and glass-sided suites for prime game viewing, Olonana offers an immersive safari experience far from the pressures of everyday life.

from US$ 914 per person per night

Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp

A mobile tented camp on the riverside, Nkorombo is a part of the Serian group of properties that’s renowned for its serenity and exclusivity. Nestled in the heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve, Nkorombo is perfectly situated for an awe-inspiring African adventure.

from US$ 917 per person per night

Offbeat Mara Camp

Sitting beside the Olare Orak River, Offbeat Mara Camp is the proud home to some of the best wildlife viewing spots in the Mara North Conservancy and allows guests to experience life in the untamed African wilderness.

from US$ 519 per person per night

Karen Blixen Camp

Experience the magnificence of the pristine African wilderness with vibrant Kenyan traditions in the golden hue of the Serengeti-Masai Mara at Karen Blixen Camp – the place to dream, live and love to your heart’s content.

from US$ 460 per person per night

Kicheche Valley Camp

Nestled within a shaded acacia woodland within the Naboisho Conservancy, where a significant number of giraffes and elephants come to roam and play each day, Kicheche Valley Camp is an exquisite place to stay.

Angama Mara

Many safari lodges have a lovely view, but the view at Angama Mara is truly next level. The camp sits up high upon the top of the Oloololo Escarpment and overlooks the stunning Mara plains below. This camp features next-level luxury, from swanky glass-fronted safari tents to top-notch hospitality.

from US$ 1,650 per person per night

Ngare Serian

Located in Mara North Conservancy, Ngare Serian takes advantage of its location in 1,500 acres of exclusive conservation area. This safari camp has its own fascinating treehouse known as 'The Nest'. Just the right spot for an unforgettable sleep-out or picnic in the treetops.

from US$ 1,074 per person per night

Rekero Camp

An idyllic camp in Masai Mara National Reserve with nine spacious safari tents set out among the trees along the Talek River. Each tent at Rekero Camp comes complete with a front-deck daybed for those moments when you just want to lay back and watch zebras strolling along the river.

from US$ 709 per person per night

Kicheche Mara Camp

Less vehicles, less fuss, more wildlife and a more memorable safari experience. Kicheche Mara Camp is a small-scale, well-designed bush camp in the heart of Mara North. With only eight comfortable safari tents this camp offers guests an intimate safari experience.

from US$ 589 per person per night

Porini Cheetah Camp

lodge location Ol Kinyei

Porini Cheetah Camp is one of the smaller and more intimate Masai Mara safari camps located in the exclusive private Ol Kinyei Conservancy. The camp has an authentic safari feel, yet with all of the modern conveniences you would expect to find on safari holiday.

from US$ 559 per person per night

Serian - The Original

An oasis of calm in a fairy-tale like setting. Serian - The Original is known for its remote location and its intimate, remote atmosphere. Spend the night in spacious safari tents and embark on epic safari game drives in an area abundant with wildlife.

from US$ 924 per person per night

Governors' Il Moran

Governors' Il Moran Camp is quite the luxury safari accommodation. It has even attracted the makers of BBC wildlife documentaries such as Big Cat Diaries. Large plush sofas and candle-lit dinners are the perfect complement to extraordinary wildlife sightings in the area.

from US$ 647 per person per night

Mara Plains Camp

In essence, Mara Plains Camp offers guests an intimate safari hideaway in one of Africa's most game-rich regions. With equal attention to luxury and authenticity, this camp in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy is off the beaten track, luxurious and has a warm and welcoming ambience.

from US$ 1,445 per person per night

Porini Mara Camp

Warm and inviting eco-camp sprawled out along the banks of the Ole Sabukiye River in the private Ol Kinyei Conservancy. Six traditional yet comfortable safari tents with plush interiors, a resident lion pride, very hospitable staff and outstanding local Maasai guides. Who could ask for more?

  KENYA SAFARI LODGES

Discover our Kenya Safari lodges and boutique properties in some of Kenya’s finest locations.

LUXURY SAFARI LODGES

The Safari Collection manages a portfolio of Kenya luxury safari lodges and boutique camps in East Africa. By choosing to stay at one (or more) of our properties, you can explore the diverse landscape and culture that Kenya has to offer. From the historical grounds of Giraffe Manor in Nairobi to the Maasai culture and density of wildlife at Sala’s Camp in the Mara, and from the rugged landscape and views of Mount Kenya at Solio Lodge to breath-taking panoramas across the arid land at Sasaab in Samburu, each lodge has a unique environment and distinct features. We also have our own exclusive mobile camp called Siruai located in north west Laikipia. We can also arrange stays with our partner properties elsewhere in the region as part of a bespoke Kenya safari itinerary.

SALA’S CAMP

An intimate camp tucked in the far south of the Masai Mara, one of the world’s most prolific wildlife areas and home to the ‘big five’. Encounter mind blowing wildlife sightings year-round, first class birdwatching, epic stargazing and from June to September the legendary wildebeest migration which thunders right past. A truly authentic Kenya safari adventure of a lifetime.

A Moroccan inspired lodge perched high on a cliff, boasting spectacular views over the surrounding wilderness of Samburu-land in northern Kenya. Enjoy thrilling game drives, camel safaris, quad bike adventures, mind-blowing helicopter trips to the remote north, enlightening Samburu village visits and fly-camping under the stars. The opportunities for adventure here are endless.

SOLIO LODGE

A tranquil and luxurious retreat exclusively located on a 19,000 acre rhino breeding sanctuary, surrounded by a 45,000 acre ranch. Marvel at unbelievable numbers of both black and white rhinos, surrounded by an abundance of other wildlife. Unwind with wilderness walks, bike-rides and horse-rides, or explore mountain tops and great lakes by helicopter.

GIRAFFE MANOR

A historic manor house nestled in the leafy suburbs of Kenya’s capital city and true haven for lovers of wildlife, fine dining and exceptional service. Its unforgettable bucket-list breakfast with giraffes will delight guests of all ages. Enjoy afternoon tea with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, indulge in a massage and visit local attractions.

THE RETREAT

Located just 80m away from the main Manor House, The Retreat at Giraffe Manor shares the same tranquil outlook over the forested giraffe sanctuary. Designed to provide the perfect beginning or ending to any African safari, The Retreat offers an exquisite wellness experience for our Manor House guests as well as a day room facility for guests of The Safari Collection portfolio who require a stopover in Nairobi.

SIRUAI MOBILE CAMP

An exclusive mobile camp, Siruai offers spectacular views over the Laikipia plains and Mount Kenya. Siruai allows you to feel immersed in nature without compromising on comfort. You will make unforgettable memories during your stay as you sleep under the stars, relax around an open campfire at night, kayak down the Ewaso Narok River and breakfasting beside hippo pools.

BEST SAFARI LODGES IN KENYA

Our collection of four stunning properties offers some of the best safari lodges in Kenya. Because each one is so unique and showcases a different part of Kenya’s diverse landscape, when taken together they offer an unbeatable combination of all that is incredible about this magical part of the world. The diversity of experiences available across our collection really enables our guests to do more than just ‘scratch the surface’ of East Africa. Land and explore some of Kenya’s most remote and wonderous geographical features in our private helicopter; take a camel ride to sundowner rock looking out over Samburu wilderness; discover what happens at some of the sustainable local farms we support, including a scented rose farm and a business growing aromatic herbs for use in the delightful bathroom products we use. The professional guides at each of our properties are deeply connected to the landscape, wildlife and culture, allowing guests to gain fascinating insights and come away with a profound understanding of what they have witnessed and where they have been.

Our safaris are authentic, meaningful and immersive. If you’re looking for travel that encompasses adventure, epic wildlife, bucket-list dreams, spa luxury, relaxation, world-class cuisine, conservation, community experiences and more, then our collection of the best safari lodges in Kenya will certainly satisfy your travel wish list. From the avid-photographer to the serenity-seeking spa lover, The Safari Collection is a perfect choice for every type of safari-goer. At each of our properties, guests are able to experience unforgettable and exciting encounters with East Africa’s incredible wildlife. From the famous big five to the countless species of birds, reptiles, primates and more. Witness unbelievable numbers of black and white rhinos at Solio Lodge living alongside all manner of other species. Get closer than you ever imagined to endangered Rothschild’s giraffes at Giraffe Manor and hand feed them over a breakfast like no other. Experience the mighty circle of life in the Masai Mara at Sala’s Camp, from top predators including lion, leopards and cheetahs, to baby hippos wallowing on muddy riverbanks and grazing herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope as far as the eye can see. At Sasaab in Samburu there are all manner of interesting species to encounter, including the ‘Samburu special five’ which are only found in this area of northern Kenya.

What’s so attractive about all four of our properties is their intimate nature. Enjoy a feeling of seclusion and exclusivity and the opportunity to truly connect with the wilderness. With just a handful of rooms at each location, guests enjoy high levels of personalised hospitality. Our teams love getting to know each of our guests and finding ways to make their stays as memorable as possible. Whether it’s a surprise private dining experience out in the bush or returning from a game drive to find a crackling fire and deep bubble bath waiting in your room, you can rest assured that our team derive great satisfaction from creating special moments for our guests. These personal touches are just one of the reasons why many guests rate our properties as the best safari lodges in Kenya.

BEST LODGES IN KENYA

If you’re looking for an epic safari that also makes a meaningful impact, then The Safari Collection properties are some of the best lodges in Kenya. We passionately believe that sustainable tourism holds the power to make a positive difference to wildlife and communities. By uniting high-end travel with conservation goals, community initiatives and a commitment to genuine sustainability in all areas of our business, safari travel is a powerful force for good. At each of our properties, we aim to make a positive impact on the wildlife and communities living nearby. Find out about the range of health, education and conservation initiatives we support through our Footprint Foundation .

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we follow a Thoughtful Food philosophy at all our camps and lodges. This means that our guests get to enjoy fresh and delicious food that has been sourced with genuine thought given to its footprint. Each of our properties has its own kitchen garden so our chefs have access to the most nutritious organic ingredients. Palm-oil and plastic packaging are banned and we do what we can to make everything from scratch, keeping food miles down and homemade deliciousness at a high! For scrumptious fresh ‘farm to fork’ style safari cuisine, The Safari Collection properties are some of the best lodges in Kenya.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO STAY WITH US

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Top 10 Best Luxury Safari Camps In Kenya

popular post today

1. Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp

2. ol sekis hemingways, 3. karen blixen camp, 4. il moran, masai mara national reserve, 5. bateleur camp, masai mara national reserve, 6. elephant bedroom camp, 7. governors’ camp, masai mara national reserve, 8. kicheche laikipia, 9. mahali mzuri, 10. finch hattons luxury camp.

The best luxury safari camps in Kenya include Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp, Ol Sekis Hemingways, Finch Hattons Luxury Camp, Karen Blixen Camp, Il Moran Masai Mara National Reserve, Bateleur Camp, Governors’ Camp, Kicheche Laikipia and Mahali Mzuri.

Kenya is ideal for a first safari but it is also an equally good destination for seasoned travelers. As Africa’s longest established safari destination, your expedition in Kenya will have British colonial roots. This means that the camps you stay at will often reflect their historic past. Another major advantage of Kenya is that everyone speaks good English.

Different landscapes and wildlife species are often located near each other in Kenya, so you can enjoy the grassy savannah wilderness of the Masai Mara (home to the Big Five and to Great Migration) in addition to more arid areas of Meru National Park and the Laikipia Plateau, where you might spot species like beisa oryx and Somali ostriches.

Kenya also has a large range of camps but for our luxury travelers, we focus on luxury camps with every comfort you can imagine along with stunning scenery overlooking the plains or perhaps busy waterholes.

The stunning, multi-award-winning Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp lies right next to the Maasai Mara game reserve in Kenya in an unspoiled setting of its own 7,000-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy. Here, sunset views stretch to distant horizons of the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti plains.

Cottar’s was one of the first permanent luxury tented camps to take guests out on safaris in Kenya and little has changed since the glory days of the 1920s. It extends an era of luxury and quality, returning to the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’, reminiscent of a golden era; an era of romance, professional guiding, adventure, and elegance. It remains a magnificent place to spot cheetah, lion, leopard, elephant, and the annual Migration in truly refined luxury.

Spot the big five and choose your season carefully, as the camp is in the path to the great migration of millions of wildebeest and zebra. Camp guides are highly qualified and knowledgeable of the area. They share an amazing insight into the Masai culture and the flora and fauna in the reserve.

In the evening, bathe in your outdoor bathtub, have an amazing dinner under the stars (greens from the camp’s own vegetable garden), and give Bambi a hug before bedtime. She is the camp’s resident baby gazelle. There is also a lovely swimming pool to cool off in. The camp also offers massages at their spa and there is internet access available.

Accommodation consists of 4 Luxury Safari Tents, 1 Honeymoon Tent, 4 Family Tents which are spacious and luxuriously furnished and incorporate original safari antiques from the ’20s. All are ensuite, with dressing rooms and large private verandahs. There is also Cottar’s Bush Villa with 5 ensuite bedrooms, private living and dining area, staff, vehicles, guide and a 25m swimming pool.

A special feature of this camp is that you can experience riding through the bush in a replica 20s car. Step back to a bygone era or romance You are unlikely to find this level of authenticity at any other Safari camp.

Ol Sekis Hemingways sits on top of a rocky hill in the Naboisho Conservancy, part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, and a small number of luxurious and spacious safari tents make the most of the views.

This is the kind of place where you share drinks and stories with fellow guests around a campfire, or if you want to escape, the camp will deliver food to eat in your lodge while taking in views over the tree-scattered savannah below. Romantic candlelit meals can also be arranged hidden away within the camp.

The tents are round and bright with plenty of privacy. Two are designed for families or groups of friends, featuring two en suite bedrooms and a shared kitchen and living area. At the hottest time of the day, the early afternoon, you will probably want to relax on your patio or cool off in the infinity pool or try a massage in the spa.

To see the animals, you can join game drives with experienced guides who boast an encyclopedic knowledge of the area’s vegetation and fauna. Known for its lion prides, the conservancy sees far fewer vehicles than the main reserve and only a small number can be present at a wildlife sighting. Other activities include walking safaris, Maasai village visits, dawn hot air balloon rides, and horse-riding safaris.

Karen Blixen Camp in the Mara’s North Conservancy offering tents and boma lounge on the banks of the Mara River, where you will probably hear the snorts and splashes of the resident hippo pod.

Situated in the community-owned Mara North Conservancy, this camp is set right beside the Mara River. This means that this camp is perfect for lazing while watching the resident hippo pod grazing or you can watch zebra coming to drink and the birds in the trees.

In this exclusive camp, there are 22 canvas tents with spacious decks overlooking the river, a large en suite bathroom, and an outdoor shower. 22 canvas tents might sound like a lot but this camp still offers a great deal of privacy and peace.

While you are staying here, you can take drives through the conservancy or do a walking safari, take a dawn hot air balloon ride or visit a Maasai village. Within the camp, you can learn skills at the on-site cooking school, plant a tree, and partake in other environmental initiatives.

Meals are served on individual tables in the dining area, in front of the river, or out in the bush. In the evening, a campfire is lit and you can share stories of your day with fellow guests.

Il Moran is located on the Mara River, near the grunting hippos and noisy baboons. Vultures eye you up from the top of the trees around this camp and lion are also present in the area.

Il Moran has 10 tents with a spacious stone veranda that all face the river. Inside, there are king-sized beds, hand-carved wardrobes, luggage chests, and wicker chairs. The en suite bathroom is spacious and offers a shower, a claw-footed bath, twin basins, and a flush toilet (hurrah!).

The main dining room and living room offers comfortable sofas and rugs on the floor. Meals are delivered here by lanterns and candlelight as there is no electricity in the camp. you can really appreciate the wilderness here and yet the tents keep you in the luxury that you are accustomed to.

Bateleur Camp is located just outside the Olololo gate to the park, in a Maasai concession area. This small, luxury camp is hidden within dense vegetation connected by windy paths between tall trees that house blue monkeys. The plains by the camp attract warthog, zebra and wildebeest

This camp is actually split into two camps, Bateleur North and Bateleur South, each with their own lounge and dining areas, and an electric fence that runs around the boundary of the whole camp. A shady pool area joins the two camps which is perfect for cooling off.

Each tent is raised with a wooden deck and has a four-poster bed and a large en-suite bathroom. The lounges have leather sofas, rugs, and an open fireplace. Ostrich feather lampshades, leather-bound books and cut glass decanters (full) all help to create a glamorous atmosphere, although the most atmospheric of all is the evening drinks around the campfire.

While at the camp, you must take advantage of the morning and afternoon 4WD game drives, nature walks, and night drives.

Elephant Bedroom Camp is a relaxed camp with a rustic feel that uses dark wood, burnt-orange decor mixed with authentic African ornaments.

This Elephant Bedroom Camp is located next to the seasonal Ewaso Nyiro River. It has 14 spacious canvas tents, each with a private deck and a gorgeous plunge pool. You will love the Vervet monkeys that scamper past in the trees, plus elephants quite regularly pass right through the camp.

The main tent is made of canvas with open sides and a lovely deck where á la carte lunches and dinners are served. There is also a campfire every night for when the stars come out.

The game drives here are excellent and use local guides. Expect to see herds of elephant and you can look out for any of the Northern Five which includes the gerenuk or giraffe antelope, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, besia oryx, and Somali ostriches which is a rare subspecies that are only found in northern Kenya.

Bush walks are a great alternative to a game drive, plus you can visit a nearby Samburu village to see their way of life in this remote region.

Governors’ Camp was the first tented camp to be established in the Masai Mara National Reserve. It first opened in 1972 on the site of Teddy Roosevelt’s Mara Camp.

Although Governors’ is one of the larger camps in the Mara, it feels tranquil as the 38 tents are hidden away in the bush. Your tent will be located on the high banks of the looping Mara River, with views of the river or the vast plains of the Mara. Larger animals sometimes wander into camp and it is quite normal to enjoy hippos feeding on the grass outside your tent.

The bar lounge is open on three sides and is truly inviting with its bar built of logs. Nearby there is a spacious decking area that overlooks the river. An ideal spot for breakfast and lunch. The camp also offers a range of massage and spa treatments.

Kicheche Laikipia offers luxury tents nestled beside a waterhole that’s popular with birdlife, buffalo and plains game.

Each tent hides among bushes and trees and offers outdoor seating and a hammock. Inside you’ll find a lovely ensuite bathroom and dressing area, a small sitting area, and twin or double beds.

An open-plan library, lounge, and dining space has a canvas roof and is decorated with African artwork and textiles. Sofas laze around a large open fireplace or you can relax on the deck underneath the trees. Lunches and dinners are served communally around a big table before you gather around the campfire under a canopy of stars.

During your stay, take a day and night game drive, go on a bush walks or try your hand at lion tracking.

Designed almost entirely for the views, the situation of the 12 luxurious tents at Mahali Mzuri means you have a large viewing deck perfectly appointed for an exceptional front-row seat of the annual Great Wildebeest Migration.

Mahali Mzuri is Sir Richard Branson’s East African ultra-exclusive property located in Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem. Cool down in the beautiful 12-metre long infinity pool between game drives and then stargaze until late into the night at this gorgeous property.

Finch Hattons Luxury Camp can be found in the middle of Tsavo West, one of Kenya’s largest and oldest (1948) national parks. This was the favorite spot of famed aviator Finch Hatton.

This luxurious camp was Completely rebuilt in 2013. The camp’s best tents include the presidential suite which is perched on the edge of a natural spring inhabited by hippos, crocodiles, and copious birdlife.

There’s also a full-service spa with a Turkish bath and an open-air yoga platform, a lagoon-like infinity pool, an air-conditioned gym, a small museum with natural history curiosities, and a bar full of antiquities.

There’s a good restaurant, or guests can take a romantic roof-top meal under the stars with wonderful views of the sky. This camp is a great place for romance.

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Between Heaven and Earth

About Angama

More than a place, Angama is the simple belief in looking after one another — our guests, our team and our neighbours, both human and wild.

Swahili for ‘suspended in mid-air’, Angama offers high-touch safari experiences in one-of-a-kind locations across East Africa.

A Different Style of Safari

Breathtaking views, warm Kenyan service, contemporary African design and intuitive guiding are just some of Angama’s signatures. Meet our lovely properties below:

Angama Mara

The flagship lodge sitting 1,000 feet in the air overlooking the Maasai Mara, where days are spent exploring its incredible wildlife diversity and guests are always spoiled for choice. Each of the Tented Suites are perched along the Great Rift Valley’s edge, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls providing unparalleled views.

Angama Amboseli

An intimate lodge of just 10 suites in a private sanctuary, renown for its density and diversity of wildlife. Set in a Fever Tree forest against the famed backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, here is where some of the last Super Tusker elephants roam.

Angama Safari Camp

Find yourself amidst the action of the Great Migration and the Mara’s abundant wildlife in this light-footprint tented camp. With a 13-member private staff — a Camp Host, Butler, Chef, two Guides — including two private vehicles. Staying in the park means two hours of extra game drives at times when the animals are most active (before sunrise and just after sunset).

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Endless Ways to Spend Your Days

Days at Angama are as action-packed or as gentle as you prefer. Home to Africa’s great mammals, guests in the Mara can experience everything from hot-air ballooning to beading with the Maasai Mamas. In Amboseli, Kimana Sanctuary is yours to explore whether on foot, at night — or simply stare at the mountain and watch the clouds float by.

ANGAMA MARA & ANGAMA SAFARI CAMP

ANGAMA AMBOSELI

ANGAMA MARA

The Perfect Stay

We’re often asked, ‘How many days should one stay’? The truth is, there is never enough time, but the perfect stay might look something like this:

Touchdown at Angama Mara’s private airfield where a warm Kenyan welcome awaits you. Enjoy a delicious lunch out on the baraza while taking in the breath-taking view of the Mara below and the endless sky. After you settle into your tent, meet your Guide and descend into the Mara Triangle and begin your adventure.

Head out early on a full-day exploration of the Triangle. Enjoy a picnic breakfast or lunch — or both — under a desert date tree somewhere in the middle of nowhere, along the Tanzanian border. After an exciting day out, return to the lodge just in time for the sundowner Boma, as you sip on a gin and tonic while enjoying a Maasai warrior performance.

Join one of our Maasai naturalists and discover the Great Rift Valley on foot, learning about the flora, fauna through a traditional Maasai perspective. Back at your tent, enjoy a pampering massage on your private deck then spend the afternoon on a long lazy lunch in Shamba, or head out for a delightfully slow safari.

A very early start to catch a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Mara plains. Toast the morning’s flight with bubbles and a delicious breakfast in the heart of the Triangle, before a gentle safari back to camp in time for lunch and an afternoon at your leisure by the swimming pool. Tonight, experience Angama Mara’s lantern-lit signature Forest BBQ.

Head off on a morning drive followed by breakfast on the deck of your tent. Lunch is a romantic affair, recreating the magical picnic scene from the classic movie, Out of Africa, on the very site it was filmed. Later, join the Maasai Mamas in the Beading Studio and try your hand at their craft or ask them to bead something for you.

How to Get Here

Both Angama Mara and Angama Safari Camp are just a short 45-minute flight from Kenya’s capital of Nairobi. Guests can travel on the multiple daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, or opt for a private charter straight to Angama’s airfield from Nairobi’s main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International.

Angama Amboseli is also reachable by daily scheduled 45-minute flights from Nairobi or by private charter directly to its airfield.

Various international airlines, as well as the national carrier, Kenya Airways, offer direct flights to Jomo Kenyatta International from hubs all over the world.

Guest Reviews

‘best family safari ever’.

After visiting 31 countries, Angama Mara is top of our location list, and you shouldn’t look any further for a dream safari spot. I’m actually glad we weren’t there during the Great Migration, as there were times we’d go hours without seeing another vehicle, and we always had prime viewing spots. Thank you, Angama Mara, for givin …

‘An incredible, multigenerational, second visit to Angama Mara’

This was our second visit to Angama Mara, and we had high expectations after our first visit… we were blown away! Our safari guide, Robert … went above and beyond to ensure our kids were having fun and helped us spot the elusive leopard! Doris, our Camp Manager, was an absolute gem! From arranging special treats for the kids to an amazing walking safari …

‘Kili. Super Tuskers, and lions, oh my!’

The views of Kili are absolutely breathtaking! Sitting at the pool, on your deck, and looking at her while reading a book was just magical. We were fortunate to have Alice as our guide and she was fantastic! She got us incredibly close encounters with 4 super tuskers and a few lions. Andrew, our Butler … took amazing care of us. The entire team was top- …

‘Magical and Unforgettable’

Being escorted back to the rooms at night by Maasai guards, whilst hearing the deep-throated voice of a lion in the distance. Watching traditional Maasai crafting by the skilful women… Bringing Sammy from the onsite photographic studio on a game drive to take professional photos of us. A personal night game drive. Magical and Unforgettable.

‘Unbelievable 5-Star Vacation’

The hospitality is illustrated in many things … camp volleyball, hot water bottles warming our bed prior to turning in, a breakfast meal under an acacia tree on the savanna, a breakfast dinner sung in Swahili and many other special treats… Our family rarely returns to places we have visited — but without a doubt, we will be returning to the Angama Safar …

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8 of the Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Kenya

Along with Tanzania , Kenya is the archetypal African safari destination. It is synonymous with the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, and home to iconic parks like the Maasai Mara National Reserve as well as a slew of private conservancies. For those in search of a truly memorable safari experience, Kenya also offers some of the most luxurious lodges on the continent. In this article, we take a look at a few of our favorites; ranging from classic tented camps to unique private villas.

Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp

Michael Poliza / Getty Images

Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp  is located far from the crowds in the southeast corner of the Maasai Mara, near the Tanzanian border. Set in a stunning 6,000-acre private conservancy, the camp consists of just 10 luxury tents decorated in a nostalgic 1920s style that recreates the safari golden age. Each white canvas tent comes with an en-suite bathroom, while family rooms include a living room complete with a fireplace. Meet your fellow travelers for dinner and drinks in the communal mess tents; or seek post-game drive relaxation at the swimming pool and spa. Game drives, night drives, and walking safaris all take place in an area known for its abundant wildlife. 

Tortilis Safari Camp

Tortilis Camp

Surrounded by acacia woodland,  Tortilis Safari Camp is blessed with some of the best Kilimanjaro views in the business. Here, you can enjoy game drives, walking safaris and sundowners both in Amboseli National Park itself or in the camp's 30,000-acre private concession. There are 17 luxuriously furnished Makuti tents, that all come with one main bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and private verandah. For a little extra luxury, book a stay in the camp's exclusive safari house. An on-site garden provides fresh produce for delicious meals served in the main lodge, which in turn overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants. Other highlights include a swimming pool and spa service.

Mara Bushtops

Orion Hotels

Located less than five kilometers from the main gate into the Maasai Mara National Park,  Mara Bushtops is a luxury tented camp set high on a hill within a private conservancy. Scenic valley views are a feature of the lodge's 12 5-star tents, as are private decks and hot tubs. The lounge and dining area includes a fine wine cellar, bar, and library; while the infinity pool doubles as an elevated game-viewing spot. Maasai guides accompany all game drives and walking safaris, and breakfasts can be enjoyed in the bush. When you want a change of scene, book a visit to a local school or Maasai village. Mara Bushtops is also renowned for its full-service Amani Spa. 

Campi ya Kanzi

Campi ya Kanzi is a unique camp built at the foot of the Chyulu Hills in southern Kenya, on communal land owned by the Maasai. Both socially and ecologically responsible, the lodge features six tented cottages and two suites, each with breathtaking views and a personal Maasai butler. If you're traveling as a group, consider booking the private Kanzi House. Meals are accompanied by spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro or enjoyed beneath a canopy of stars. On your safari, you will benefit from the knowledge of a native Maasai tracker. Special Campi ya Kanzi experiences include walking safaris into the Chyulu Hills cloud forest, horse riding and scenic Kilimanjaro flights. 

Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab Lodge is located on Samburu communal lands in northern Kenya, near the Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Perched above the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, it offers magical views across the Laikipia Plateau towards Mount Kenya; and nine luxurious, Moroccan-themed tents. All are very secluded and come with an open-air bathroom and private plunge pools. The communal area is perched upon a rocky ridge with incredible views of the river below. Samburu guides will take you on a walking safari, camel safari or traditional 4x4 game drive. Keep an eye out for regional specials including the gerenuk antelope, the Grévy's zebra, and the reticulated giraffe. 

Ol Donyo Lodge

Nestled at the foot of the Chyulu Hills, the  Ol Donyo Lodge  is located in between Amboseli and Tsavo East National Parks. Its uniquely decorated guest suites and villas boast private plunge pools and dramatic views that stretch all the way to distant Mount Kilimanjaro. Each one also has a rooftop star bed accessed via a winding stone staircase. There's an infinity pool, a massage service and an elegant dining area with an impressive wine list. Spend your days exploring the lodge's stunning surroundings on a game drive, horseback safari or guided bush walk; or immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to a Maasai village. Fly-camping can also be arranged. 

Loisaba Tented Camp

Escarpment views and chic Africana furniture are defining features of  Loisaba Tented Camp . Located in a private conservancy on the edge of the Laikipia Plateau, the camp offers six tent suites and three family suites, all with polished wood floors, private verandahs, and rainfall showers. When you're not in your room or out on safari, spend time socializing at the infinity pool or in the open lounge and bar. Activities range from visits to Samburu villages to horse riding, camel trekking, and fishing. You can even visit the sniffer dogs used by the conservancy's anti-poaching patrol. For a truly unforgettable stay, book a night in one of the  Loisaba star beds , owned by the same company. 

Lewa Safari Camp

Lewa Safari Camp 

Famous as the place where Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge stayed ahead of their Kenyan engagement in 2010, Lewa Safari Camp has access to 65,000 acres of private game viewing. Each luxury safari tent has its own verandah and en-suite bathroom, while the camp's communal areas include a sparkling swimming pool and a sitting room with an open log fire. Gourmet meals include afternoon tea and evening canapés. Whether you choose to join a game drive, a guided walk or explore on horseback, keep an eye out for Lewa's black and white rhinos. The conservancy also boasts the world's largest concentration of endangered Grévy's zebras.

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Luxury Lodges & Camps in Kenya

From the savannah of the Masai Mara, to the lakes and forests of the Great Rift Valley and the coastline of the Indian Ocean, Kenya is renowned for its sensational landscapes. Our portfolio of luxury lodges and camps includes Kenya’s most exclusive accommodation, selected to complement their surroundings.

Stay in luxurious tented camps in the Masai Mara that blend contemporary style with a bygone era – and have front-row seats to the Great Migration. Opt for an eight-bed house in Laikipia on a working cattle ranch, or choose a private island lodge in the Great Rift Valley.

Kenya’s beach resorts promise barefoot luxury, while the Giraffe Manor in Nairobi is a gorgeous stately home where giraffes pop their heads through the windows.

A range of activities are available including bush walks, hot air balloon rides, scenic flights, horseback safaris and visits to Masai villages. Go kayaking, snorkelling, enjoy watersports and take a sunset dhow trip.

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Top 14 Safari Lodges In Kenya 2023

Kenya is one of the most renown countries for an African safari – best known for the Great Migration and the Maasai Mara National Park, it has other amazing game parks including the Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and Lake Nakuru National Park. Kenya is also home to Mount Kenya which can be found in the Mount Kenya National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Safaris in Kenya consist of a guided excursion, either by safri vehicle or on foot. Professional guides will lead you through the parks, pointing out animals and plants explaining the various relationships between the animals and their habitats. You might even be able to take a hot air balloon flight over a park to get a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below.

A safari in Kenya allows you to explore the local culture as well as view beautiful wildlife. Many safaris include trips to Maasai settlements, where you can learn about these legendary warriors and cattle herders’ traditional way of life.

When deciding where to stay on a Safari in Kenya it is important to consider which areas you want to visit and the kind of experiences you wish to have.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife reserve in southwestern Kenya that borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The reserve is named after the Maasai people who live in the area and comprises 1,510 square kilometers (580 square miles).

The Maasai Mara is famous for its spectacular wildlife, and it is regarded as one of the greatest places in Africa to observe the “Big Five” – elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Many other species live there, including cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many varieties of antelope.

The reserve is well-known for its annual wildebeest migration, which occurs from July to October each year known as the Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelope migrate from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara at this time in search of fresh grazing and water. The migration is a breathtaking spectacle that draws thousands of people each year.

Cultural activities are also a fantastic highlight of visiting the Maasai Mara. Visitors can experience how the Maasai live during a cultural tour, including their traditional home, diet, and everyday activities. Students can also learn about the Maasai’s close relationship with cattle, which are seen as a sign of prosperity and prestige.

Traditional Maasai activities such as spear throwing, leaping competitions, and dancing are also available to visitors. These activities, which are accompanied by singing and chanting, offer a unique glimpse into the Maasai’s rich cultural legacy.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is well-known for its vast elephant herds, which can be viewed throughout the park. Other wildlife species found there include lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and a variety of birds.

The sight of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, is one of the delights of Amboseli National Park. On clear days, visitors may view the mountain’s snow-capped peak towering over the park’s plains. The combination of wildlife and mountain views creates an amazing experience.

Visitors to Amboseli can enjoy a variety of activities such as game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching. Photographers visit the park to capture the breathtaking beauty and wildlife on film.

You can also take part in cultural tours from the Amboseli National Park.

Tsavo National Park

Mzima Springs, a series of natural springs that provides fresh water to the park’s wildlife, is one of Tsavo National Park’s highlights. Visitors to the springs can take a guided tour and see the crystal-clear water as well as the hippos, crocodiles, and other creatures that reside there.

Tsavo is also known for its breathtaking landscape, which includes rough hills, vast plains, and volcanic landscapes. The landscapes of the park make for a spectacular backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.

Tsavo National Park visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as game drives, guided nature walks, and bird viewing. The park also includes a tour to a typical Maasai village where visitors may learn about their culture and way of life.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is located in central Kenya, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Nairobi. It is named after the alkaline lake that dominates the park and has an area of 188 square kilometers (73 square miles).

Lake Nakuru National Park is well-known for its diverse birdlife, particularly its resident flamingo population. Millions of flamingos live in the lake and feed on the algae that blooms in the alkaline water. Other bird species that can be found in the park include pelicans, cormorants, and storks.

Our Top 14 Luxury Safari Lodges In Kenya

There are a number of fantastic luxury safari lodges in Kenya, each lodge offers its own unique experiences, tastes and style. Here are our top 14 lodges to stay at while on safari in Kenya.

1. Angama Mara

Angama Mara is perched on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding plains.

The lodge is divided into two camps, each with 15 luxurious tented suites. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern facilities and are designed to optimize the views.

Angama Mara is inspired by the Swahili phrase that means “suspended in mid-air.” Angama Mara is a spectacular safari lodge overlooking Kenya’s Maasai Mara, regarded by many to be the most beautiful game reserve on the continent.

The lodge is divided into two camps, each with 15 luxurious tented suites. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern facilities and are designed to optimize the views. The lodge also has a private airfield with access to the Mara below, tailor-made safari days, and a notably warm Kenyan welcome.

Angama Safari Camp, an exclusive-use movable tented camp located deep in the Mara Triangle and amidst the giant herds during the Great Migration, complements the lodge superbly.

2. Mara Plains Camp

Mara Plains Camp is a luxury tented camp in Kenya’s Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp provides a luxurious safari experience with first-rate service and amenities.

The camp is made up of seven luxury tents, each with its own balcony and en-suite bathroom. The tents are decorated in an exquisite, safari-style with modern facilities and are designed to fit into the surrounding nature.

Mara Plains Camp is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. In addition, the camp provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided hikes, and cultural trips to Maasai villages.

No other Maasai Mara camp provides the enormous traversing area that Mara Plains Camp does, with access to 40,000 hectares of private conservancy land and the world-renowned Maasai Mara, home of the Great Migration.

3. Porini Lion Camp

Porini Lion Camp is a luxury safari camp in Kenya’s Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp is located in a private conservancy, making for a more private and intimate safari experience.

The camp is made up of ten spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own private veranda and bathroom. The tents are designed to blend in with the surrounding wilderness and have solar-powered lights and hot water.

While picking your Maasai Mara Hotel, avoid the tourist hotspots and go for a more authentic safari experience. The award-winning, eco-friendly Porini Lion Camp provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to go on guided walks with Maasai Warriors and enjoy day and night safari game drives within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

4. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is a safari camp located in central Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The camp provides a one-of-a-kind and authentic safari experience, with an emphasis on sustainable tourism and conservation. Ol Pejeta is located in Laikipia County in central Kenya, overlooking the ragged slopes of Mount Kenya. The environment varies from wetlands and savannah to acacia and yellow-green fever tree thickets.

The camp is made up of six luxurious tents, each with its own bathroom and balcony. The tents are designed to fit with the surrounding bush, providing a private and personal safari experience.

The conservancy is noted for its innovative conservation activities, such as efforts to protect and conserve endangered species such as the northern white rhino.

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is open June – April and closed in May, and it welcomes families and children of all ages.

5. Ol Seki Hemingways Mara

The Ol Seki Hemingways Mara is in the Naboisho Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara Reserve. The conservancy restricts access to clients staying in the region and provides an extremely exclusive safari experience. The lodge is made up of nine exclusive tents that provide amazing views as well as the best Kenyan hospitality anyone could ask for. There is no such thing as a typical day in Ol Seki Hemingways Mara. The lodge is tiny and attempts to personalize every day to your preferences, making your time in the Mara an unforgettable safari encounter.

In the Maasai Mara, wildlife is abundant all year, and game viewing is feasible at any time. The weather and accessibility of particular regions, however, vary according on the rains, which often arrive between May and June and in November.

6. Mara Nyika Camp

Mara Nyika Camp, which means “Great Plains,” is an intimate Great Plains Conservation Réserve-Collection safari tented camp nestled in a valley and is an ideal setting for your Kenya safari. The camp is hidden beneath the treetop canopy on the western edge of the Naboisho Conservancy, bordering the Maasai Mara.

All of the suites provide guests with breathtaking views of the plains. The walkways connecting the guest suites to the main area have the feel of a treehouse under canvas. The ethos and motivation of the camp are one of exploration and adventure. Mara Nyika Camp values privacy. Privacy to live, think, explore, be passionate, and be pampered – all with one of Africa’s most magnificent landscapes.

7. Saruni Mara Camp

Saruni Mara is a luxury safari lodge in Kenya’s Lemek Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The lodge provides a luxurious safari experience with first-rate service and amenities.

Each of the lodge’s six exquisite suites and one family home has a private veranda and an en-suite toilet. The cottages are decorated in a contemporary African style with modern conveniences and are designed to integrate with the surrounding nature.

Saruni Mara is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing chances, especially for big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. In addition, the resort provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided walks, and cultural trips to Maasai settlements.

8. Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab’s architecture, perched on the edge of a river valley, combines Swahili and Moroccan design principles, with the African heat as the key issue. Each of the nine canvas-sided rooms exceeds 100m2, with private plunge pools and breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya’s jagged peaks. Its elevated position over the river allows it to observe the elephant herds that come to bathe below, as well as a variety of other animals.

Sasaab Lodge is well-known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, notably for Samburu-specific species such as the gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Grevy’s zebra. In addition, the lodge provides a variety of activities such as game drives, guided walks, and cultural trips to surrounding Samburu villages.

9. Ololo Safari Lodge

A small safari lodge on the outskirts of Nairobi National Park in Kenya. The warmth and comfort of a home are combined with seamless style and personalized care at Ololo Safari Lodge. Ololo, a historic Kenyan homestead that has been turned into a modest lodge, is wonderfully positioned on the lovely banks of the Mbagathi River, which forms the Nairobi National Park’s southern border.

The resort is only a 45-minute drive through the park from Nairobi and both major airports, but its remote position feels a world apart. Ololo brings you the pleasures of excellent ‘paddock to plate’ fresh food. Our established and isolated gardens allow guests to settle in and enjoy a one-of-a-kind safari experience.

10. Finch Hattons

Finch Hattons is a luxurious tented camp in Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park. Denys Finch Hatton, a great big-game hunter and explorer who was famously linked with Karen Blixen, the author of Out of Africa, inspired the camp’s name.

The camp has 17 beautiful tented suites, each with its own private veranda and shower. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern comforts and are designed to fit into the surrounding wilderness.

Finch Hattons is well-known for its outstanding service and customized attention to visitors.

11. Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge in Tsavo West National Park is a tranquil, hushed, and cool refuge framed by Mount Kilimanjaro and the rolling, volcanic landscapes of the deep green Chyulu Hills. It immerses you in stunning beauty and exhilarating adventures while surrounding you with every modern comfort. Our classic stone style enchants arriving guests, as do views of elephants, buffalo, and other plains animals drinking and cooling off in our water hole.

Tsavo West National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and other antelope species. The park is also famous for its breathtaking scenery, which includes spectacular hills, volcanic cones, and the Mzima Springs.

12. Elewana Tortilis Camp

Tortilis Camp is a luxury safari camp in southern Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. The camp is located on a hill overlooking the park, with breathtaking views of the surrounding environment and Mount Kilimanjaro.

The camp is made up of 16 spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own private veranda and shower. The tents are fashioned in a classic safari style with modern comforts and are designed to blend into the surrounding nature.

Tortilis Camp is named after the Acacia Tortilis, a flat-topped umbrella thorn tree, and embraces a hill in one of Amboseli’s Acacia Tortilis woodland regions. Situated in a private conservancy abutting the national park, guests can enjoy wildlife drives, walks, sundowners, and bush lunches both inside and outside the national park.

13. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge was designed for those with an African dream and a desire for adventure. The safari lodge offers an elegant blend of stark beauty and sumptuous comfort in the heart of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park, with Mount Kilimanjaro standing majestically just beyond the golden, acacia-specked grassland.

The two-bedroom family rooms features a bedroom with one king bed, a second bedroom with two twin beds, a common bathroom, and a private terrace overlooking the spectacular grasslands of Amboseli National Park.

14. Porini Amboseli Camp

Porini Amboseli Camp is an eco-friendly safari camp in southern Kenya’s Selenkay Conservation Area, next to the Amboseli National Park. The camp is located in a private conservancy, making for a more private and intimate safari experience.

The camp is made up of nine spacious and exquisite tents, each with its own own veranda and shower. The tents are designed to blend in with the surrounding wilderness and have solar-powered lights and hot water.

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Set in pristine wilderness at the foot of the scenic Chyulu Hills in Kenya’s largest and oldest national park Tsavo, Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp is the latest addition to Virgin Limited Edition family. With 17 luxurious tented suites, a stay here promises an authentic journey into the heart of southeast Kenya.

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Experience our 17 luxury tented suites that are inspired by African heritage and enjoy stunning and unobstructed views of the natural springs.

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Spot incredible wild animals from lions to elephants and many more roaming across dramatic landscapes on our twice daily game drives with our experienced guides.

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Finch Hattons is located within Kenya's Tsavo West National Park. Set around natural springs, the camp commands views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Hills. 

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The Best Luxury Safari Lodges In Kenya

 the ultimate in luxury safari accommodation.

Looking for the best luxury safari lodges in Kenya? There aren’t many travel experiences that come close to spending time in the African bush, spotting wildlife on safari. It is a bucket list item for so many people – and rightly so.

And if you’re looking for luxurious lodges and super-indulgent places from which to take it all in for a night or two, you could do a lot worse than check yourself into one of the luxury safari lodges in Kenya below.

There is no shortage of luxury safari lodges on offer across Africa, so we’ve asked travel bloggers from around the world to help us out, and nominate their favourite luxury Kenyan safari lodges.

The below list is made up of travel blogger nominations, plus lodges we’ve stayed at ourselves and can vouch for as providing ultimate safari luxury.

These lodges come with a high price tag. If they’re a little over budget, find out how to do a safari on a budget.

So read on below for our collection of the most indulgent luxury safari lodges in Kenya:

The best luxury safari lodges in Kenya

Angama mara, masai mara, kenya.

Contributed by Amanda of MarocMama

Angama Mara, Masai Mara

Angama Mara , overlooking the Great Rift Valley in Kenya’s Masai Mara , is truly a luxurious safari experience, and ideal for couples and families seeking an adventure.

Not only do they have beautiful, private accommodations that immediately put you at ease, but their robust activity list and doting staff make sure you’re taken care of from the moment you arrive.

Every guest has an itinerary that caters to their wants and desires and that can be discussed in advance, as well as a guide who remains with them throughout their stay.

Whether you want to be flying in a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara at sunrise, swimming laps in their pool, or on a bush walk there really is something for everyone.

The main lodge and rooms – all of which are tented suites – are set high on a ridge that overlooks the Mara below, giving you sweeping 360 views of nature.

Exceptional food and drinks can be expected and you can’t leave without taking at least one safari picnic. When it’s time to relax the private suites feature cozy beds, impeccable design, and every amenity you could want or need.

House In The Wild

Greater masai mara, kenya.

Contributed by Anna at Twins and Travel

House in the Wild, Kenya

House in the Wild is situated in a unique location, perched on the edge of the Mara River within the Enonkishu Conservancy in the Maasai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya, East Africa.

House in the Wild was originally a family getaway on a family commercial farm but has been restored into this amazing boutique safari lodge offering 12-14 beds between 4 cottages, each consisting of 1 or 2 bedrooms.

The grounds also consist of a dining area and a swimming pool with a thatched gazebo and bar area.

The cottages offer the warmth and rustic charm of a family lodge, with all the home comforts you could ask for.

House in the Wild offers a fully catered for service whilst being on safari and the perfect luxury family-friendly safari lodge should you want to go to Kenya with kids .

From bush breakfasts and sundowners overlooking the African savanna to hot lunches with warthogs running around the lawns, before a dip in the pool.

After a long day on safari, treat yourself to a well deserved hot bubble bath with candles and a glass of champagne whilst admiring the hippos wallowing in the Mara River.

If you are travelling with children, House in the Wild offer a private safari vehicle and guide, allowing children of any age to experience this piece of paradise and immerse themselves in wild Kenya.

Loisaba Lodo Springs

Loisaba Conservancy, Kenya

Contributed by Jennifer & Tim at Luxe Adventure Traveler

Loisaba Lodo Springs, the latest in Elewana Collection’s portfolio of luxury safari camps situated around East Africa, sits in the heart of Loisaba Conservancy.

Offering an ultra-private and luxurious safari experience, the boutique lodge offers unparalleled views over the Laikipia plains, stretching to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya from its 12-room tented camp.

The absolute epitome of luxury,  Loisaba Lodo Springs is one of only three safari camps located inside Loisaba Conservancy.

Not only are guests treated to top-notch service and all the comforts one could wish for at camp, but guests can also expect exclusivity with no more than around 20 safari vehicles out and about at one time in the 57,000 acre private Loisaba Conservancy.

Quickly becoming one of East Africa’s top safari destinations, Loisaba Conservancy is teeming with all the classic safari wildlife you could hope to spot (with the exception of the rhino), as well as Kenya’s Northern Five.

Even the rare black panther has been spotted by conservationists inside the private game reserve.

After days out surrounded by the endangered reticulated giraffe, herds of elephant, lions on the hunt, cheetahs chasing down prey on the plains and much more that can only be seen in Northern Kenya, guests can relax with sundowners at picturesque spots your dedicated guides find around the park.

With a focus on conservation and community education to help residents live in harmony with the big game wildlife, they share the Laikipia plains with, some of the activities guests won’t want to miss are the opportunity to meet the anti-poaching unit and their dogs.

It’s a unique opportunity to witness how these hounds help dwindling animal populations rebound with their anti-poaching efforts. And certainly, a highlight will be the bush breakfast, an exclusive experience no guest will soon forget.

Rekero Camp

Submitted by Jolene at Go Wander The World

In the heart of the famous Greater Masai Mara you’ll find Asilia Africa’s Rekero Camp. This camp has basically got it all: wonderful staff, great rangers, amazing tents and a view that’s one of a kind.

Upon arrival you’re welcomed with some cool drinks after which they’ll show you your luxurious tent. All tents overlook the Talek river so you can check out the wildlife right from your terrace.

Speaking about views, one of the prime features of this camp is the large deck in front of the main tent. This is where you’ll have a drink in the afternoon and where you’re meals are served.

The main deck overlooks an important crossing point of the Talek river when the Great Migration of wildebeests is at its best. This means theoretically you don’t even have to go on a game drive to see the spectacle that the migration is.

When you do go on a game drive you’ll have one of the expert rangers accompanying you. Since the camp is quite remote you’ve got the feeling of having the park to yourself.

The famous vast plains of the Mara are just outside the camp and attract grazers and thus predators.

Lions, leopards, cheetahs : you name it and the rangers will try to find them for you. It’s also good to mention that they don’t just focus on the big five since there’s so much more to see, learn, and explore in such an amazing park.

Saruni Samburu

Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy, Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Contributed by Heather at Conversant Traveller

Saruni Samburu is a high-end luxury safari lodge in the Kalama Wildlife Conservancy on the edge of Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya.

Built high up on a ridge, this remote lodge overlooks the vast wilderness plains of the Kalama which are surrounded by the iconic dome-shaped hills of Samburu.

The views here are stunning, and animals can be seen moving about in the bush without even leaving the comfort of the lodge.

There are six private villas each with their own verandas, beautifully decorated communal dining and living areas, and two infinity pools that look out over the reserve.

With a stylish yet unpretentious feel, Saruni Samburu  is a luxurious and friendly safari experience.

Game drives in the Kalama and Samburu are with local warrior guides who know everything there is to know about the wildlife and landscapes of this remote area.

Bushwalks in the Kalama Conservancy are possible as well as night drives, because this is a private reserve rather than a national park.

Samburu is well-known for its elephants, and large herds can often be seen congregating around water holes during the dry season.

Bush breakfasts on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river are a real treat too, with front-row seats as the animals come to drink. A safari up here is a real contrast to the ones in the Masai Mara and is far less crowded.

That’s your lot. What do you think – have you indulged in a luxury safari lodge that you think should be on this list? If so let us know by joining in on the comments section below.

You might also like to read about our pick of luxury safari lodges in South Africa or our guide to the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa .

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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
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• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
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• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Kenya

As the birthplace of luxury safari camps, kenya continues to set the bar high. home to some of the best game-viewing locations in africa, kenya holds the key to a once in a lifetime safari experience. here’s our guide to the best luxury safari lodges in kenya:.

MARA PLAINS CAMP

This is one of the best luxury safari lodges in Kenya, and it just gleams! Think highly polished wooden floors, reflecting the light from chandeliers. Everything about the feel of this camp speaks to an indulgent experience and channels the adventurous spirit of the first-ever safari-goers. Arriving to Mara Plains is a step-up – literally! The camp is approached by crossing a bridge and mounting a staircase. Before you’ve had time to admire your opulent safari tented suite, you’ll be captivated by the endless views of the Mara Plains and your eyes will be drawn to the single flat-topped acacia tree that punctuates them. If it’s true that you can judge an area by your neighbors, then having hippos next door (in the gorgeously named Ntiakitiak River) tells you that you’ve come to the right place.

• Décor inspired by local Maasai tribes.
• Ornate wooden doors from Lamu.
• Unrivalled access to a private nature conservancy.

SEGERA RETREAT

This luxury Kenya safari lodge is a work of art – and home to part of the Zeitz Collection of contemporary African art (you can see many more pieces at the new Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town, South Africa). Segera is a fantastic modern-day reimagining of all that is best about luxury safari lodges. It retains an authentic Kenyan ranch feel, and yet the comfort level has been turned up a notch or two. Exquisite dining options include romantic riverside picnics (with curious elephants stopping by) while the spa delivers out-of-this-world moments of blissful relaxation.

• Spend the night in the NAY PALAD Bird Nest treehouse.
• View the original yellow biplane from the ‘flamingo scene’ in ‘Out of Africa’.
• Enjoy organic ‘farm to fork’ cuisine.

MARA NYIKA CAMP

Listen to the flutter of the canvas roof of your tent as a light breeze comes in from the plains and you enjoy a private dinner for two on your own viewing deck or stroll barefoot across the vintage carpets that line the floor. Mara Nyika is a luxury Kenya safari lodge situated on the 50,000-acre Naboisho Conservancy, the second largest in the Maasai Mara region. The emphasis here is on indulging both your creature comforts and your very natural desire to experience the best of the iconic Mara area, the best venue for the spectacular animal Great Wildebeest Migration. Front row seats have never been this comfortable.

• Tastefully decorated, thoughtfully equipped tented suites.
• Free-standing copper bathtubs let you soak up the ambience.
• Spectacular displays of award-winning wildlife photography.

SANCTUARY OLONANA CAMP

This luxury Kenya safari lodge represents the perfect fusion of location and form. Each of the fourteen glass-sided guests suites opens on to views of a private stretch of the Mara River – the same river that forms a daunting obstacle to the migrating wildebeest that must pass this way to reach new pastures. Riverine forest provides shade, while still allowing guests to take in the abundance of wildlife right outside their door. The décor in each room combines a palette of neutral shades (to encourage you to ‘paint’ your own experiences onto this remarkable canvas), soft organic materials and pops of locally inspired color. Welcome to the Masai Mara – an evocatively named wilderness that will soon start to feel very much like home.

• Book the exclusive new Geoffrey Kent Suite featuring two ensuite bedrooms, perfect for families
• On the doorstep of ‘the greatest show on Earth’ – the Migration.
• The only accommodation in the area featuring modern amenities.

OL DONYO LODGE

Situated where the wooded Chyulu Hills meet the plains, Ol Donyo Lodge is the ideal luxury lodge from which to explore Amboseli. This Kenyan national park is known as the ‘land of giants’ for its impressive elephants, and the fact that it is overshadowed by the towering massif of Mount Kilimanjaro. This area is ancestral Maasai land, and indeed is leased from them in a ground-breaking partnership. It allows guests to experience some of Kenya’s less well-known but prolific wildlife habitats, plus the indulgence of accommodation that references both modernity and classic safari style. Exclusive activities include rooftop sleep-outs under mosquito nets and amazing displays of stars, encounters with ‘tuskers’ and hide picnics as wildlife passes by. What more could you ask for from a luxury Kenya safari lodge?

• Views of Mount Kilimanjaro, across the border in Tanzania.
• Some of Africa’s last surviving giant elephant bulls.
• More adventurous activities including horseback safaris and mountain biking.

For help choosing a luxury Kenyan safari lodge, contact Alluring Africa today.

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Kenya Camps & Lodges

• Amboseli National Park
• Cape Winelands
• Chobe National Park
• Chyulu Hills
• East Africa
• Hwange National Park
• Johannesburg
• Kunene River
• Laikipia Plateau
• Maasai Mara Game Reserve
• Matthews Mountain Range
• Meru National Park
• Moremi Game Reserve
• Mount Kenya
• Mutara Conservancy
• Ngoronogoro Conservation Area
• Okavango Delta
• Parc Nacional des Volcans
• Sabi Sands & Kruger Park
• Samburu National Reserve
• Selinda Reserve
• Serengeti National Park
• Skeleton Coast
• South Africa
• Southern Africa
• Tarangire National Park
• Thornybush Game Reserve
• Tsavo National Park
• Victoria Falls

Angama Mara

Bateleur Camp

Campi ya Kanzi

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

Elephant Bedroom Camp

Elephant Pepper Camp

Elsa’s Kopje

Fairmont Mara Safari Club

Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club

Fairmont The Norfolk

Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp

Giraffe Manor

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• Indian Ocean Islands
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• Amboseli National Park
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• Kenyan Coast
• Masai Mara National Park
• Meru National Park
• Rift Valley
• Samburu National Park
• Tsavo National Park

Discover Kenya’s iconic destinations

The most revered of Africa’s safari destinations, Kenya is located in East Africa and boasts the Masai Mara National Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife and annual Great Migration.

It is a country brimming with romance, thrill and adventure – nothing says “classic safari” quite like a Kenyan safari.

A Kenyan safari not only boasts spectacular natural beauty in one of the most unspoiled places on earth, but it also brings you up close and personal with Africa’s most sought-after wildlife.

&Beyond ensures that you experience a luxury Kenyan Safari & Tour like no other – no matter what your preference, be it a family-friendly holiday, romantic honeymoon or photographic safari that draws you to the African continent.

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From exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore kenya that matched your preferences, tailormake your stay.

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The East African gem of Kenya is a plethora of diverse landscapes, abundant with wildlife and heritage. For unforgettable travel, it doesn’t get much better than safaris in the most wildlife-rich destinations and the merging of Western life with quintessential African charm and customs. 

Whether a holiday to Kenya is for the natural beauty, or phenomenally luxurious accommodations and things to do, there is so much unmissable for all travellers. From family affairs and romantic retreats to even solo endeavoring, Kenya is an epitome of new cultures and landscapes worth exploring. Here are five top picks for some incredible experiences to be had in the country. 

Stay in a Luxury Safari Lodge

From the utmost luxury experiences, to more traditionally rustic options, lodges in the safari landscape of Kenya are a guaranteed way to enjoy a cosy stay nestled in the valleys. One of the most significant conservation areas in the country, the Maasai Mara National Reserve, is home to some of the most luxurious lodges for restful nights after action-packed days. Top-tier accommodations can include a wealth of private amenities, including private decks, plunge pools, and personalised gourmet dining and cleaning services. Enjoy complete seclusion, with only potential wildlife as neighbours, in an authentic Kenyan retreat.

Whilst all of Africa is synonymous with Safari and ornate lodgings for the perfect stay, Kenya has been dubbed for having some of the most unparalleled luxurious ones, in the whole country. Head to Angama Mara just on the edge of the Great Rift Valley and overlooking the Maasai Mara, where lodges are inspired by movies! Featuring spacious suite living with floor-to-ceiling windows and exceptional service makes for the most impeccable experience. Many of the most luxurious accommodations here also include private safari escapades and the use of exclusive amenities like swimming pools and bush picnic excursions. For a seamless blend of Kenyan lodging with Western-influenced rejuvenation, Richard Branson-owned Mahali Mzuri (within Maasai Mara) hosts twelve luxury tent-style glamping pods, alongside unique features of a world-class spa, infinity pool hanging over the panoramic dessertland and access to a private conservancy for sightings. 

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Whether it be a romantic way to get up close to globally renowned mammal life, a Kenya family safari , or even a group escapade, the wealth of things to do, is endless. For a spectacle for everyone to marvel at from the oldest to youngest eyes, consider a hot air balloon ride. Possible in a couple of places across the country but most notably in the Maasai Mara region itself. Ascend at dawn and merge into the orange hue of the sunrise that equally lights up the landscapes below. Gaze down at sunlit water networks, and dense greenery and feel like a bird for an hour whilst the world below awakens. A unique perspective to uncover the characteristics and wake-up actions of a range of animals within the land, from elephants to giraffes. The adults can often enjoy a champagne breakfast on landing too! An unmissable, luxury memory-maker. 

Cruise the Kenyan Coast

With Kenyan land bordering the Indian Ocean, a day or multi-day cruise along the coastline is a magical way to relax while still seeing the unworldly environment beyond. Stop off at pristine beach spots for a chance to laze on white sands and seak out isolated coves for picturesque swimming and marine life spotting. Many cruising opportunities along the coastline begin at Kenya’s second-largest city, Mombasa. This city, which is equally known for its historic significance and vibrant local culture, is a key port town and therefore a starting point for many cruise departures. 

The most luxurious cruising experience can be in the form of a yacht charter. Equipped with modern amenities for the most incredible multi-day trips, explore the most discreet points of interest and dive into colourful coral reefs below the sea. Onboard, enjoy gourmet, locally prepared dining experiences and indulgent cabins for a well-deserved rest at night. Spend the evening champagne-sipping on the front deck while marvelling at the constellation-filled skies above. The little light pollution out at sea makes it the most magical spot for unmissable stargazing. 

Take a Private Luxury Safari

It doesn’t get more unmissable than luxury safaris in Kenya . Home to some of the most well-preserved and ecologically diverse national parks and reserves in the world, a safari here is an unforgettable experience. From traditional game drives through desert land to exploration on foot up close to natural habitats and animal life, a safari in Kenya is a unique luxury experience.

With an expert local to guide you to the most magical and secluded spots, you have a great likelihood of seeing huge animal life, from grazing giraffes to elephant packs. Plan your trip around the hopes of seeing the Great Migration, which is the astonishing spectacle of thousands of wildebeest and zebra species moving across the Kenyan and Tanzanian landscapes in search of better grazing for upcoming seasons. This only happens once a year but takes a fair few days. It truly feels like something out of the ordinary! 

Stay in a Spa Hotel

For a stay that feels more like home, the country is scattered with luxury spa hotels. Blending top-notch treatment facilities with exceptional service amid pristine lands makes them the perfect place to call ‘home’ during a stay. Enjoy massages, facials, and an array of wellness treatments with your loved ones to ensure a rejuvenated return home after all the walking and exploring. From those based around individual ‘pod’ living to more typical hotel complexes, resea r ch the variety of spa hotel properties for the most luxurious way to combine such active travel with a relaxing holiday getaway. 

Wrapping Up 

Kenya is an unmissable destination for ornate African travel and wildlife exploration. Take on some of the world’s best natural landscapes and uncover animals in their natural habitats. Luxury travel experiences in Kenya await! 

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How to Go on an African Safari for Less Money: Tips By Industry Experts

By Tamara Hinson

August 27, 2024

Bigger isn’t always better.

When it comes to safaris, certain destinations have an almost mythical status, but it’s worth remembering visiting these destinations can cost considerably more. “Fees charged by larger national parks can swallow a lot of your budget,” says James Haigh, head of sales at Lemala Camps and Lodges . “If seeing big-ticket destinations like the Serengeti or Maasai Mara isn’t essential, consider smaller parks [with lower entry fees] such as Tarangire, Manyara, Arusha in Tanzania [pictured above], or Tsavo, Meru, or the Aberdares in Kenya.”  

Spend money on what matters.

Yes, you might dream of sipping sundowners in an elegant lodge with a bar carved from Zambian granite before dozing off under cotton sheets with 3,000 thread counts in a décor of artfully stage-managed antique trunks. But will these things make those all-important animal sightings more likely? In reality, they’ll simply push up the price tag. “Think about it. You get up in the morning, go out on a game drive for most of the day, come back, have a shower, a sundowner, dinner, chit chat, and go to bed,” says Alan Feldstein at Infinite Safari Adventures . “How much time did you really spend at that expensive lodge? Camps and lodges with comfortable beds, hot showers, and toilets that flush are all that you need.” 

Understand national parks vs. wildlife reserves.

When it comes to safaris, wildlife reserves, which are mostly located in South Africa and can be privately owned, might well be cheaper due to their accessibility, but bear in mind that the overall experience is likely to be different. “Private reserves are primarily located in South Africa and they’re just that: private,” says Feldstein of Infinite Safari Adventures. “That means that there are no other vehicles in the reserve except for those owned or permitted by the reserve owners. But it also means that there are limits to what you will see. Reserves are typically fenced in and have limited amounts of wildlife. More vehicles are allowed inside national parks, but there’s more open space to view wildlife and you never know what you are going to see. Quite simply, [national parks] are wilder. And some of the great spectacles, like the Great Migration, are found only in national parks.”

Stay loyal.

Combining multiple lodges operated by different owners can quickly push up costs, so as you travel Africa in search of sightings, don’t be afraid to ask what perks might be available if you stick with lodges owned by the same company. “Always ask your agent if there are any long-stay discounts available if you book several properties from the same property brand,” says Haigh of Lemala Camps and Lodges. It’s also worth asking if your operator can access any “3-for-2 nights” deals. These are becoming increasingly common, because growing numbers of travelers are opting to combine multiple destinations in one trip and lodge owners are keen to hold onto customers.

Plan your trip far ahead.

Being an early bird reaps rewards when it comes to safaris. Bear in mind you’re not booking a hotel with hundreds of rooms. Most safari lodges and camps accommodate fewer than 30 people in a maximum of 10 or 11 tents, so they sell out quickly. “Booking early can provide access to early bird discounts, and you can save as much as 10 to 20 percent,” says Greg Fox, co-founder of Mahlatini Luxury Travel . “Booking early also guarantees you access to the most sought-after locations before the demand increases and pushes prices up even further.”

Always use an agent.

Booking directly with a hotel in Europe or the U.S. might reap rewards, but with safaris, a trusted travel agent can save you huge amounts of cash—and provide peace of mind, too. “Booking through a single source agent will save time and ultimately money, with another hidden benefit being that, while you’re enjoying your safari, the agency is monitoring your journey, anticipating cancelled flights, missed transfers and any other event that the direct booker wouldn’t be aware of,” says Warren Green, founder of Warren Green & Associates , which helps safari destinations market themselves to travelers. “Agents have your back.” On safari, you'll spend long periods in the bush without a phone signal, so it pays to have someone else minding the overall picture.

Choose your transfer carefully.

Yes, stepping out of the airport into an air-conditioned four-wheeled drive stocked with bottled water and snacks might be lovely, but it’s another perk which can push up the price. And light airplane journeys over the African savannah might provide the perfect opportunity selfies, but are they really worth the added cost? Bear in mind the cost of a chartered flight typically starts at around $450 for a two-hour transfer, so traveling via road or visiting lodges which are closer together, might be more affordable choices. Unless your lodge or camp is truly remote, always ask about the cost of a road transfer, and ask whether it's advisable to opt for a local taxi company rather than the lodge’s chauffeur-driven vehicle.

On a Budget? Not Botswana 

Botswana (pictured above) is a bucket list safari destination for many, and don’t get us wrong—its wetlands make it a truly spectacular place. But it’s also Africa’s most expensive safari destination. Numerous factors push up the cost of a safari here. Botswana has a small population and a high GDP per capita thanks to its mineral wealth, so it doesn’t need mass-market tourism as much as neighboring nations do. “Botswana has deliberately followed a low-volume, high-value model, which means they have an abundance of private concessions offering very exclusive stays,” says Mike Kelly, co-founder of  Coral Tree Travel , a tour operator specializing in Africa. “Safari operators have created expensive accommodation options to market to the super wealthy.”

Know each country's peak timing 

Always remember that the best time to visit one country isn’t necessarily the best time to visit another. Some examples? “Zimbabwe and Zambia offer excellent value from late October to May,” says Sunit Sanghrajka, founder and CEO of  Alluring Africa . “Kenya’s rainy Season [April to May] is also a winner.” A word of warning? “Botswana in peak season is now officially the most expensive destination between July and September,” says Sunit. “Many camps are now charging between $4,000 and $6,000 per person per night.”

Don’t dismiss rainy season.

Dry season is traditionally the most popular time to go on safari, but trust us: When you’ve spent three hours under the baking sun waiting for a lion to wake up from his afternoon nap (it’s not just humans who need siestas on hot days), you’ll realize why the dry time is not necessarily the best time for a safari.  Pauline Frommer  says that even though foliage tends to be thicker during the rainy season, which may require more effort from you to spot animals, the wet season also tends to be a good time to spot baby animals.

Assume everyone will pay the adult price.

Bear in mind that in terms of pricing, not all operators differentiate between children and adults, and when they do, there’s little common ground when it comes to the age when a child is deemed to be a grown-up. “As far as families are concerned, not all operators apply child rates to the same ages,” says Kelly of Coral Tree Travel. For this reason, never assume that your children will be entitled to reduced rates.

Avoid booking sites.

We’ve mentioned the advantages of using an agent, but a final word of warning: Be aware that safaris that are booked using mass-market travel websites are likely to be very different to ones booked with a specialist agent. “These sites are for people looking for budget options over a vetted experience,” says Jessica Parker, Travel Advisor at Trip Whisperer . “You have to be willing to go along with a bunch of other people, and it’s always a little riskier with the quality.” Finding out exactly who to contact if things go wrong can also be incredibly tricky, partly due to the way these companies often subcontract smaller operators.

Don’t rely on last-minute availability.

Years ago, bargain hunters could occasionally bag a great deal by simply turning up in cities such as Johannesburg or Cape Town (in the latter, Long Street was once lined with independent travel agents) and attempting to snap up a last-minute deal. Sadly, those days are over. Safaris simply became too popular. Several safari operators told us that camps and lodges typically sell out months in advance now, effectively eliminating the once-thriving market for last-minute spots. As one expert told us, the rules are different now: “It’s probably not a great idea to just try your luck.”

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A Complete Guide to an African Safari

Many adventurers and environmental lovers desire to go on an African safari. It's an amazing journey as it offers the opportunity to see magnificent animals in their natural habitat, beautiful scenery, and diverse cultural experiences.  

An African safari is an intensive experience that can forge a deep connection between you and nature. Africa has some of the most magnificent wildlife mammals that are really rare to see. Planning the right Africa Safari requires proper research to find the right guides. The continent is rich with many species and a wide variety of scenery and natural habitats, from the wide savannas of the Serengeti to the verdant deltas of the Okavango.  

Selecting a Safari Location 

There are multiple safari locations in Africa; they're all different and have their own unique traits. You can choose African safari according to your preferences and the creatures, views, and landscapes you want to spot. Among the most popular, favored ones are these: 

• Tanzania's Serengeti National Park: 

One of the most amazing animal spectacles in the world, the Great Migration, takes place in the Serengeti every year. Exotic wildlife can be easily seen. Over two million zebras, gazelles, and wildebeests travel across the plains yearly for new grazing areas.  

The Serengeti is home to the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion, and leopard), making it an excellent place to see these magnificent creatures. Open savannas, riverine forests, and woodlands are among the park's diverse landscapes, home to many animals and complement the vibe itself. 

• Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve: 

As a part of the Serengeti ecosystem, the Maasai Mara also is a part of the Great Migration. It is well-known for its spectacular Mara River crossings.  

Big cats (lions, leopards, and cheetahs) can be seen quite often in the reserve, offering fantastic chances for up-close encounters and photographs. If you want to witness the migratory range, then visiting this from July to October is the best time. For predator activity, December to February is most suitable. You can see a lot of different beautiful places just by walking safaris or hot air balloon drives and excursions to Maasai settlements. 

• South Africa's Kruger National Park  

With well-developed infrastructure, including asphalt roads, Kruger is one of Africa's most accessible parks, making it a good choice if you want to drive by yourself through it. Numerous bird species, wild canines, and the Big Five are among the many wildlife species that can be seen in the park. Through this experience , you can see rare species and learn more about them from experts, like their habits, food choice, food chain explanation, etc.  

There are a lot of endangered species that are on the verge of extinction, and you must embrace their existence and beauty by visiting places rich in wildlife.  

Kruger offers a range of lodging choices, including affordable campsites, self-catering rest camps, and opulent lodges. This way it will become easier for you to rest and look around Africa’s wildlife. The dry season runs from May to September, and it is considered the best chance to see wildlife. There are several ways to experience it, like night drives, birding, strolling safaris, and game drives. They will help you to catch up to everything that is possible to see during that particular season.  

• Botswana's Okavango Delta 

The enormous inland delta known as the Okavango Delta provides a rich and varied habitat for various forms of life. Seasonal flooding changes the terrain and provides experiences on a water-based safari unlike any other. There are different African safaris , and water-based safaris are one of them. With the help of safari experts and safety measures, you can see the beautiful sites in Okavango.  

Viewing wildlife from a new angle is possible when exploring the delta's rivers by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), speedboat, or on foot. With more than 400 bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles, the delta is a birdwatcher's dream. It is a distinctive inland delta that provides excellent birdwatching opportunities and water-based safari experiences. 

• Botswana's Chobe National Park 

Chobe is well-known for having a sizable population of elephants, especially around the Chobe River, where herds gather in great quantities during the dry season.  

Boat safaris on the Chobe River give exceptional chances to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species up close. You can closely see the beauty of the bird species and other endangered species as well. Bird watching is definitely one of the activities that you must try while on Africa safaris. Also, you must know that Chobe is a convenient addition to a trip to Victoria Falls because of its proximity to the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. This way you can have a satisfactory and adventurous trip experience by visiting many places at once.  

Safari Types 

There are many types of African safaris, and each one of them offers a unique experience. You should know about the safaris better to experience Africa’s beauty in the best way possible.  

Game Drives:  

In these drives, skilled tour leaders with an in-depth understanding of the region's flora, fauna, and environment will guide you through. It takes place in open-top 4x4 vehicles that provide excellent visibility and access to diverse terrains. 

The guides give another insight and improve the educational component of the safari by tracking animals and deciphering their actions.  

It is considered the most suitable safari for seeing large mammals, birds, and reptiles, including the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino).  

Walking Safaris:  

It is also done by well-trained professionals and armed guides for your protection. The extensive guides include information on tracking methods, wildlife habits, and ecological relationships. This way you learn about biodiversity and how it coexists with nature. During these safaris, importance is given to the more minute details seen in nature, like spoor (animal traces) and flora. Through walking safaris, you can learn in a better way by being up close to nature. Walking safaris are good for learning more about plants and birds (flora and fauna) as you can be close to them and see them first hand.  

Boat Safaris: 

The water life of Africa is also very mesmerizing, and you should experience it during your visit. The boat safari is the perfect choice for a water wildlife experience and places that have big waters around. It is carried out on lakes, rivers, deltas, including the Okavango Delta and the Chobe River in Botswana. Some of the rarest species of aquatic life can be seen in the rivers and lakes. Perfect for spotting crocodiles and hippos and taking some photos.  

Other than the water wildlife, it's common to see elephants and other animals on the shore visiting the lake to drink and take baths. The boat safaris usually range from compact motorboats to huge pontoon boats depending on the amount of people on them.  

Balloon Safaris:  

It gives you a bird's-eye perspective of the land, enabling you to recognize its size and variety. Perfect for tracking huge herds and migratory patterns. They are usually planned for early in the morning; this offers breathtaking sunrise views and ideal lighting for photos.  

The overall view of the surrounding area and its population is unmatched and through balloon safaris, you can see it. You can spot predators hunting or herds of animals traveling across the plains. 

Safari Accommodations:  

While planning your trip and safaris, don’t forget to check the accommodation. It is as important as the experts during your safari drives. The range of lodging alternatives is extensive, ranging from affordable campsites to opulent resorts. You can check the nearby safe accommodation options during the safaris. Let’s check out some of the best options: 

It provides comfort and conveniences including eating areas, private rooms, and bathrooms with en suites. You can have gourmet dishes which will be made by experienced chefs. They often have seamless integration with the natural environment in mind, lending an air of tranquility and peace. 

Tented Camps:  

If you want to be well connected with nature, then you can go for permanent or semi-permanent tents furnished with basic conveniences; these locations offer a comfortable and adventurous experience. Tented campgrounds offer a special fusion of luxury and adventure, giving visitors the excitement of camping in the outdoors without compromising on necessities.  

Mobile Camps:  

They are usually located in isolated areas, providing a more natural and immersive experience. This allows you to have excellent animal viewing possibilities and lets visitors explore different areas of the safari region. As they are in a mobile area, they are more remote and undiscovered, offering a fully immersive experience. 

Low-cost campsites:  

Usually found inside or close to national parks, these sites offer basic amenities for guests on a tight budget. Budget campgrounds are more accessible to a wider variety of visitors since they don’t ask you to spend a lot on your accommodation. This way it will be easier to go on African safari with ease.  

Bottom Line 

If you plan to visit Africa and try an African safari, you must know some essential things like safari destinations, safari types and accommodation options. A safari in Africa is an adventure of a lifetime that offers unmatched opportunities to interact with wildlife and the natural world. You may guarantee a memorable and fulfilling vacation by meticulously organizing your trip, selecting the ideal location and time, packing sensibly, and placing a high priority on health and safety.