In this post, we’ll take a look at the Best Safari Camps and Lodges in Kenya. Kenya, known for its breathtaking savannah landscapes, diverse topography, rich culture and bountiful wildlife, is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa. It not only offers the most incredible safari holidays but also an opportunity to learn about nature and become one with it.
With the Masai Mara providing a stage for the Great Wildebeest Migration, Amboseli’s mesmerising views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Samburu’s beautiful leopards and Laikipia’s unsurpassed wildlife conservation areas, Kenya is one of Africa’s best luxury safari destinations. To make things a little easier, we’ve rounded up the Best Safari Camps and Lodges in Kenya
Best Safari Camps and Lodges In Kenya
1. 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.
2. 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. Angama Mara is undoubtedly one of the most unique safari camps in Kenya.
3. 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.
4. 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 a real lion and elephant country and is famous for rhino conservation. Guests can watch games 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.
5. Saruni Samburu, Samburu National Reserve
The six luxury eco-chic villas at Saruni Samburu are open and spacious, each heralding spectacular views over Kalama Conservancy and Mount Kenya. As the only lodge in over 200,000 acres of unspoiled and wildlife-rich bush, guests enjoy an exclusive safari that is guided by Samburu warriors passionate about their land and culture. The experience at Saruni Samburu is intimate and truly exceptional. Saruni Samburu takes advantage of the rock faces and massive boulders around which it is built to create a property that is connected by a series of winding paths. Once again, it helps to be fairly fit and active. During your walks between the two swimming pools, your huge suite and the communal area, be on the lookout for klipspringers – small, very shy antelope that live in pairs, mate for life and find shelter amid the rocks. Legend has it that if one dies, the other pines away from grief, too. Leopards once used these rocks as their havens and the Samburu guides can also explain how Samburu warriors hid out here for months at a time during special eating ceremonies (the young men were not allowed to return to their manyatta until they had devoured several cattle – and virtually nothing else – to build up their strength).
Saruni Samburu also has a spa and is dotted with examples of exquisite Samburu jewellery: bright beads and fine silverwork are fashioned into delicate neckpieces worn by both men and women. The cuisine takes its nod from Italy – grissini, cappuccino and risotto all appear on the menu. Because of their positions on the rocks, the suites here are brick and mortar, unusual in a country renowned for its sophisticated tented camps.
6. Sasaab Camp, Samburu National Reserve
Perched on the edge of a river valley, the architecture of Sasaab blends Swahili and Moroccan design principles in which the African heat is of primary consideration. Each of the nine canvas-sided rooms is over 100m² with private plunge pools and breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau toward the jagged peaks of Mount Kenya. Its position above the river naturally facilitates watching the herds of elephants that come to bathe below as well as a host of other wildlife. Sasaab could be taken from the pages of A Thousand and One Nights. Its airy, open-plan dining and living areas are strung with Arabian-style lamps, traditionally carved furniture and lovely touches like amphora in arched alcoves and potted palms. Its Bedouin tent-style rooms, which are enormous and larger than some New York apartments, are also strung out along the property, which meanders down the river. While you need to be fairly fit to walk up and down the inclined pathways, the reward is maximum privacy and lovely views for every suite.
Of course, you needn’t walk to the main pool since your tent has its private plunge pool, a sun-drenched patio and an open-air bathroom. The spa is built around an internal pool and has a small gym attached to it. Further along, the freeform swimming pool is ringed with sun loungers – the nearby pizza oven can be fired up for a taste of Italy in Kenya.
7. 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 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.
8. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp lies in the foothills of the Aberdares, with views of Mt. Kenya. Wildlife regularly visits a salt lick on the other side of the Ewaso Nyiro River, providing excellent wildlife viewing from camp. Head out on a game drive in the conservancy to see the Big Five, cheetah, African wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx and Jackson’s hartebeest. Learn about the rhino conservation project here and visit the chimpanzee sanctuary. A walking safari is a chance to learn about birds, plants and tracks. Go for a picnic, visit a local community and spend evenings around the fire.
9. Lewa Safari Camp, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
This luxury tented camp is the best way to experience the 62,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, home to the world’s largest population of Grevy’s zebra and over 150 black rhinos. The 12 large Meru-style tents sit on raised wooden platforms, are shaded by thatched grass roofs and come furnished with everything you’d expect from a high-end African safari camp. The main building at Lewa Safari Camp once served as the headquarters of the local rhino sanctuary, and today provides a comfortable base from which to embark on game drives into the wildlife-rich conservancy. The surroundings are so stunning that Prince William proposed to the future Duchess of Cambridge here.
10. 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 completely this unparalleled wildlife experience.
11. 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 make a stay at Tortilis unforgettable.
12. Alfajiri Villas, Diani Beach
Rated one of the most luxurious villas in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, this is a beach getaway like no other. Set on the shoreline of Diani Beach, Alfajiri offers dramatic views of the white-sand shoreline and the turquoise Indian Ocean. The three unique villas each come with their own butlers and private swimming pools, guaranteeing a personalised experience. Alfarjiri is perfect for ultimate relaxation; whether in the form of a standalone beach holiday or after a week on a luxury safari in Kenya.
13. Loisaba Tented Camp
There can be few better views than Loisaba’s across Laikipia’s marvellous landscape 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.
14. 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. 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. Yoga, croquet and boules offer less taxing pursuits, as does a fine library. International cuisine, fine wines and a sumptuous spa and wellness centre put the final seal on this safari of a lifetime.
15. Loldia House, Lakes District
Loldia House evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of a slower, more gracious time – where playing croquet on the lawn and nights spent chatting around a roaring fire were commonplace. Lying on one of Kenya’s oldest farms, Loldia is a luxury safari lodge within arm’s reach of everything from dormant volcanoes and beautiful lakes to the spectacular canyons and hot springs at Hell’s Gate National Park (which was the inspiration for scenes from the original Lion King movie).
16. Lentorre Lodge, Southern Rift Valley
When staying at Lentorre Lodge, you’ll feel as if you have the entire Southern Rift Valley to yourself. Set far away from the crowds, this Kenya luxury safari lodge is the only property on the Olkirimatian Conservancy, a Maasai community initiative developed to help the local people protect their wildlife, traditional lifestyle and heritage. Set on a spine running off the Nguruman Escarpment, Lentorre has uninterrupted views of Mount Shompole and Ol Donyo Lengai (an active volcano) and provides unencumbered access to this slice of wild and untouched Africa.
17. Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways is a high-end lodge with five-star luxuries including a dedicated butler to assist you during your stay. With a delicious range of African cuisines, guests can enjoy afternoons sitting on the terrace, sipping their afternoon tea, and taking in the incredible silhouettes of the Ngong Hills. Its location near the Giraffe Sanctuary, Nairobi National Park and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust mean there is an extensive variety of activities for guests to enjoy as well as Hemingway’s spa with its rejuvenating and relaxing experiences.
18. Kinondo Kwetu, Diani Beach
Lazy days on the beach are a staple of any good holiday. Stop off at Kinondo Kwetu for a few days of peaceful relaxation on Kenya’s coastline after your African safari. Located on the pristine shoreline of Galu Beach (just south of Diani Beach), this Kenya resort offers beach luxury in a relaxed and laidback atmosphere. From the various watersports on offer to romantic horse rides and dinners on the beach, Kinondo Kwetu is the perfect place to end your luxury safari in Kenya.
19. Naboisho Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve
Naboisho Camp is set in the unspoilt wilderness of the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, offering high levels of service and an excellent location for game viewing. This conservancy is home to the highest population densities of lions in the world. Small in size, the camp has an ambience of intimacy, and a thatched lounge and dining room offer superb views of the nearby waterhole. Activities include game drives, guided walking safaris and cultural visits to a local Maasai village.
20. &BEYOND Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve
Bateleur is a classic and elegant safari camp set in a private concession on the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Blending vintage safari elegance with an intimate ambience, Bateleur Camp will mesmerise you with its intriguing antiques and tasteful décor. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will revel in game drives, guided bush walks and hot-air balloon safaris in Bateleur’s breath-taking Masai Mara location
21. Manda Bay, Lamu Archipelago
Just off Kenya’s north coast lies a cluster of gorgeous Indian Ocean islands – Lamu, Manda, Pate, Kiwayu and Manda Toto – known collectively as the Lamu Archipelago. An area of archaeological and historical interest, these islands are ideal for travellers looking for an away-from-the-crowds beach holiday and a fantastic grand finale to a luxury safari in Kenya. Manda Island offers a more exclusive feel; it’s virtually uninhabited and home to several archaeologically important sites including the ruined towns of Takwa and Manda. Manda Bay is a boutique Kenya beach resort situated on a protected sandy stretch that’s lapped by the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. There’s something for everyone at Manda Bay – simply soak in the tranquillity of the beautiful setting, or enjoy action-packed water sports like deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, water skiing and scuba diving.
22. Kifaru House, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is one of Kenya’s greatest conservation success stories. This 62 000-acre stretch of land lies in the foothills of Mount Kenya and has become an internationally recognised example of collaborative conservation involving its neighbouring tribal communities. Not only that, Lewa is home to East Africa’s healthiest populations of black and white rhinos. Kifaru House is harboured within this pristine wilderness, an enchanting oasis of lush lawns and breathtaking vistas. It’s arguably one of the most underrated Kenya luxury safari lodges.
23. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, located in the heart of Amboseli National Park, offers mesmerising views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge’s décor is enhanced with beautiful local artefacts, antiques and artworks. Guests can purchase similar unique, handcrafted Maasai crafts when they visit the Masaai communities in the region. Each meal at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge offers a burst of flavour and introduces guests to delicious Kenyan cuisine.
24. Campi ya Kanzi, Amboseli National Park
Enjoy a memorable safari from Campi ya Kanzi next to Amboseli National Park. Relax in your tented, thatch-roofed suite and drink in the views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Ernest Hemingway’s ‘green hills of Africa’. The small eco-lodge marries comfort and an authentic safari experience in a way that protects wildlife and benefits the local Maasai community. Go game-driving or bushwalking with a Maasai tracker and guide. Although the landscapes alone are worth the visit, expect to see lots of elephants in Amboseli. You’ll likely also see lion, cheetah, buffalo, hyena, zebra and giraffe.
25. Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
The strategically located Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge overlooks the flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru, offering its guests five-star views of the beautiful surroundings. Sarova Lion Hills Game Lodge is one of the largest lodges in Kenya with around 67 luxury chalets. The camp offers its guests several exciting excursions, from a visit to the largest volcanic crater, Mennengai, and adventure-filled Makalia Falls, to the panoramic Baboon Cliff.
26. Cottar’s 1920s, Masai Mara National Park
The timeless 1920s décor is just the beginning of this camp’s multitude of pleasures. Situated within a private conservancy of the Masai Mara, you’ll be well-placed for game-viewing activities on the Kenyan side of the border and can even see the sprawling plains of the Serengeti from the comfort of your camp. 10 luxurious and well-appointed marquee tents lend a real Out of Africa experience to proceedings, while the two main mess tent areas are perfect for a spot of socialising or fine dining. Cottar’s Camp prides itself on its ecological credentials (it was awarded Global Ecosphere Retreat status in 2014) and its Gold-standard guides.
27. Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara National Park
The 12-suite Mahali Mzuri sits on the edge of a lush bowl, and there’s not a bad seat in the house: over breakfast, you can watch monkeys scrabble in the trees and grass; from the pool, you’ll spot giraffes wandering through to snack on the acacias; sitting on your private terrace you may catch a glimpse of a cat stopping to drink from the rocky stream that runs through. And the property’s location is ideal for maximizing both wildlife spotting and privacy. It’s set within the private, 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which is part of the Masai Mara ecosystem but beyond the bounds of the national park. That means all the richness of big game, but no other cars in sight—you can get within feet of a lion pride and have the moment all to yourself, with no jockeying for position or tuning out the chatter of other safari-goers. “Mahali Mzuri is the best luxurious camp to visit on the African continent,” declared one reader; “Just perfect,” wrote another. The team is small and familial, with the kind of warm, relaxed — yet flawless — service that gives guests the easy sense of being among friends; the guides are among the best in the business, many having worked at the property for years to develop an intimate knowledge of the land and its wildlife. One reader put it best: “The hospitality at Mahali Mzuri resembles its name,” he wrote, noting the translation of the Swahili: “The Beautiful Place.
