10 of the Best Luxury Hotels, Lodges & Camps in Kenya

As the setting for “Out of Africa”, Kenya was one of the first African countries that safari visitors flocked to in the early 20th century. It hasn’t lost any of its allure, with acacia-dotted savannahs and spectacular valleys that provide a habitat for a staggering diversity of wildlife, as well as providing a setting for the Great Migration. 

With its long history of safari tourism, Kenya boasts some of the best and most luxurious accommodations on the continent, from elegant lodges to contemporary camps and iconic hotels. In this article, discover some of the top places to add to your “wish list” the next time you’re planning an East Africa safari. 

 

Angama Mara, Maasai Mara National Reserve

Seemingly suspended above the Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara features 15 tented suites with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for enjoying the sublime views. It lies within the wildlife-rich Mara Triangle - a renowned destination for watching the Great Migration. In addition to game drives and walking safaris led by Maasai warriors, a highlight of any stay is a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Aside from its luxurious accommodations, Angama Mara is committed to making a difference in the communities with which it works.

 

Highlights

   •     Soak up the inspiring views across the Great Rift Valley from your private deck

   •     Enjoy a romantic picnic atop the Ololoolo Escarpment, as featured in the film “Out of Africa”

   •     Shop for locally crafted artworks and watch Maasai women bead in the camp’s curated gallery

   •     Take advantage of the sparkling swimming pool and well-equipped fitness centre throughout your stay

 

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Mara Bushtops, Maasai Mara National Reserve

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Mara Bushtops has garnered a reputation as one of Kenya’s most luxurious safari camps. It features 12 majestic tents that blend in seamlessly with the surrounding environment, as well as a pampering spa and a sparkling swimming pool. In addition to off-road game driving experiences without the crowds, guests at Mara Bushtops enjoy exclusive access to a private salt lick that attracts a variety of wildlife. Viewings are particularly impressive during the Great Migration

 

Highlights

   •     Enjoy gourmet cuisine crafted by some of East Africa’s top chefs in the warm and inviting dining room

   •     Join guided walking safaris that leave directly from the camp

   •     Exceptional wildlife viewing during the Great Migration

   •     Romantic, lantern-lit dining experiences and a well-curated wine cellar

 

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Giraffe Manor, Nairobi

Occupying a 1930s manor house in the suburbs of Nairobi, this boutique hotel is one of Africa’s most photogenic. It is renowned for its resident herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes who roam freely in the sprawling estate and often poke their heads through the windows at breakfast time. With just 12 rooms, staying at the Giraffe Manor is a highly sought-after and intimate experience, with elegantly designed interiors and sun-drenched terraces overlooking the manicured grounds. If you’ve ever wanted an “Out of Africa” experience, this is it!

 

Highlights

   •     Elegantly appointed rooms with a vintage aesthetic

   •     Enjoy an unforgettable breakfast with the resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes

   •     Relax in The Retreat’s hot tub, sauna and steam room

   •     Be treated to a romantic dinner for two in the Orchid House

 

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Kichwa Tembo, Maasai Mara National Reserve

On the banks of the Sabaringo River and backed by the Oloololo Escarpment, Kichwa Tembo occupies a private concession overlooking the Maasai Mara plains. It’s one of the larger camps in the area, with 40 split-level safari tents, all of which enjoy sweeping views from their private decks. Homegrown organic produce features on the daily menus while holistic treatments are available at the spa. Activities at Kichwa Tembo range from game drives to Maasai village visits and hot air balloon safaris.

 

Highlights

   •     Families can take advantage of the kid-friendly WILDChild program, which includes beadwork, storytelling and community interactions

   •     Conveniently served by its own airstrip with daily flights to Nairobi and Mombasa

   •     Wildlife is often seen grazing right outside the tents and communal dining area

   •     An exceptional setting for watching the Great Wildebeest Migration

 

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Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, Maasai Mara National Reserve

Established in the 1990s by Calvin and Louise Cottar, this vintage-inspired safari camp remains one of Kenya’s best. It was inspired by the heyday of safari travel in the early 20th century and features just 10 tents to ensure an intimate experience. Aside from its exceptional hospitality, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp is renowned for its incredible views toward the Serengeti in neighbouring Kenya. In between game drives and Maasai-led walks, you can refresh with a dip in the shimmering pool or enjoy an indulgent bush bath. 

 

Highlights

   •     Take a step back in time to experience luxury safari travel in the 1920s

   •     Mingle and dine with other guests in the two authentic “mess” tents

   •     Discover why Cottar’s has won numerous awards over its long and celebrated history

   •     Enjoy a diverse range of experiences that include Maasai-led walks, coffee tasting and bush baths

 

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Loisaba Lodo Springs, Laikipia Plateau

Located within the Loisaba Conservancy in northern Kenya, this exclusive camp features just eight suites. They all offer magnificent views of Mount Kenya and offer easy access to the exceptional wildlife viewing of Laikipia. Spend your days spotting Grevy’s zebras, leopards and cheetahs on thrilling game drives and get up close to lesser-known species on guided walks. When staying at Loisaba Lodo Springs, you’ll gain first-hand insight into how the local tribes are balancing wildlife conservation with sustainable livestock rearing. 

 

Highlights

   •     Spot migratory elephants and endangered wildlife species during game drives and walks

   •     Enjoy expansive views toward the towering peak of Mount Kenya

   •     Be treated to customised experiences crafted by personal ambassadors

   •     Stay in one of eight luxuriously appointed tented suites

 

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Sasaab, Samburu National Reserve

Perched on the edge of a river valley, this stunning camp is located just outside the Samburu National Reserve. It combines Swahili and Moroccan architectural elements in its design, with just nine canvas suites that come complete with private plunge pools. From your private deck, enjoy breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau toward the summit of Mount Kenya. When you’re not out spotting the “Samburu Special Five” on game drives and watching herds of elephants bathing in the river, you can refresh in the infinity pool and spa. 

 

Highlights

   •     Embark on a tribal-led camel safari to spot the “Samburu Special Five”

   •     Retreat from the African heat in the aesthetically divine tents

   •     Indulge in a range of beauty treatments at SpaSaab

   •     Spend a night camping in the wilderness on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River

 

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Ol Lentille, Laikipia

Nestled within a 40,000-acre conservation area, Ol Lentille is a prestigious safari lodge in Kenya’s Laikipia region. It boasts just four opulently appointed villas for the most exclusive stay and prides itself on upholding responsible tourism initiatives. Samburu and Maasai warriors lead guided walking safaris through the spectacular surroundings while offering unique insights into the region’s ancient heritage. Back at the camp, you’ll be treated to decadent dining experiences and personalised spa treatments. 

 

Highlights

   •     Breathtaking views across the Laikipia region, Mount Kenya and Ololokwe

   •     A pioneering approach to responsible and community-led tourism

   •     Enjoy a unique balance between adventurous activities and indulgent relaxation

   •     Embark on thrilling game drives to spot the “Northern Five” (reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich)

 

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ol Donyo Lodge, Amboseli National Park

Nestled between Amboseli and Tsavo national parks, ol Donyo Lodge is located in the Maasai-owned Mbirikani Group Range. It offers splendid views across the wildlife-filled savannah to the iconic peak of Mount Kilimanjaro and lies on the doorstep of the majestic Chyulu Hills. Each of the eight pool suites is eclectically decorated with vintage touches while the two-bedroom Sambu Suite is ideal for families. A highlight of staying at ol Donyo Lodge is experiencing all the wildlife action at the onsite waterhole. 

 

Highlights

   •     A variety of activities are available, including guided treks, horseback rides and game drives

   •     Stays contribute to the local Maasai community and wildlife conservation in the area

   •     Enjoy a romantic rooftop dinner with your loved one under the stars

   •     Watch the animals coming and going from the sunken hide

 

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Sand River Camp, Maasai Mara National Reserve

Forming part of the prestigious Elawana Collection, the Sand River Camp enjoys a picturesque setting within the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It has been designed to reflect the glory years of safari travel in the 1920s, with vintage-inspired furnishings decorating each of its 16 tents. The Maasai Mara National Reserve offers exceptional game viewing throughout the year, whether you’re game driving, bush walking or on exhilarating night drives. The Sand River Camp also boasts an enviable setting for witnessing the Great Migration, with huge herds of wildebeest and zebras on its doorstep.

 

Highlights

   •     An exceptional standard of service and hospitality

   •     Located in an area that’s renowned for its high concentration of big cats, including leopards, lions and cheetahs

   •     Each of the stylishly designed tents features a private dining and lounging area

   •     Set on the banks of the Sand River in the wildlife-rich Maasai Mara National Reserve

 

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