If you are planning a safari trip to Kenya, choosing the right lodge is important for a comfortable and memorable experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which lodge will best suit your needs. In this article, we will look at some of the top safari lodges in Kenya and help you decide where to stay on your Kenyan safari.
Why Choose a Safari Lodge?
Staying at a safari lodge offers a unique experience that cannot be compared to other types of accommodation. Most lodges are situated within or near national parks and game reserves, allowing easy access to wildlife viewing. Additionally, many lodges offer amenities such as spa treatments, good meals, and private game drives. Choosing a safari lodge also supports conservation efforts as many lodges are committed to protecting the surrounding environment.
Top Safari Lodges in Kenya
i. Governors’ Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve
Governor’s camp is located along Mara River and this provides guests with beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. Its closeness to the river provides excellent wildlife views, especially during the annual Great Migration.
Accommodations at Governors’ Camp consist of spacious and well-made safari tents. These tents offer comfort and a close-to-nature experience. This allows guests to hear the sounds of the African bush while enjoying modern amenities.
Governors’ Camp is a gateway to amazing wildlife safaris in the Masai Mara. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to witness the different types of wildlife, including the Big Five, wildebeest, zebras, and different types of birds. Expert guides lead game drives, ensuring a rich and educational safari experience.
In addition to the wildlife, the camp offers hot air balloon safaris. Floating above the savannah during sunrise provides beautiful view of the landscape and wildlife. Moreover, the camp offers guests a chance to engage with the local Maasai community. This provides understanding to the Maasai traditional customs, dances, and way of life.
What’s more, guests enjoy delicious meals with a view at the camp’s riverfront dining area. Governors’ Camp is actively involved in conservation efforts within the Masai Mara environment. The camp is committed to sustainable tourism practices, contributing to the preservation of the camp.
ii. Finch Hattons, Tsavo National Park
Funch Hattons Lodge is located in Tsavo national park along Tsavo River. The lodge location offers guests great access to Tsavo’s wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and different types of birds.
The lodge offers spacious and well made tented suites. The suites are equipped with modern amenities and offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Finch Hattons provides a range of safari activities, including game drives and guided bush walks. Knowledgeable guides lead guests through the park, sharing insights into the region’s environment, history, and wildlife behavior.
Additionally, the camp offers unique spa suites overlooking a natural spring, allowing guests to enjoy luxurious spa treatments while immersed in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Finch Hattons is committed to sustainable tourism, and emphasizes environment-friendly practices. The lodge operates on solar power, utilizing water recycling systems, and actively engages in community conservation projects.
In addition to tourism, the hotel provides opportunities for cultural interactions with the local communities. This offers guests a chance to learn about the traditions and customs of the region. The lodge is dedicated to the conservation of Tsavo’s environment. Moreover, the camp supports local conservation projects and educates guests about the importance of preserving the natural environment.
The lodge offers an private and engaging safari experience. This ensures that guests appreciate the beauty of Tsavo while contributing to its preservation.
iii. Saruni Samburu, Samburu National Reserve
Saruni Samburu safari lodge located in Samburu National Reserve in Kenya. This lodge offers comfortable and spacious accomodations with amazing views of the landscape. The lodge’s design blends traditional Samburu architecture with modern comforts, providing guests with a unique and comfortable stay. Additionally,the lodge has a wellness and spa facility where guests engage in spa treatments, offering a perfect blend of relaxation .
Saruni Samburu offers great dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests are served delicious meals while taking in the amazing views of the surrounding wilderness. Guided by experienced Samburu warriors as safari guides, guests embark on game drives, nature walks, and cultural visits to local Samburu villages. The lodge provides a personalized and private safari adventure.
The camp is committed to environmental sustainability, and it actively participates in community-based conservation projects. The lodge aims to protect the balance of the Samburu ecosystem and contribute to the well-being of local communities.
In addition, the lodge offers guests the opportunity to engage with the Samburu people and experience their rich cultural heritage. This includes traditional dances, storytelling sessions, and interactions with local artisans.
Saruni Samburu lodge offers travelers a great safari experience, combining great accommodations, cultural engagement, and a commitment to conservation in one of Kenya’s most captivating wilderness areas.
iv. Ol Donyo Lodge, Chyulu Hills National Park
Ol Donyo Lodge is located in Chyulu Hills National Park in Kenya. The lodge offers spacious and well designed camps, each offering amazing views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains.
A major feature of Ol Donyo Lodge is its offering of horseback safaris. Guests have the opportunity to explore the landscapes on horseback. This provides a unique view and a sense of connection with the environment.
Additionally, the lodge facilitates cultural interactions with the local Maasai community. Guests engage in Maasai-guided nature walks, visit traditional villages, and learn about the rich heritage and customs of the Maasai people.
Ol Donyo Lodge offers a unique experience with its star beds and sleepouts. Guests spend a night under the African sky, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness. This offers an unforgettable and romantic adventure.
The lodge takes pride in its food offerings, featuring international and locally inspired dishes. Guests take delicious meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
What’s more experienced guides lead guests on game drives and nature walks. This provides understanding into the wildlife and nature of Chyulu Hills National Park. The park is known for its volcanic landscapes, lava tubes, and unique ecosystems.
Ol Donyo Lodge is actively involved in conservation efforts, including anti-poaching initiatives and community development projects. The lodge is committed to preserving the natural environment and supporting local communities.
v. Segera Retreat, Laikipia Plateau
Segera Retreat is located on the Laikipia Plateau ,overlooking Mount Kenya. The retreat provides a range of comfortable accommodations, including private villas and the Nay Palad Bird Nest. The villas have modern design, spacious living areas, and private decks with amazing views of Mount Kenya. A major feature of Segera is the Nay Palad Bird Nest, a unique and engaging sleep-out experience.
Located high above the ground, this nest allows guests to spend a night under the stars . Segera Retreat is part of the Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy, a region known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, big cats, and numerous bird species. Additionally, guests embark on guided game drives and bush walks to explore the environment.
The retreat has an impressive art collection, including sculptures and installations, adding a cultural dimension to the safari experience.
Segera Retreat is dedicated to environmental sustainability and conservation. Guests learn about and participate in various conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts, community engagement, and habitat restoration projects.
The retreat offers the “Segera Mission Makers” program, allowing guests to actively contribute to conservation projects. This experience provides understanding into the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation.
Segera has its own organic farm, providing fresh and locally sourced ingredients for its dishes. Guests take meals prepared by skilled chefs while enjoying the amaizing views. For convenience, Segera has its own private airfield, allowing guests to easily access the retreat by private charter flights.
vi. Mara Plains Camp, Maasai Mara National Reserve
Mara Plains Camp is located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The camp offers great wildlife sightings and amazing landscapes. Mara plains is in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy and this offers guests a complete and private safari experience away from the crowds.
The camp has elegant and spacious tents, each well designed to blend swith the surrounding environment while providing modern comforts and amenities. Additionally, guests get mazing views of the savannah from their private verandas.
The Olare Motorogi Conservancy is home to different types of wildlife including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinos). In addition, the camp offers guided game drives which are led by experienced Maasai guides . This offers guests the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures close in their natural habitat.
Mara Plains Camp is committed to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices. The camp operates on solar power, minimizes waste, and supports community-based conservation initiatives in collaboration with local Maasai communities.
In addition, the guests have the chance to engage with the Maasai people and learn about their rich culture and traditional way of life through cultural visits and interactions. This cultural exchange adds depth and accuracy to the safari experience.
The camp prides itself on its warm hospitality and personalized service, ensuring that every guest receives the highest level of attention and care throughout their stay. From great dining experiences to expertly guided safaris, every aspect of the guest experience is thoughtfully organized.
Mara Plains Camp is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable safari adventure in the Maasai Mara.
vii. Ol Tukai Lodge, Amboseli National Park
Ol Tukai Lodge is in Amboseli National Park,and it provides guests with amazing views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa.
The lodge offers spacious and well-made rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking savannah. Guests relax in the comfort of their rooms while enjoying the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness.
A major feature of Ol Tukai Lodge is its swimming pool. It is strategically positioned for guests to cool off while enjoying amazing views of the plains and Mount Kilimanjaro. It provides a refreshing escape after a day of safari adventures.
Amboseli National Park has different types wildlife, including large herds of elephants, lions, zebras, and different types of birds. Additionally, guests at Ol Tukai Lodge have the opportunity to witness these animals in their natural habitat during game drives led by experienced guides.
The lodge is committed to the conservation of the Amboseli environment. Guests learn about the lodge’s initiatives to protect the environment, preserve wildlife habitats, and contribute to the well-being of local communities.
Ol Tukai Lodge offers cultural interactions with the Maasai people. This allows guests to gain understanding into their traditional lifestyle, dances, and crafts. The cultural exchange adds depth to the overall safari experience.
In addition, the lodge actively supports elephant research and conservation efforts in collaboration with the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. Visitors learn about ongoing projects and the importance of protecting these majestic creatures.
Amboseli is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of bird. The lodge provides birdwatching lovers with the opportunity to spot and appreciate the different types birds.
The landscapes and large wildlife make Amboseli National Park a retreat for photography lovers. Ol Tukai Lodge offers great view points and expert guidance for capturing memorable moments.
Latest Comments