Kenya Lodge Safaris - Packages, Cost & More
Book Your Luxury Safari Stay in Kenya With Us
Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, is home to an array of safari lodges designed to maximise your experiences.
It boasts some of the best exclusive tented camps in the heart of the savannah and boutique lodges perched on pristine shores that offer discerning travellers unforgettable safari experiences.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the leading Kenya safari lodges and the essentials of selecting the best Kenya lodge safaris.
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate luxury in the wild, a mid-range option or a budget option, we invite you to contact us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105.
You can also connect with us via email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
James Gatheru, our senior consultant, is available to share details of safari lodges in our national parks to help you choose the ideal one.
Best Kenya Safari Lodges - Photos by Our Guests
Discovering Kenya’s Safari Accommodations
Travellers have a diverse range of safari accommodation options to choose from, catering to various preferences, budgets, and travel styles. Here are some of the different types of safari accommodation available in Kenya:
Luxury Lodges
Luxury lodges offer the epitome of comfort and indulgence in the heart of the wilderness. These lodges typically feature spacious and elegantly appointed rooms or suites, gourmet dining experiences, spa facilities, swimming pools, and personalized service.
Luxury lodges are often located in prime wildlife areas, offering guests spectacular views and exclusive access to game drives, guided walks, and other safari activities. Angama Mara safari camp in the Mara Triangle fits this bill.
Tented Camps
Tented camps provide a luxurious yet immersive safari experience, allowing guests to stay in elegant tented accommodations while still enjoying modern amenities and comforts. These camps range from intimate boutique properties to larger, more elaborate tented camps, each offering a unique ambience and setting. Tented camps are often situated in private conservancies or wildlife reserves, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities away from the crowds. 1920s Cottars Safaris in the private Olderkesi Conservancy is the epitome of a luxury safari camp
Eco-lodges
These lodges are designed with sustainability and environmental conservation in mind, offering travellers the opportunity to minimize their ecological footprint while enjoying a safari experience.
These lodges use eco-friendly practices such as solar power, water conservation, and waste management to minimize their impact on the environment. Guests can stay in eco-friendly accommodations such as solar-powered tents or cottages, surrounded by pristine natural surroundings. Kilima Camp in the Masai Mara is a great example of an eco-friendly tented camp
Mobile Camps
Mobile camps offer a flexible and adventurous safari experience, allowing guests to explore multiple wildlife areas while staying in temporary tented accommodations that can be moved to different locations.
These camps are typically set up in remote and exclusive wilderness areas, providing guests with an intimate and authentic safari experience. Mobile camps often operate seasonally, following the wildebeest migration patterns of wildlife and river crossings at the Mara River. Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp is one such mobile camp.
Bush Homes and Private Luxurious Villas
For travellers seeking privacy and exclusivity, bush homes and private villas offer the ultimate safari experience.
These luxurious accommodations are often located in private conservancies or wildlife reserves, offering guests exclusive access to the surrounding wilderness.
Bush homes and villas feature spacious living areas, multiple bedrooms, private pools, and dedicated staff to cater to guests’ every need.
Guests can enjoy personalised safaris, gourmet dining, and other bespoke experiences tailored to their preferences. Mara Bush Houses in the Mara North Conservancy are a fine example
Budget Camps and Hostels
For budget-conscious travellers, Kenya offers a range of budget camps and hostels that provide affordable accommodations without compromising on the safari experience.
These camps and hostels offer basic amenities such as dormitory-style rooms, shared bathrooms, and communal dining areas.
While they may lack the luxury and amenities of higher-end accommodations, budget camps and hostels provide an affordable option for travellers looking to experience Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes on a budget.
Leading Safari Camps and Lodges in Kenya
Several highly regarded Kenya safaris lodges provide luxurious accommodations amidst breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Here’s a list of some top choices and their locations across the different parks.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve – Angama Mara, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Little Governors Camp, Basecamp Masai Mara, Mara Intrepids Camp, and Salas Camp.
- Mara Conservancies – If you’re visiting the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, you can stay at Mara Plains Camp, Kicheche Bush Camp, Porini Lion Camp, or Olare Mara Kempinski. Those in Mara North Conservancy can consider Offbeat Mara Camp, Richard’s River Camp, Kicheche Mara Camp and Saruni Mara Camp.
- Samburu National Reserve – Sasaab Lodge, Elephant Bedroom Camp, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Saruni Samburu, Samburu Sopa, and Samburu Intrepids Tented Camps.
- Amboseli National Park – Tortilis Camp, Ol Tukai Lodge, Kibo Safari Camp, and Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge.
- Tsavo National Park – Salt Lick Safari Lodge, Finch Hattons, Severin Safari Camp, and Kudu Camp. Lions Bluff Lodge in the Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary is absolute bliss in the African wilderness.
- Chyulu Hills National Park – Campi Ya Kanzi, Umani Springs Camp, Maasai Simba Camp, and Ol Donyo Lodge in the private Mbirikani Group Ranch.
- Nairobi National Park – Nairobi Tented Camp, The Emakoko, Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm, and the nearby Giraffe Manor.
- Meru National Park – Elsa’a Kopje Camp, Kingupuru Luxury Tented Camp, Kina River Camp, Rhino River Camp, and Leopard Rock Lodge
These lodges each offer distinct wildlife encounters, placing you within arm’s reach of Kenya’s varied fauna. Whether it’s:
- Witnessing the great wildebeest migration, and encountering abundant resident wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve
- feeding and walking with rare Rothschild’s giraffe at the Giraffe Manor lodge, visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and other nearby attractions on your tour to the Nairobi National Park
- Watching the majestic elephant herds of Amboseli National Park
- Exploring the remote vastness of the Tsavo National Park
- Mountain climbing expeditions to Mount Kenya and Mount Longonot
Beyond wildlife encounters, Kenya’s premier safari lodge provides a variety of amenities for a heightened safari destination experience. Some of these amenities include:
- Walking safaris with Maasai or Samburu warriors
- Fly camping
- Horseback rides
- Fishing
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Camel ride
- Lion tracking (at Masai Mara)
- Swimming pool amenities
- Bush dining
- Child-friendly activities
- Spa treatments
- Cultural tours to nearby local communities
A Glimpse into Exclusivity: Private Conservancies & Their Lodges
Kenya’s private conservancies offer an intimate and exclusive African safari experience. This exclusivity also characterizes the lodges nestled within these private conservancies. Some of the top conservancies and lodges include:
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Witness the Big Five and other iconic wildlife in the largest black and white rhino sanctuary in East Africa. Best accommodations include Kicheche Laikipia Camp, Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Mansion, and Mutara Camp
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: The endangered rhinos and Grevy Zebra alongside the African wild dog, giraffe, lions, elephants and birds find refuge here. On safari to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, you can stay at Lewa House, Lewa Safari Camp, Sirikoi Lodge, or Lewa Wilderness.
- Loisaba Conservancy: This conservancy sees innumerable buffalo, elephants, and Grevy Zebras crisscross the land in search of pasture. Where there is prey you can expect the majestic lions and leopards to follow. Travellers can lodge at the Loisaba Tented Camp
- Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy: The reticulated giraffes, African Wild dog, Gerenuk, impala, greater kudu, leopards, and lions Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy find refuge in this pristine wilderness. Sarara Luxury Tented Camp and Reteti House are excellent accommodation facilities.
- Solio Game Reserve: This private rhino sanctuary helps in the preservation of these endangered animals. The rhinos live side by side with other wildlife including waterbucks, antelopes, zebras, elands, buffalos and warthogs. On tour of this reserve, you can stay at the Solio Lodge.
These conservancies provide experiences that extend beyond the typical safari. You can:
- Enjoy both day and night game drives
- Go mountain biking on mountain highlands, horse riding and bush jogging and guided bush walks
- Relaxation at an infinity pool where applicable
- Experience camel safaris
- Enjoy cultural village visits
- Sleep under the stars (at the distinctive Loisaba Tented Camp, for example)
- Participate in conservation activities, particularly at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Olkirimatian Conservancy
Waterfront Wonders: Lakeside and Riverfront Safari Lodges
Waterfront safari lodges add a distinct dimension to your safari journey. Take, for instance, Lake Nakuru National Park at the Great Rift Valley in east Africa is home to 50 mammal species including lions, rhinos, buffalos, and Rothschild’s giraffes, and a diverse birdlife that includes hundreds of flamingos, pelicans, and other species. It’s an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
At the Sarova Lion Hill Safari Lodge in Lake Nakuru National Park, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the park and the lake itself. Here you can enjoy bird watching, swimming and other water games, walking safaris, game drives, table tennis, board games, and jogging.
Lake Nakuru Lodge is yet another accommodation option offering a variety of activities including:
- Horse riding
- Massage services
- Romantic sundowners with views of the lake and the Great Rift Valley
- Evening dance performances
Close to Lake Nakuru National Park is Lake Elementaita. This is an excellent lakefront safari destination for birdwatching, quad biking, and camping. Visitors can enjoy a hot air balloon safari over the Elementaita waters, game drives and foot explorations.
Tips For Choosing a Safari Camp
As you plan your Kenyan safari, here are our top recommendations for choosing the top considerations for choosing the best accommodation option
- What game-viewing experiences are you looking for? Kicheche bush camp in the Masai Mara may be ideal for prey-predator action and wildebeest migration viewing as opposed to staying at the Lewa Safari camp.
- What comfort levels and amenities would you like? Would you like a family-oriented suite or an intimate camp? What amenities are ideal? A swimming pool, outdoor shower, Wi-Fi, spa?
- Will you be travelling with or without kids? You’ll want to check the age limit at your preferred lodge to ensure it can work for your family. Similarly, there are child-free accommodations targeting honeymooners, couples, and those seeking adult-only company. mooners, couples, and those looking to enjoy adult-only company.
- How much are you willing to spend? A solid idea of your available budget is critical to planning a safari. Time of year, location and duration of travel, desired experiences and number of guests impact cost. Travelling during the great wildebeest migration season will require a bigger budget than travelling off-season.
- Sustainable accommodations. If furthering the eco-tourism movement is a key consideration, several eco-lodges make concerted efforts towards sustainable tourism.
Summary
Kenya offers a diverse range of safari accommodations to suit every traveller’s preferences, from the classic safari camp to luxury tents and eco-friendly accommodations Whether you’re seeking a lavish retreat in the wilderness or a budget-friendly adventure under the African sky, Kenya safari has something for everyone.
Kenya lodge Safaris – Frequently Asked Questions
Next, we look at the most frequently asked questions about Kenya Lodge safaris.
How Much Is an Average 10-Day Kenya Safari Cost?
The cost of an average 10-day Kenya safari can range from $125 to over $1000 per person per day. It depends on the level of exclusivity and accommodation chosen. Kenya is a country filled with various safaris that provide options for various budgets and preferences.
Is Safari Better in Tanzania or Kenya?
Tanzania is generally better for walking safaris due to the size of the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Kenya is famous for the Masai Mara National Reserve, home to abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, and the annual Great Wildebeest Migration. Both have their unique advantages for safari experiences but Kenya safari is a lot cheaper than Tanzania.
How Many Days Do You Need in Masai Mara?
You should plan to spend a minimum of 4 days and three nights in Masai Mara to experience the full range of wildlife and enjoy 4 game drives during your stay. This will also give you enough time to rest upon arriving at the park.
What Are Some of the Top Safari Lodges in Kenya?
Some top safari lodges in Kenya include Segera in Laikipia, Ol Donyo Lodge in Chyulu Hills, Angama Mara in Maasai Mara, and Mara Plains in Olare. When you visit Kenya consider staying at one of these for unforgettable safari experiences.