Planning a trip to Kenya can feel overwhelming with so many incredible places to choose from. I’ve spent years exploring this beautiful East African country and discovered that picking the right area to stay makes all the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re dreaming of watching the Great Migration in Masai Mara, relaxing on pristine beaches in Mombasa, or experiencing urban culture in Nairobi, I’ll guide you through the top 8 areas that offer something special for every type of traveler. From luxury safari lodges to budget-friendly hostels, this guide covers all the essential spots where you should consider staying during your Kenyan journey.
Best Hotels: 🏠
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Glee Nairobi, a Preferred LVX Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill
- 🏨 4-Star: Skynest Residences by CityBlue, Nairobi - Official
- 🛏️ 3-Star: KenGen Furnished and Serviced Apartments
- 💸 Cheap: MILANY HOMES - near JKIA airport and SGR train station
- 🏢 Apartment: Rafiki Tamu Residential Resort
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Ark Lodge
- 🏩 For Couples: Melili Hotel
Quick Guide to Best Areas to Stay: 📋
- 🏙️ For Urban Adventures: Nairobi
- 🦁 For Safaris: Maasai Mara National Reserve
- 🏖️ For Beach Holidays: Mombasa
- 🌴 For Relaxation: Diani Beach
- 🐘 For Wildlife Viewing: Amboseli
- 🏛️ For Heritage and Culture: Lamu
- 🦓 For Big Five Safaris: Tsavo
- 🌿 For Wilderness and Conservation: Laikipia
1. Nairobi – Best Town in Kenya for Urban Adventures
Westlands District. This part of town is where I always tell people to stay when they visit the capital for the first time. You’ll find shopping malls, good restaurants, and the big Sarit Centre here. I like this area because it’s easy to get to Nairobi’s cool spots and you’re close to where safari tours start.
City Center Access. If you want to see the real Nairobi, downtown is the place to be. You can walk to markets, museums, and local food places from here. My tip is to find a place near Kenyatta Avenue because buses and taxis are easy to catch there.
Airport Proximity Benefits. Staying close to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is smart if you have early flights or safari trips. I found some nice places in this area that work great when you need to leave early or arrive late. Yes, it can be a bit noisy, but most people don’t mind.
Area | Transport Cost (KES) | Transport Cost (USD) | Travel Time to City |
---|---|---|---|
Westlands | 50-100 | 0.40-0.80 | 15-20 minutes |
City Center | 0-50 | 0-0.40 | Walking distance |
Airport Area | 200-300 | 1.60-2.40 | 45-60 minutes |
Dining and Nightlife. The food scene in Nairobi is really good no matter where you stay. You can eat street food downtown or fancy meals in Westlands. I love the rooftop bars in some places where you can see the whole city spread out below you.
Shopping and Business. If you’re in Nairobi for work, Westlands and Upper Hill are your best bets. That’s where most offices and meeting places are. The internet is fast and you’re close to big shopping centers like Westgate and Sarit Centre.
Essential areas to consider:
- Westlands: Modern, safe, shopping access
- City Center: Authentic, budget-friendly, cultural sites
- Airport Area: Convenient, quiet, early departures
Best Accommodation in Nairobi
Luxury Hotels
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill – This upscale hotel features modern rooms with city views, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options including a signature restaurant and bar.
- Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport by IHG – A premium airport hotel offering spacious rooms, a fitness center, and convenient access to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with complimentary shuttle service.
- Glee Nairobi, a Preferred LVX Hotel – This boutique luxury hotel features elegant rooms with contemporary design, a spa, fitness center, and fine dining restaurant serving international cuisine.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel – A comfortable mid-range hotel offering well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving both local and international dishes.
- Swiss-Belinn Nairobi – This modern hotel provides affordable luxury with spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant, plus easy access to shopping and business districts.
- Luxury Skynest with Gym and Pool in Westlands – A stylish apartment-style accommodation featuring fully equipped kitchens, a swimming pool, gym facilities, and contemporary furnishings perfect for extended stays.
Best Hostels
- The Library Hostel – A unique hostel with a literary theme offering comfortable dormitory and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy reading area with books and magazines.
- Mad Vervet Nairobi Backpackers Hostel – A vibrant backpacker hostel featuring dormitory beds and private rooms, a communal kitchen, outdoor terrace, and a social atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- Jabulani Nairobi Backpackers Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel offering clean dormitory accommodation and private rooms, with shared facilities, a garden area, and helpful staff providing local travel advice.
2. Masai Mara – Best Place in Kenya for Safaris
The Great Migration Experience. This is where I watched thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River, and it changed how I see wildlife forever. The Masai Mara gives you front-row seats to nature’s biggest show from July to October. I always tell people this area is perfect for first-time safari visitors because animals are easy to spot year-round.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities. You’ll see the Big Five here more easily than anywhere else in Kenya. Lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos all call this place home. My favorite time is early morning when predators are most active and the light is perfect for photos.
Cultural Interactions. The Masai people live around this area, and I’ve learned so much from visiting their villages. You can watch traditional dances, see how they make jewelry, and learn about their way of life. These cultural visits add something special to your safari experience.
Best Safari Activities | When to Do It | What You’ll See |
---|---|---|
Game drives | Early morning/late afternoon | Big Five, migration (seasonal) |
Walking safaris | Morning | Smaller animals, plants, tracks |
Cultural visits | Afternoon | Masai traditions, local crafts |
Hot air balloon | Dawn | Aerial views, sunrise over savanna |
Landscape and Scenery. The endless grasslands here take your breath away. I love how the landscape changes from open plains to rocky outcrops and acacia trees. During the dry season, you can see for miles, and during the rains, everything turns green and beautiful.
Photography Opportunities. This place is a photographer’s dream. The light here is incredible, especially during golden hour. I’ve taken some of my best wildlife photos in the Mara because animals are comfortable around vehicles and you can get really close.
Safari experience highlights:
- Migration crossing: July-October river crossings
- Big Five sightings: Year-round predator activity
- Cultural experiences: Masai village visits
- Balloon safaris: Aerial savanna views
Best Hotels in Masai Mara
Luxury Camps
- Mara River Camp – This premium tented camp offers luxury accommodation with stunning river views and exceptional game viewing opportunities right from your tent.
- Julia's River Camp – An upscale camp featuring elegant tented suites with private bathrooms and excellent access to wildlife viewing areas along the Talek River.
- Entumoto Main Camp – A high-end camp offering spacious tented accommodation with modern amenities and guided game drives in the heart of Masai Mara.
Best Mid-Range Camps
- Olaloi Mara Camp – A comfortable camp providing well-appointed tents with en-suite facilities and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities at reasonable prices.
- Maji Moto Eco Camp – An eco-friendly camp featuring sustainable accommodation with traditional tented setups and authentic cultural experiences with local Maasai communities.
- Talek Bush Camp – A charming bush camp offering comfortable tented accommodation with shared facilities and easy access to prime game viewing areas.
Best Budget Camps
- Kambu Mara Camp – A budget-friendly camp providing basic but clean tented accommodation with shared facilities and affordable game drive packages.
- Greenwood Safari Camp – An affordable camp offering simple tented accommodation with essential amenities and guided safari activities at competitive rates.
- Mara Leisure Camp – A value-for-money camp featuring comfortable tents with basic facilities and excellent location for wildlife viewing and Maasai cultural interactions.
3. Mombasa – Where to Stay in Kenya for Beach Holidays
Coastal Climate Benefits. The warm Indian Ocean breeze makes the town perfect for beach lovers like me. Temperatures stay comfortable year-round, usually between 25-30°C. I find the coastal climate much more relaxing than Nairobi’s cooler highlands.
Beach Access and Activities. The white sand beaches here stretch for miles, and the water is warm enough for swimming all year. I love snorkeling in the coral reefs just offshore. You can also try deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, or just relax under palm trees.
Historical Significance. The Old Town tells the story of centuries of trade between Africa, Arabia, and Asia. I enjoy walking through the narrow streets, seeing the old buildings, and visiting Fort Jesus. The mix of cultures here creates a unique atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere in Kenya.
Beach Activities | Best Season | Experience Level |
---|---|---|
Swimming | Year-round | Beginner |
Snorkeling | October-March | Beginner |
Deep-sea fishing | August-March | Intermediate |
Windsurfing | June-September | Advanced |
Dhow sailing | Year-round | Beginner |
Local Food Scene. The Swahili cuisine here is incredible. I always recommend trying the seafood curries, coconut rice, and fresh tropical fruits. The spice markets in Old Town will fill your senses with amazing smells from cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
Transportation Hub. Mombasa connects you to other coastal destinations easily. You can take day trips to Diani Beach, Watamu, or Malindi from here. The train to Nairobi is also a fun way to see the countryside if you want to combine beach and city experiences.
Beach experience essentials:
- Swimming: Warm Indian Ocean waters
- Culture: Old Town historical sites
- Food: Fresh seafood and Swahili cuisine
- Day trips: Easy access to other coastal areas
Best Accommodation in Mombasa
Luxury Beach Hotels
- Sentrim Castle Royal Hotel – This upscale beachfront hotel offers elegant rooms with ocean views, multiple restaurants, and a beautiful swimming pool just steps from the beach.
- Tamarind Village Hotel Apartments – A sophisticated apartment-style hotel featuring spacious suites with kitchenettes, a stunning infinity pool, and direct access to pristine beaches.
- Sheratton Beach Villagio – This beachfront resort offers luxurious accommodations with private balconies, spa services, and multiple dining options overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Sapphire – A comfortable hotel featuring modern rooms with air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine.
- CityBlue Creekside Hotel & Suites – This business-friendly hotel offers spacious suites with modern amenities, a fitness center, and convenient location near shopping and dining areas.
- The Ivory Suites – A boutique hotel providing stylish suites with kitchenettes, a rooftop terrace, and personalized service in a quiet residential area.
Best Budget Accommodations
- SEBULENI SEA LUXURY HOMESTAY- WALK TO NYALI BEACH – A charming homestay offering comfortable rooms with local hospitality, just a short walk from beautiful Nyali Beach and local attractions.
- 6 Park Retreat – A budget-friendly guesthouse providing clean, simple rooms with basic amenities and a peaceful garden setting away from the busy city center.
- Azuri Homestay Mombasa – An authentic homestay experience offering comfortable rooms with local family hospitality, home-cooked meals, and insights into Swahili culture.
4. Diani Beach – Where to Stay in Kenya for Relaxation
Pristine White Sand. This 25-kilometer stretch of powder-soft sand is what beach dreams are made of. I’ve walked this beach countless times and never get tired of how perfect it looks. The sand stays cool even in the midday sun, making it comfortable for long walks.
Water Sports Paradise. The coral reef here protects the shore, creating calm waters perfect for swimming. I love kitesurfing here because the wind conditions are ideal from June to September. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding or take a traditional dhow boat trip.
Monkey Forest Encounters. The Colobus monkeys living in the coastal forest behind the beach are amazing to watch. I’ve seen them swinging through the trees and playing near the shore. These rare primates are found only in this part of the coast.
Relaxation Activities | Best Time | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Sunbathing | Morning/late afternoon | Easy |
Beach walks | Early morning | Easy |
Monkey watching | Afternoon | Easy |
Kitesurfing | June-September | Advanced |
Dhow trips | Sunset time | Easy |
Nightlife and Entertainment. The beach bars here create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for watching sunsets. I enjoy the live music that happens most evenings and the friendly mix of locals and travelers. The vibe is relaxed but never boring.
Nature Conservation. The Diani Beach area is part of important conservation efforts. You can visit the Colobus Conservation Center to learn about protecting these unique monkeys. I always feel good staying here because tourism helps fund these important projects.
Relaxation highlights:
- Perfect beaches: 25km of pristine white sand
- Wildlife: Rare Colobus monkeys
- Water sports: Kitesurfing and dhow sailing
- Conservation: Supporting local wildlife protection
Best Accommodation in Diani Beach
Luxury Beachfront Resorts
- Upani in Diani – This upscale beachfront resort offers elegant suites with private balconies, a stunning infinity pool, and direct access to pristine white sand beaches with world-class spa facilities.
- Waterlovers Beach Resort – A premium oceanfront resort featuring spacious rooms with sea views, multiple swimming pools, and exceptional dining options just steps from the coral reef.
- Amkia Villas Diani – Luxurious private villas with fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and beautifully landscaped gardens offering ultimate privacy and comfort for discerning travelers.
Best Mid-Range Beach Hotels
- LalaGalu - Beachfront EcoCabins – Unique eco-friendly beachfront cabins featuring sustainable design, comfortable accommodations, and direct beach access with a focus on environmental conservation.
- Blue Marlin Beach Hotel – A charming beachfront hotel offering comfortable rooms with ocean views, a swimming pool, and easy access to water sports activities and local attractions.
- The Villa Luxury Suites Hotel – Boutique hotel featuring stylish suites with modern amenities, a beautiful garden setting, and personalized service in a tranquil beachside location.
Best Budget Beach Accommodations
- Galu Ecolodge - Diani Beach – An eco-friendly lodge offering comfortable rooms with natural materials, organic gardens, and affordable rates while maintaining sustainable tourism practices.
- Soul Breeze Beach Resort – A budget-friendly beachfront resort providing clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities and easy access to the beach and local dining options.
- Boxo Diani - Unique Beach Front Container Eco-Hotel – An innovative container-based eco-hotel offering unique accommodations with modern amenities, sustainable design, and direct beach access at affordable prices.
5. Amboseli National Park – Where to Stay in Kenya for Wildlife Viewing
Mount Kilimanjaro Views. The backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain makes this park special for me. On clear mornings, you can see Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak rising above the acacia trees. I always wake up early here because the mountain views are best before clouds roll in around 10 AM.
Elephant Herds. This is elephant country, and I mean hundreds of them. The large herds here are famous throughout Kenya, and you’ll see families with babies playing in the dust. The elephants are relaxed around vehicles, so you can watch them up close as they feed and interact.
Diverse Bird Life. Over 400 bird species call Amboseli home, making it perfect for bird watching. I love spotting the colorful bee-eaters, majestic secretary birds, and huge ground hornbills. The park’s swamps attract water birds that you won’t see in other Kenyan parks.
Wildlife Viewing | Best Time | What You’ll See |
---|---|---|
Elephants | All day | Large herds, families with babies |
Birds | Early morning | 400+ species, water birds |
Predators | Dawn/dusk | Lions, cheetahs, hyenas |
Kilimanjaro views | Early morning | Clear mountain backdrop |
Maasai Culture. The Maasai people have lived around Amboseli for centuries, and their villages are just outside the park. I enjoy learning about their traditional cattle herding and how they coexist with wildlife. The cultural visits here feel more authentic than in touristy areas.
Photography Paradise. The combination of elephants and Kilimanjaro creates some of the most iconic photos. I’ve taken countless shots here because the flat landscape and dramatic mountain backdrop make everything look stunning. The dust kicks up beautifully during elephant movements.
Wildlife viewing highlights:
- Elephant herds: Hundreds of elephants in family groups
- Mountain views: Kilimanjaro backdrop on clear days
- Bird watching: 400+ species including rare water birds
- Cultural experiences: Authentic Maasai village visits
Best Accommodation in Amboseli
Luxury Safari Lodges
- Amboseli Discovery Camp – A premium safari camp offering luxury tented accommodation with stunning Mount Kilimanjaro views and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities right from your tent.
- Sentrim Amboseli Lodge – An upscale lodge featuring comfortable rooms with mountain views, a swimming pool, and excellent access to elephant herds and Big Five wildlife viewing.
- AA Lodge Amboseli – A well-appointed safari lodge providing spacious accommodations with modern amenities and guided game drives in the heart of Amboseli National Park.
Best Mid-Range Accommodations
- Amanya 3-Bedroom Hut Amboseli – Comfortable family-friendly huts offering spacious accommodation with traditional design and easy access to wildlife viewing areas and cultural experiences.
- Little Amanya Camp – A charming tented camp providing authentic safari experience with comfortable facilities and excellent elephant viewing opportunities.
- Wild Amboseli Ndovu Cottage – A cozy cottage offering intimate accommodation with personalized service and prime location for wildlife photography and Mount Kilimanjaro views.
Best Budget Safari Camps
- Amboseli Eco Camp – An eco-friendly budget camp providing basic but clean accommodation with sustainable practices and affordable game drive packages.
- Teen Ranch Kenya – A budget-friendly ranch offering simple accommodation with authentic farm-to-table dining and horseback riding activities near Amboseli National Park.
6. Lamu Island – Where to Stay in Kenya for Heritage and Culture
UNESCO World Heritage. This ancient town has been a trading hub for over 700 years, and walking through it feels like time travel. The narrow stone streets, coral buildings, and wooden balconies tell stories of Arab, Persian, and Swahili cultures mixing together. I love how unchanged this place feels compared to modern Kenya.
Car-Free Environment. No cars are allowed on Lamu Island, which creates a peaceful atmosphere I find nowhere else. People get around on foot, by bicycle, or on donkeys. The quiet streets make it perfect for slow exploration and really connecting with the local culture.
Traditional Architecture. The coral stone buildings here are built in traditional Swahili style that’s survived for centuries. I’m always amazed by the intricate wood carvings, heavy wooden doors, and rooftop terraces. Every building has a story and shows influence from different cultures.
Cultural Experiences | Duration | What You’ll Learn |
---|---|---|
Old Town walking tour | 2-3 hours | Architecture, history, trading culture |
Dhow sailing | Half day | Traditional boat building, fishing |
Cooking classes | 3-4 hours | Swahili cuisine, spice use |
Museum visits | 1-2 hours | Island history, cultural artifacts |
Beach and Water Activities. Shela Beach, just a short boat ride away, has 12 kilometers of empty white sand. I love coming here after exploring the town because it’s so peaceful and unspoiled. The water is perfect for swimming, and you can take traditional dhow trips along the coast.
Artisan Crafts. The craftspeople here still make things the traditional way their families have for generations. I enjoy watching them carve wood, make jewelry, and weave baskets. The workshops are open to visitors, and you can buy authentic pieces directly from the makers.
Cultural experience highlights:
- Historic town: 700-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site
- Car-free streets: Peaceful exploration on foot or donkey
- Traditional crafts: Authentic wood carving and jewelry making
- Pristine beaches: 12km of empty sand at Shela Beach
Best Accommodation in Lamu
Luxury Heritage Hotels
- Kijani Hotel – A sophisticated boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored Swahili mansion featuring traditional architecture, rooftop terraces, and elegant rooms with authentic period furnishings.
- Pwani House - Lamu Seafront – An upscale seafront property offering luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views, traditional Swahili design, and easy access to dhow sailing and cultural sites.
- LAMU HOUSE – A charming historic house hotel featuring authentic Swahili architecture, spacious rooms with carved wooden details, and a peaceful courtyard setting in the heart of Old Town.
Best Mid-Range Accommodations
- Amu House – A comfortable guesthouse offering well-appointed rooms with traditional decor, friendly service, and a central location for exploring Lamu’s narrow streets and cultural attractions.
- Samaki House – A cozy traditional house providing authentic Swahili hospitality with comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and easy access to the fish market and local artisan workshops.
- Jannat House – A welcoming guesthouse featuring simple but comfortable rooms with traditional furnishings, shared terraces, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for cultural immersion.
Best Budget Guesthouses
- Jamala Guesthouse – A budget-friendly option offering clean, basic rooms with shared facilities, local hospitality, and convenient location near museums and historical sites.
- Shella White House – An affordable guesthouse providing simple accommodations with authentic local experience, walking distance to Shella Beach, and traditional Swahili architectural features.
7. Tsavo National Park – Where to Stay in Kenya for Big Five Safaris
Massive Park Size. Tsavo is Kenya’s largest national park, split into East and West sections covering 22,000 square kilometers. I always tell people this place feels wild and untouched compared to other parks. The sheer size means you’ll often have wildlife sightings all to yourself without crowds of other vehicles.
Red Elephants Phenomenon. The elephants here are famous for their red color, which comes from rolling in the red soil. I love watching them dust themselves – it’s like nature’s own spa treatment. These elephants are some of the largest in Kenya, and seeing a red-colored herd against the blue sky is unforgettable.
Predator Concentrations. The famous man-eating lions of Tsavo made this place legendary, and today it still has excellent predator viewing. I’ve spotted lions, leopards, and cheetahs here more easily than in busier parks. The open landscape makes it perfect for watching hunting behavior and big cat interactions.
Tsavo Sections | Best For | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Tsavo East | Large herds, open plains | Red elephants, Galana River |
Tsavo West | Diverse landscapes | Mzima Springs, volcanic hills |
Combined visit | Complete experience | All Big Five, varied terrain |
Unique Landscapes. From volcanic hills to natural springs, Tsavo offers scenery you won’t find elsewhere in Kenya. Mzima Springs in the west has crystal-clear water where you can watch hippos and crocodiles underwater through glass panels. The contrast between dry savanna and lush springs always amazes me.
Less Crowded Experience. Because of its size, Tsavo never feels overcrowded like some popular parks. I enjoy the sense of wilderness and adventure here. You might drive for hours seeing wildlife without meeting another vehicle, which creates a more authentic safari feeling.
Big Five safari highlights:
- Red elephants: Unique soil-dusted herds
- Predator watching: Lions, leopards, cheetahs in open terrain
- Mzima Springs: Underwater hippo and crocodile viewing
- Wilderness feel: Less crowded than other major parks
Best Accommodation in Tsavo
Luxury Lodges
- Sentrim Tsavo Lodge – A premium safari lodge offering comfortable accommodations with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and easy access to both Tsavo East and West national parks.
- Maneaters – A historic safari lodge named after the famous Tsavo lions, featuring traditional accommodations with modern amenities and guided game drives in the legendary hunting grounds.
- Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge – An upscale lodge offering spacious rooms with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, a swimming pool, and prime location for spotting the famous red elephants of Tsavo.
Best Mid-Range Accommodations
- Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa – A well-appointed resort featuring comfortable rooms, spa facilities, and excellent game viewing opportunities in the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to Tsavo West.
- Ashnil Aruba Lodge – A comfortable safari lodge providing modern amenities with traditional safari atmosphere, located near the Aruba Dam for excellent wildlife and bird watching opportunities.
- Lavender Garden Hotel – A budget-friendly accommodation offering basic but clean rooms with essential amenities, perfect for travelers seeking affordable access to Tsavo’s wilderness areas.
8. Laikipia & Samburu – Where to Stay in Kenya for Wilderness and Conservation
Conservation Success Stories. These northern regions show how community conservation really works. I’ve seen how local communities protect wildlife while benefiting from tourism. The Laikipia Plateau has some of Kenya’s most successful conservation projects, and you can visit working ranches that combine cattle and wildlife.
Unique Wildlife Species. Samburu has animals you won’t see in southern Kenya parks. The Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich are special to this region. I love how different these northern species look compared to their southern cousins – the patterns and colors are stunning.
Adventure Activities. Beyond game drives, these areas offer activities like camel treks, horseback safaris, and walking with Maasai guides. I tried camel riding here and loved seeing the landscape from a different perspective. The terrain is perfect for adventure activities that other parks don’t allow.
Conservation Activities | Experience Type | What You’ll Learn |
---|---|---|
Community projects | Half day | Local conservation efforts |
Ranch visits | Full day | Wildlife-cattle coexistence |
Walking safaris | 2-3 hours | Tracking, plant identification |
Camel treks | Multi-day | Traditional nomadic lifestyle |
Cultural Diversity. The Samburu people have a rich culture distinct from the Maasai. I enjoy learning about their colorful beadwork, traditional ceremonies, and how they’ve adapted to living alongside wildlife. The cultural exchanges here feel genuine and educational.
Dramatic Landscapes. The northern landscape is rugged and beautiful, with rocky outcrops, acacia woodlands, and the Ewaso Ng’iro River cutting through dry country. I find the scenery here more dramatic than the open plains of southern parks. The sunsets are incredible from elevated viewpoints.
Wilderness experience highlights:
- Conservation projects: Community-based wildlife protection
- Unique species: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich
- Adventure activities: Camel treks, horseback safaris, walking tours
- Cultural diversity: Authentic Samburu traditions and lifestyle
Best Accommodation in Laikipia & Samburu
Luxury Conservation Lodges
- Olesamara Collection – An upscale eco-lodge offering luxury accommodations with stunning views of Mount Kenya, featuring sustainable practices and exclusive access to wildlife conservancies.
- Naro Moru River Lodge – A premium mountain lodge providing elegant rooms with river views, spa facilities, and easy access to Mount Kenya climbing routes and wildlife areas.
- Panari Resort, BW Signature Collection – A luxury resort featuring spacious suites, world-class dining, and spectacular views of Thomson’s Falls with excellent conference facilities.
Best Mid-Range Accommodations
- Anka Resort – A comfortable mountain resort offering well-appointed rooms with garden views, outdoor activities, and convenient access to Mount Kenya National Park.
- The Warwick Hotel, Nanyuki Kenya – A modern hotel providing comfortable accommodations with contemporary amenities, restaurant facilities, and easy access to local attractions and conservancies.
- The Great Circle Lodge – A charming lodge offering cozy rooms with mountain views, traditional hospitality, and excellent base for exploring the Laikipia region.
Best Budget Options
- Tranquil Homestays – A peaceful homestay offering authentic local experiences with comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and insights into highland farming communities.
- Urban Suites, 2 bedrooms bnb – A budget-friendly apartment-style accommodation featuring fully equipped kitchens, modern amenities, and convenient location in Nanyuki town.
- Wooden Knee Cottages Nanyuki – Affordable self-catering cottages offering basic but comfortable accommodation with garden settings and easy access to local markets and attractions.
FAQ
What are the best places to stay in Kenya safari lodges?
The top places to stay for Kenya safari include luxury safari lodges in Maasai Mara National Reserve and boutique tented camps in Samburu National Reserve. These accommodation options offer incredible wildlife viewing with Mount Kenya foothills as a backdrop.
Which hotels in Kenya offer the best spa experiences?
Top spa hotels in Kenya include Giraffe Manor in Karen and Hemingways Nairobi, both featuring world-class wellness facilities. These boutique hotels combine luxury accommodation with rejuvenating spa treatments in East Africa’s most beautiful settings.
Where can travellers find the best beach resort accommodation?
The best beaches in Kenya offer stunning beach resort options along the Indian Ocean coastline. These coastal accommodations provide infinity pools, spa services, and easy access to Kenya’s pristine white sand beaches.
What makes Giraffe Manor the best place to stay?
Giraffe Manor in Karen offers a unique experience where guests can interact with giraffes during breakfast. This boutique hotel near Giraffe Centre provides luxury villa accommodation with unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Which safari camp offers the best Maasai Mara experience?
Safari camps in Maasai Mara National Reserve provide authentic Kenya safari experiences with traditional Maasai cultural interactions. These tented camps offer prime wildlife viewing locations within the game reserve’s heart.
What accommodation options exist near Mount Kenya safari areas?
The foothills of Mount Kenya offer boutique hotels and safari lodges with spectacular mountain views. These top places to stay provide easy access to Mount Kenya National Park and surrounding conservancy areas.
Where should visitors stay in Nairobi for city exploration?
Stay in Nairobi’s Karen district or Westlands for the best places to experience urban Kenya. Hotel Nairobi options in these areas provide convenient access to Nairobi National Park and city attractions.
What makes Samburu National Reserve lodge stays special?
Samburu National Reserve offers unique safari camp experiences with rare wildlife species found nowhere else in Kenya. These safari lodges provide authentic cultural interactions with local Samburu communities in dramatic Great Rift Valley landscapes.
Which villa rentals offer the best Kenya safari access?
Karen villas and luxury accommodations near conservancy areas provide the best places to stay for safari access. These private villa options offer personalized service while maintaining close proximity to major game reserves.
What are the best places to visit from Mara accommodation?
Mara National Reserve lodges provide access to the Great Migration, traditional Maasai villages, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. These best places to stay offer convenient access to Kenya’s most famous safari destinations and cultural experiences.