Let us interest you with some information on the best accommodation options you can choose from.
The Various World-Class Accommodation Tiers in Kenya
The country of Kenya, Africa, offers tourists who visit this nation on safaris a wide range of accommodation tiers to choose from, from ultra-luxury options to low-budget options, all-inclusive beach hotels, private villas, and lodges that are often distinguished from one another by their locations, amenities, and exclusivity. These include.
Ultra Luxury/Premier Accommodation (Tier 1) (e.g., Giraffe Manor, Nairobi)
These premier or ultra-luxury lodging options are those that are found in tourist places like private conservancies, Nairobi, Lamu Archipelago, Masai Mara, etc.
They offer exclusivity or personalized service to guests, fine dining, private butlers, world-class spa treatments, private swimming pools, and top-rated guides for private game drives in the stunning landscapes and authentic cultural experiences of the region, among other things, to people who explore or plan to stay there.
With some including popular luxury hotels and lodges like Giraffe Hotel Nairobi, Entim Camp (Maasai Mara), Fairmont the Norfolk, Tribe Hotel, and Ole-Sereni, etc., they often cost around $1500 to $3500+ per evening per person, based on whether they fall in further classifications of the Silver, Golden, and Platinum classes.
Mid-range Accommodation (Tier 2-3)
These are lodgings in tiers 2 and 3, often found in tourist places like the Masai Mara National Reserve and Nairobi, among others. They often encompass tented camps and stylish lodges that are comfortable and offer a good balance between amenities and value for money for people who plan to stay there.
With some, including the Sarova Panafric (Nairobi), Fairmont Mara Safari Club, and Serene Beach Resort & Spa, among others, their costs often range from $800 to $1,500 per person per evening, depending on location and additional amenities.
Economy or Budget Accommodation (E1-E2)
These are lodging options that are often located in major towns and hubs or just a little further from or outside the main safari park gates, like at the Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, etc., offering low-budget facilities to travelers looking for where to spend the evening without breaking the bank.
They’re often clean and frequently family-run, with a personalized experience, and some of them may include the Silent Sky Homestay in Nairobi, Sentrim Amboseli, Southern Sun Mayfair, etc.
It is worth noting that in most cases, those who prefer the camping option, which includes spending a night within national parks in tented camps in proper beds under the African stars while listening to the sounds of the African night and offering direct nature immersion, also consider it budget-friendly.
African safari Destinations in Kenya and Tourist Places with the Best Safari lodges, Hotels, and camps
Several tourist places and regions in Kenya have some of the best camps, lodges, and resorts, typically offering ensuite rooms spread across a garden, along a beach, in volcanic landscapes, or in safari park areas, providing more personal service, coastal relaxation, and iconic wildlife viewing. Some of these include.
Nairobi
As the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi often serves as the gateway to most lodgings in the country that blend safari vibes, for example, in Nairobi National Park, as well as sheer airport and city convenience.
Some of the popular lodgings in Nairobi include the Giraffe Manor in Nairobi (which allows guests to interact with resident giraffes), Hemingways Nairobi, Ololo Safari Lodge, Fairmont the Norfolk, Tribe Hotel, and Ole-Sereni, etc., with unique characters and amenities.
Buffalo Springs and Samburu Game Reserve
These Kenyan game reserves, linked in almost one Samburu ecosystem, are another of the best tourist destinations in Kenya, with the best housing facilities that offer travelers who go there comfortable stays.
Additionally, they offer them local Samburu cultural encounters and unique game drives to see the unique wildlife, such as Grevy’s zebra, ostriches, beisa oryx, elephants, etc., in a less crowded setting.
Some of the good lodgings there include the Samburu Simba Lodge, Elephant Bedroom Camp, and Ashnil Simba Lodge, among many others.
Chyulu Hills
As a remote region in Kenya with Mount Kilimanjaro views, Chulu Hills is another of the top destinations in Kenya with the best lodging facilities that offer guests who choose to stay there a wide range of vistas as well as diverse activities like walking safaris.
Some of the good ones include Ol Donyo lodge, Campi ya Kanzi, among many others, with an eco focus, sweeping views, and private plunge pools.
Maasai Mara National Reserve (The Masai Mara)
This is one of the top tourist destinations in Kenya, with some of the world-famous lodging options in Kenya that offer tourists staying in them the best views of the Great migration spectacle, access to private conservancies, and fascinating sightings of the Big Five animals.
Some of the popular accommodations include the Angama Mara, Mara Plains Camp, the Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Camp, Mahali Mzuri, Governor’s Camp, and Rekero Camp, among many others.
Diani Beach
Diani Beach, with its turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, post safari relaxation, and Swahili vibes along the Kenyan coastline, is another of the best destinations in Kenya with the best lodging options.
Some of the lodging options include Nomad Beach Resort, Swahili Beach Resort, Leopard Beach Resort & Spa, and Kinondo Kwetu, among many others.
Private Conservancies in Kenya
These are community- or privately-managed wild fauna areas in major safari parks that offer the best unique safari experiences in Kenya since they prioritize community development, wildlife conservation, and sustainable tourism.
The lodging options found in these private conservancies, like the Ol Pejeta conservancy, Lewa, Segera, Borana, Ol Kinyei, Mara Naboisho, Mara North, Olare Motorogi, etc., offer more privacy and deeper nature immersion to travelers who choose to spend their evenings there.
Beyond all the above popular destinations, there are other regions, places, and destinations in Kenya, like Mount Kenya NP, Tsavo West NP, Northern Kenya regions, the south side regions of Kenya, Amboseli National Park, and others, with good lodging facilities that connect well to the Kigali International Airport, often costing between $200 and $4000 per person per evening depending on the chosen tier.
Main Types of Kenya Accommodation
Some of the main types of lodgings in Kenya that offer some of the best facilities and comfortable stays to guests include the ones detailed below.
Kenya Safari Lodges
The Kenya safari lodges that range from budget to midrange to luxury lodges are some of the best accommodations in the country.
These are often solid structures made of wood, stone, or thatch that may be either small or big that capture well the essence of the bygone era.
They offer guests who choose them the best personalized services, with full facilities like swimming pools, ensuite bathrooms, infinity pools, private terraces, Wi-Fi, and restaurants serving good food, among others, that are preferred by most travelers.
They are often found in good locations with picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes and unique wild fauna species that roam freely in the savannahs of destinations and wildlife areas like the Buffalo Springs, Samburu, Amboseli, and Masai Mara National Reserve, among others.
The Kenyan safari lodges often cost about $150–$250 for budget rooms, $300–$600 for midrange rooms, and $700–$2,500+ for luxury lodgings.
Some of the hand-selected and renowned examples of these lodges include.
Lodges like Mahali Mzuri, &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Angama Mara, Sanctuary Olonana, Tortilis Camp Amboseli, Mara Plains Camp, Elsa’s Kopje, Sala’s camp, Finch Hattons Tsavo West, Cottar’s 1920s Camp, Rekero Camp, etc., are for those looking for luxurious lodges in Kenya.
For midrange lodges, travelers can choose from options like Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Porini Mara Camp, Satao Camp Tsavo, Amboseli Serena Lodge, Loyk Mara Camp, and Keekorok Lodge, among many others.
The budget lodges suitable for travelers with low funds include the Mara Leisure Camp, Sentrim Mara, Fig Tree Camp, Siana Springs, Ashnil Mara Camp, AA Lodge Amboseli, and Kipalo Hills, among others.
Those interested exploring parks for unique experiences, game drives, culture-related visits, wildlife viewing, birding, and other safari activities, these Kenyan safari lodges are definitely the best lodgings to choose from.
Tented Camps (Safari or Mobile Camps)
The tented glamps or camps that range from safari camps to the mobile camps with the essence of the bygone era are another of the lodgings in Kenya worth staying at during Kenyan safaris.
Tented safari and mobile camps that are sometimes permanent or semi-mobile on raised platforms that range from luxurious to rustic and stylish canvas accommodations.
These offer some of the best immersive untamed wilderness and bush experiences with modern amenities like the ensuite bathrooms, private verandas, good beds, private decks, etc.
They often support activities like guided walking safaris, game drives, cultural experiences, night drives, and great migration views since they often follow this great spectacle in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Examples of these include luxury tented camps like Great Plains Mara Nyika, Elephant Pepper Camp, Ol Seki Hemingways Mara, Rekero Camp, Asilia Topi House, Saruni Rhino, Severin Safari Camp, Sirikoi, Mara Plains Camp, Richard’s River Camp, Saruni Samburu, Little Governors’ Camp, Saruni Mara, Sala’s Camp, &Beyond Kichwa Tembo, Finch Hattons Luxury Camp, etc.
The midrange tented safari camps and mobiles include Naboisho Camp, Governors’ Camp, Entim Mara, Loyk Tsavo Camp, Ashnil Samburu, Basecamp Masai Mara, Tipilikwani Mara Camp, Sarara Camp, Elephant Bedroom Camp, Porini Lion Camp, Kicheche Bush Camp, Karen Blixen Camp, Lewa Safari Camp, Encounter Mara, and others.
The budget camps include Kicheche Valley, Ithumba Hill Camp, Oldarpoi Mara, Acacia Camp Mara, Ol Kinyei Porini, Neptune Mara Rianta, Emboo River Camp, Mara Explorer, Losokwan Camp, Offbeat Mara Camp, Jambo Mara Safari, etc.
Travelers on Kenya safaris, especially those following the great migration spectacle or those seeking intimate, eco-focused experiences in private conservancies and other locations, can choose from any of the mobile or bush camp options above or more for the best African wilderness safaris.
World-Class Beach Resorts and Hotels in Kenya (Indian Ocean Coast, Diani Beach, Mombasa, Watamu, And Lamu)
The beach resorts and hotels in Kenya are among the best lodgings in the nation, worth staying at during Kenyan tours.
These beachfront hotels and resorts are often situated along the Kenyan coast in areas like Diani, Lamu, and Watamu, along the Indian Coast, where guests can easily enjoy supported activities like snorkeling, spa treatments, leisure amid the lush gardens, and Swahili architectural elements with palm-fringed ocean views.
Beach resorts and hotels in Kenya often offer all-inclusive packages with pools, water sports, etc., and the budget examples include Neptune Village, Southern Palms, Diani Sea Lodge, Waterlovers Beach resort, Pinewood Beach Resort, and others.
The midrange boutique beachfront properties are Diamonds Leisure Watamu, the Maji Beach Boutique, Baobab Beach Resort, Leopard Beach Resort, Swahili Beach Resort, etc.
The high-end seaside properties include Alfajiri Villas, Nomad Beach Resort, Almanara Diani, Msambweni Beach House, Kinondo Kwetu, and Hemingways Watamu, among others.
For the best beach vibes and relaxation, travelers on Kenyan vacations can book and reserve their stays at any of these lodging options found in the different locations.
Kenya Hotels in Urban Centres and Cities
The various Kenya hotels in urban centers and cities like Nairobi are another of the best accommodation types in Kenya, worth staying at during Kenyan safari holidays.
The boutique hotels in Kenya offering a variety of housing options that suit most budgets and preferences all have unique characters and include popular hotel brands and established names in cities like Nairobi near the airport, Westlands, Karen, etc.
Some of the luxury hotels in Kenya offering the most outstanding services and facilities include Villa Rosa Kempinski, Fairmont The Norfolk, Tribe Hotel Nairobi, Hemingways Nairobi, Palacina Suites, Nairobi Serena, etc.
The midrange hotels in Kenya include Ole Sereni Nairobi, Jacaranda Nairobi, Sarova Panafric, Crowne Plaza Upper Hill, Tribe Hotel Nairobi, Acacia Premier Hotel Kisumu, ibis Styles, etc.
The budget hotels in Kenya include properties like Sentrim Boulevard, Boma Inn Nairobi, Heron Portico, PrideInn Westlands, Hilton Garden Inn JKIA, and Silent Sky Homestay (a budget-friendly option near Nairobi Airport offering a quiet stay), among others.
Staying in any of these Kenya hotels during trips offers most guests the best stays in different locations, making them worth booking and staying at.
Kenya’s Bed & Breakfasts and Guesthouses
The guesthouses, Bed & Breakfasts, are another of the good lodging options in Kenya, worth spending a night at during Kenya trips.
They are often family-run, small in size, but offer affordable, warm stays with personalized and budget-friendly experiences like self-catering or simple meals, and are common in urban areas, near safari parks, or on the coast.
Some of the luxury B&Bs and guesthouses include The Emakoko, Kinondo Kwetu (coast), Palacina Nairobi, Ngong House, Sirai Beach House (coast), etc.
The midrange options include House of Waine, the Nook Nairobi, Loldia House, Macushla House, Acacia Tree Lodge, Karen Gables, etc.
The budget B&Bs and guesthouses in Kenya include Wildebeest Eco Camp, Silent Sky Homestay, Milimani Backpackers, Wildebeest Eco Camp, and Kenya Comfort Hostel, among many others.
Tourists on Kenyan vacations seeking comfortable stays without breaking the bank, these are the most convenient options.
Camping in Kenya East Africa
This is another of the good housing options in Kenya that favours adventure seekers looking for a comfortable and traditional safari experience on Kenya trips.
This camping experience is often found in places in or near safari parks and conservancies, and all one needs is to carry their own tent or stay at the public campsites with basic facilities like bucket showers.
Some of the available hand-selected basic, public campsites in Kenya where camping is done include Porini Rhino Camp (a popular glamping site), Sanctuary Ol Lentille Starbeds, Loisaba Star Beds, Saruni Samburu Starbeds, Lewa Wilderness Starbeds, and others for those seeking to camp the luxurious way.
Those interested in midrange options can glamp at Fisherman’s Camp Naivasha, Crayfish Camp Naivasha, Naivasha Kongoni Lodge campsite, Sentrim Tsavo campsite, and other special or private campsites.
For those looking for low-budget camping experiences, they can pitch tents at Hell’s Gate campsites, Mountain Rock Camp, Kimana Camp Tsavo, and other public campsites in Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo parks, etc.
Important Tips to Look at When Choosing Kenya Lodgings
Tourists looking forward to choosing Kenya accommodation, it’s best to look at these tips and notes to aid you in choosing the best because the variety of lodgings in the nation suits different travel styles and preferences.
- Group Size: Travelers are strongly encouraged to choose lodgings based on their group size, such as couples, big families, or larger groups.
- Personal Preferences: Tourists are strongly encouraged to book accommodation that falls in line with their personal preferences and desired experiences.
- Safari Activities: Travelers are strongly encouraged to book lodgings that prioritize safari activities included on their itineraries in conservancies and parks, such as game drives, culture, the great migration, spa treatments, yoga, adventure sports, etc.
- Budget: Tourists are encouraged to only choose lodgings that fall in their intended budgets, whether luxury, midrange, or budget, for great value maximization.
- Amenities: Tourists are encouraged to choose lodgings that have all the facilities they desire, like private guides, butlers, spa treatments, and all-inclusive packages, etc.
- Best Time: Though this varies by region, travelers are encouraged to book accommodation at the most appropriate time that suits their activities, e.g., those who wish to see the annual wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve should book lodges and camps early before the peak season to avoid missing out.
Consulting the best Kenya tour operators is strongly recommended for the most personalized recommendations.
Reputable Kenya Tour Operators That Help Book Accommodations
- Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd
- Wild Gorilla Safaris
- Kenya safari Tours
- Africa Safari Tours
- Tanzania Safaris and Tours
Call or email any of these travel specialists for planning and booking of your lodgings.
Commonly Asked Questions About Accommodations in Kenya
Is Kenya Expensive to Visit?
Kenya, as an East African nation, can be very expensive or not expensive because budget-conscious travelers can spend as little as $200 a day, whereas luxury tourists can spend up to at least $4000 per day or just $10,000 in a week, depending.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Kenya?
The most optimal months to visit Kenya largely depend on your preferences for example those interested in viewing the great migration spectacle in the Masai Mara National Reserve, July to October are just perfect, while for those interested in fewer crowds but excellent wild fauna sightings, January to March is good and those who want to witness the calving season and see baby animals or do bird observations, December to February is okay.
Where Do Most Americans Live in Kenya?
Most Americans who come to Kenya live in Nairobi (areas like Karen, Westlands, Gigiri, and Runda) or along the coast in Diani Beach, Lamu, and Watamu.
What Are the Five Types of Accommodations?
The five types of lodgings in Kenya, East Africa found in the north, east, south and west parts of the nation, include
- Safari Lodges
- Tented Glampsites
- Mobile/Semi-mobile Camps
- City & Town Hotels
- Beach Getaways & Hotels
How Much Does Rent Cost In Kenya?
Rental costs range from $200 to $5000 a month, depending on the type of apartment, location, or neighbourhood you choose to stay in.
Can A US Citizen Live in Kenya?
Yes, a US citizen or national can live in Kenya as long as they obtain a tourist visa, which lasts for 90 days, or a retirement or investor/work permit or visa.
In the end, travelers seeking accommodation or lodging in Kenya need to understand that it is always a good choice to choose the different lodgings available that cater to all travel styles, whether one wants to experience a unique adventure in the bushlands and off the beaten tracks or relax at the beach resorts with exceptional service or stay in boutique hotels or lodgings that support sustainable tourism and conservation projects.
Call or email us now and let us book the best lodgings for you in any region so that you spend your tailor-made trip to Kenya the best way!
