Best Places to Stay in Kenya: Lodges & Camps for Mindful Safari Travelers

Kenya is world-famous for its stunning landscapes, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Choosing the right Kenya safari accommodation transforms your safari into an unforgettable adventure. From authentic local stays and luxury lodges with sweeping views of the African savannah to secluded eco-friendly camps, Kenya offers a diverse range of meaningful stays designed to deepen your connection to wildlife, culture, and nature.

In this comprehensive guide, we highlight our top handpicked lodges and camps, carefully selected for their prime locations, immersive experiences, unique atmosphere, and warm hospitality. Discover where to stay in Kenya for a safari that nourishes the soul, inspires mindful photography, and encourages deeper reflection on nature and conservation.

Good to know: We visited (and captured) all these places by ourselves, on safari with our trusted local tour operator, Beyond the Plains Kenya Safaris. We highly recommend them for your safari in Kenya. If you reach out directly, it will help if you mention you came through me, or simply request a free Kenya quote, as you won't get better rates from John and his wonderful team anywhere else.

Here are our best places to stay in Kenya, from mid-range to luxury lodges and camps:

Maisha Sweetwaters - Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Maisha Sweetwaters, a luxury Kenya tented camp near Ol Pejeta Conservancy, perfectly combines comfort with conservation. Opened in 2024 and located just 5 km from Rongai Gate, it offers seamless access to Ol Pejeta’s rich biodiversity, including elephants, lions, and the last two critically endangered northern white rhinos.

Spacious tents with private patios overlook the savannah, offering excellent opportunities for spotting birds, watching a beautiful African sunset and enjoying the outdoor fire, keeping the private lounge area comfortable after sunset.

Despite a brief power outage after a heavy rain shower, the attentive staff ensured comfort, enough light, and provided an exceptional meal, highlighting their thoughtful service.

Although I'm usually not a huge fan of buffets, their generous and quality buffet with live cooking stations is a big plus. From freshly grilled meats, and lovely cooked pastas with salads, to local Kenyan dishes and homemade desserts, all made with farm-to-table ingredients. During quieter times, they might offer a set menu.

After your Ol Pejeta safari, their pool is the perfect place to cool off, and a small pool bar serves refreshing drinks. Evenings are best spent at the main bar, where multiple (portable) fireplaces create a cozy atmosphere. If you prefer to enjoy a sky full of stars, head over to the traditional moto to sit around the campfire and identify star constellations.

Practical insights:

• Ideal base for photographing endangered rhinos on safari in Ol Pejeta and supporting conservation
• Don’t miss the inviting pool and cozy fireside evenings under the stars.
• They offer 60 spacious tents with en-suite facilities, including 30 in the front wing, that offer unobstructed views of the landscape.
• Located outside Ol Pejeta Conservancy (not inside), but only 5km away from the gate

With its high level of comfort, friendly staff, and seamless access to the wonders of Ol Pejeta, Maisha Sweetwaters Tented Camp had to be included in our list of the best places to stay in Kenya.

Ashnil Samburu Camp - Buffalo Springs & Samburu

Located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs Reserve, Ashnil Samburu Camp remains a reliable mid-range favorite. Its semi-arid landscape, dotted with East African doum palms and acacia trees, is home to the unique "Samburu Special Five," making it an ideal destination for distinctive wildlife viewing. These species (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx) are considered "special" because they are rarely found together elsewhere in Kenya and have uniquely adapted to the arid conditions of northern Kenya.

Guests enjoy comfortable tents with private riverside decks. Elephants and other wildlife frequently visit the river to drink, offering special sightings directly from your terrace, especially with the dramatic silhouette of Mount Ol Olokwe rising in the distance.

These decks are perfect for quiet mornings or unwinding after your Samburu safari. Activities like bush breakfasts and cultural visits further deepen your connection with northern Kenya’s vibrant ecosystem and communities.

Between game drives, relax by the outdoor pool or lounge in the garden.

The attentive staff provide warm, personalized service throughout your stay, while the on-site restaurant serves à la carte meals featuring a rotating selection of fresh oriental, traditional, and international dishes.

Practical insights:

• Perfect for capturing images of rare species like Grevy’s zebras and reticulated giraffes.
• On game drives, you traverse between Buffalo Springs Nature Reserve & Samburu National Park, divided by the Ewaso Nyiro river
• Not all tents have good views of the river. Tents 1 & 2 have the best views.
• Enjoy guided nature walks and meaningful cultural interactions in a Samburu Village.
• Wildlife can often be seen as soon as you leave the camp gate, making Ashnil a convenient and immersive base for exploring this spectacular area of Kenya.

By choosing Ashnil Samburu, you help support sustainable tourism initiatives and a partnership with Ewaso Lions that promotes human–lion coexistence and local wildlife protection in the Buffalo Springs ecosystem.

Surana Buffalo Springs - Exclusive Boutique Stay

For travelers seeking privacy, Surana Buffalo Springs, a sister property of Ashnil, offers an intimate luxury experience. Opened in 2022, this boutique safari lodge features 17 elegant and spacious units, each with a private plunge pool perfect for wildlife viewing directly from your deck. Additionally, Surana provides two family suites ideal for larger families or groups of friends. Surana Buffalo Springs participates in tree-planting and wildlife protection programmes, and is a member of the Ewaso Conservation and Tourism Forum, helping sustain biodiversity in the Samburu region.

Their full-board ("Grand") packages include expertly guided game drives in open-sided vehicles through both Buffalo Springs and Samburu National Reserves, enhancing your safari photography and wildlife viewing experiences.

Meals are thoughtfully prepared using fresh ingredients, blending local flavors with international dishes for a delicious and luxurious dining experience.

Practical insights:

• Ideal for couples, families or groups seeking exclusivity and comfort.
• Exceptional game viewing with highly skilled guides.
• Excellent cuisine from breakfast through dinner.
• Besides private plunge pools, Surana features a large communal swimming pool with panoramic river views. Guests often enjoy sightings of elephants crossing the river and fish eagles soaring by from the comfort of their sun loungers.

With a new Mara camp opening in September 2025, Surana continues to expand its presence in Kenya, offering exceptional luxury experiences in some of the country’s most beautiful locations. For small groups or families seeking privacy, comfort, and personalized service amidst the wilderness, Surana Buffalo Springs Boutique Safari Lodge is undoubtedly among the best places to stay in Kenya and exemplifies thoughtful safari travel.

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Il Ngwesi Eco Lodge - Maasai Community-Run Lodge

Perched atop the remote Laikipia Plateau, Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge stands out as the only fully community-owned luxury lodge in Kenya. Meaning "People of Wildlife", this eco-lodge is proudly operated by the Il Lakipiak Maasai community, providing meaningful cultural interactions and directly supporting Maasai-led conservation.

Il Ngwesi occupies a private conservancy of 16,500 hectares, bordered by the Lewa, Borana, and Lekurruki conservancies. Wildlife roams freely, especially as initiatives are underway to open boundaries between conservancies, allowing for even greater wildlife migration. On safari, there are chances of spotting iconic species such as elephants, lions, the rare melanistic black leopard, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffes, waterbuck, and the elusive gerenuk; three of Kenya’s famed "Northern Five."

Open-air rooms, thoughtfully crafted from natural materials, blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, inviting deeper reflection.

Each room offers magical views, and if the weather permits, guests can roll their beds (conveniently set on wheels) onto the deck and sleep beneath the stars—an unforgettable experience. At dawn, you wake to the gentle sounds of birds and the humming of bees.

Activities at Il Ngwesi include:

• Tracking rhinos on foot at the community-owned rhino sanctuary
• Visiting traditional Maasai cultural boma to learn hunting and honey-collecting techniques, accompanied by performances of local music and dance
• Enjoying sundowners with panoramic views
• Having a bush breakfast by the Ngare Ndare River
• Guided nature walks led by knowledgeable Maasai guides
• Game drives within Il Ngwesi and neighboring reserves like Lewa and Borana
• Relaxing by the infinity pool, where elephants and giraffes occasionally wander past, or booking a rejuvenating treatment with the in-house beauty and massage therapist

Practical insights:

• Offers a truly authentic, culturally enriching experience with luxury deeply connected to nature and Maasai culture.
• Accommodations provide basic comforts but extraordinary, memorable experiences, including sleeping under the stars.
• Two white rhinos reside within the sanctuary, and guests can track them on foot, accompanied by Maasai guides and rangers.
• Rooms are essentially open-air; while mosquito nets are provided, guests uncomfortable with insects or small wildlife might find the experience adventurous yet slightly unsettling.
• To fully embrace the experience, stay at least two nights—ideally three.
• Reaching Il Ngwesi requires some effort, particularly in rainy seasons, making a 4x4 vehicle highly recommended or using their private airstrip. Despite the journey, the rewards far outweigh the inconvenience.

What truly distinguishes Il Ngwesi is its mission: 60% of all profits are reinvested into lodge maintenance and improvements, while the remaining 40% supports local community projects, including infrastructure, healthcare, and conservation efforts. This sustainable, community-driven approach benefits both people and wildlife. Il Ngwesi has earned multiple accolades for its positive impact, including recognition by National Geographic as one of the "21 Best Places to Stay if You Care About the Planet" (2017).

With its unique sustainability model and breathtaking setting, Il Ngwesi rightfully claims a place among Kenya's best accommodations, perfectly suited to travelers seeking a meaningful connection to the land, its people, and wildlife—ideal for those who want their visit to truly make a difference.

Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge - Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge is a well-established and dependable choice among Kenya safari lodges, known for its consistent mid-range comfort and outstanding lake views. Set within Lake Nakuru National Park, guests have prime opportunities for birdwatching (including seasonal sightings of flamingos) alongside spotting rhinos, lions, and the rare Rothschild's giraffes. Notably, elephants are absent here, as the park is considered too small to support their habitat needs.

The lodge operates active recycling and waste-reduction systems and supports community-focused rhino conservation events like ‘Cycling with Rhinos’, combining eco-friendly hospitality with local biodiversity protection.

Among the various Sopa lodges in Kenya & Tanzania, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge often stands out as one of the best. Located on a hillside along the park’s eastern boundary, the lodge overlooks the alkaline lake, acacia forests, and expansive plains, creating a picturesque setting.

Practical insights:

• Excellent choice for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
• Comfortable, spacious rooms and an inviting swimming pool, ideal for families.
• Extensive breakfast and dinner buffets featuring varied and freshly prepared dishes.
• Generally larger in scale, making it particularly suitable for families and mid-range travelers seeking reliable comfort, ample facilities, and convenience.
• Less suitable for those seeking smaller, boutique-style luxury lodges in Kenya.
• By operating inside Lake Nakuru National Park, guest fees contribute directly to flamingo and rhino conservation efforts and support park management protecting rare species.

Zebra Plains Mara Camp - Masai Mara National Reserve

Zebra Plains Mara Camp is an excellent mid-range tented accommodation near the Talek Gate of Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara National Reserve with expansive views of rolling savannah, often dotted with zebras grazing peacefully on the Mara plains.

Guests praise the camp for its beautiful, well-landscaped grounds and comfortable canvas tents with spacious bathrooms and hot showers. The camp, ideally located near a seasonal waterhole, offers a genuine safari ambiance with attentive, friendly Maasai staff providing security and hospitality. The camp features communal areas with indoor/outdoor lounges, two campfires for storytelling, a pool, and a bar. Evening sundowners on the plains are a highlight.

Also known as Base Camp Zebra Plains, this property is part of the thoughtfully designed Zebra Plains Collection, which caters to diverse traveler preferences, ranging from mid-range comfort to high-end luxury. Whether set within the main Masai Mara Reserve or in adjacent private conservancies, each lodge within this collection provides authentic hospitality, remarkable wildlife experiences, and thoughtfully organized safari activities.

For guests seeking a smaller, more exclusive atmosphere, Little Zebra offers an intimate, fully solar-powered boutique experience, making it ideal for couples and families. For those desiring more upscale indulgence, Royal Zebra provides sweeping savannah views, champagne breakfasts, and massages included in its all-inclusive packages.

Premium luxury options, such as Zebra River Camp and the upcoming Valley Zebra Camp in Lemek Valley, promise refined accommodation with exceptional privacy, spacious tents, and attention to detail. Additionally, the inclusion of partner properties Lalashe Mara and Repoi further enriches the variety of unforgettable safari experiences available.

Practical insights:

• Ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking iconic Mara wildlife imagery and scenic Mara landscapes.
• Zebra Plains Mara Camp is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Talek Gate.
• Guests should inquire about tent locations relative to common areas if mobility is a concern.
• Multiple lodge types available, catering from mid-range to premium luxury.
• For those valuing privacy and personalized safari experiences, booking lodges with private guides (e.g., Little Zebra) enhances flexibility and wildlife encounters
• The Masai Mara is a must-see highlight for travelers visiting Kenya, showcasing expansive savannah plains, iconic umbrella-shaped trees, dramatic skies, and spectacular wildlife sightings.
• Tourism in the Masai Mara plays a vital role in protecting wildlife migration corridors and supports local rangers in their conservation efforts.

In summary, and based on our stay in June 2025, Zebra Plains Mara Camp offers a well-rounded mid-range safari experience with comfortable accommodations, excellent wildlife viewing, and warm hospitality close to Masai Mara’s Talek Gate. The broader Zebra Plains Collection caters well to diverse traveler needs, from intimate boutique stays to premium luxury safaris, all providing authentic Mara adventures without compromising comfort or service quality. Zebra Plains Collection also works closely with local Maasai communities on conservation education and anti-poaching lighting projects to protect lion prides and sustain vital migration corridors within the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem.

Maji Moto Eco Camp - Loita Hills

Nestled in the Loita Hills, northeast of the Masai Mara, Maji Moto Eco Camp offers travelers an authentic and intimate connection to traditional Maasai life. This eco-friendly, community-run camp provides simple yet meaningful accommodation, along with immersive cultural experiences such as guided bush walks, village visits, and refreshing showers using naturally heated water from nearby hot springs.

Maji Moto Eco Camp is carbon-neutral and implements composting toilets, solar power, water conservation, and supports clean water and education projects for Maasai communities alongside environmental preservation. Set atop a hill deep within Maasai territory, the camp overlooks sweeping savannah plains.

While the views alone are memorable, the true magic comes from the camp’s ability to bring visitors closer to Maasai culture. From the moment you arrive, the Maasai hosts warmly invite you into their daily lives. They guide you through the camp, explain local traditions, and encourage you to slow down and appreciate simpler rhythms of life. Here, the distant sound of cattle and sunrise wake-ups become a daily reminder of your deeper connection with nature.

What genuinely distinguishes Maji Moto Eco Camp is the seamless integration of culture and learning. On guided bush walks, Maasai guides share their deep knowledge of native plants, such as using the leleshwa (camphor bush) as a natural deodorant, or aloe vera roots for traditional beer. Visits to nearby villages occur spontaneously during daily life, providing authentic insights rather than staged experiences. Back at the camp, cultural dances and fire-making demonstrations are presented naturally and informally. Guests can also browse handmade souvenirs without pressure, knowing their purchases directly support local artisans.

For travelers interested in deeper cultural insights, it’s possible to respectfully observe the slaughter and preparation of a goat, with every step thoughtfully explained.

Practical insights:

• Strong focus on slow travel, cultural exchange, and mindful experiences.
• Basic yet comfortable accommodations, featuring simple tents with mattresses placed on the floor. Bathroom facilities are external, including bush toilets with proper seats and canvas privacy.
• The toilets are composting toilets, and the camp is solar-powered.
• Meals are local, hearty, and thoughtfully prepared in the traditional Maasai way, aligning guests with the natural rhythm of daily life rather than luxury dining.
• Plan a minimum of two nights for a meaningful stay, and ideally three to fully immerse yourself.

Maji Moto Eco Camp is ideal for travelers prioritizing authenticity over luxury. It’s perfect for those genuinely interested in understanding local cultures, supporting sustainable tourism, and forming deeper connections with the land. Curious, open-minded explorers, conscious travelers, and anyone who believes travel should transcend merely ticking off sights will find this a deeply rewarding experience. If you embrace simple comforts in exchange for rich cultural immersion, Maji Moto Eco Camp will leave a lasting impression.

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort - Great Rift Valley

Located at the edge of Lake Naivasha, the peaceful Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort offers birdwatching, boat tours, and opportunities to encounter wildlife like colobus monkeys, hippos, and zebras directly outside your cottage. Awarded a Gold EcoRating by Ecotourism Kenya, Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort leads sustainability initiatives like lake clean‑ups, tree adoption programmes, erosion control via gabions, and staff‑led environmental activities.

Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, is a popular stop in many Kenya safari itineraries. Especially if you're spending 7 days or more in the country, it offers a refreshing break from the traditional game drives, offering beautiful scenery, rich birdlife, and unique activities, like a boat tour on Lake Naivasha or visits to Hell's Gate National Park, the dramatic landscape that inspired Disney’s The Lion King.

Practical insights:

• Excellent for travelers focusing on birdlife and tranquil landscapes.
• Perfect relaxing break midway through your safari journey.
• Comfortable rooms with a spacious garden or balcony offer great views of the lake
• Safari by boat is a must for spotting hippos and birds, like Kingfisher and Fish Eagle, up close.
• Extensive breakfast and dinner buffets
• Generally larger in scale, making it particularly suitable for families and mid-range travelers seeking reliable comfort, ample facilities, a swimming pool, and convenience.
• Less suitable for those seeking smaller, boutique-style luxury lodges in Kenya.
• Located in a key birding area, the lodge contributes to raising awareness around wetland preservation and biodiversity protection in the Rift Valley.

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Oilepo Amboseli - Amboseli National Park

Oilepo Amboseli Safari Lodge is a charming, small-scale lodge that offers a warm and authentic safari experience just 800 meters from the Kimana Gate of Amboseli National Park. Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with large herds of elephants, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations: compact, accessible, and ideal for photography. Oilepo Amboseli is an eco-conscious safari lodge built with sustainable materials and renewable energy, aligned with Amboseli’s conservation goals to protect elephant migration corridors and reduce human‑wildlife conflict.

Oilepo, and Amboseli NP in general, is also a fantastic place to enjoy a hot-air balloon safari at sunrise, floating above the plains and swamps, with Kilimanjaro in full view.

Oilepo Amboseli strikes a thoughtful balance between comfort and character. Many of its rooms, as well as the main lodge area, provide beautiful views of Kilimanjaro, particularly breathtaking at sunrise. The lodge’s warm, attentive staff creates a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, while the kitchen serves freshly prepared, flavorful meals from a carefully curated menu focused on local ingredients. They also have a cocktail menu, and I loved their coffee (espresso is my favorite). And trust me when I say that lots of places serve coffee that tastes like tea...

This Amboseli safari lodge also offers a sundowner on their property, including a small campfire to enjoy the sunset, the Kilimanjaro views, and the night sky. One of our favorite things to do while staying here.

One of the lodge’s unique features is its small waterhole, visible from the dining area and lounge. Guests can often spot wildlife, including the famous Amboseli tuskers such as Craig, without even leaving the comfort of the lodge. Whether enjoying breakfast, a sundowner, or simply relaxing between game drives, wildlife is often just a glance away.

Although still expanding (new cottages and tented rooms are under development), Oilepo remains committed to maintaining its intimate feel and personal service. Whether you choose a cottage or a tented room, the experience stays rooted in authenticity.

Practical insights:

• Excellent for travelers who prefer boutique stays and intimate settings,
• Also great for wildlife photographers, especially those hoping to capture giraffes or elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.
• Intimate setting with personalized service, clean rooms, and an authentic safari feel.
• Choose between a cottage or a tent. The larger cottages are ideal for families, with 2 rooms and a shared lounge and kitchen area
• Ideally located just 800 meters from the Kimana Gate of Amboseli National Park, Kenya.
• Oilepo Amboseli Safari Lodge doesn't have safari vehicles (yet) to offer game drives, but most travelers book their Kenya safari tour with a local tour operator. Get a free quote from our favorite and recommended Kenya safari company!
• Recommended stay: at least three nights to fully enjoy the landscape and relaxed pace of Amboseli.
• Amboseli is a crucial habitat for elephants, and your stay helps support efforts to preserve migration routes and reduce human–wildlife conflict.

Our stay at Oilepo was a highlight: peaceful, personal, and full of meaningful wildlife moments. It’s a true hidden gem that offers both comfort and connection, making it an ideal base for exploring Amboseli and soaking in the quiet grandeur of Kilimanjaro at your own rhythm.

The day we left, the whole amazing team of Oilepo Amboseli came to say goodbye to us and our guide, Kevin, from Beyond the Plains Safaris.

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge - Tsavo West National Park

One of Kenya's oldest and most beloved safari lodges, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge is perfectly positioned in the heart of Tsavo West National Park, popular for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, striking wildlife, and quiet, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. Opened in 1962 and steeped in heritage, the lodge offers a classic safari experience with all the comforts of the renowned Serena Hotels brand, known for its excellence in hospitality across Africa and Asia. Kiliguni Serena has upgraded its eco‑practices to address climate change while supporting Tsavo West conservation through park fees that fund habitat protection for elephants and large carnivores.

Kilaguni’s standout feature is its iconic waterhole, located directly in front of the main lodge and many of the rooms. This natural magnet for wildlife means you can watch elephants, lions, jackals, buffalo, zebras, and even elusive hyenas from the comfort of your verandah, lounge, or restaurant.

During our two-day stay, the variety of animals we saw coming to drink and interact at the waterhole was nothing short of spectacular: a real-time nature documentary, unfolding before our eyes. Including watching an elephant beneath our balcony, a lion casually passing at the waterhole at night, and the occasional exceptional view of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Tsavo National Park, divided by the Mombasa Highway into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, is Kenya’s largest park and offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to the more famous Maasai Mara or Amboseli. Its vast and diverse landscapes range from savannah plains and volcanic lava flows to natural springs and giant baobab trees. The park is particularly famous for its “red elephants,” whose reddish hue comes from the iron-rich soil.

Tsavo is also home to the rare fringed-eared oryx (found only here) and the impressive Five Sisters rock formation. It feels wild and remote, perfect for travelers seeking solitude and a deeper connection to nature.

Staying at Kilaguni Serena offers access to a range of unforgettable experiences:

• Mzima Springs – A crystal-clear oasis fed by underground rivers from the Chyulu Hills. Home to hippos, crocodiles, fish, and water birds. There’s even an underwater viewing chamber to observe hippos in their natural habitat.

• Shetani Lava Flow – A field of solidified lava from ancient volcanic eruptions. A dramatic landscape unlike anywhere else in Kenya.

• Chaimu Crater – For the adventurous, hike up this black cinder cone for panoramic views of the surrounding plains.

• Poacher’s Lookout – A viewpoint offering sweeping views over Tsavo’s vast wilderness. A great spot for sundowners or to reflect on the enormity of the land.

• Rhino Sanctuary – While sightings are rare and require patience, Tsavo West is also home to a protected black rhino sanctuary.

Kilaguni Serena features 56 rooms spread across two wings, each designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape with natural stone, timber, and thatch. Earthy tones and African décor reflect the spirit of the wild while ensuring comfort and tranquility.

Guests enjoy:

• Spacious rooms with private verandas overlooking the waterhole and/or Chyulu Hills
• A generous buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with local and international dishes
• Attentive, friendly service from staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home
• A relaxing swimming pool with sun loungers and shade
• Guided nature walks and hikes, including short trails where you might spot klipspringers, hyraxes, or catch sight of birds like hornbills and eagles
• Game drives in Tsavo West National Park with a knowledgeable private guide from Serena in a Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
• A cozy bar and lounge for drinks and storytelling after your evening game drive

Practical insights:

• Ideal lodge for wildlife photography without leaving the lodge: the waterhole offers all-day animal activity right in front of your room. It's therefore the best place to stay in Tsavo West for wildlife viewing.
• Ideal for travelers wanting to explore Kenya’s lesser-visited volcanic landscapes and unique ecosystems.
• This lodge contributes to wildlife preservation through its support of Tsavo conservation initiatives and eco‑tourism that helps fund anti‑poaching patrols in the national park.
• Don’t miss the chance to photograph Tsavo’s famous “red elephants”, which coat themselves in the park’s iron-rich soil.
• Part of Serena Hotels, a respected hospitality group with 35 properties across East Africa, Mozambique, and South/Central Asia.
• Well-suited for families, couples, solo travelers, and those looking for a lodge that combines heritage, comfort, and authenticity.
• Easily combined with a coastal beach holiday. Tsavo West is within reach of Diani Beach, Mombasa, or Watamu, making it perfect for a bush and beach itinerary.

Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge is a place where time slows down. The wildlife comes to you, the landscapes stir the soul, and every corner of the lodge is infused with Kenya’s wild spirit. This lodge offers not just a stay, but an experience deeply rooted in place and history. If you’re planning a meaningful safari, Kilaguni is among the best places to stay in Kenya; an iconic lodge in a landscape that feels both ancient and alive. And don't forget to plant a tree before you leave, a way to give back to nature.

Nomad Beach Resort - Diani Beach

After your Kenya safari adventure, unwind in style at Nomad Beach Resort on the pristine shores of Diani Beach. Nestled within 26 acres of indigenous coastal forest, this boutique eco-resort (The Sands at Nomad) offers an intimate atmosphere where traditional Swahili architecture is seamlessly blended with modern comfort and sustainability, making it the perfect bush-and-beach retreat.

The resort features just 29 individually styled rooms and suites, ranging from cozy Sea Breeze Rooms to elegant Beach Cottages and spacious Ocean View Suites. Each room is thoughtfully designed with handcrafted furniture, natural materials, and soft coastal tones. For those seeking extra privacy, Nomad’s private beachfront villas offer seclusion, personal plunge pools, and direct access to the white-sand beach, perfect for honeymooners or anyone craving peace and exclusivity.

Diani Beach itself is one of Kenya’s most beloved coastal destinations, known for its powder-soft sand, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Activities abound, from snorkeling and diving among coral reefs, kitesurfing, and deep-sea fishing, to exploring Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, or watching sea turtles nest along the shoreline (seasonal). Whether you’re an active adventurer or a slow traveler seeking rest, Diani offers the space to do both.

Practical insights:

• Perfect post-safari destination to relax, reflect, and reconnect with yourself after time in the bush.
• Located on a quiet stretch of Diani Beach with direct beach access and calm, swimmable waters.
• Rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and air-conditioned; many with private verandas or balconies and stunning sea or garden views.
• Eco-conscious ethos: the resort avoids single-use plastics, uses solar power, and owns a farm to harvest fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs & spices.
• Nomad Beach Resort supports turtle conservation and local marine initiatives. Guests can join seasonal turtle hatchling releases or visit the in-house Marine Education Centre to learn about conservation work.
• Home to Nomad Beach Bar & Restaurant, considered one of the best beach dining spots on the coast, serving fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and craft cocktails with views of the Indian Ocean.
• Onsite wellness offerings, including beachfront yoga, massage treatments, and a small gym.
• Ideal for water sports lovers offering surf, SUP, kite, and dive schools within walking distance.
• Convenient for excursions to Wasini Island, Shimba Hills, or snorkeling in Kisite Marine Park.
• Great for couples and solo travelers, though some areas may not be ideal for very young children due to its peaceful, adult-friendly vibe.

With its thoughtful design, commitment to sustainability, and unbeatable beachfront location, Nomad Beach Resort is a standout among coastal retreats in Kenya. Whether you're looking to decompress after a wildlife-rich safari or extend your journey with mindful seaside moments, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak up Kenya’s coastal magic.

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FAQs About Staying in Kenya for Safari

1. Where to stay in Kenya to see elephants? Amboseli (Oilepo Amboseli), Tsavo West (Kilaguni Serena), and Samburu (Ashnil Samburu/Surana Buffalo Springs).
2. Best community-run lodge in Kenya? Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge offers unmatched cultural immersion.
3. Ideal lodge in Masai Mara for wildlife photography? The mid-range Zebra Plains Mara Camp provides prime wildlife opportunities, or choose one of the more intimate and luxury lodges of the Zebra Plains Collection. If you prefer to stay in one of the Mara conservancies, I highly recommend House in the Wild in Enonkishu Conservancy.
4. Lodge best suited for mindful travelers? Il Ngwesi and Maji Moto emphasize cultural connection and reflection.
5. Which lodge is best for birdwatchers? Lake Nakuru Sopa and Lake Naivasha Sopa are located at the lakes and therefore ideal for (aquatic) bird photography. That said, Amboseli, Samburu, and Masai Mara are great national parks for birders too.