Below are some of the best safari lodges in Kenya to consider.
Kenya Luxury Safari Lodges
Kenya’s luxury lodges combine beautiful rooms, standout guiding, and front-row wildlife viewing—often in private conservancies where there are fewer vehicles and a more exclusive feel. Expect excellent food and thoughtful extras like sundowners, bush walks, and community visits.
1. Angama Mara (Maasai Mara)
Angama Mara sits high above the Mara on the Oloololo Escarpment, with sweeping views across the plains and easy access to the Mara Triangle.
It has 30 elegant suites with floor-to-ceiling glass, private decks, and thoughtful touches that keep the focus on the view.
The overall feel is polished and peaceful—ideal after a day out on the plains.
Guests can enjoy 4×4 game drives, hot-air balloon safaris, and curated cultural experiences.
Rates start from about $1,331 per night. It’s a strong choice for honeymooners and photographers who want a high-end Mara experience.
2. Giraffe Manor (Nairobi)
In Nairobi’s Lang’ata suburb, Giraffe Manor is a famous boutique hotel where Rothschild’s giraffes may wander over during breakfast (and sometimes lunch).
Managed by The Safari Collection, it offers 12 individually styled rooms, spa services, and easy add-ons like city excursions.
Rates start from about $1,284 per person. It’s ideal for families and wildlife lovers who want a memorable, calm start (or finish) to a Kenya trip.
3. Mara Plains Camp (Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Maasai Mara)
Mara Plains Camp is set in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy, with seven stylish, solar-powered tented suites overlooking the Ntiakitiak River.
Run by Great Plains Conservation, the camp is known for excellent guiding and private vehicles—great for guests who want flexibility in the field.
Activities include game drives, cultural visits, and hot-air ballooning, with the chance to see lions, leopards, zebras, and more.
Rates range from about $1,606 to $3,133 per night. It’s best for couples, conservation-minded travelers, and serious wildlife photographers.
4. &Beyond Bateleur Camp (Maasai Mara)
At the base of the Oloololo Escarpment, &Beyond Bateleur Camp blends classic safari style with modern comfort.
Expect polished wooden floors, tasteful antiques, and attentive butler service across two intimate camps with nine tented suites each.
Guests come for the views, the strong game viewing, and the excellent food.
Prices start from about $1,420 per person per night. It suits travelers who love a refined, old-world safari atmosphere paired with great guiding.
5. Elewana Tortilis Camp (Amboseli)
With Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, Elewana Tortilis Camp sits in a private conservancy bordering Amboseli National Park, known for its open views and calm, spacious feel.
The camp has 16 roomy suites, an infinity pool, and memorable bush dining—ideal for travelers who want comfort without losing the wild setting.
Prices range widely (about $300 to $4,500 per night, depending on season and package). It’s a top pick for anyone hoping to see Amboseli’s famous elephant herds.
6. Elsa’s Kopje Lodge (Meru National Park)
Built into Mughwango Hill, Elsa’s Kopje overlooks Meru’s wide-open landscape and is often described as one of Kenya’s most romantic lodges.
Part of the Elewana Collection, it offers six cottages, honeymoon suites, and a private house.
There’s an infinity pool, spa, and fine dining, plus activities like birding, sundowners, game drives, and cultural visits.
Rates start from about $500. It’s best for honeymooners and travelers who value scenery, privacy, and a quieter park.
7. Sasaab Lodge (Samburu)
Sasaab brings Moroccan-inspired design to the rugged beauty of Samburu, creating a bold, distinctive safari base in northern Kenya.
Its 11 luxury tents come with expansive views, and many include private plunge pools. Activities can include camel safaris, quad biking, and Samburu cultural experiences.
Managed by The Safari Collection, rates start from about $1,209 per night. It’s great for travelers who want adventure, striking scenery, and the chance to see Samburu’s wildlife (including elephants and big cats).
8. Mahali Mzuri (Olare Motorogi Conservancy)
Owned by Richard Branson, Mahali Mzuri sits in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy and offers a stylish, low-footprint “glamping” experience with sweeping views and modern comforts.
Guests can book 4×4 game drives, community visits, and spa treatments. Rates start from about $1,500 per night, making it a strong option for travelers who want luxury with a more private, uncrowded feel.
9. Sanctuary Olonana (Maasai Mara)
Set on a private stretch of the Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana combines contemporary design with an eco-luxury approach.
The property has 14 glass-fronted suites, plus the Geoffrey Kent Suite with a private pool and butler service.
On-site, you’ll find wellness treatments and guided safaris, with rates varying by season. It’s best for travelers who want seclusion, comfort, and time close to the river.
10. Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp (Maasai Mara)
Located in Olderkesi Conservancy, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp channels the golden age of safari, with vintage décor and attentive service.
With elegant suites and private guiding, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy the privacy, and spend your days in some of the Mara’s most wildlife-rich areas.
You can join guided walks, Big Five game drives, and cultural visits. Rates start at around $1,000 per person, and it’s a lovely fit for romantic getaways and anyone who enjoys that vintage safari feel.
Other notable luxury safari lodges in Kenya
In the Maasai Mara region, you’ll also find plenty of great options—especially for families and travelers who like a tented-camp vibe—for example:
- Sala’s Camp sits in the far south of the Maasai Mara and keeps things wonderfully quiet and remote, with just seven roomy tents.
- Governors’ Camp is one of the Mara’s classic names—traditional canvas tents in a beautiful setting, with great views and a strong safari feel.
- Basecamp Wilderness is an eco-luxury camp in Naboisho Conservancy, known for its down-to-earth hospitality and strong focus on sustainability.
- Kicheche Mara Camp is small and intimate, with only eight tents—ideal if you prefer a quieter camp and a more personal experience.
- Governors’ Il Moran Camp is a more upmarket option in the Governors’ family—often chosen by filmmakers and travelers who want a polished, classic-luxury camp.
More well-known luxury options in and around the Mara include &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Mara Kempinski, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Offbeat Mara Camp, Elephant Pepper Camp (Elewana Collection), Porini Lion Camp, Porini Cheetah Camp, Porini Mara Camp, and others.
More picks in the Maasai Mara: Ngare Serian, Serian—The Original, Serian Nkorombo Mobile Camp, Ol Seki Hemingway’s Mara Camp, Rekero Camp (Eco), Sand River Masai Mara (Elewana), Saruni Mara Camp, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mara Bush House, Kicheche Valley Camp, and more.
Samburu / Northern Kenya: Elephant Bedroom Camp, Sarova Shaba Lodge, Siruai Mobile Camp, Solio Lodge, and others.
Laikipia / Lewa / Mt. Kenya: Elewana Kifaru House, Sweetwater’s Serena Camp (Ol Pejeta), The Retreat, Lewa Safari Camp, Mutara Camp, and many more.
Amboseli & the Rift Valley: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge (Lake Nakuru), Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge (Tsavo), The Cliff (Lake Nakuru), Basecamp Masai Mara, Basecamp Adventure, and others.
These lodges can book out quickly in peak season, so it’s worth reserving early—especially if you want a specific conservancy, room type, or guiding style.
Top-rated Midrange Safari Lodges in Kenya
Top-rated midrange safari lodges in the nation offer comfortable stays, delicious meals, and authentic experiences that guests can afford without breaking the bank.
Mara Intrepids Camp (Masai Mara)
Mara Intrepids Camp sits along the Talek River, right in the heart of the Maasai Mara—handy for getting out early for game drives.
There are 30 roomy tents with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. It works well for families, with game drives, bush dinners, kids’ activities, and great birding.
Guests also have a swimming pool, Wi-Fi, and quick access to prime wildlife areas. Rates start at about $295 per person, making it a solid pick for family safaris and first-time visitors to the Mara.
Little Governors’ Camp (Masai Mara)
Little Governors’ Camp is tucked away in the Musiara area of the Maasai Mara. It looks out over its own waterhole, so you can often watch wildlife without even leaving camp.
Getting there is part of the experience—you cross the Mara River by small boat, which adds to the camp’s secluded feel.
The camp has 17 well-finished tents, and you can add experiences like bush dinners and hot-air balloon safaris.
As part of the Governors’ Camp Collection, it supports conservation work and community projects in and around the Mara.
Rates start at about $507 per person. It’s a great choice for couples and photographers who want a quieter camp and a more intimate Mara stay.
Karen Blixen Camp (Mara North Conservancy)
Karen Blixen Camp sits on the banks of the Mara River inside the private Mara North Conservancy, with a calm, close-to-nature feel.
Its 22 tents are raised on wooden decks and face the river. Each comes with an en-suite bathroom, and many have an outdoor shower.
Days here are all about the Mara—game drives (including in open 4x4s), night drives in the conservancy, cultural visits, and a good massage when you get back to camp.
The camp works closely with local partners and runs with a lighter footprint. Rates start at about $529 per person.
It’s a strong option if you want peaceful river views, excellent wildlife viewing, and a conservancy setting that feels less busy than the main reserve.
Kicheche Mara Camp (Masai Mara)
Kicheche Mara Camp is a small, classic tented camp in Mara North Conservancy, with just eight tents overlooking the Olare Orok stream.
You can do guided walks, photography-focused game drives, fly camping, and village visits, depending on the season and your interests.
Mara North is known for fewer vehicles than the main reserve and consistently strong sightings, and Kicheche is well regarded for its guiding.
Rates start at about $625 per person. It’s best for travelers who care about great guiding and a quieter camp—especially photographers and serious safari fans.
Mara Ngenche Camp (Masai Mara)
Mara Ngenche Camp sits where the Talek and Mara rivers meet, and it’s a romantic tented camp that’s especially popular with honeymooners.
There are 12 tents, many with river views, and the suites include en-suite bathrooms and private plunge pools.
Expect classic game drives, cultural visits, and sundowners by the river—often with hippos nearby. It’s also well placed for migration season.
Run by Atua Enkop Africa, rates start at about $500 per person. It’s a good fit if you want a quieter, more intimate stay that still keeps you close to excellent game viewing.
Mara Leisure Camp (Masai Mara)
Mara Leisure Camp is close to Talek Gate and offers a mix of cottages and Jamii units (40 in total), many with views over the river.
It’s a practical option for families and budget-minded travelers, with a swimming pool, massage services, and evening entertainment.
Activities include game drives, guided walks, and (if you want to splurge) hot-air balloon safaris.
Rates start at about $300 per night, making it a popular choice for an affordable Mara stay without being too far from the action.
Mara River Camp (Masai Mara)
Mara River Camp is set along the Mara River below the Oloololo Escarpment, with 22 spacious tents facing the river and surrounding bush.
You’ll have the basics done well—hot showers, a restaurant, Wi-Fi, and a pool—plus activities like game drives, birdwatching, archery, and cultural visits.
Rates start at about $370 per night. It’s a relaxed base for game drives and river scenery—and a great place to time your trip around the wildebeest migration.
Naboisho Camp (Naboisho Conservancy, near the Masai Mara)
Naboisho Camp is in the private Naboisho Conservancy next to the Maasai Mara, with nine tented suites set out on wide-open plains.
Run by Asilia, the camp balances comfort with conservation. There’s a pool, restaurant, family-friendly touches, and help with transfers from nearby airstrips.
You can choose from walking safaris, game drives, and hot-air balloon rides. Rates start at around $500 per person.
It’s ideal for couples and families who want a conservancy experience (fewer vehicles, great guiding) and opportunities to connect with local communities.
Other notable midrange safari lodges in Kenya
Maasai Mara & surrounds: Mara Expeditions Camp, Richard’s Forest Camp, Orng’atuny Mara King Camp, Mara Chui Camp, Enkorok Mara Camp, Off-beat Mara Camp, and others.
Samburu / central & northern Kenya: Samburu Sopa Lodge, Saruni Samburu, Richard’s River Camp, and more.
Great Rift Valley / central highlands: Loldia House, Lake Nakuru Lodge, The Ark, Lake Naivasha Kongoni Lodge, and others.
Amboseli & the coast: Amboseli Sopa Lodge, Kilima Safari Camp, Lentorre Lodge (Nguruman Escarpment), Segera Retreat, Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Lewa Wilderness Lodge, Kinondo Kwetu, Manda Bay, and Alfajiri Villas.
If you’re not sure which midrange camp fits your route and budget, a licensed Kenya safari operator can help you compare options and secure availability.
Affordable Budget Lodges for a Kenya Safari
Budget lodges in Kenya keep things simple: clean rooms or tents, basic comforts, and a good location—so you can spend more of your money on the safari itself.
Mara Explorers Camp, Sekenani – Maasai Mara Game Reserve
Mara Explorers Camp is a quiet, budget-friendly base near Sekenani Gate—great if you want to be close to the reserve without paying luxury rates.
It overlooks the Talek River and offers both simple rooms and self-camping options, with riverfront views in some spots.
Run by Heritage Hotels, it has a restaurant, pool, and massage services, and can arrange game drives and Maasai village visits.
Prices range from about $20 to $120 per night. It’s a good match for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a low-cost base in the Mara.
Ol Moran Tented Camp, Ololaimutia Gate – Masai Mara
Near Ololaimutia Gate, Ol Moran Tented Camp offers good value and a classic ‘in-the-bush’ atmosphere.
It has 19 en-suite tents (including deluxe and honeymoon options) with river or savannah views, plus a restaurant, a well-stocked bar, and a lounge area.
You can book game drives, cultural performances, and migration-focused safaris in season. Rates are around $128–$220 per night.
It suits couples, first-time safari travelers, and anyone who wants a comfortable camp at a reasonable price.
Semadep Mara Camp, Sekenani – Maasai Mara
Semadep Mara Camp is community-run and sits about 2 km from the Maasai Mara Reserve, making it a convenient budget option.
It has 12 permanent tents with private facilities and valley views, and the team can help arrange game drives, cultural visits, and hot-air balloon safaris.
Prices are usually around $60–$120, depending on the tent type and season.
It’s a good choice if you’re interested in cultural exchange and prefer your stay to directly support the local Maasai community.
Wildebeest Eco Camp – Nairobi
Wildebeest Eco Camp is in Karen, Nairobi, and feels like a small green escape—acacia trees, quiet paths, and a mix of safari tents, dorms, and private rooms.
Prices start at about $7 for camping and go up to around $180 for private rooms.
On-site there’s a restaurant and swimming pool, and it’s easy to add Nairobi highlights like the Giraffe Centre or Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
It’s popular with families, backpackers, and eco-minded travelers who want a calm, affordable place to stay in the city.
AA Lodge Amboseli – Amboseli National Park
AA Lodge Amboseli is near Kimana Gate, with classic Amboseli views—often including Mount Kilimanjaro on clear mornings.
With 60 rooms, it offers a pool, restaurant, gym, and business centre. You can also arrange guided game drives, birdwatching, and Maasai cultural visits.
Prices are roughly $250–$450 per night. It’s a convenient choice for families and small groups who want comfort and easy access to the park.
Ngulia Safari Lodge – Tsavo West National Park
Ngulia Safari Lodge sits on the edge of the Ndawe Escarpment, overlooking the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary and wide stretches of Tsavo West.
There are 52 en-suite rooms, a pool, two lounges, and conference facilities. Rates start at about $300 per night, offering a comfortable base at a midrange price.
Popular add-ons include game drives, a visit to Mzima Springs, and local cultural excursions.
It’s a good fit if you want dramatic scenery, a quieter setting, and Tsavo wildlife—without stretching your budget too far.
Voi Wildlife Lodge – Tsavo East National Park
Voi Wildlife Lodge is on the edge of Tsavo East and offers spacious rooms with views out over the savannah.
Facilities include a restaurant, a spa, several pools, and a small children’s play area. Rooms usually range from about $94 to $346 per night.
From here you can do game drives, explore nearby volcanic hills, and add cultural tours if you’d like.
It’s best for families and couples who want comfort and easy wildlife viewing in one of Kenya’s biggest parks.
Other budget safari lodges & camps in Kenya
Maasai Mara region: Aruba Mara Camp, Lenchada Tourist Camp, Fisi Camp, Enchoro Wildlife Camp, Explore Nature Mara Lodge, Drunken Elephant Mara Camp, Maji Moto Eco-Camp, and others.
More options: Oldarpoi Mara Camp & Wageni Camp, Endeem Mara Resort, Goshen Mara Camp, Julia’s River Camp (Hippo, VIP, and Buffalo Camps), Sentrim Amboseli, Olailepo Mara Camp (Ololaimutia Gate), Mara Choroa Camp, Mara Chui Resort, Osero Camp (Siana Conservancy), Nyota Mara Lodge, Simba & Oryx Nature Camp, and many more.
Nairobi (CBD): Backpacker’s Den, Milimani Backpackers & Safari Centre, Khweza Bed & Breakfast, Manyatta Backpackers, and others.
Rift Valley & central Kenya: Naivasha Crescent Camp, Lake Elementaita Duara Flamingo Camp, The Ark Lodge, Jacaranda Bush Camp, The Ark Kenya (Aberdare NP), and others.
Coastal Kenya: Diani Backpackers (Diani Beach), Bidi Badu Beach Sports Hostel (Diani), Dudu Villas and Lamu Backpackers (Lamu), Jambo House Guest House (Lamu), Stilts Tree Houses & Backpackers (Diani), Mombasa Backpackers (Tulia House), Merry Crab Cove (Kilifi), Distant Relatives Ecolodge & Backpackers (Kilifi), Kidogo Nyumbani (Watamu), Savannah Cottages (Shelly Beach, Mombasa), and more.
If you’d like help choosing and booking a budget-friendly place that still matches your route, a reputable Kenya tour operator can guide you through the options.
Kenya Safari Lodges FAQs
- How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
Costs vary a lot, but many safaris fall somewhere between about $200 and $1,500 per person per night. The final price depends on the park, season, and the style of lodge or camp you choose. Budget group tours can bring the cost down.
- What is the best safari camp in Kenya?
There isn’t one single “best” camp—it depends on what you value most. Angama Mara, Elsa’s Kopje, and Sanctuary Olonana are often recommended for strong wildlife viewing, beautiful settings, and attentive service. They’re well placed for game drives and are known for great guiding and memorable views.
- How much does it cost to stay in a safari lodge?
A midrange lodge might start around $250 per night, while high-end camps can be $2,000+ per night. Prices often include meals and game drives, and sometimes extras like guided walks or park fees—so it’s worth checking what’s included before you book.
- What is the best time to go on safari in Kenya?
July to October is the most popular time, especially in the Maasai Mara during the Great Migration. It’s also the dry season, with clearer skies, easier driving conditions, and wildlife that’s often easier to spot.
- How many days is enough for a Kenya safari?
A 5–7 day trip is enough time to visit one or two top parks (such as the Maasai Mara and Amboseli), settle into your lodge, and enjoy several game drives without feeling rushed. If you have extra time, many travelers also add a few beach days on the Indian Ocean coast.
- What is unique about Safari Collection lodges?
Safari Collection properties are known for combining comfort with a strong sustainability and community focus. Many have kitchen gardens that supply fresh ingredients, and they try to reduce waste by limiting single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging.
Through their Footprint Foundation, they actively support health, education, and conservation initiatives, making every stay both eco-friendly and socially responsible.
If you’d like help narrowing these down based on your dates, budget, and the parks you want to visit, reach out and we’ll suggest a short list that fits.
