Best Luxury Lodges and Tented Safari Camps in Kenya
Best Luxury Lodges and Tented Safari Camps in Kenya
Looking for the ultimate safari experience in Kenya? From private tented camps under the stars to world-renowned luxury lodges with sweeping savannah views, Kenya offers unforgettable stays in some of Africa’s most iconic locations.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family adventure, or a private photographic safari, this guide explores the best luxury lodges and tented safari camps in Kenya – handpicked for their exclusivity, design, service, and wildlife access.
Top Luxury Safari Regions in Kenya
Kenya is home to some of Africa’s finest wildlife conservancies and national parks. These are the top regions for a high-end safari stay:
Masai Mara National Reserve
Big Five sightings and the Great Migration
Amboseli National Park
Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro
Laikipia Plateau
Remote luxury and community-run conservancies
Lewa Conservancy
Home to rhinos and luxury eco-lodges
Tsavo National Park
Red elephants, rugged landscapes, and fewer crowds
Explore Luxury safari Experiences
Top 10 Luxury Lodges and Tented Camps in Kenya
Angama Mara – Masai Mara
Perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara offers floor-to-ceiling views over the Mara plains. Each suite has a 180-degree view and private deck. World-class cuisine, private guides, and hot air balloon safaris await.
Highlights: Panoramic views, Great Migration access, award-winning hospitality
&Beyond Bateleur Camp – Masai Mara
Classic 1920s safari style meets modern luxury. Located within a private concession, enjoy personalized game drives, bush breakfasts, and fine dining.
Highlights: Intimate tented experience, exclusive wildlife access
Ol Donyo Lodge – Chyulu Hills
Nestled between Tsavo and Amboseli, this Relais & Châteaux property offers private plunge pools, rooftop star beds, and horseback safaris with Kilimanjaro views.
Highlights: Rooftop star-beds, private guides, conservation-focused
Ol Seki Hemingways – Naboisho Conservancy
A classic tented camp offering elevated safari experiences in a private conservancy. Fewer crowds, richer experiences.
Highlights: Spacious tents, private conservancy access, top-notch service
Elewana Elsa’s Kopje – Meru National Park
This eco-luxury lodge is built into the rocky Mughwango Hill with spectacular views. Perfect for travelers looking to avoid the crowds.
Highlights: History, exclusivity, great for honeymooners
Saruni Samburu – Kalama Conservancy
Designed with Italian flair and Samburu inspiration, this luxury camp offers remote elegance and stunning views.
Highlights: Infinity pools, cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes
Sanctuary Olonana – Masai Mara
Overlooking the Mara River, this tented camp offers ultra-modern design with eco-conscious luxury.
Highlights: Glass-fronted suites, riverside dining, spa
Lewa Safari Camp – Lewa Conservancy
A pioneer in conservation tourism, Lewa offers luxurious tents, great rhino viewing, and strong community connections.
Highlights: Rhino haven, authentic conservation-led experience
Cottar’s 1920s Camp – Masai Mara
Timeless luxury near the Serengeti border. One of the oldest safari camps in Kenya, now offering modern comforts and bespoke safaris.
Highlights: Vintage safari elegance, family-run, top guiding
Tortilis Camp – Amboseli
With direct views of Mount Kilimanjaro, this luxury tented camp offers prime elephant encounters and unforgettable sunsets.
Highlights: Kili views, bush breakfasts, sustainability-focused
Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Luxury Safari
June – October: Peak dry season, perfect for the Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
January – March: Green season, fewer tourists, excellent wildlife, great for photographers.
Avoid: April–May (long rains), though some camps offer “green season” rates.
Ready to Book Your Dream Safari?
Explore Kenya in absolute style and comfort. Let our travel experts design a tailor-made luxury safari that fits your timeline, style, and budget. From champagne bush breakfasts to private tented camps, your luxury safari dreams start here.
FAQ – Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps in Kenya
A luxury lodge is typically a permanent structure built from stone or wood, offering hotel-like amenities, while a tented camp features canvas-style accommodation, giving you a more immersive “close-to-nature” safari feel. Both can be equally luxurious, with en-suite bathrooms, fine dining, and private decks.
Angama Mara and &Beyond Bateleur Camp are among the top-rated luxury lodges in the Masai Mara. They offer panoramic views, exceptional guiding, and premium amenities.
Angama Mara and &Beyond Bateleur Camp are among the top-rated luxury lodges in the Masai Mara. They offer panoramic views, exceptional guiding, and premium amenities.
The dry season (June–October) is ideal for game viewing and the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. January–March is also excellent for wildlife, with fewer tourists and beautiful green landscapes.
Yes, many high-end lodges and tented camps cater to families, offering family suites, child-friendly activities, and private safari vehicles. Lodges like Cottar’s 1920s Camp and Ol Donyo Lodge are especially family-friendly.
Prices vary by season and location. Expect to pay:
$700 – $2,000+ per person, per night
This usually includes full board, game drives, and local transfers. Private conservancies and exclusive camps may charge more.
Yes. Luxury tented camps are secure, staffed 24/7, and typically located in protected areas. Despite their canvas walls, they offer solid security measures, including trained guides, night guards, and emergency communication systems.
Neutral-colored clothes (no white, black, or bright colors)
Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
camera
Light jacket for evenings
Absolutely. Many luxury safari travelers choose Kenya + Tanzania combo itineraries, especially to witness the Great Migration from both the Masai Mara and Serengeti sides. Custom itineraries can include luxury flights, private guides, and exclusive lodges in both countries.