This fascinating East African country is known for its diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and growing fleet of boutique luxury hotels. Here is our guide to the best accommodation in Kenya.
Kenya is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most fascinating and diverse countries, with the savannahs of the Masai Mara National Reserve, the icy peaks of Mount Kenya, Laikipia, home to black rhinos, and Sibiloy National Park, known as the “Cradle of Humanity”. Kenya is synonymous with African safaris, where people come to watch the Great Migration and the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffalo). There are many luxury boutique hotels scattered all over Africa, and the best way to travel around Africa is through travel shops. If you’re looking for bespoke luxury, Micato, a family-run safari gear supplier with over 50 years of history, knows Kenya, hostels and any contact you might need. They will then equip you with a knowledgeable hunting guide and provide you with jungle plane transportation between lodges. Micato often hosts former presidents, celebrities, and billionaires, but the company is distinguished by its highly customized hands-on services that surprise you all the way.
“Whether Micato guests prefer designer brands or boutiques, Micato always ensures a private, intimate experience through in-house visits and bespoke events,” says Dennis Pinto, Managing Director of Micato.
Regardless of how you arrange your trip, make sure these areas and luxury boutique hotels are on your bucket list, each with a unique personality.
Accommodation: Hemingway, Nairobi
Facilities: Outdoor pool, spa, 2 bars and restaurant
Named after Karen Blixen, author of Out of Africa, The Ernest Hotel Nairobi is located in the leafy suburb of Karen Blixen, Nairobi Hemingway Hotel is known for its elegant rooms and resort facilities. This colonial-style hotel is named after writer Ernest Hemingway, who traveled the country in the 20s and 30s. With luxurious rooms and a private terrace overlooking Ngong Hills, this secluded 1950-star hotel is the perfect place to rest before or after a safari.
Accommodation: Fincher Hattens
Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, spa, fitness center, 2 bars and restaurant
Located in the jungle of Tsavo West National Park, Finch Hattons luxury tent camp blends old-world luxury with modern comfort. A pioneer of modern hunting trips, the camp boasts unique cuisine, a stunning spa and a relaxing swimming pool. All 17 luxury tented suites feature private decks, many of which overlook hippos-infested puddles and feature deep soaking tubs and outdoor showers. In the morning, your safari guide will take you to a bush breakfast, followed by a safari drive, and in the afternoon, you will enjoy an outdoor massage. We recommend (very enjoyed) your hike through Chyulu Hills.
Accommodation: Cottar’s 1920s safari camp
Facilities: Outdoor pool, spa, free Wi-Fi, 1 bar and restaurant
Located in the Olderkesi Reserve, which borders Masai Mara National Park, Cottar’s harks back to a bygone safari era with its personalized safari experience and incredible conservation efforts. It is one of only 10 certified global biosphere resorts in the world with some of the highest sustainability standards, with a focus on community development, cultural management, business and conservation. There are 11 canvas tents, communal dining tents, a boutique, and a 12-seat Bush Villa, built with indigenous eco-friendly materials for those looking for extra privacy and comfort. Micato can help organize discussions with local tribal members in Masai Mara.
Accommodation: Angma Mara
Facilities: Outdoor pool, free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, 2 bars and restaurant
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mara Triangle, Angmara offers a more modern twist to the traditional safari-style camp. There are glass-walled tents, chic Italian designs and modern furniture with popular Marseille fabrics. Enjoy 180-degree savannah views and stunning sunsets every night, and you’re not too far from some of Africa’s best wildlife (10 minutes). With a library, gym, boutique, infinity pool and butler service, there is something for everyone.
Accommodation: Olchogi
Facilities: Outdoor pool, fitness center, spa, 1 bar and restaurant
Ol Jogi is one of the most famous private estates in all of Africa, an 11-bedroom dedicated villa custom-designed over decades. In addition to the resort-like pool, spa, hammam, gym and hidden underground wine cellar, Ol Jogi’s most striking feature is the wildlife that roams just feet from the open-air living pavilion during the day and night. There is a watering hole in front of Ol Jogi that welcomes herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, etc., so you can enjoy the taste of wildlife while enjoying your meal. There’s even an underground viewing tunnel for up close and personal with the animals. To make it even more private, Ol Jogi is surrounded by a reserve of 58,000 head, with a special focus on endangered rhinos. Let Micato arrange a helicopter tour of Ol Jogi and you’ll land in front of the house with giraffes looming in the distance.
Accommodation: Maharim Zuri
Facilities: Outdoor/infinity pool, library, spa, 3 bars and restaurant
Sir Richard Branson’s 12 tented safari camps, Mahali Mzuri, which means “beautiful place” in Swahili, is one of only four camps in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, meaning safaris here are private, personalised and not crowded with safari vehicles. It’s an old-world tent-style safari vibe with a modern and colorful aesthetic and plenty of wildlife to see in the front row. The hotel features a spa, a heated outdoor pool and attentive staff ready to bring you your favorite cocktail or snack. Micato can arrange a private dinner under the African starry sky.