Kenya Lodges and Camps for All
Posted on Thursday, March 3rd, 2011
Travelling to Kenya for a safari isn’t a small trip for someone in the UK. It’s awesome, but it will probably be expensive for most of us. With that in mind it’s important to make sure you’re staying in places that will deliver the optimum experience that you’re looking for.
For the historically inclined among us, I can’t recommend any safari camp higher in the Masai Mara than Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp. It’s been running for more than 80 years and offers safaris just as exciting now as they were then – although with much more concern for the animals. This means, however, that the lodge has a really authentic feel, from the white canvas tents to the game drives led by Cottar himself. The camp is private, with 22,000 acres all to itself, and has an abundance of wildlife due to its prime location between the Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Loliondo. This camp also caters for families, with 4 family-size tents that include 2 ensuite bedrooms, and each tent has a private butler.
For a relaxing time after a safari, and ideal for honeymooners, Mfangano Island Camp is a beautiful lodge situated on Lake Victoria. There are only six rooms, so each offers complete privacy. It’s a great choice for those looking to relax after a safari or in between two safari lodges or for honeymooners that don’t want to incur extra expense by flying out to Mauritius or the Seychelles. Each room has a gorgeous view of the lake, most beautiful at sunset, and perfect for romance. You’ll be able to hear the water gently lapping the shore from your bed, lulling you to sleep each night and greeting you every morning. Plus, staying in a Governor’s camp means that your money is being reinvested into the community – and you can visit a nearby traditional fishing community to see the people you’re helping.
For families, the Great Rift Valley Lodge is an excellent place with activities for both parents and kids. It’s located by the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. While there aren’t game drives departing from this particular lodge, you’ll be able to golf, play tennis, or go fishing; the kids can spend a few days in the Adventurers’ Club, where activities are organised just for them. There are some fantastic views across the valley to enjoy as well. This lodge is a fantastic choice for a relaxing break in the middle of a safari, especially for those with younger children who won’t be able to sustain the pace over the course of more than a week.
And back to a camp that’s just perfect for safaris. Lewa Safari Camp is just that. Based in a 65,000 acre private wildlife conservancy, it’s chock full of incredible wildlife and amazing views of Mt Kenya and the southern lowlands. You needn’t worry that it’s one of those camps where the view is the main selling point; about 10% of Kenya’s black rhinos live here, and the largest population of Grevy’s zebra call Lewa their home as well. You’ll definitely get some good spots. Lewa is another environmentally and locally focused camp; profits are reinvested into core programs to benefit the community and the wildlife reserve.
So there you have it – four different camps and lodges, four different purposes. I hope you’ve found this useful!
