Camping Safaris Kenya: 15 Top Destinations to Explore

By Fibiana Ngela

Welcome to our ultimate guide to Camping Safaris Kenya, your starting point for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of East Africa. Kenya is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural experiences—all best enjoyed under the stars on a camping safari.

Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly escape or a more luxurious outdoor retreat, this guide will help you explore the best camping safari options nationwide. Discover top destinations, pricing insights, and expert tips to maximize your Camping Safaris Kenya experience.

Top 15 Destinations for the Best Kenya Camping Safari Tours

Here are 15 of the most remarkable camping safari destinations in Kenya, each offering something unique:

1. Kiboko Camp, Maasai Mara

Located in the heart of the Mara Triangle, Kiboko Camp offers a simple, private camping experience ideal for small groups. It accommodates up to 30 people and is set between Iseya Station and Purungat Bridge, making it perfect for easy access to game drives. Though basic, it features a campfire area and stunning views, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a quiet, close-to-nature safari.

 

2. Kibo Safari Camp, Amboseli

Located just 2 km from the Kimana Gate of Amboseli National Park, Kibo Safari Camp provides a comfortable and accessible base for wildlife enthusiasts. The camp boasts 73 self-contained tents, accommodating singles, doubles, triples, and families. 

Each tent has custom-designed beds, flush toilets, and hot showers. Guests can relax in the open-air restaurant and bar, dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the camp. Its proximity to the park entrance makes it ideal for convenient game drives.

 

3. Elephant Bedroom Camp, Samburu National Reserve​

Elephant Bedroom Camp is a luxury tented camp in Samburu National Reserve, beside the Ewaso Nyiro River. The area is quiet and full of nature, with elephants and other animals often walking through the camp.

The camp has 14 big tents. Each tent has a bathroom, hot and cold water, and a small private pool on the deck. Inside, the tents have warm, African-style decorations that make you feel at home.

Guests can enjoy meals outdoors or in the dining area. Breakfast is served in the open air, while lunch and dinner can be enjoyed under the stars. The lounge is a great place to relax between game drives.

Activities include game drives, during which you might see lions, leopards, and other wildlife. You can also take guided walks or visit the nearby Samburu community to learn about its culture.

 

4. Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Nanyuki

Sweetwaters Serena Camp is a luxury tented camp in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, near Nanyuki, Kenya. It offers a comfortable stay and great views of animals and nature. The camp has 56 stylish tents, including a deluxe section. Each tent has its own bathroom and a veranda that faces a waterhole where animals often come to drink.

Guests can enjoy delicious food at the restaurant, relax by the swimming pool, or get a massage at the spa. The camp also provides a gift shop and has facilities for people with disabilities.

Activities include game drives to see the Big Five, visiting the chimpanzee sanctuary (the only one in Kenya) and learning about local cultures. Sweetwaters is about 17 kilometers from Nanyuki and 217 kilometers from Nairobi. You can get there by road or by taking a short flight.

5. Finch Hattons Camp, Tsavo West National Park

Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp is a high-end safari lodge located in Tsavo West National Park, Kenya. The camp features 17 spacious tented suites, including family and presidential options, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, and private decks overlooking natural springs that attract wildlife such as hippos and elephants. 

Guests can enjoy amenities like two infinity pools, a spa and wellness center, a gym, and a yoga pavilion. Dining options include fine dining and à la carte menus (a choice of individually priced dishes for each course), complemented by a well-stocked wine cellar. 

Activities at the camp encompass game drives, guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages. The camp is approximately 235 kilometers from Nairobi and accessible by road or air.

6. Campi ya kanzi, Chyulu Hills

​Campi ya Kanzi is a luxury eco-lodge in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills, between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks. Set on a 283,000-acre Maasai-owned reserve, the camp offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and a rich variety of wildlife. 

Accommodations include six thatched cottages and two suites, each with en-suite bathrooms, solar-powered electricity, and private verandas. The camp emphasizes sustainability and community partnership, supporting local schools, healthcare, and conservation efforts.

 Guests can enjoy activities like guided nature walks, game drives, and cultural visits with Maasai hosts. The lodge also features Kanzi House, a private villa with a pool and dedicated staff, ideal for families or groups. Dining combines Italian and local flavors, with meals served in a communal setting.

 7. Thompson Falls Lodge Campsite, Nyahururu

​Thompson’s Falls Lodge in Nyahururu, Kenya, offers a camping experience near the scenic Thompson’s Falls. The campsite provides basic facilities, including designated camping areas and access to the lodge’s amenities.

 Campers can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and exploring the nearby waterfall. The lodge’s proximity to the falls makes it a convenient base for travelers seeking to experience the area’s natural beauty.

8. Wildebeest Eco Camp, Nairobi

 ​Wildebeest Eco Camp is a budget-friendly accommodation located in Nairobi, Kenya. The camp offers a variety of lodging options, including deluxe tents, family tents, and dormitory rooms, catering to different traveller preferences. 

Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, communal lounge, and an on-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine. The camp’s location provides easy access to Nairobi’s attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.

 9. Kembu Farm, Njoro

Kembu Farm, just outside Njoro in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is a peaceful countryside getaway set on a 900-acre working farm. It offers a variety of unique cottages, including Beryl’s Cottage (once home to aviator) Beryl Markham and a cozy Tree House surrounded by flowers. 

All cottages feature en-suite bathrooms, private gardens, and self-catering or full board options. For campers, there’s a quiet, terraced campsite with tree tents and shared cooking areas. 

Visitors can enjoy farm walks, bird watching, archery, and horse grooming, while kids can take part in fun activities like egg collecting and feeding animals. Its location is perfect for exploring nearby sites like Lake Nakuru, Lake Baringo, and Menengai Crater

 

10. Mamba Village Camp, Mombasa

Mamba Village is located about 10 kilometers from Mombasa Island, along Links Road in the Nyali area, directly opposite the Nyali Golf and Country Club.

 It offers a spacious and secure campsite that can host up to 80 children and 50 adults, featuring clean restrooms, a sheltered dining area with basic amenities, and 24-hour security with a perimeter fence and guards.

 While the village itself isn’t right on the beach, it’s close to the coast, giving visitors easy access to nearby beaches where they can enjoy activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply relaxing on the soft white sand while taking in the ocean breeze.

11. Hell’s Gate Gorge and National Park, Naivasha

Hell’s Gate National Park, located near Naivasha in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Established in 1984, the park features towering cliffs, deep gorges, and striking rock formations like Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower, all shaped by ancient volcanic activity.

Unlike many other parks, Hell’s Gate allows visitors to explore on foot or by bicycle, offering a unique opportunity to hike, cycle, and even rock climb amidst wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 100 bird species nesting along its cliffs, including vultures and eagles. ​

Visitors can delve into the park’s geothermal features, including hot springs and geysers, and learn about the Maasai culture at the on-site cultural center. With its proximity to Nairobi (approximately a 2.5-hour drive) Hell’s Gate is an ideal destination for day trips or weekend getaways. Nearby attractions like Lake Naivasha and Mount Longonot enhance the region’s appeal. ​

For more information, including park fees and visitor guidelines, please visit the official Kenya Wildlife Service website.​

 

12. Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site, Magadi

Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site, situated approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Nairobi along Magadi Road, is a significant archaeological location within Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.

 This site is renowned for its extensive collection of Acheulean hand axes and stone tools, offering valuable insights into early human technology and behavior. The area also contains fossilized remains of extinct animals such as elephants and hippos, indicating a rich prehistoric ecosystem. 

Visitors can explore the museum and the excavation sites better to understand human evolution and the region’s geological history. For more information, please visit the National Museums of Kenya website.

 

13. Turkana Camp, Lake Turkana

For a unique and remote adventure, head to Turkana Camp by the shores of Lake Turkana (the largest desert lake in the world). You can enjoy fishing, take boat rides on the lake, and experience local culture through traditional dances and ceremonies. Relax and sleep under the stars in this peaceful and wild setting at night.

 

14. Rapids Camp, Sagana

Rapids Camp in Sagana is a Favorite spot for thrill-seekers. It offers exciting activities like white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping. During the day, you can explore the Tana River, then wind down in the evening by the campfire, surrounded by nature.

 

15. El Karama Lodge, Laikipia

El Karama is a welcoming campsite ideal for families, offering guided game drives, nature walks, and visits to nearby Samburu communities. Guests stay in cozy tents and enjoy meals made from fresh produce grown on the camp’s own organic farm.

 

What is the Cost of a Camping Safari in Kenya?

 The cost of a camping site in Kenya depends on various factors such as the trip duration, type of campsite or accommodation, and the activities included in the package. On average, a 3-day safari may cost between $400 and $1,000 per person, while longer safaris can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the comfort level and inclusions.

Some camps offer all-inclusive deals, covering meals, accommodation, game drives, and other experiences, while others may charge separately for certain activities or amenities. It’s essential to read the package details carefully to understand what’s included and what’s not so you can plan your budget accordingly.

The season of travel also influences pricing. Peak seasons, usually during wildlife migrations or holidays, are more expensive. Booking during the off-peak months can significantly reduce your safari costs.

 

Budget Camping Safari Destinations in Kenya

Budget camping in Kenya is ideal for adventurous travellers, backpackers, or those exploring the wild on a tight budget. It offers a raw, authentic safari experience, often with minimal amenities but maximum natural immersion.

What to Expect:

• Accommodation: Bring-your-own tent or basic permanent tents.
• Facilities: Shared bathrooms, limited electricity, communal cooking areas.
• Activities: Self-guided hikes, budget game drives, birdwatching.
• Meals: Cook your own or eat at nearby local restaurants.
• Cost Range: KES 500–1,500 per night (USD $5–15).
• Vibe: Rugged, social, eco-friendly, close-to-nature.

Examples:

• Hell’s Gate National Park – cycle among wildlife, camp under cliffs.
• Lake Naivasha – camp by the lake with hippos nearby.
• Kimana Camp (Amboseli) – budget-friendly camping near elephants.
• Mara Explorers Camp – cheap base for exploring Maasai Mara.
• Kakamega Forest – tropical forest treks and low-cost forest camping.

Luxury Camping Safari Destinations in Kenya

Luxury camping (often called “glamping”) offers the charm of the bush without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for honeymooners, families, or travellers looking for personalized service, gourmet meals, and exclusive wildlife experiences.

What to Expect:

• Accommodation: Spacious, ensuite tents with real beds, hot showers.
• Facilities: Private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, spa services.
• Activities: Guided game drives, night safaris, cultural tours, bush dining.
• Meals: Full board – gourmet cuisine, private dining setups.
• Cost Range: USD $300–$1,000+ per night.
• Vibe: Intimate, luxurious, secluded, tailor-made service.

Examples:

• Mara Intrepids / Governors’ Camp (Maasai Mara) – luxury tents near the river.
• Tortilis Camp (Amboseli) – top views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
• Sweetwaters Serena Camp (Ol Pejeta) – see rhinos from your tent.
• Finch Hattons (Tsavo West) – 5-star experience in the wilderness.
• Saruni Samburu – elegant tents with stunning cliffside views.

 

Essentials to Pack for a Camping Safari in Kenya

Preparing for a camping safari in Kenya requires some planning, as it’s not your typical vacation. Here’s a list of key items to include in your packing list:

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: For daytime, choose light, breathable fabrics and pack a few long-sleeved shirts and trousers to shield you from the sun, bugs, and cooler evenings.
• Sturdy Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for bush walks and game drives.
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to keep the harsh sun at bay.
• Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects commonly found in the wild.
• Lighting Gear: A headlamp or flashlight is useful for navigating campsites at night or during power outages.
• Personal Care Items: Pack toiletries and any daily medications you may need.
• Camera & Binoculars: These capture unforgettable moments and spot distant wildlife.
• Daypack: A small backpack is handy for day trips and carrying water, snacks, and essentials.

It’s also wise to consult your tour operator about specific gear you might need, like sleeping bags or mats, especially for more basic camping setups.

Pack light and carry only the essentials. Remember, keeping things simple makes your safari more comfortable and enjoyable.

A camping safari in Kenya is a unique way to immerse yourself in nature, meet local communities, and experience the wild up close. You’ll be all set for an unforgettable adventure with the right preparation. Safe travels!