Accommodation Options in Kenya
Kenya offers a wide range of accommodation options that fit any budget, whether you want a budget-friendly hostel or a five-star luxury experience. Depending on where you’re staying, rates and options can vary, but there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a guide on where to stay in Kenya’s major cities and top tourist destinations:
Nairobi
Budget: Hostels and Guesthouses
Nairobi has several affordable hostels and guesthouses. If you’re traveling on a budget, options like *Kenya Comfort Hotel* in the city center or *Wildebeest Eco Camp* provide basic but comfortable amenities. These places offer dorm beds and private rooms. *Milimani Backpackers* is another favorite for travelers looking to meet other backpackers.
Mid-Range: Boutique Hotels
For travelers looking for more comfort, *Tribe Hotel* offers a boutique experience with chic décor and a relaxed atmosphere. *Villa Rosa Kempinski* is also a solid option in this range, providing a blend of luxury and comfort without breaking the bank.
Additionally, *Fairview Hotel* is located close to the embassy area and offers a green oasis in the middle of the city with cozy rooms and well-maintained gardens.
Luxury: 5-star Hotels
If you’re looking to splurge, Nairobi has some excellent luxury hotels. *Giraffe Manor* is one of the most unique stays in the world, where giraffes come right up to the hotel during breakfast. For a more classic luxury stay, the *Hemingways Nairobi* has beautiful rooms and top-tier service. *Sankara Nairobi*, part of the Autograph Collection, is another major luxury hotspot with a top-floor rooftop pool and stunning views.
Mombasa
Budget: Affordable Hostels and Beach Cottages
If you’re heading to the coast, there are plenty of budget stays available. *Tulia House Backpackers* offers dorm rooms and private rooms just a short walk from Nyali Beach. Small guesthouses and family-owned beach cottages like *JamboHouse* on Lamu Island provide budget-friendly coastal escapes.
Mid-Range: Resorts and Hotels
There are plenty of options if you’re looking for comfort without going overboard. *Baobab Beach Resort* offers beautiful rooms with stunning beach views. On the northern side, *Voyager Beach Resort* offers family-friendly options and multiple pools and restaurants for a comfortable stay.
Don’t forget about the nearby *Nyali Sun Africa Beach Hotel & Spa*, popular for its beachfront location and good value for money!
Luxury: Premium Beaches and Resorts
If you want to treat yourself, head to *Serena Beach Resort & Spa* for one of the best luxury stays along the coast. Situated by a quiet stretch of the beach, this resort offers excellent service and spa facilities. On Diani Beach, *Almanara Luxury Resort* promises true beachfront luxury with private villas and all-inclusive services.
Maasai Mara
Budget: Camping and Tented Camps
Staying in the Maasai Mara can be affordable even if you’re on a budget. Simple storage tents and campsites like *Mara Explorers Camp* allow you to enjoy the wilderness without breaking the bank. Most budget accommodations here still offer tents with beds as well as communal areas.
Mid-Range: Luxury Tented Camps
Luxury tented camps like *Ashnil Mara* sit at the upper end of a medium-range budget, providing excellent safari experiences with comfortable tents. *Keekorok Lodge* is another mid-range option where you can catch wildlife right from the lodge’s front doorstep. Many of these properties include meals and safari drives.
Luxury: Safari Lodges
For a top-tier experience, *Angama Mara Lodge* offers stunning cliffside views over the Mara, with luxury tents offering panoramic views. At *Governors’ Camp*, you get closer to wildlife, with beautifully appointed tents that open directly into the wild for the chance to spot elephants and lions from your room or while relaxing by the bar.
Other Destinations: Special Regions
Mount Kenya
*Batian Guest House* and *Burguret House* offer comfortable stays without being too pricey for those trekking Mount Kenya.
For a luxury experience, stay at *Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club*. It offers luxurious rooms surrounded by gardens and views of the mountain.
Lake Naivasha
*Camp Carnelleys* is a popular budget option by Lake Naivasha, providing simple cottages and dorms by the lakeside.
For mid-range options, *Naivasha Simba Lodge* offers cozy rooms with a lake view and access to boat safaris, while *Lake Naivasha Resort* has a good mix of comfort and affordability.
If you’re looking for ultimate privacy, *Loldia House* provides a luxury colonial-style stay with immersive nature experiences.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Kenya
– Book early if you’re traveling during high season (June to October) as the popular spots fill up fast, especially around the Maasai Mara.
– Always read the reviews carefully. While pictures may look great, make sure others had a positive experience at the place you’re considering.
– Consider the location. Traffic in Nairobi and Mombasa can be intense. Stay close to where you plan on spending most of your time to avoid getting stuck on the road.
– If heading out on safaris or trekking, try to find accommodation that includes meals or offers optional packages tailored to activities like safaris.
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