Best Luxury Hotels in Kenya

Located between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp sits within the Solio Game Reserve placing guests in the heart of one of the continent’s largest populations of both black and white rhinos.

The 19-suite camp pairs a traditional safari experience with wellness and presents a small-scale vibe despite its dramatic setting. Each suite features a private plunge pool and an outdoor deck overlooking the reserve. Inside, handcrafted furniture, woven textiles and locally produced artwork reflect the work of Kenyan artisans.

Dining centres around fresh, seasonal ingredients, with much of what is served coming straight from the camp’s own garden. Alongside the main restaurant, guests can opt for bush breakfasts and enjoy sundowners overlooking the reserve.

Between safaris, guests can head to Spa by JW, which offers a range of treatments drawing on local traditions, while a fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool provide an opportunity to unwind.

Established by entrepreneur Richard Branson, Mahali Mzuri is set in the large and lovely Maasai Mara and features plenty of contemporary touches as well as plenty of luxury. Every need and want of guests has been anticipated here and guests are sure to love the extra touches such as the binoculars that are supplied so that they can keep a watchful eye over the abundant wildlife that can be found right on their doorstep. This is one of just four camps in the area and the special safari packages that guests are treated to are second to none. In addition to the usual jeep safari, guests can choose to book a hot air balloon ride so that they can see the area in a while new way, while the pool and spa are great places to unwind in between trips to explore the area.

This impressive eco-friendly boutique lodge can be found on the top of Mughwango Hill and overlooks the Meru plains. Guests can choose from one of the elegant rustic cottages, which provide stunning views over Meru National Park and a good range of amenities to help make a stay here very comfortable.  The most luxurious option is the private house, which faces Kenya and comes complete with its own infinity pool. The onsite restaurant serves excellent international dishes, most of which boast an authentic Italian influence. A number of activities are arranged for guests to enjoy such as river fishing and trips to the celebrated rhino sanctuary.

Located in the picturesque Isaaten Conservancy, Mara Plains Camp offers guests the chance to stay in a luxurious tented camp and take advantage of a range of special services such as their very own butler. The onsite spa has been created in the style of a traditional Maasai village and provides a unique touch, while there is also a large swimming pool on the site for guests to keep cool in or soak up the sun on the edge while sipping on a cocktail. There are just twelve tents in total and each comes with a private hot tub.

This colonial-style boutique hotel is created in the style that the famous writer would have loved and is set to attract fans who wish to follow in his footsteps. The hotel looks out onto the pretty Ngong Hills and provides guests with plenty of amenities to make use of in between exciting safaris. Although the hotel appears to be extremely large and grand from the outside, there are just 45 rooms in total and they are arranged into different themed categories. Lovers of pure luxury should secure one of the expansive presidential suites, which feature huge balconies that overlook the picturesque gardens and all include decadent en suite bathrooms.

People who are searching for a luxurious place to stay that manages to pack in plenty of character are sure to find that Sarova Mara Game Camp is a great fit. The camp features 73 luxurious tents to choose from and can be found on the edge of a traditional Maasai village. People who want the chance to take part in a wide range of activities can take their pick for miniature golf, bird watching, sport fishing and cultural pursuits, while the sprawling ground that the camp is set on boasts a large pond that is stocked with fish, a small bird sanctuary and plenty of space to unwind. Those who want to take a break from the heat will also find a large swimming pool to splash around in, which also comes complete with a well-stocked pool bar.