Special Report · Kenya
Top Luxury Safaris in Kenya
Kenya invented the classic safari, and its private conservancies around the Maasai Mara and in Laikipia now offer some of the most exclusive wildlife experiences in Africa. Here is our shortlist.
When to go · July to October for the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara; January to February for hot, dry and quieter game viewing across the country.
The Shortlist
1. Angama Mara
Mara Triangle escarpment
Glass-fronted tented suites above the Great Rift Valley, with sweeping views over the Mara Triangle.
Best for: First-time safari-goers who want one exceptional base.
Visit official website →2. Mara Plains Camp (Great Plains)
Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Intimate camp in a private conservancy with strict vehicle limits and excellent lion and leopard sightings.
Best for: Photographers and big-cat lovers.
Visit official website →3. Mahali Mzuri
Olare Motorogi Conservancy
Sir Richard Branson's tented camp, with dramatic winged tents overlooking a migration route.
Best for: Design-led luxury with a sociable feel.
Visit official website →4. Ol Donyo Lodge (Great Plains)
Chyulu Hills, near Amboseli
Suites with rooftop star beds, a stable of horses and big elephant herds on the plains below.
Best for: Views of Kilimanjaro and horseback safaris.
Visit official website →5. Segera
Laikipia Plateau
Restored ranch with an outdoor sculpture collection, villas and conservation work on a 50,000-acre retreat.
Best for: Art lovers and travellers seeking rare northern species.
Visit official website →6. Giraffe Manor
Nairobi
Historic manor where Rothschild's giraffes famously poke their heads through the breakfast-room windows.
Best for: A memorable first or last night in Nairobi.
Visit official website →
Useful Links
Common Questions
Is it better to stay in the Maasai Mara reserve or a private conservancy?
Private conservancies limit the number of vehicles and allow night drives, walking and off-road driving, which the main reserve usually doesn't. Many travellers stay in a conservancy and make day trips into the reserve for river crossings.
When is the Great Migration in Kenya?
The herds usually arrive in the Maasai Mara in July and stay until around October, although timing changes each year with the rains.
Can I see Kilimanjaro from Kenya?
Yes — Amboseli and the Chyulu Hills offer some of the best views of Kilimanjaro, especially early in the morning on clear days.
More Country Guides
Top Safaris in Tanzania →Top Safaris in South Africa →Best Lodges Compared →