How do you find lodging during a stay in Kenya? Where should you sleep on a Kenya safari? What can you expect in terms of comfort and budget? We break down the different types of accommodation available on a Kenya trip.

Different types of accommodation in cities and by the sea

There are several categories of accommodation in Kenya, with prices that can vary considerably. Here are the different types of lodging you'll find in Kenyan cities and coastal areas:

Youth hostels

Although they're not yet as widespread as in some other parts of the world, youth hostels are developing across Kenya, particularly in cities and tourist hotspots.

They're often the most popular option for backpackers thanks to their low prices. But low prices come with fewer creature comforts. Most of the time, travellers sleep in dormitories and share bathroom facilities, though some hostels occasionally offer standard private rooms.

Hotels

In Kenyan cities and tourist areas, hotels offer different price ranges and levels of comfort. Generally speaking, it's best to avoid the cheapest hotels unless you have minimal comfort expectations (some budget hotel rooms lack windows, have worn mattresses, and offer only squat toilets).

That said, it's quite possible to find small hotels at reasonable prices (around 20 euros) with basic amenities like a private bathroom and a fan. For more comfort, budget a bit higher to enjoy standard facilities.

On the coast, hotels are often better equipped and more comfortable, typically featuring a swimming pool. Note that some hotels also offer bungalows for added privacy.

Beach resorts

Kenya's coastlines are home to many beach resorts that attract holidaymakers seeking beach getaways in Kenya. These generally offer all the amenities and comfort expected for this type of holiday. In most cases, they have a swimming pool and direct beach access, and offer a wide range of activities and excursions.

Some hotels offer all-inclusive packages allowing you to enjoy unlimited meals, snacks and drinks (and sometimes certain activities).

Keep in mind that this type of hotel is ideal for travellers accustomed to enjoying European comforts at very reasonable prices. For those wanting to treat themselves, you'll always find high-standard rooms and luxury suites with premium facilities.

Cottages and villas

Travelling to Kenya with friends or family? Looking for some peace and privacy? Then you might consider renting a cottage or villa exclusively for your stay. It's indeed possible to find cottages and villas for rent in Kenya, particularly in the most touristy areas and along the coast, notably around Mombasa.

It's not the cheapest accommodation option, but it can be very interesting if you're travelling as a group and can share costs.

Note that with this type of rental, you'll need to handle cleaning and cooking yourself, though you can arrange housekeeping services or hire a cook.

Guesthouses and homestays

For travellers seeking authenticity and wanting to meet local people, you can find a few guesthouses in the most touristy areas. You'll find them easily on hotel booking websites. Here too, there are all types of services and comfort levels for different budgets.

For a genuine immersion in Kenyan culture, we recommend arranging a homestay. At Nomadays, we partner with several Kenyan families who are happy to welcome visitors. It's a chance to share a meal, participate in the family's daily life, and make connections that will stay with you forever. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information.

Different types of accommodation for a Kenya safari

Planning to stay in one of Kenya's national parks? Here are the different types of accommodation for sleeping on a Kenya safari:

Lodges

Lodges are bush hotels located inside or on the edge of Kenya's reserves and national parks. They're solid structures (concrete, wood, stone) set in a tropical garden and protected by an electric fence.

Lodges offer different types of accommodation, from standard rooms to bungalows. Whatever the option, rooms are very comfortable and well-equipped (private bathroom, sitting area, work desk, terrace with savanna views, air conditioning, minibar). The facilities also include a bar and restaurant (offering full or half board) and sometimes feature a swimming pool, boutique and spa.

Depending on the type of stay you want and your budget, you'll find different types of lodges such as charming lodges or luxury lodges.

In short, if you're looking for ultra-comfortable, luxurious accommodation on the edge of the wilderness during a Kenya safari, lodges are for you! Given the quality of services, they're also ideal for a Kenya honeymoon.

Tented camps

Tented camps are permanent or semi-permanent settlements made up of spacious tents built on elevated platforms and sheltered under a solid, weather-resistant roof. Unlike lodges, there's no electric fence.

The main characteristic of tented camps is that they're strategically located in Kenya's reserves and parks. They're usually positioned on riverbanks where wild animals come to drink, making them ideal for observing wildlife up close.

As for comfort, tented camps offer rooms with private bathrooms. They're always well-decorated and perfectly equipped. Depending on the level of service, some even have swimming pools. At the heart of the camp, you'll typically find a main tent where guests gather and dine.

Well-appointed and decorated, each tent contains beds and comfortable furniture. All have their own en-suite bathrooms. So you're far removed from typical camping facilities!

Moreover, tented camps offer a good compromise between the authentic experience of camping and the comfort of a lodge. Note that this type of accommodation isn't necessarily cheaper than lodges (some are even pricier) because in addition to being comfortable, they offer the advantage of staying in the heart of nature, closest to the animals.

Camping (public campsites)

Public campsites are the most economical accommodation option during a Kenya safari. Most of Kenya's national parks and reserves such as Masai Mara, Tsavo, Amboseli and Aberdares have designated camping zones managed by Kenya Wildlife Service or private operators.

Campsites offer basic facilities with fairly basic equipment. Travellers sleep in tents (2-person igloo-style) and share common areas (cold showers and sometimes hot showers depending on the camp, toilets and sometimes a kitchen area).

While camping safaris are the least comfortable accommodation option, they offer the advantage of an authentic experience, closest to wildlife. It's also worth noting that although it's the most economical, camping in a reserve is still quite expensive, as it requires controlled access and the presence of guards to ensure everyone's safety.

Good to know: For an extraordinary cultural experience, it's possible to camp in a traditional Maasai village. Feel free to contact us to arrange your stay among these warrior and semi-nomadic herding people.

What about wild camping?

Fancy some wild camping? It's quite possible to bivouac during a Kenya safari, but this option is more suited to adventurous types with a fairly substantial budget.

Indeed, this type of arrangement involves sleeping in a tent in the middle of the bush. While this is the most basic accommodation, it requires the presence of an armed guard to ensure your safety. That's why this option is among the priciest. But what a magnificent experience to fall asleep under the stars, alone in nature, and wake up with a front-row seat to the awakening of the savanna.

Note that these campsites have no toilets, showers or kitchen facilities, but our teams can provide and prepare all equipment (bush showers, etc.) and food.

What budget should you plan for sleeping in Kenya?

As you've gathered, Kenya offers all types of accommodation with prices varying considerably depending on the services and comfort offered.

Here are average prices per night for each type of accommodation:

• Youth hostels: expect between 10 and 20 euros per night;
• Hotels: expect on average 20 euros per night for a 1* to 2* hotel, between 30 and 90 euros per night for a 3* hotel, between 45 and 110 euros for a 4* hotel, and up to 500 euros per night for luxury hotels.
• Public campsites in reserves and national parks: expect between 20 and 50 euros per night.
• Lodges and tented camps during a safari: expect between 150 and 300 euros per night (500 euros with full board). Note that rates can exceed 1,000 euros or more per night for the most prestigious and luxurious lodges.
• A night in a bivouac with armed guard: expect at least 200 to 300 euros.

Good to know: For budget-conscious travellers, you can save on accommodation costs during a Kenya safari by booking hotels outside national parks and reserves. You could also plan fewer safari days and more days by the sea. Indeed, beach resorts are generally less expensive than all types of bush accommodation.

Have questions? Want to know more about Kenya accommodation conditions and rates? Feel free to contact us!

Florine Dergelet