The Best Lodges in Amboseli

Ol Tukai Lodge is set at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park, renowned for its elephant population. Writers have described Ol Tukai and the surrounding Amboseli, with its breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife, as 'a home for the gods’. Ol Tukai Lodge is an Eco-rated lodge with excellent modern facilities offering a choice of family-friendly accommodation and romantic seclusion, with the special three-bedroom, sole-use Kibo Villa for the ultimate private experience. The property receives an overwhelming response from the international and local tourism market. The eastern part of Ol Tukai Lodge is home to several families of elephants. Amenities and Activities at Ol Tukai The lodge has a large, free-form swimming pool, a tennis court and a restaurant. There are two bars offering snacks and drinks and the dining room leads onto a terrace and the manicured gardens. A children’s club is also on the premises to keep the little ones busy so the adults may relax or go for a massage or other treatment at the spa and wellness centre. Other activities include morning and afternoon game drives, bird watching and cultural excursions to a nearby Maasai village. The best time to capture Kilimanjaro without its characteristic cloud cover is early in the morning, making those dawn wake-up calls well worth it. Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli’s design takes full advantage of this natural topography. For this reason, it is one of the most modern lodges in East Africa. The lodge prides itself on providing the best in hospitality and service. Dining at Ol Tukai Lodge The lodge has an extensive menu as well as the ability to cater for special requests. It has a good vegetarian offering in addition to the buffet meals served in the restaurant. Packed lunches can also be prepared for guests going on all-day game drives or excursions. read more read less

The picturesque Tawi Lodge lies on a beautiful private concession at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, only ten minutes away from the gate to Amboseli National Park.  It is set in the heart of its own 3,000-acre private conservancy and in one of the richest game areas in Kenya. This eco-friendly lodge offers magnificent and extensive views of Kilimanjaro and the wetlands from both its main guest areas and its beautifully appointed cottages. Each cottage boasts romantic four-poster beds, a lovely ensuite bathroom with a Victorian bath and a shower, a fireplace and a personal bar. A butler service is provided for that added personal touch. There are 13 individual guest cottages set on either side of the main lodge building; all cottages have a spectacular view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Tawi Lodge can accommodate up to 30 guests. All ensuite, each has a large lockable wooden chest for safekeeping of valuables, spacious hanging cupboards and a fireplace. Cottage 7 is suitable for wheelchair access. Swimming pool with sunbeds on wooden decks overlooking the waterhole. A large main lounge with a fireplace and bar. A small upper deck lounge. Lovely gift shop. A fantastic spa, offering massages, pedicures, manicures and reflexology. An outdoor ‘hot tub’. Outside central fireplace and bar overlooking the waterhole. Delicious meals are enjoyed in the main guest area, with menus created from the freshest ingredients (locally sourced where possible) and served to a symphony of African sounds. A waterhole, visible from the convivial bar areas, a dining room, sitting rooms and a spa all offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a spot of game viewing from the comfort of the lodge. Adventures include twice-daily game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles, nature walks, camel walks and fly camping. read more read less

Satao Elerai Camp is an exclusive and eco-friendly game lodge set on a 5,000-acre private conservation area on the border of Amboseli National Park. Unsurpassed views in every direction, coupled with a truly unique camp designed and built from local materials, allow the discerning traveller to experience the flavours and romance of real Africa at its very best. Satao Elerai aims to ensure that all its clients not only receive the perfect safari but also experience a level of comfort and luxury that would be difficult to find elsewhere in Africa. Apart from the region’s abundant wildlife, the lodge’s drawcard is its spectacular views of the Amboseli plains and majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Resident elephants are often seen from camp and are frequently heard trumpeting in the night, while the floodlit watering hole alongside the lodge attracts a variety of game, especially in the mornings. Setup at Satao Elerai Camp Satao Elerai's central areas are built around a group of giant boulders, into which the swimming pool, reception area curio shop, terrace, main bar and dining areas have been nicely integrated. From the hotel-like reception area, you cross a short bridge over a landscaped fish pond, where rushes grow and weaver birds nest, to the bar (which stays open as long as guests want to order drinks) and split-level lounge and dining room, with an upper, observation floor with comfy seating. There is a selection of board games and books, making this a cosy spot to spend evenings in camp. The lodge forms part of the community-owned Elerai Conservancy and you have the opportunity to walk alongside Maasai warriors in search of elephant, giraffe, zebra and other wild game as they herd their prized cattle to grazing grounds. When you are not on foot, embark on guided game drives into the Amboseli to see the park’s mighty elephant residents, acclaimed for their large tusks, and seek out Africa’s sought-after nocturnal creatures – like serval, genet, civet and aardwolf - on a night drive in the Elerai conservancy.   read more read less

Kibo Safari Camp is a luxury tented camp in Amboseli National Park in Kenya at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Amboseli, meaning “salty dust” in maa, the language of the Maasai, is a place of stark contrast. The park provides the classic Hollywood image of Africa. Set in rolling savannah scenery the park is dwarfed by the presence of the pink-tinged, snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Tents at Kibo Safari Camp Kibo Safari Camp has 73 self-contained single, double, triple and family tents. The beds have been custom-designed and locally made using bush logs and will ensure a good night’s sleep! All tents have flush toilets, showers, and wash basins. You can enjoy your shower as you like: bubbling hot or refreshing cold. For the duration of your stay in the African bush, Kibo Safari Camp will be your home away from home! The Camp incorporates an open terraced restaurant and bars under acacia trees overlooking majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro and a beautiful swimming pool has been landscaped within. The ideal location of the camp ensures you get breathtaking views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Kibo Safari Camp offers complete tranquillity and privacy as we have maintained the original nature feel bringing you closer to nature. read more read less

Maasai Simba Camp is in the heart of the Maasai country. The camp is 100% owned and managed by the Maasai tribe. The camp, nested in the deep acacia forest on the banks of the Kiboko River, was built by hand with a rustic charm. The camp is ideal for local safaris to Amboseli National Park and hike to Chyulu Hills. If you dreamed of walking with giraffes and zebras this is the place to realize your dream. It’s a perfect spot for people who love the outdoors. Activities include daily walking safari lead by the Maasai warriors, excursion to Amboseli National Park, meeting with Maasai elders and the women cooperative. Bookings are inclusive of full board (3 meals a day), walking safari in a pristine landscape and exclusive cultural experience with the Maasai. The camp has a 4x4 Safari vehicle with pop-up roof for easy wildlife viewing and photography. The Safari vehicle comes with additional fee. The camp sponsors a village school and health center. read more read less

Nestled in the heart of a stunning Maasai-owned private game reserve, the enchanting Campi ya Kanzi eco-lodge offers a unique escape into nature. Surrounded by sprawling landscapes and vibrant wildlife, this superb sanctuary harmoniously blends comfort with environmental sustainability, providing guests with an unforgettable experience in a truly untouched paradise. Nestled in the heart of Ernest Hemingway's fabled "Green Hills of Africa," Campi ya Kanzi stands as a testament to regenerative exclusive tourism and conservation in the breathtaking Chyulu Hills of southern Kenya. The award-winning boutique eco-lodge has, for nearly three decades, been a jewel in the Kenyan safari landscape. Discover the hidden gem of Campi ya Kanzi—a unique, soul-stirring safari experience set before the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Guided by a Maasai warrior, embark on thrilling safaris through untouched wilderness teeming with elephants and lions, where you'll connect with Africa's rich heritage and natural beauty. Enjoy sundowners with Kilimanjaro views, exclusive safaris led by Maasai trackers, and a pristine environment powered by sustainable energy and water. Here, in a secluded setting with no other lodges around, you’ll create unforgettable memories with gracious Maasai hosts, making your journey both personal and transformative. How is the Accommodation at Campi ya Kanzi Campi ya Kanzi accommodates a maximum of 16 guests in six thatched-roof luxury tented cottages and the Hemingway and Simba suites. The tented cottages and the suites are conveniently located, with ample distance from one to the other, to guarantee every guest’s privacy. Each accommodation has a dedicated Maasai attendant. Kanzi House accommodates a maximum of 10 guests, in 3 double rooms and 2 twin rooms. Campi ya Kanzi has two goals: help the Maasai preserve their wildlife and cultural heritage and treat you to the most memorable vacation of your life. You will learn about the Maasai lifestyle, their land and their culture. You will learn it through them, in the most genuine way. And you will play a huge role in preserving this paradise on Earth! Activities at this magnificent place Being outside the National Parks makes a safari at Campi ya Kanzi truly unique, as guests are not restricted to staying inside vehicles. Visitors can explore the bush on foot alongside a Maasai tracker, who is there to ensure your safety while carrying a spear. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Maasai’s medicinal uses of plants and their cultural traditions. Additionally, you can trek to the top of Hemingway’s Green Hills of Africa, visit the Maasai village of your guide, and observe wildlife and birdlife—all with the stunning backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Spanning 283,000 acres, the Kuku Group Ranch offers a vast array of natural habitats. The wildlife corridor connecting Tsavo West, Amboseli, Chyulu Hills, and Mount Kilimanjaro National Parks contributes significant biodiversity and conservation value. While wildlife roams freely and sightings cannot be guaranteed, an extended stay increases the chances of encountering zebras, giraffes, the Big Five (elephants, lions, buffalos, rhinos, leopards), possibly even the elusive wild dog and cheetah, along with more common species such as various antelopes and baboons. You can also take scenic flights around Kilimanjaro, over the Chyulu Hills or take an old-fashioned ‘fly camping’ overnight safari. Visit Tsavo and the famous hippos of Mzima Springs or the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphan elephant reintroduction programme; horseback ride; undertake meditation or photography courses; and visit the Chyulu Conservation and Research Center. Additionally, there is yoga with a certified resident teacher. Few places offer the opportunity to practice asana, pranayama, and meditation in such an immersive natural setting, with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop! At the Chyulu Club, children can have their safari in the Chyulu Hills with their own Masaai guides! Campi ya Kanzi: A Beacon of Regenerative Tourism and Cultural Immersion At the heart of Campi ya Kanzi lies a profound commitment to community development and environmental sustainability. Recognized as a pioneer in genuine ecotourism, the ethos revolves around empowering the local Maasai community to benefit from and protect the thriving wilderness that surrounds us. As a testament to their dedication, they operate entirely on solar energy, they are proudly not just carbon-neutral, but achieve carbon negativity through an afforestation program. The guests are immersed in an experience that harmoniously blends luxurious comfort with exhilarating outdoor adventures. From thrilling wildlife encounters to intimate cultural exchanges, every aspect of your stay is designed to create memorable and meaningful connections with nature and the Maasai people. Imagine waking up to the majestic view of Kilimanjaro, exploring the savannah accompanied by a Maasai warrior, and encountering the maestoso elephants and lions that roam freely. At Campi ya Kanzi, your dream African adventure comes to life, offering an unparalleled journey into the heart of the wild. A $125 conservation fee per guest per night, helps the Maasai coexist with predators and is disbursed ($124) to compensate for predated livestock and offset the minimal carbon emissions ($1), in a unique form of regenerative tourism. read more read less

Set just outside the popular Amboseli National Park, the Amboseli Sopa Lodge stands on 200 acres of savanna and bush highlighted by majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge’s lobby is bright and airy, an indoor garden paints a welcoming picture for guests, and the decor and art seen throughout the lodge depict true Maasai culture.  A bridge over a tranquil fishpond connects to a large thatched roof restaurant named after Mt Kilimanjaro’s Kibo Peak, with the outdoor Mawanzi terrace and bar the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or drink beneath the shade of the Acacia tree.  All forms of wildlife still abound in this wilderness which continues all the way to the Amboseli National Park, an easy twenty-minute drive away from the lodge. While the park conserves over six hundred breeding species of birds as well as a host of rare and wonderful wildlife, this is also home to the Maasai people, perhaps the world’s most renowned African tribe. read more read less

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is located within Amboseli National Park, set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli Serena Lodge, inspired by traditional Maasai architecture, offers an authentic safari experience with natural woodcarvings, artifacts, and local art. Overlooking a floodlit waterhole and saltlick, you’ll enjoy close-up views of elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, and abundant birdlife with over 400 species in the area. Set within an acacia grove near a gentle spring, the lodge features Maasai-inspired designs, a garden restaurant, and a palm-shaded pool with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Each detail reflects the spirit and warmth of Maasai culture, blending unmatched hospitality with modern comforts. Enjoy a variety of activities, including thrilling game drives, morning bird walks with a resident naturalist, and visits to a Maasai manyatta. For relaxation, unwind on the veranda, watch passing wildlife, take a dip in the spring-fed pool, or indulge in a soothing massage. Additionally, as part of Serena Hotels' reforestation efforts, you’re invited to plant a tree, helping restore the landscape impacted by Amboseli’s wildlife. read more read less

Tortilis Camp is a small gem of a tented camp that honours old safari traditions while keeping current with the latest in modern conveniences and thoughtful luxuries. The camp has a prime location for witnessing the majesty of Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro. Tortilis Camp is named after the flat-topped, umbrella thorn tree, the Acacia Tortilis, and embraces a hill in one of Amboseli’s areas of Acacia Tortilis woodland. Located in a private conservancy bordering the national park, game drives, walks, sundowners and bush meals take place both inside the national park and in the conservancy, where guests enjoy exclusivity. It was one of the first eco-lodges of its size and is very proudly 100% solar. Guests can rest assured they are leaving a minimal footprint during their stay. Get as close to the region’s wildlife as possible on a walking safari. Expert Maasai guides will lead you to areas most often frequented by elephants, wildebeest and lions. As a special treat, at the end of this exceptional game-viewing experience, you will be driven to the top of a hill, where you will be greeted by sundowners and snacks.   read more read less