Budget and safari don’t often go together, still less when it’s the Maasai Mara during migration season. But it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, as Catrina Stewart finds out.
Budget and safari don’t often go together, still less in the Maasai Mara during migration season. But it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, as Catrina Stewart finds out. As my battered Toyota Prado jarringly hit a ditch
Kilaguni Tsavo West, Kenya Historic, old hotel in Tsavo West occupying pride of place in front of a waterhole that provides a thrilling theatre for guests well into the night. Price Full-board starts from Ksh 9,200 pp, sharing. Game drives cost Ksh 4,500 pp. Strengths Kilaguni
Satao Camp, Tsavo EastTaita Taveta, KenyaSatao is a low-key camp facing onto its own watering hole, and offering some of the best elephant viewing in the park, and all of it from a tent. PriceStarts from Ksh 5,500 pp, sharing, full-board.
Peponi Hotel Lamu, Kenya The most stylish hotel on the Lamu archipelago, and perhaps on the entire East African coast. This legendary institution is a favourite with expats, film stars, and royalty. Price Starts from $280 per room, based on two sharing, with breakfast. Strengths For
Rondo RetreatKakamega, KenyaRondo Retreat is the place to stay in Kakamega. This Christian-run retreat with its white, clapboard cottages and wrap-around verandas is a perfect base for walking in Kenya’s only equatorial rainforest. PriceKsh 6,900 per adult, sharing, full-board.StrengthsPhotos on its website don’t
The Barnleys Guest HouseKitale, KenyaIf you can look beyond the gruff exterior of your host, you’ll find this a little gem of a place. It’s not grand, but what it lacks in polish is amply compensated by the owner’s wealth
Mfangano Island Camp Lake Victoria, Kenya If you’re heading to Lake Victoria, Mfangano Island Camp is arguably the best place from which to experience it. This is a true hideaway, with small cottages clustered around a picturesque and tranquil bay. Price Starts from $163
El KaramaLaikipia, KenyaA family-run camp popular with weekenders and those looking for an all-inclusive safari at a more affordable price. Hosted by the Grant family, it has established a reputation as a favourite for weekenders and big groups. PriceKsh 14,500 pp,
Ol Donyo LodgeChyulu Hills, KenyaOl Donyo is one of only two hotels in which to stay if looking to stay in the heart of the beautiful Chyulu Hills. This is a truly stunning retreat overlooking Ernest Hemingway’s “Green Hills of