If you’re looking to relax, unwind and reset, here’s a list of our top picks of safari spas. These are guaranteed to deliver safari luxe and wellness in one fell swoop. (In alphabetical order).
Finch Hattons (Chyulu Spa), Tsavo West
Finch Hattons, recently named as Africa’s leading tented camp by the WTA has a roster of worthy accolades under its belt. However, their Chyulu Wellness Spa is equally worthy of its own recognition. The ‘wellness complex’ – the largest of its kind in East Africa – is replete with an expansive open yoga studio, private infinity pool, hammam and climate-controlled treatment rooms. Here, massages begin with a calming foot ritual on Mzima stones, followed by a gentle welcome touch called the ‘Walk of the Elephant’. Their yoga instructors are all graduates of the renowned Africa Yoga Project program.
Nomad Recommends: The Chyulu Experience ($180 for 120 minutes)
Mara Bushtops (Amani Spa), Masai Mara
Picture-perfect expansive views of the Mara plains by day and access to the spa’s star-lit constellation swimming pool by night, the treatments here run the full gamut from hand and foot “rituals” to mesmerising Terra-D’Afrique facial treatments. Instead of a massage, the Spa Menu terms include words such as “journey” and “feast” alluding to rejuvenation and indulgence. Residents also have access to the gym, Rasul steam and sauna. It’s no surprise that The World Luxury Spa Awards lauded Amani Spa as the “Best Safari Spa in Africa.”
Nomad Recommends: Kurhula Ritual ($140 for 90 minutes)
Sasaab (Spa Sasaab), Samburu
The SpaSaab follows much the same visual and spiritual ethos as Sasaab itself. Expansive views of the more remote Samburu National Reserve, replete with a measure of Swahili and Moroccan flair and a focus on a minimal ecological footprint. Treatments here incorporate organic ingredients from Healing Earth, with a selection of luxurious balms and oils to provide a unique pampering experience with a focus on de-stressing, relaxing and hydrating.
Nomad Recommends: Signature Healing Earth Safari Massage (Ksh 10,000 for 90 minutes)
Segera, Laikipia
Segera’s wellness centre offers a variety of luxurious holistic treatments that nourish your entire being. Their treatment room is clad in rough hewn sandstone lending a warmth to cool, linen draped treatment tables. One of the signatures of Segera’s treatments is the use of essential oils sourced locally along with herbs from their garden. If you are feeling more energetic, you can access their adjoining ‘state-of-the-art’ gym or opt to languidly walk across the courtyard to their Rasul Steam Tower. A visit here is a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature which is a key element on the path to wellness.
Nomad Recommends: Akenju Akiret Foot Ritual ($145 for 90 minutes)