Black Kite Fly-in Safari: Day-by-day

The Emakoko is a unique, owner-managed lodge that opened in 2012. It straddles the southern boundary of Nairobi National Park, marked by the gorge of the Mbagathi River in an area where three rivers converge. The lodge has the national park's much underrated game-viewing areas on its doorstep and easy access to both Nairobi's airports.

"The best lodge visited on this trip. Truly stunning"

Mr & Mrs RfromGlos

Arrived 18 Feb 2024, 1 night

For a Nairobi hotel, The Emakoko is a very special place. We have stayed here many times since it opened; there is a palpable buzz about it that is infectious. We had to keep reminding ourselves that we were only a few miles from central Nairobi. The location is spectacular, and the opportunity to make a wildlife-watching virtue out of the transfer through the park to either of the airports – often a traffic-jammed torment from most hotels – is an outstanding asset. See our full report on The Emakoko

Named after Elsa, the lioness raised by George and Joy Adamson and made famous by the story of Born Free, Elsa’s Kopje sits high on Mughwango Hill above George Adamson’s original campsite. The camp is colonial in style, and there are spectacular views over the plains of Meru National Park.

"fantastic lodge. Beautiful situation. Super pool."

Mr & Mrs RfromGlos

Arrived 7 Feb 2024, 3 nights

Although it remains earthy and unpretentious, Elsa’s Kopje is certainly the most luxurious place to base yourself in Meru National Park. It is a very well-run lodge and we instantly felt at home. The only potential downside is the number of steps for those with limited mobility. See our full report on Elsa's Kopje

Elephant Pepper is a small, tented camp located in the protected Mara North Conservancy. Originally built in 1984, it was named after the grove of elephant pepper trees it's nestled in. From here you can explore the game of the Mara North Conservancy, or venture into the National Reserve itself. This is particularly appealing during the months when the migration will be in the area (roughly July to October).

"loved elephant pepper camp. The staff were outstanding."

Dr C & Mr PfromBC

Arrived 26 Mar 2024, 4 nights

We really enjoyed our last stay at Elephant Pepper – it's comfortable and well designed, without being too fussy. The style of the tents is just right, so that you feel like you're staying somewhere quite luxurious, whilst also knowing that you're very much in the bush. We think it's a great choice for anyone who wants to take advantage of the fantastic game viewing that the Mara North conservancy has to offer. See our full report on Elephant Pepper Camp

Just outside the southern boundary of Amboseli National Park, Tortilis is named after the Acacia tortilis tree. The trees dominate the area and this luxury safari camp clusters around a gentle rise overlooking lightly wooded plains. When the skies over Kilimanjaro are clear, there are fantastic views of the mountain from the lounge and dining area. The camp is located in the 120 square-kilometre Kitirua Conservancy, which is exclusive to guests of Tortilis.

"Guiding was excellent. The camp has a lovely position...food was excellent."

Dr G & Dr EfromUK

Arrived 11 Sep 2022, 3 nights

With its glorious views of Kilimanjaro, well-appointed tents and slightly elevated central areas, Tortilis is one of the Amboseli ecosystem's best bases. Having access in minutes to its own exclusive conservancy makes this one of the region's top choices. See our full report on Tortilis Camp