Luxury safaris in Kenya

Staying at Lewa Wilderness is a delightful way to spend a few nights of a luxury safari. The cottages are huge and the polished stone floors, stone walls and handmade furniture combine to give them a rustic, super-comfortable feel. A private fireplace and veranda are fine places to relax.

If you’re familiar with Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition resorts, the features at his ultra-modern Mahali Mzuri will come as no surprise. The huge glass table in the dining area, the smart swimming pool and the spa tent are only a few of Mahali Mzuri’s luxurious facilities.

Elsa’s is one of northern Kenya’s best-loved luxury retreats, offering an all-round combination of stunning landscapes, wildlife and total comfort. A marvellous infinity pool carved from the rocky hilltop, excellent food, attentive service and top-rank wildlife guides are all on the menu.

With some of the best guiding and an unrivalled location, Mara Plains gets our vote as probably the Mara’s top safari camp. The décor and furnishings are carefully chosen: antique trunks, brass fittings and decks made of old railway sleepers combine opulent chic with sleek practicality.

The extremely spacious tents at Ngare Serian are set atop hardwood platforms. At this luxury safari camp each party of guests has their own private guide and 4x4 vehicle. Features in each guest tent include an indulgent bathtub on the veranda, with views of the river and its hippos.

Stone-walled cottages featuring rustic, locally made furniture reinforce Borana’s understated luxury. Each has a fireplace, where a log fire will be lit for you on request. A large infinity pool overlooks the lodge’s waterhole and has magnificent views across the Borana Conservancy.

The very stylish and roomy suites at Ol Donyo Lodge offer plenty of luxurious amenities and unusual features, including private plunge pools and roof terraces for sunbathing or spending a night under stars. The lodge offers a wide range of activities and has superb riding stables.

At this remote and exclusive camp, the ample tents with a Moroccan twist are the perfect base for a luxurious safari holiday. Arabic-styled arches, colourful rugs and whitewashed stone floors lend an opulent atmosphere. Each tent has a private plunge pool with spectacular views.

This ravishing new safari camp is the perfect base for a carefree luxury safari. The huge, glass-fronted tented rooms offer some of the region’s most striking views; the modern and stylish décor includes polished parquet floors and each room comes with a WiFi-enabled iPad.

Tijara Beach is a sumptuous, exclusive choice for a beach holiday. A maximum of just eight guests enjoy pampering by the attentive staff and uninterrupted views on the Indian Ocean. The very private cottages are well kept and furnished in a smartly updated Swahili style.

Each of the southwest-facing rooms at Hemingways has its own balcony with striking views of Karen Blixen’s beloved Ngong Hills. Stylish cushions and cut flowers add a luxurious feel to the rooms and a private butler takes care of your individual needs, 24 hours a day.

Kinondo Kwetu is ideal for a luxurious and relaxing beach break on the Kenyan coast. Food and service are outstanding and there’s a remarkable attention to detail. Spoil yourself in the spa or relax in any of the lovely areas decorated with art from all over Africa.

Cottars Private House is a luxurious, modern home in the bush. This fully staffed, two-storey villa has five en-suite bedrooms, stunning views of the Maasai Mara, and a 25-metre lap pool. It makes the perfect luxury base for a large family or group of friends.

Although understated, Mara Nyika is undeniably luxurious. Beautiful design, well prepared meals and top-quality guiding help make for a very well-rounded experience, while the camp’s small size and location on a private conservancy allow for real exclusivity.

From its grand hallway to the designer toiletries, everything about this lodge makes a statement of luxury. While every room is exceptionally comfortable, it is the unique attraction of the giraffes that makes this Nairobi’s most popular luxury base.

The main areas feel like a country house, with wooden pillars, a stone fireplace and swimming pool. Attentive service adds further to the feel of comfort, while top-quality guiding, numerous dining spots and excellent food add the finishing touches.

With its manicured lawns, 70-strong staff and extras that include helicopter flights, horse riding and massages, this intimate camp offers an unparalleled level of care. Situated on a private conservancy, even the game-viewing feels exclusive.

Ishara oozes understated luxury, with sumptuous suites, each with indulgent copper plated bath tubs overlooking the river. The food is outstanding, the attention to detail exceptional, and we loved the relaxing spa and infinity pool.

With its modern design and individually themed cottages, Solio Lodge was purpose-built for luxury. Panoramic windows and open fireplaces add wow-factor, while exploring the private conservancy makes for an exclusive experience.

With its beautifully styled private villas, grand infinity pool, excellent food, and acres of secluded beach, Msambweni Beach House provides a luxurious beach retreat on the Kenyan Coast.