Travelling to beautiful places doesn’t have to be expensive. The Traveldote, who have travelled the length and breadth of Kenya in search of pocket-friendly gems, share with us their five favourite budget spots in Kenya, whether you’re looking for a rustic safari camp, a glamping getaway or a good old camp site.
Sieku Glamping, Laikipia
What was once just 33 acres of abandoned dry land has now become Kenya’s first bell-tented glamping experience. About 235 km from Nairobi, a 4 ½-hour drive, is Sieku glamping. The glamp can accommodate a total of 20 people comfortably in a choice between glamorous bell tents, a tipi tent and a touareg tent, all with ensuite bathrooms. Panoramic views can be enjoyed from any point with magnificent Mt. Kenya to the South and the Borana conservancy to the North (a likely chance to spot the Big 5 here). There’s plenty of space to relax, have a grill and enjoy peaceful chirps.
Price: You can enjoy Sieku for a mere $50 per couple on weekdays and $60 per couple on weekends.
Amboseli Bush Camp, Kajiado Co
Around 4 hours out of Nairobi is Amboseli Bush Camp. This is a secluded self-catered safari camp that can comfortably host 10 guests. This accommodation boasts extensive views of Mount Kilimanjaro and is only a few kilometres away from Amboseli National Park. If you’re not spending a full day out on safari you’ll probably find yourself relaxing in the spacious lounge. Each tent has a large and comfortable bed and faces towards the majestic Mt Kilimanjaro. Whether you want a tasty BBQ or delicious pizzas, this bush camp is true safari luxury at the fraction of the price.
Price: You can enjoy exclusive use of the property from only $95 per night.
AirBnB: Amboseli Private Safari Camp
Olomaiyana private bush camp, Kajiado Co
Up on the Maparasha hills of Kajiado County is a private bush camp that redefines luxury camping. Olomaiyana private bush camp is a self-catered property that can sleep up to 12 people in five bedrooms. The two cottage rooms and three tent rooms are scattered around the camp with a central living room and kitchen space. The rooms are clean, comfortable and have ensuite bathrooms. The pool is a short walk from the campsite, slightly higher up the hill. A 20 minute-hike will take you to a spot for breathtaking sundowner views of the Great Rift Valley. A perfect weekend getaway only 1hr 30mins from Nairobi.
Price: Starts from $80 for two people.
Limuru house, Limuru
Sometimes a quick getaway is all you need to clear your mind. Less than an hour away from Nairobi is Limuru and it is complete tea heaven! Tucked in between the rolling hills of the tea farms is a two-bedroomed guest house, a modern property with stunning views. Spend the day at Brown’s cheese farm or sip on tea at Kiambethu tea farm then wrap yourself up to watch the sunset from the living room. The self-contained house with all your crockery needs can easily fit four guests.
Price: Starts from $90.
AirBnB: Exquisite Limuru Cottage
Oloiden campsite, Lake Oloiden
Quick trips to one of the many campsites located along Lake Naivasha have become a norm when looking for a convenient escape from the city. But a mere 15 minutes along Moi South road lies Lake Oloiden. Boasting plenty of birds, wildlife, flora and fauna the lake is just as good if not better than Lake Naivasha, especially if you are looking for a quieter escape. Lake Oloiden campsite gives you the opportunity to camp metres from the lake with impressive views that include the serene lake and tumbling hills in the background. If you are not a seasoned camper, fear not. The campsite provides all the gear you could need, including mattresses, clean bathrooms, hot showers and ready-made bonfires at night, amenities that some may call luxuries when camping.
Price: Bring your own tent and pay for bedding at Ksh 1,000, or rent a double tent from Ksh 3,500.
