Tsavo West National Park offers a broad spectrum of accommodation choices, primarily consisting of luxury lodges, tented camps, and eco-lodges, reflecting the park’s focus on providing immersive, high-end safari experiences. The park’s accommodations lean toward the mid-range to luxury categories, with properties like Finch Hattons and Lions Bluff Lodge offering exclusive, eco-conscious stays.
| Hotel Name | Type | Price (USD) | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| Severin Safari Camp | Bed and Breakfast | 167 | 587 |
| Salt Lick Safari Lodge | Lodge | 231 | 1807 |
| Voyager Ziwani Camp | Luxury Tented Camp | 221 | 720 |
| Man Eaters Camp | Cabin/Campground | 225 | 159 |
| Hunters Lodge | Lodge | 76 | 48 |
| Ashnil Aruba Lodge | Lodge | 216 | 1079 |
| Lake Jipe Eco Lodge | Cabin/Campground | 76 | 20 |
| Soroi Lions Bluff Lodge | Lodge | Contact for price | 178 |
| Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp | Luxury Tented Camp | Contact for price | 292 |
| Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa | Resort & Spa | Contact for price | 516 |
| Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge | Lodge | Contact for price | 1144 |
While these options cater to travelers seeking comfort and unique wildlife experiences, they come at a relatively high cost, making Tsavo West a premium destination. Budget-friendly options are more limited, with only a few such as Sagala Lodge and Voi Wildlife Lodge, providing basic amenities for travelers on a tighter budget. Overall, the accommodations in Tsavo West are tailored to those willing to invest in an exceptional safari experience, but the scarcity of affordable lodges makes it less accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Accommodation Types Defined:
1. Hotel:
A hotel typically offers modern rooms and facilities, including restaurants, bars, and often swimming pools. Hotels tend to be more structured with enclosed buildings and offer amenities like room service, laundry, and sometimes spa services. In national parks like Tsavo West, hotels are often used by travelers seeking comfort and proximity to wildlife without venturing too deep into the wilderness.
2. Tented Camp:
A tented camp offers accommodation in large, canvas tents that are often semi-permanent or permanent structures. These tents are fully furnished with beds, en suite bathrooms, and sometimes private verandas. They provide a close-to-nature experience, often blending luxury with the wild surroundings. Tented camps offer a more rustic and authentic safari feel while still ensuring comfort.
3. Eco-lodge:
Eco-lodges are designed with sustainability in mind. They are usually built using local, eco-friendly materials and strive to minimize their environmental impact. These lodges often utilize solar energy, have water conservation systems, and promote eco-friendly practices. They are ideal for travelers who prioritize environmental responsibility while still seeking comfort in the wild.
4. Lodge/Luxury Lodge:
A lodge provides accommodation in solid structures, usually offering a higher level of comfort compared to tented camps. Luxury lodges go a step further, offering high-end services such as gourmet dining, spa facilities, and exclusive game-viewing opportunities. They tend to be more private and intimate, catering to those looking for a blend of comfort, service, and a deep connection with nature.
Accommodations in Tsavo West National Park:
1. Satao Camp (Tented Camp – Mid-range)
Overview:
Satao Camp is an authentic tented camp located in Tsavo East but serves as an excellent base for exploring Tsavo West due to its location. The unfenced camp offers 20 large tents, each with en suite bathrooms, and is centered around a waterhole where elephants, lions, and other wildlife are frequent visitors.
Recommended For:
Travelers looking for a mid-range, authentic safari experience that puts them up close to wildlife, without sacrificing basic comfort. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Why Choose Satao Camp:
- Waterhole for wildlife viewing
- Spacious tents with en suite bathrooms
- Great for photographers
- Close to both Tsavo East and Tsavo West
2. Lions Bluff Lodge (Eco-lodge – Mid-range)
Overview:
Lions Bluff Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge perched on a hill within the Lumo Conservancy, offering sweeping views of Tsavo West and beyond, including Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge is eco-conscious, constructed from sustainable materials, and features six exclusive rooms. It’s an intimate, eco-friendly option for those seeking sustainability and stunning views.
Recommended For:
Eco-conscious travelers and couples seeking an intimate and serene safari experience with minimal environmental impact. Perfect for travelers who want an eco-lodge with luxury services.
Why Choose Lions Bluff Lodge:
- Exclusive and intimate atmosphere
- Sustainable and eco-friendly
- Spectacular 360-degree views
- Walking safaris and game drives
3. Leopards Lair Cottages (Cottages – Budget)
Overview:
Located near Lions Bluff Lodge, Leopards Lair Cottages offer budget-friendly accommodation with a rustic touch. With only four rooms, it ensures a quiet, wilderness-focused stay. The cottages are simple but comfortable, giving guests the opportunity to experience the wildlife in a relaxed setting without high-end luxuries.
Recommended For:
Budget-conscious travelers or small groups looking for a quiet, basic, and untamed safari experience. Perfect for independent travelers who prioritize nature over luxury.
Why Choose Leopards Lair Cottages:
- Affordable pricing
- Close to Lions Bluff and key park attractions
- Perfect for budget travelers
- Ideal for a more rugged experience
4. Salt Lick Safari Lodge (Lodge – Mid-range)
Overview:
Salt Lick Safari Lodge is one of Kenya’s most iconic lodges, known for its stilted structures above a waterhole frequented by elephants and other wildlife. Located in the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary near Tsavo West, the lodge provides unparalleled wildlife viewing right from your room. It has 88 rooms, making it a larger option but with stunning views and easy access to safaris.
Recommended For:
Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking for a mid-range lodge that combines comfort with close-up wildlife experiences. Perfect for those looking to enjoy frequent game sightings without leaving the lodge.
Why Choose Salt Lick Safari Lodge:
- Elevated rooms with waterhole views
- Ideal for wildlife photographers
- Close proximity to key attractions
- One of the most photographed lodges in Kenya
5. Voi Wildlife Lodge (Tented Camp – Budget)
Overview:
Located on the edge of Tsavo East National Park, Voi Wildlife Lodge provides budget-friendly tented accommodation with access to both Tsavo East and Tsavo West. With 88 rooms, it offers comfort and convenience for travelers who are more focused on exploring the park’s wildlife than staying in a high-end lodge.
Recommended For:
Budget-conscious travelers who want easy access to both Tsavo East and West, while maintaining basic comforts. Ideal for families and groups seeking affordable accommodation.
Why Choose Voi Wildlife Lodge:
- Budget-friendly option
- Close to Tsavo East Airstrip
- Comfortable tents with essential amenities
- Perfect for day trips into Tsavo East and West
6. Severin Safari Camp (Tented Camp – Mid-range)
Overview:
Severin Safari Camp offers a high-end tented camp experience with eco-friendly credentials. Located within Tsavo West, the camp features 27 luxurious tents and suites, blending comfort with nature. Guests enjoy modern amenities, a spa, and the opportunity for game drives and walking safaris.
Recommended For:
Eco-conscious travelers seeking luxury. It’s ideal for couples and families looking for a sustainable, high-comfort safari experience.
Why Choose Severin Safari Camp:
- Eco-friendly design and practices
- Luxurious tents and suites
- Spa facilities for relaxation
- Great base for exploring Tsavo West
7. Voyager Ziwani Camp (Luxury Tented Camp – Luxury)
Overview:
Located near the western edge of Tsavo West National Park, Voyager Ziwani offers an exclusive safari experience with luxury tented accommodation. The camp boasts only six tents, ensuring a private and intimate stay. With views of Mount Kilimanjaro and access to a private dam, it provides incredible game viewing without the crowds.
Recommended For:
Luxury travelers, honeymooners, or small groups who want a more secluded and exclusive safari experience in Tsavo West. Perfect for those who enjoy privacy, luxury, and personalized service.
Why Choose Voyager Ziwani Camp:
- Small and exclusive with only six tents
- Luxury tented accommodation
- Private dam with wildlife
- Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro
8. Ashnil Aruba Lodge (Lodge – Budget)
Overview:
Located in Tsavo East National Park but easily accessible to Tsavo West, Ashnil Aruba Lodge offers budget accommodation without compromising on comfort. It is situated next to the Aruba Dam, a popular waterhole for wildlife. With 52 rooms, it provides modern amenities and a great base for exploring the surrounding wildlife areas.
Recommended For:
Budget-conscious travelers who want comfort and easy access to wildlife-rich areas. Ideal for families or groups looking for affordable accommodation near both Tsavo parks.
Why Choose Ashnil Aruba Lodge:
- Affordable and comfortable
- Close to Aruba Dam for wildlife viewing
- Spacious rooms with modern amenities
- Great for day trips into Tsavo West
9. Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp (Luxury Tented Camp – Luxury)
Overview:
Finch Hattons is the epitome of luxury in Tsavo West, offering 17 high-end tents with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Chyulu Hills. The camp is ideal for those seeking an exclusive, high-end safari experience, with activities including game drives, bush walks, and gourmet dining. Its historical charm, inspired by the legendary hunter Denys Finch Hatton, adds a unique touch.
Recommended For:
Luxury travelers and honeymooners who want an exclusive, high-end safari experience in the heart of Tsavo West. Perfect for those seeking the ultimate in comfort and service.
Why Choose Finch Hattons:
Perfect for special occasions
Ultimate luxury tented experience
Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
Gourmet dining and luxurious spa
10. Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge (Lodge – Mid-range)
Overview:
One of Kenya’s most historic lodges, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, was among the first to be built inside a national park. It offers 58 rooms with views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Hills, as well as a nearby waterhole that attracts elephants and other wildlife. The lodge’s location makes it perfect for exploring Tsavo West’s key attractions, such as Mzima Springs, the Shetani Lava Flow, and the Chaimu Crater. With excellent dining facilities, a pool, and spacious rooms, it offers a great balance of comfort and adventure.
Recommended For:
Families, groups, and couples looking for a comfortable yet adventurous safari experience. It’s perfect for travelers seeking proximity to key Tsavo West attractions and a lodge with a long-standing reputation for excellent service.
Why Choose Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge:
- Excellent location for exploring key park attractions
- Waterhole for wildlife viewing
- Spacious rooms with views of Kilimanjaro
- Family-friendly with modern amenities
11. Hunters Lodge – Kiboko (Hotel – Mid-range)
Overview:
Hunters Lodge is a 3.5-star hotel situated at Kiboko Springs, making it a convenient stop for travelers along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway or those visiting Tsavo West. The hotel is set within 25 acres of lush gardens and offers 62 modern rooms with amenities such as a swimming pool and restaurant. While it’s not deeply embedded in the park, Hunters Lodge is ideal for travelers seeking a balance between comfort, convenience, and nature.
Recommended For:
Business travelers, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing stopover on their way to or from the park. Hunters Lodge is a great option for travelers who want to unwind in comfort without venturing too deep into the wilderness.
Why Choose Hunters Lodge:
- Convenient location for travelers on the Mombasa-Nairobi route
- Spacious rooms with modern amenities
- Relaxing atmosphere with lush gardens
- Ideal for both business and leisure travelers
12. Man-Eaters Lodge (Tented Camp – Mid-range)
Overview:
Located on the banks of the Tsavo River, Man-Eaters Lodge provides a luxury tented camp experience with a historical twist. Named after the infamous lions that terrorized railway workers in the late 19th century, the camp offers 31 spacious tented suites with en suite bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the river. The camp’s unique blend of history, luxury, and wildlife makes it an exceptional choice for those seeking more than just a traditional safari experience.
Recommended For:
History buffs and wildlife enthusiasts who want a unique, luxury safari experience. Man-Eaters Lodge is ideal for those looking for comfortable accommodations with easy access to key attractions in Tsavo West, as well as a rich historical backdrop.
Why Choose Man-Eaters Lodge:
- Historical connection to the man-eating lions of Tsavo
- Luxury tents with river views
- Ideal for wildlife viewing and relaxation
- Great for history enthusiasts and nature lovers
13. Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa (Hotel – Mid-range)
Overview:
Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is located at the entrance to the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, which is adjacent to Tsavo West. This resort offers 61 modern rooms, a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant, making it a great retreat for travelers seeking relaxation after a day of game drives. The resort also offers guided safaris, cultural tours, and nature walks, combining both relaxation and adventure.
Recommended For:
Travelers looking for a wellness retreat combined with a safari experience. Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa is perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking both wildlife exploration and luxury amenities like spa treatments and swimming pools.
Why Choose Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa:
- Wellness and spa facilities
- Close proximity to Tsavo West and Taita Hills Sanctuary
- Guided safaris and cultural tours available
- Ideal for relaxation and wildlife exploration
14. H12 Kipalo Hills Tsavo (Tented Camp – Mid-range)
Overview:
Set in the private 12,000-acre Mbulia Conservancy bordering Tsavo West National Park, H12 Kipalo Hills offers an eco-friendly, mid-range tented camp experience. With just eight luxurious tents, Kipalo Hills offers seclusion, intimacy, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The camp is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring eco-friendly structures and practices, while still offering modern comforts such as en suite bathrooms and private verandas. Activities include game drives, bush walks, and cultural visits to nearby villages.
Recommended For:
Eco-conscious travelers, small groups, or couples looking for an exclusive, intimate safari experience. H12 Kipalo Hills is ideal for those wanting a peaceful retreat in a private conservancy with top-notch wildlife viewing.
Why Choose H12 Kipalo Hills:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable design
- Secluded and intimate with only eight tents
- Stunning views of Tsavo West
- Great for small groups or couples seeking a private safari
15. Sagala Lodge (Lodge – Budget)
Overview:
Located between Tsavo East and Tsavo West, Sagala Lodge is an affordable option for travelers seeking proximity to both parks. It offers 24 simple but comfortable rooms with modern amenities, making it a perfect base for budget travelers who want to explore the parks. The lodge’s close proximity to the Mombasa-Nairobi highway makes it a convenient stop for those traveling between Nairobi and the coast.
Recommended For:
Budget-conscious travelers or families who want to visit both Tsavo East and West without breaking the bank. Sagala Lodge is ideal for travelers seeking a simple, comfortable lodge close to the main parks and highways.
Why Choose Sagala Lodge:
- Affordable rates
- Convenient location between Tsavo East and West
- Ideal for travelers on the Mombasa-Nairobi route
- Simple, comfortable accommodation with modern amenities
Pricing
The average pricing for accommodations in Tsavo West National Park reflects a wide range, catering primarily to mid-range and luxury travelers. Among the more affordable options, Hunters Lodge and Lake Jipe Eco Lodge offer stays around $76 per night, making them accessible to budget-conscious travelers.
On the higher end, properties like Salt Lick Safari Lodge and Man Eaters Camp range from $225 to $231 per night, appealing to those seeking more comfort and premium safari experiences. For those desiring high-end luxury, camps like Voyager Ziwani Camp and Ashnil Aruba Lodge offer elevated tented accommodations for approximately $216 to $221 per night.
Properties such as Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp and Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge do not publicly list their prices, indicating that these exclusive lodges offer tailored pricing based on premium services. Overall, Tsavo West’s accommodations tend to skew towards higher price points, with few budget options available, making it a destination more suitable for mid-range to luxury travelers.
Conclusion:
Tsavo West National Park offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. Whether you are looking for a luxurious retreat with stunning views like Finch Hattons, a mid-range eco-lodge such as Lions Bluff Lodge, or a budget-friendly camp like Sagala Lodge, Tsavo West has something for everyone. By understanding the different types of accommodations available—hotels, tented camps, eco-lodges, and luxury lodges—you can select the perfect match for your preferences and budget, ensuring a memorable and well-suited safari experience.
No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences that make Tsavo West National Park a top destination in Kenya.