Kenya wildlife and conservation safari holiday

This is without doubt one of our favourite hotels in Kenya – elegant in an understated way, Hemingways Nairobi delivers it all, all of the time.

Perfect for a night between safaris, or on arrival and departure, it also lends itself to a longer stay if Nairobi is to be explored. From Hemingways Nairobi, guests can easily access Nairobi National Park, as well as the shopping districts of Karen and the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage. The proximity to Nairobi Wilson Airport also makes transfers for domestic flights for safari destinations very convenient.

The service and food are second to none, meaning a relaxed and enjoyable visit, every time.

The suites are delightfully comfortable with gloriously spacious bathrooms, and all are named after a notable person in Kenya’s history. The hotel’s grounds are luxuriant, full of birdlife and begging to be explored. A dip in the outdoor pool is also very welcome in the warm Nairobi afternoons.

Arriving at Lewa House, it really does feel like someone’s comfortable and welcoming family home – that’s because it is.

The owners Sophie and Calum live here with their young family and are on hand to share every diversion Lewa House has to offer. They are exceptional hosts.

You would be forgiven for never wanting to leave the lodge itself – meals around the pool, for example, are a must, to relax and take in the stunning views towards Mt Kenya. Each room has a beautiful view and every comfort you would require.

Karen Blixen camp is situated in the Mara North conservancy, bordering the main Masai Mara reserve, and rightly prides itself not only on its elegant, slightly nostalgic safari design feel, but also its eco credentials.

Responsible tourism is at the heart of every day operations at this beautiful Danish-owned camp (fittingly named, as Karen Blixen was herself Danish) and the hospitable and charming staff strive every day to bring this to life.

The camp runs in the most environmentally friendly manner – they have been awarded a prestigious Gold Eco Rating by Eco Tourism Kenya – using the latest green technologies, all of which can be seen if you wish. For example, you may choose to spend the morning visiting the Karen Blixen Forestry School projects as a family.

Nairobi boasts a vibrant array of cultural activities beyond its renowned National Park.

Visitors can contribute to wildlife conservation by supporting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned baby elephants can be visited and even adopted. Giraffe Manor provides an exceptional opportunity to feed giraffes through manor windows, creating unforgettable moments.

Beyond wildlife, the Maasai Market beckons with its cultural richness, offering an irresistible shopping experience with unique treasures and gifts.

The suburb of Karen, named after ‘Out of Africa’ author Mrs. Blixen, is a picturesque area near the domestic airport, featuring charming artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Lewa wildlife conservancy is one of Kenya’s greatest conservation success stories and is now home to one of the largest rhino populations in East Africa. Game drives here are sure to delight; as well as the rhinos you’re likely to see lions, hyena, elephant and the endangered Grevy’s Zebra, to name but a few.

Outside of traditional game drives, Lewa House offers a wide variety of activities, such as visits to the nearby waterfalls, treks to Mount Kenya, horse riding in the conservancy, You can also visit the conservancy headquarters and learn about the conservation activities taking place, including the anti-poaching tracker dog unit.

Embark on a thrilling Big Five safari in the Lewa Conservancy, an East African gem. This pristine wilderness offers encounters with lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Lewa’s conservation efforts contribute to the preservation of these majestic creatures, providing a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness these iconic species in their natural habitat.

Game drives are taken in the conservancy, which means fewer other tourists are seen whilst out observing the wildlife. You have the option to enter the main reserve too, which may be particularly appealing if travelling in the great migration season. This is best done on a full-day excursion from the camp, with a picnic lunch to enjoy beneath a thorn tree somewhere out on the Mara plains.