The hype
Guests universally describe it as 'magical' and 'dreamy,' praising the staff's attention to detail and the incredible food.
Finch Hattons
$990-1,450 per person/night/ night
Book this if You want the ultimate 'Out of Africa' fantasy with five-star service, where hippos grunt beneath your deck and you don't mind paying a premium for exclusivity.
Why People Love It
- Unfenced luxury: Wildlife wanders right through the camp
- The 'Karen Blixen' vibe: Vintage leather, crystal chandeliers, and copper bathtubs
- Hippo pools: Every tent overlooks a natural spring filled with resident hippos
Quick Take: It is ferociously expensive and lacks air conditioning, but the proximity to wildlife and the sheer romance of the design make it arguably the best camp in Tsavo.
Reviewed by @wherenextfamily: I spent my afternoon floating in this pool listening to the wild. This spa is hands down the most relaxing place I've ever been in Kenya. The silence is heavy and beautiful—you have to experience it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'bush noise' is real—hippos are loud at night, and without solid walls, you will hear every grunt, splash, and roar.
- You want a romantic, vintage safari aesthetic (think 1920s explorer)
- You enjoy being close to nature and don't mind animal noises at night
- You appreciate fine dining and high-end spa treatments in the wild
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice-daily service including turndown with hot water bottles.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless copper tubs and indoor showers. Outdoor showers are clean but expect leaves/nature.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition. The 'makuti' roofs are well-maintained, and canvas is taut and clean.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count white linens, plush towels, and premium robes.
- Odors & scents: Smells of fresh canvas, thatch, and the subtle scent of the bush (wild sage).
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hippos splashing and grunting (all night)
- Lions roaring in the distance
- Wind flapping the canvas tents
Before you book
Good to know
- Laundry is included in the rate (except dry cleaning), so you can pack light.
- The camp is unfenced; you must be escorted by a guard (askari) when walking to/from your tent at night.
- Wifi is free and generally available throughout camp, but speeds can be bush-variable.
What to pack
- Neutral colored clothing (Khaki/Tan) to avoid attracting tsetse flies (avoid blue/black).
- A good camera with a zoom lens (wildlife is right there).
- Swimsuit for the infinity pool and spa.
Room Genie
Best picks
- Tent 17: The furthest from the main area, offering maximum privacy and a feeling of being alone in the bush.
- Tents 14-16: Great views of the hippo pool but slightly closer to the walkway.
- Family Suites (Two-Bedroom): Massive (205 sqm) with a shared lounge, perfect for groups.
Rooms to avoid
- Tent 1: Closest to the main mess area/bar; convenient for mobility but less private and potentially noisier from lodge activity.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a tent further from the main mess area (ideally Tent 14-17) for maximum privacy and uninterrupted views of the hippo pool. We enjoy the natural sounds of the bush.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there air conditioning in the tents?
No. The tents are designed with open mesh windows and high makuti roofs for airflow, plus ceiling fans. It cools down at night, but midday can be warm.
Are the hippos dangerous?
Yes, hippos are dangerous wild animals. However, the tents are elevated on decks, and guards escort you at night. Never walk alone in the dark.
Is food and drink included?
Yes, it is 'Fully Inclusive'. All meals, soft drinks, beer, house wines, and select spirits are included. Premium champagne and spirits are extra.
How do I get there?
Most guests fly into the private Finch Hattons airstrip (50 mins from Nairobi Wilson Airport). The camp transfers you from the airstrip (10-15 min drive).
Can I charge my devices?
Yes, tents have 24-hour electricity and charging points (UK square 3-pin style). Bring an adapter if needed.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, children over 6 are welcome (under 6 on request). There is a kids' program, but constant supervision is required due to the unfenced nature of the camp.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book a 'Bush Breakfast' – it's often included but you have to request it; eating eggs benedict in the middle of the savannah is unforgettable.
- ✨
The 'Cloud Forest' hike in the Chyulu Hills is a rare activity most guests miss; ask your guide about it.
- ✨
Tent 17 has the best 'outdoor shower' experience with total privacy.
5 things to know before you go
💡The water in the taps is solar-heated, so on a cloudy day, your shower might be 'warm' rather than 'hot'.
💡You might find a frog or gecko in your bathroom – it's a tent, after all.
💡The 'gym' is small but has air-conditioning, making it a secret cool-down spot during the heat of the day.
💡The drive from the airstrip is technically a game drive; have your camera ready immediately upon landing.
💡Park fees are paid separately via the eCitizen platform, which can be glitchy; ask the lodge to help you process this beforehand.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Finch Hattons is located and what's nearby.