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Campi ya Kanzi sits in the foothills of the Chyulu Range. Built and run in partnership with the local Maasai community, this remote lodge has traversing rights across the 115,000-hectare Kuku Group Ranch.
It is surrounded by wilderness – roamed by elephants, lions and other big game – in a remote corner of south-eastern Kenya.
The lodge is run by Luca and Antonella, and their continued presence means it retains a homely feel. Warm hospitality is a hallmark of Campi ya Kanzi, as well as delicious Italian and African cuisine – inspired by the owners’ dual heritage.
Campi Ya Kanzi is translated as “camp of the hidden treasures” in Swahili and it is easy to see why. Not only does the camp occupy one of Kenya’s most spectacular and exclusive settings, but the property is equally as impressive for its commitment to working with the local community, who own and run the camp.
In partnership with the community, Luca and Antonella have also committed to minimising the camp’s environmental impact and ensuring its long-term sustainability. Campi ya Kanzi’s eco-credentials are a testament to this: the entire lodge is solar-powered and carbon neutral.
However, the camp goes one step beyond this and tackles the issue of water scarcity by collecting their entire water supply through rainwater capture. To their (and our) knowledge, they are the only camp in East Africa to do this.
Accommodation consists of eight tented rooms, two of which are slightly larger suites. These all have hardwood floors and rustic four-poster beds, beneath high canvas roofs. In front of each room, there is a raised wooden veranda that looks out over the beautiful savannah, towards Mount Kilimanjaro. Every room has an en-suite bathroom with hot and cold running water, as well as 24-hour solar electricity.
The camp’s main area is a reminder that this was once a family home – comfortable sofas and armchairs fill the lounge, which is decorated with a collection of artwork and antiques. The main buildings are stone, wood and thatch, adding to the rustic, homely feel. On cold nights, the blazing fireplaces provide warmth and light. Outside, a vast stone deck affords spectacular views over the wilderness, with a fire pit perfectly positioned for pre-dinner, post-game-drive drinks.
Campi Ya Kanzi is located at the southern tip of the Chyulu Hills, within the greater Tsavo-Amboseli ecosystem. To the south, lies Tsavo West National Park and, beyond, Mount Kilimanjaro and Tanzania. Access to the lodge is by light aircraft, flying directly to their private airstrip from Nairobi – these flights run seven days a week.
Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.
Located in Tsavo East National Park, this simple tented camp is owned and run by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT). The camp is reserved for the trust’s supporters and is located near to the DSWT’s Ithumba station, one of two orphan relocation units in Tsavo. Accommodation consists of just four canvas safari tents, each one covered by a thatched roof to provide additional shelter from the sun. The setup is simple, but comfortable, with en-suite facilities and outdoor showers. The camp is fenced, due to the density of wild elephants in the area. Whilst staying at Ithumba, have the opportunity to meet the orphaned elephants, as well as their dedicated keepers. Also have a chance to explore the national park, spotting wild elephants and other wildlife.
Ol Donyo Lodge is positioned on the northern edge of the fertile Chyulu Hills, set in an area that isn’t home to any other lodges. Built-in partnership with the local community, the lodge operates within 112,000 hectares of Maasai-owned wilderness that has been turned over to conservation. Stylish but rustic, Ol Donyo is immersed in this private wilderness. Views of Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen from all of the spacious suites and the plains below play host to large numbers of predators and prey.
Tortilis Camp is a tented camp on the edge of Amboseli National Park with open views of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering one of the most dramatic settings for any camp in the area. All of the spacious, comfortable tents are designed to naturally take in the views of Kilimanjaro and the sweeping game-filled plains below.
Bridget was extremely knowledgable and gave expert advice on everything we asked no matter how trivial our questions were! She even advised on the type of luggage and packing suggestions which was brilliant!!
Kenya
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