The Top Five Luxury Hotels in Kenya
Kenya has an abundance of sunshine year round, incredible landscapes, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife based tourism. The annual migration of animals that takes places across Kenya’s plains in summer is a majestic sight that is another part of why Kenya has become a popular getaway destination. If you’re considering going on a Kenyan safari or escaping to a faraway land and you want excellent accommodations during your stay, here are five of the country’s top luxury hotels.
1. Kola Beach Resort
Kola Beach Resort in Malindi is close to the Indian Ocean beach and has excellent views of the area. The property has a contemporary look and feel with African inspired accents. Attentive housekeeping, sparkling pools, and air conditioning in the villas and suites make this particular hotel popular with visitors to the area. Kola Beach Resort is also known for being peaceful and tranquil. If you’re looking for a resort where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy a quiet stay, it’s an ideal choice.
Amenities at Kola Beach Resort include an on site restaurant, spa, bar, shuttle bus service and airport transportation, children’s activities, room service, free Internet access, and complimentary breakfast. Some of the rooms at this hotel are equipped with kitchenettes, and there are options for families who need larger suites and villas. In addition to its deluxe suites, three and four bedroom villas, and triple rooms, Kola Beach Resort also has suites with private balconies and sea views. Daily rates at this resort start at $360.
2. Medina Palms
Located in Watamu, Kenya, Medina Palms provides a beautiful view of the beach that sits along Watamu Marine National Park. The entire resort rests among tropical gardens and is in close proximity to the Gede Ruins, a frequented stop for those who want to go sightseeing in Kenya and learn about its rich history. The decor at this resort combines minimalism and sophistication and features a soothing color palette with vibrant accents. The amenities here are world class, and the staff is friendly and hospitable. Medina Palms has a children’s club, rooftop spa, pool, two bars, a lovely outdoor cafe, and an open air restaurant.
Medina Palms has a wide number of room options. All suites and villas have free wifi, room service, and nice furniture. The suites range from one to three bedrooms and have kitchens, living rooms, and verandas where you can enjoy Kenya’s tropical weather. The three and four bedrooms beachfront villas are perfect for visitors who want to be as close to the water as possible. Some of the rooms and villas here have rooftop terraces and private pools. Nightly rates at Medina Palms start at $250.
3. Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa
Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa in Galu Beach is a family friendly hotel that’s relaxing and peaceful. This boutique property is just south of Mombasa and is surrounded by lush gardens. If you’re into outdoor sports, Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa is a great option as a number of activities are offered here including scuba diving, snorkeling, kite and wind surfing, squash, and tennis. The spa here is top notch and provides luxurious treatments and massages.
The rooms at Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa are spacious and comfortable. If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate that all guests have access to the services of a private chef. The rooms also include tea and coffee making equipment, air conditioning, nice bathrooms, and minibars. When you need a bite to eat, head to Bahari, the resort’s on site restaurant. There’s also a bistro, snack and beach bars, and an additional restaurant that serves theme dinners and barbecues. Daily rates at Pinewood Beach Resort & Spa start at $150.
4. Fairmont Mara Safari Club
The annual animal migration in Kenya is a huge part of its tourism, and Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best places to observe it. Year round, you can see southwest Kenya’s natural sights and animals at the reserve, and Fairmont Mara Safari Club is located less than 20 miles from its entrance. This luxury hotel is even closer to the Olare Orok Conservancy and is bordered by the Mara River on three sides.
The knowledgeable staff at Fairmont Mara Safari Club offer guests the opportunity to go on balloon safaris, game drives, and other outdoor excursions. The hotel’s on site restaurant serves champagne breakfasts, buffets for lunch, and dinner menus full of delicious African fare. Fairmont Mara Safari Club also has a pool, spa, lounge with a bar, concierge and laundry services, and airport and shuttle transportation.
The rooms here are wonderfully unique and feature tented suites that have private verandas. Some of the Fairmont Mara Safari Club’s rooms have outdoor showers and al-fresco dining facilities, making this hotel excellent for guests looking to enjoy as much of Kenya’s outdoor wonders as possible. There are few other places in the world where you can both rest in luxury and hear a hippo’s call when you wake up. Other suite amenities include minibars and internet access. Nightly rates at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club start a $225.
5. Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa
Another luxury gem in Malindi is Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa. This beachfront hotel is set along the Indian Ocean and is less than two miles from Malindi Marine National Park, which is one of Africa’s longest standing marine parks. Malindi Marine National Park features tropical fish, dolphins, marine animals, turtles, coral reefs, and stunning coral gardens. Along with easy access to the area’s sights, guests at this resort particularly enjoy the dining facilities, warm hospitality, and gorgeous views.
The decor at Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa is contemporary with Swahili inspired accents and unique furniture such as carved beds. The rooms here have free wifi, air conditioning, mosquito nets, mini bars, verandas, and a wonderful airy feel. Breakfast can be enjoyed in-suite or in the Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa’s buffet restaurant.
Additional amenities at Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa include a wellness center, five pools, a beachside restaurant, and a spa that offers steam baths, hot tubs, and massages. Concierge service and a free shuttle to Malindi Airport are also available. Daily rates at this resort start at $115.