Elegantly situated around a busy waterhole that is fed by a freshwater spring straight from the snowy cap of Mount Kilimanjaro, Finch Hattons is arguably the most luxurious and plushest lodge in Kenya’s Tsavo National Park. Consisting of only 17 suites – including two family tents and a presidential suite – Finch Hattons prides itself on attention to detail and placing guests at the centre of the safari experience.

Named after Denys Finch Hatton, who was an early 20th-century adventurer and lover of author Karen Blixen, the camp has been renovated to echo the 21st century’s modern, clean design aesthetic while retaining the glamour and glory of the early years of safari. The subdued tones of the suites, reception zone and common areas are punctuated by muted patterns and different textures, such as leather, wood and steel. Dotted here some artefacts hark back to the days of Denys and Karen.

The vistas include not only the nearby waterhole but also the undulating Chyulu Hills. When you are not out finding some of the 12,000 elephants and other animals who reside in Tsavo, relax in the hammam, gym or yoga room, chill out in the library, bird watch from the lookout tower or enjoy a tipple in the bar. Although the atmosphere is serene and sophisticated, children have their entertainment room and a nanny room is available as part of the Presidential Tented Suite.

Activities

• BIRD WATCHING
• DAY TOURS
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• PRIVATE GAME-DRIVES
• BUSH DINING
• STAR GAZING
• YOGA

Situated in the Southern region of Tsavo National Park, the thrill of Africa is experienced from 17 intimate tented luxury suites which are positioned around a water hole fed by a natural spring from Mount Kilimanjaro, perfect for guests and ideal for wildlife. The open-plan design of the tents invites the cooling breeze closer over the water, transporting all the authentic African sounds, tastes and smells right onto your doorstep. A personal deck allows you to get lost in the magic that Africa offers.

Rooms

Luxury Tented Suite

There are 14 Luxury Tented Suites that sleep two people each in double or twin beds. The en suite bathrooms are fitted with free-standing tubs and indoor showers while the viewing decks have private outdoor showers. One of the suites is suitable for wheelchair-bound guests. All rooms are done in muted tones of white, bone, grey and sand with texture provided by crystal chandeliers, hide rugs and leather chairs.

Luxury Family Tent

There are two Luxury Tented Family Suites that have two bedrooms and a sitting area each. Both en suite bathrooms have free-standing tubs and showers, and the expansive decks include outdoor showers and sitting areas. The Presidential Tented Suite has a large bedroom and an en suite bathroom, a half kitchen for butler service and a sitting room with a guest toilet. Outside, there is a heated plunge pool on the outdoor deck as well as a bedroom for a nanny, bodyguard or another member of your staff.

Facilities

Finch Hattons is packed with excellent facilities that give you several ways to spend your downtime when you are not out game viewing. Pass time in the Karen Blixen Lounge, which is filled with tasteful artefacts and objects, find a spot in the cosy library or keep your camera and binoculars to hand in the outdoor boma and lookout tower.

In the heat of the afternoon, cool off in the infinity pool (which is lined with tropical palms) or head to the Health & Wellness Centre, which is equipped with two outdoor massage pavilions, a hammam, a spa pool, a gym and a yoga room with views of the Chyulu Hills. All the therapy products used in the spa are organic in line with Finch Hattons’ policy on sustainability.

In the evenings, enjoy nightcaps on the star-gazing terrace (which is draped with colourful cushions and dhurries) or have dinner in one of the many dining locations. You can catch up with movies in the home theatre and the youngsters will love the kids’ entertainment room.

Dining

The meals at Finch Hattons are superb and served in a variety of scenic settings. Expect 3-course lunches and multiple-course dinners, all made from fresh ingredients.