Finch Hattons Luxury Camp

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Finch Hattons Luxury Camp

Finch Hattons Luxury Camp is one of Kenya's most exclusive safari lodges, located in the heart of Tsavo West National Park. Set around natural freshwater springs with panoramic views of the Chyulu Hills and Mount Kilimanjaro, the camp combines old-world safari elegance with modern luxury. In 2024, it became part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, further strengthening its position among Africa's premier safari destinations. 

History

The camp is named after Denys Finch Hatton, the legendary British aristocrat, aviator, and conservationist known from the story Out of Africa. Established in 1993, Finch Hattons was completely rebuilt between 2013 and 2015, retaining its classic safari character while introducing contemporary luxury and sustainable design. 

Location

The camp occupies approximately 35 acres within Tsavo West National Park, one of Africa's largest protected wilderness areas.

Nearby attractions include:

  • Mzima Springs

  • Shetani Lava Flow

  • Chyulu Hills

  • Rhino Sanctuary

  • Natural wildlife watering holes

Its location offers exceptional wildlife viewing while remaining far less crowded than more famous safari destinations like the Maasai Mara. 

Accommodation

Finch Hattons has only 17 luxury tented suites, ensuring privacy and exclusivity.

Each suite offers:

  • Approximately 105 m² (1,130 sq ft) of living space

  • King-size or twin beds

  • Indoor and outdoor showers

  • Freestanding copper bathtub

  • Large private viewing deck

  • Mini bar

  • Wi-Fi

  • Ceiling fans and eco-friendly cooling

  • Luxury toiletries

  • Wildlife views directly from the room

The camp also features a Presidential (Finch Hattons) Suite with:

  • Private plunge pool

  • Butler service

  • Private safari vehicle

  • Separate lounge

  • Family accommodation

  • Dedicated guide upon request. 

Dining

Finch Hattons follows a farm-to-table philosophy.

Meals typically include:

  • Gourmet breakfasts

  • Multi-course lunches

  • Fine dining dinners

  • Bush breakfasts

  • Sundowner cocktails

  • Picnic lunches

  • Locally sourced produce

  • Fresh herbs and vegetables from the camp's own garden

The camp also offers premium wines, cocktails, and a fully stocked complimentary maxi-bar in each suite. 

Wildlife

Tsavo West is famous for its diversity.

Guests commonly see:

  • African elephants (including Tsavo's famous "red elephants")

  • Lions

  • Leopards

  • Buffalo

  • Cheetahs

  • Giraffes

  • Zebras

  • Hippos

  • Crocodiles

  • Hyenas

  • Lesser kudu

  • Hundreds of bird species

The freshwater springs surrounding the camp attract wildlife throughout the day, allowing guests to observe animals without leaving the property. 

Safari Activities

Included or available experiences include:

  • Twice-daily game drives

  • Night game drives

  • Guided bush walks

  • Bush breakfasts

  • Sundowner experiences

  • Bird watching

  • Photography safaris

  • Rhino tracking

  • Chyulu Hills excursions

  • Shetani Lava Flow visits

  • Maasai cultural visits

  • Stargazing

  • Private safaris with dedicated guides. 

Wellness

One of Finch Hattons' defining features is its wellness offering.

Facilities include:

  • Infinity swimming pool

  • Spa with treatment rooms

  • Hammam (Turkish steam bath)

  • Fully equipped gym

  • Outdoor yoga pavilion

  • Meditation areas

  • Massage therapies

The camp is often described as having one of the largest luxury bush spas in East Africa. 

Sustainability

The camp emphasizes responsible tourism through:

  • Eco-sensitive architecture

  • Solar-powered systems

  • Water conservation

  • Waste reduction

  • Local employment

  • Community partnerships

  • Wildlife conservation initiatives

Its design minimizes environmental impact while blending into the surrounding ecosystem. 

Accessibility

Guests can reach Finch Hattons by:

  • Road: About 4.5–5.5 hours from Nairobi or 5–6 hours from Mombasa.

  • Air: Approximately 1 hour from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to the camp's private airstrip.

  • Rail: Kenya's Standard Gauge Railway to Mtito Andei, followed by a road transfer of around 45 minutes. 

Best Time to Visit

The camp is open year-round.

  • July–October: Cooler temperatures and excellent wildlife viewing.

  • December–March: Warm, dry weather with clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

  • April–June & November: Greener landscapes, fewer visitors, and excellent birdwatching. 

Awards and Recognition

Finch Hattons has earned numerous accolades, including:

  • Travel + Leisure's 500 Best Hotels (2025)

  • Architectural Digest's Best New Safari Camp (2015)

  • Multiple African luxury safari and hospitality awards over the years. 

Who Is It Best For?

The camp is especially suited to:

  • Luxury safari travelers

  • Honeymooners

  • Wildlife photographers

  • Families seeking premium safari experiences

  • Wellness-focused travelers

  • Couples celebrating special occasions

  • Travelers looking for a quieter alternative to busier safari circuits

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