Glamping (glamorous camping) is one of the most memorable ways to experience Kenya. You fall asleep to the sounds of the bush and wake up to sunrise over the plains, but you sleep in a real bed and eat at a laid table. This guide explains where to go, what a luxury camp includes and how to plan your own glamping setup with Kifaru Kampers.
What is glamping?
Glamping takes away the hard parts of camping. There is no wrestling with tent poles at dusk, and no sleeping on the ground. Instead you get spacious canvas-style tents you can stand up in, proper camp beds with mattresses and pillows, a furnished dining area, lighting and a private bathroom. The difference from a permanent lodge is that the camp is set up just for you, wherever you want it.
The best places for glamping in Kenya
- Maasai Mara: the classic choice for wildlife lovers, especially during the Great Migration (roughly July to October).
- Lake Naivasha: about two hours from Nairobi, with hippos, birdlife and easy access to Hell's Gate. It's ideal for a weekend.
- Laikipia and Nanyuki: wide-open ranches and conservancies with Mount Kenya as the backdrop.
- Amboseli: elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro behind them. Few views beat it at sunrise.
- Private gardens and ranches near Nairobi: perfect for birthdays, proposals and small weddings without the long drive.
What a glamping setup includes
| Area | Typical equipment |
|---|---|
| Sleeping | Canvas or large walk-in tents, camp beds, mattresses, pillows and bedding |
| Dining and lounge | Dining shelter or gazebo, tables, comfortable camp chairs, lanterns |
| Kitchen | Portable camping kitchen with cooker, cookware, utensils and coolers |
| Bathroom | Private shower tent with shower sac and a toilet tent with dry toilet seat |
| Service | Transport, setup, takedown and catered meals on request |
See our full range of luxury camping gear rentals, including canvas camping tents for hire.
Popular glamping occasions
- Anniversaries, proposals and honeymoon nights under the stars
- Birthday weekends with family and friends
- Small bush weddings and rehearsal dinners
- Executive retreats and incentive trips (see corporate camp setup)
How to plan your glamping trip
- Pick your location and dates. Check campsite or conservancy availability, and avoid the peak of the long rains (April to May) if you can.
- Decide on the comfort level. Do you want simple glamping with beds and lanterns, or the full luxury camp with dining, bathrooms and catering?
- Get a quote. Tell us how many guests are coming and where. We'll recommend tents, furniture and services.
- Arrive to a ready camp. Our team transports, pitches and dresses the camp, and takes everything down after you leave.
Need gear or a full camp setup?
Tell us your dates, location and group size. Kifaru Kampers will recommend the right equipment and send you a quote.
Request a quote Call +254 738 201701 WhatsApp usFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between glamping and camping?
Glamping provides spacious tents, real beds, furnished dining and private bathrooms that are set up for you, while regular camping usually means pitching your own tent and sleeping on mats.
Where is the best place for glamping in Kenya?
Popular choices are the Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Laikipia, Amboseli and private ranches or gardens near Nairobi.
Can you set up a glamping camp at any location?
Yes. Kifaru Kampers sets up luxury camps at public campsites, conservancies, ranches and private gardens with road access across Kenya.
Do you hire canvas tents for glamping?
Yes. Canvas-style tents are available for glamping and luxury mobile camps. Ask for them when you request a quote.