🏞️ Overview
Kilima Safari Camp is a luxury safari destination nestled on the eastern boundary of Amboseli National Park, offering panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and direct access to some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife habitats. The camp is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic tented safari experience that doesn’t compromise on comfort, location, or activities.
Known for its spectacular location near Observation Hill and its proximity to seasonal elephant watering holes, Kilima combines rustic charm with modern amenities, providing exceptional value for both couples and families.
📍 Location & Getting There
Kilima Safari Camp lies just outside the Kimana Gate of Amboseli National Park, which allows guests to enjoy seamless park entry while benefiting from the privacy and space of its surrounding area.
- 🚗 By Road: ~4.5 hours from Nairobi via Emali or Namanga route (approximately 240 km)
- ✈️ By Air: 45 minutes from Nairobi Wilson to Amboseli Airstrip, followed by a 45-minute transfer (can be arranged by the camp)
🛏️ Accommodation Options
Kilima Safari Camp offers two main room categories—Superior Tents and Deluxe (Milima) Tents. Each unit is designed with elevated platforms, canvas walls, and large windows to bring nature indoors while maintaining complete guest comfort.
🛖 Room Types & Features
🌿 Superior Room/Tent
- Available as Single, Double, or Triple
- En-suite bathroom with shower and flush toilet
- Mosquito nets, fans, and solar lighting
- Verandah with Kilimanjaro or savannah views
🏔️ Deluxe / Milima Tent
- Larger and more private units
- Stylish decor and enhanced comfort features
- Better positioning for views and exclusivity
- Ideal for honeymooners or luxury-seekers
Dining & Cuisine
Kilima Safari Lodge offers a comprehensive dining experience that caters to a variety of palates:
- Main Restaurant:
- Setting: An open-air dining area shaded by acacia trees, providing spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Menu: A fusion of local Kenyan flavors with international cuisine; meals are prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Meal Plan: Full board is typically offered, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Alfresco Dining:
- Guests can enjoy bush breakfasts or sundowners in specially designated scenic spots within the lodge’s property.
- Special Requests:
- Dietary restrictions and preferences (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) are accommodated with prior notice.
💵 2025 Non-Resident Rates (Per Room Per Night, Full Board Basis)
| Dates From | Dates To | Superior Single | Superior Double | Deluxe Single | Deluxe Double |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd Jan 2025 | 31st Mar 2025 | $250 | $350 | $280 | $380 |
| 1st Apr 2025 | 30th Jun 2025 | $135 | $250 | $220 | $300 |
| 1st Jul 2025 | 31st Oct 2025 | $290 | $390 | $320 | $450 |
| 1st Nov 2025 | 20th Dec 2025 | $135 | $250 | $220 | $300 |
| 21st Dec 2025 | 2nd Jan 2026 | $290 | $390 | $320 | $450 |
✅ Full Board Includes:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation in en-suite tents
- All applicable government taxes
🚫 Not Included:
- Amboseli Park entry fees
- Transport to/from lodge
- Premium drinks
- Extras and activities listed below
🎄 Christmas Supplement is included in holiday rates.
👨👩👧 Child Policy
- 👶 Children under 2 years: Free if sharing with parents
- 🧒 Children 3–13 years:
- Sharing with parents: 50% of adult rate
- Own room: 75% of room rate
- Family tents and triple room configurations are available
🍽️ Dining & Cuisine
Meals are served in a central dining pavilion or outdoor terrace, with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the savannah.
- Menus include a mix of local Kenyan and continental dishes
- Special dietary needs accommodated on request
- Bush dining options available at extra cost
🌄 Activities & Experiences (Extra Charges Apply)
| Experience/Activity | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Lunch or Dinner | $35 per person | Full course |
| Moonlight or Bush Dinner | $60 per person | Romantic outdoor experience |
| Picnic Lunch | $45 per person | For full-day game drives |
| Transfers to Amboseli Airstrip | $50 per person (min. 4 guests) | Shared transfer |
| General Transfers | $55 per person (min. 4 guests) | Nairobi or nearby stops |
| Sundowner | $50 per person (min. 4 guests) | Drinks + snacks in bush |
| Game Walk | $30 per person (min. 4 guests) | Guided by trained rangers |
| Bush Breakfast | $50 per person (min. 4 guests) | Set in a scenic area |
| Day Game Drive (shared vehicle) | $60 per person (min. 4 guests) | Inside Amboseli |
| Night Game Drive | $50 per person (min. 4 guests) | In surrounding areas |
| Half-Day Private Game Drive | $350 per vehicle | Includes park fees |
| Full-Day Private Game Drive | $400 per vehicle | Includes park fees |
🦁 Wildlife Highlights:
- Large herds of elephants
- Frequent lion and cheetah sightings
- Over 400 bird species, including flamingos during wet season
- Views of hippos, buffalo, giraffes, and rare fringed-eared oryx
Safari Experiences & Activities
One of the highlights of Kilima Safari Lodge is its access to world-class safari experiences in Amboseli:
- Game Drives:
- Conducted by experienced guides in open-sided 4×4 vehicles.
- Early morning and late afternoon drives maximize wildlife sightings, especially elephants, lions, and a variety of bird species.
- Walking Safaris:
- Guided walks provide an intimate glimpse into the local flora, fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
- Cultural Encounters:
- Visits to nearby Maasai villages allow guests to learn about traditional customs, crafts, and ways of life.
- Special Experiences:
- Option for bush breakfasts, sundowners, and even hot-air balloon rides (upon request) for a truly unique perspective of the landscape.
🧖 Facilities & Amenities
- Large swimming pool with sundeck
- Lounge/bar with wildlife viewing area
- Gift shop with local Maasai crafts
- Spa services (on request)
- 24-hour security
- Free parking
- Wi-Fi in public areas
Sustainability & Community
Kilima Safari Lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism:
- Solar-Powered Operations:
- The lodge utilizes renewable energy sources to minimize its environmental impact.
- Local Sourcing:
- Emphasis on local produce and handcrafted goods supports the local economy and reduces carbon footprint.
- Community Engagement:
- The lodge actively collaborates with nearby Maasai communities, ensuring cultural preservation and economic development.
- Wildlife Conservation:
- Part of the revenue supports conservation initiatives within Amboseli and surrounding areas.
📝 Summary – Why Choose Kilima Safari Camp?
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable luxury for families & couples | Some extras like game drives are not included |
| Excellent Kilimanjaro and wildlife views | Wi-Fi limited to common areas |
| Variety of room types incl. deluxe tents | Limited availability during peak season |
| Flexible child and group policies | Extra fees can add up if doing many activities |
| Strong value compared to other Amboseli lodges | Not inside park (but very close to the gate) |
📌 Final Take
Kilima Safari Camp strikes the perfect balance between accessibility, affordability, and authentic safari experiences. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a repeat guest looking for classic Amboseli scenery without breaking the bank, Kilima delivers comfort, privacy, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.