Many safari operators offer camping safaris. Vehicles, tents, guides and equipment are provided. The type of accommodation available on a safari depends on the type of safari booked. Upmarket safaris offer overnight stays in luxurious game lodges and luxury tented camps. These are often situated in beautiful or dramatic surroundings, with animals sometimes roaming around the grounds freely. Camping safaris are also available – but only travellers willing to live without luxuries such as running water or flushing toilets should consider this. The Kenya Wildlife Service recently completed the rehabilitation of selected self-catering bandas (cabins) in various national parks. These are privately owned country bush homes usually in spectacular locations, major cities or on main tour circuits. Most travel agents in Nairobi can arrange stays.
For further information, contact the Kenya National Tourist Office, the Kenya Wildlife Service (see Top Things To Do) or KATO (see Travel – Internal section).

Many of Nairobi’s hotels are of top international standards, and some of them are still in the colonial style. Cheaper hotels are also available. Small boutique hotels are becoming increasingly popular in Nairobi, on the coast and in wilderness areas. Hotel bills must be paid in foreign currency or Kenyan Shillings. Almost all towns in the country offer basic budget hotels and lodgings, and in many tourist areas private campsites offer budget rates for backpackers. Grading: Accommodation in Kenya is divided into groups: town hotels, vacation hotels, lodges and country hotels. Within each group, grading is according to amenities and variety of facilities. For further information, contact the Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers & Caterers, PO Box 46406, Nairobi (tel: (20) 726 640/2).

There are no restrictions on camping in Kenya. However, visitors should be aware that camping in remote regions can be dangerous, owing to wild animals and to shifta (armed bandits); the latter are a hazard particularly in the far north. If camping in the vicinity of a village, culturally sensitive behaviour must be practised. Visitors intending to camp in remote areas should contact the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (see Travel – Internal section) or Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) (see Top Things To Do). Most game reserves and national parks have camp grounds and basic facilities. Clear tent space and long drop latrines are often available.

There are youth hostels in all major towns. For further information, contact the Kenya Youth Hostels Association, Ralph Bunche Road, PO Box 48661, Nairobi (tel: (20) 723 012; e-mail: kyha@africaonline.co.ke).

Apartments ranging from luxury villas to basic beach cottages can be rented. Assistance with domestic chores can also be arranged.

Home stays with Kenyan families can be arranged for visitors wishing to discover the way of life in a typical home.