Kenya is like a microcosm of Africa. It has something from many of the continent's most precious features, so if you only ever visit one African country then this is an excellent choice. The best places to stay in Kenya reflect this diversity - you'll find everything from chic city pads, to luxury safari lodges, to tranquil beach resorts.

Kenya offers some wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities on the grassy plains of the Masai Mara and in the folds of the Rift Valley, whilst the Tsavo National Park is regarded as one of the best places in Africa to see elephants, lions and leopards.

There are also some of the world's best game reserves here and depending on where you go, you can see giraffes, lions, leopards and huge herds of zebras, buffalo and wildebeest. If you're here for the annual wildebeest migration consider trying to see it from a balloon safari…

Northern Kenya is home to some fascinating tribes still living a more traditional lifestyle, so if you're interested in a cultural as well as a wildlife experience then head north.

Kenya also has some spectacularly white Indian Ocean beaches, palm-fringed on one side and colourful with coral gardens on the other.

Mombasa is the largest port on the East African coast, so this is a historic city, as well as a busy one. Most people who come are here for the beaches which stretch outwards from the port in both directions, although, the area is also becoming known as a top golfing destination...

Don't forget that if you want to book a room in one of the best places to stay in Kenya during peak season, you'll need to be organised and plan well ahead. The top hotels are always popular, so do yourself a favour and book early!

The best places to stay in Kenya

For Lamu

One of Kenya's first settlements, beautiful Lamu island has retained its own character despite the influence of other cultures brought by hundreds of years of ocean bound trade. Best-known for having some of Kenya's best beaches, Lamu also has some wonderful Swahili architecture dating from the 14th Century, and the sights and sounds you'll hear on Lamu's winding, carless streets make you feel as if you're in a different age. Many of the best places to say in Kenya, if you're after a beach holiday, can be found here.

• Private and palm fringed, Manda Bay is perfect if you're looking for a peaceful escape. Accommodation is in sixteen thatched cottages, decorated with colourful local fabrics. You're right on the beaches and coral gardens, so there's plenty to do here besides relax.
• Beautiful and intimate amongst the Arab ruins, Peponi has been the place to stay in Lamu for decades and is probably also one of the best places to stay in Kenya for honeymooners. Peponi began as a few rooms on the bay and has grown into a 29-room hotel with a lively bar and poolside dining.
• If you're heading to the coast for a beach break after your safari check out Kizingo, a sandy hideaway with a reputation for dolphin watching. There are eight palm-thatched bandas, all of which have sea views as they're dotted amongst the sand dunes. As well as dolphin watching there's snorkelling, fishing, sailing, kayaking and body surfing.

For Diani Beach

• For luxury on the Kenyan coast, one of the best places to stay in Kenya is Alfajiri, a secluded group of just three villas with private beach access and lots of local activities. Don't just take our guru's word for it though, A-listers are known to grace Alfajiri with their presence - staying in the Cliff Villa which has its own infinity pool and unlimited access to the local, international standard golf course.
• For a home-from-home feel (if your home was near the beach) we'd recommend Diani House. Sleeping up to 12, this was once the colonial home of the Archer family and is now run as a very relaxed four bedroom hotel. You're close to the beach yet you're surrounded by greenery within a coastal forest, which makes dining al fresco all the more charming.

For a Great Kenyan Safari

• Guests of Ol Donyo Wuas have exclusive access to one of the last remaining wilderness areas in East Africa, 300,000 acres of plains underneath Mount Kilimanjaro. The accommodation is in seven bush cottages, with a communal dining area, pool and waterhole. Several of the cottages will comfortably fit a family, making this the ideal choice if you're trying to give your kids an epic safari experience.
• On the banks of a large waterhole is Little Governors' Camp, a collection of 17 tents in an awe-inspiring setting. If you like the BBC's Big Cat Diary this is where to book - they do a lot of filming just down the Mara river.
• Loisaba is a small lodge with views across the Laikipia Plateau. Each of the seven stone cottages have wonderful views, as does the main building with its dining area, which can spill outside when required, and lounge with its fireplace. Remote and luxurious, check it out if you're looking for a luxury safari with solid accommodation.
• Borana is another excellent choice for people who prefer to sleep beside walls rather than canvas. Borana is both a game reserve and working cattle ranch, with views over the foothills of Mount Kenya. There's plenty of game here - lions, wild dogs, elephants - but you probably won't see another tourist.
• If you love the idea of the safaris of yesteryear, Ol Seki is the ideal choice. Its eight spacious tents are really exceptionally modern in design, but their mini-circus tent shape, lovely linen interiors and brass telescopes will make you think of pith helmets. Ol Seki has a reputation for both good food and good guiding.

For The Perfect Honeymoon

• Hemingways Resort is a laidback beach spot offering simple yet chic accommodation and delicious food. Spend your days on the beach and get involved in any number of watersports before enjoying the lovely views at sunset.
• Msambweni House And Private Villas, set on gorgeous white sands, provides elegant accommodation featuring four posters and a large pool. Plus, you can ask their private chefs to cook up whatever you so desire!
• Elsa's Kopje Private House is a two bedroom lodge featuring Arab-style interiors and stunning views of the surrounding area. An intimate stay with private pools and the Meru National Park on your doorstep.

Back To Nature

• The eco-friendly Tassia Lodge enjoys a stunning setting atop a rocky bluff overlooking a conservation area. Their private balconies offer lovely views and you can treat yourself to a massage after a day out trekking.
• Kitich Camp boasts six tents with ensuite facilities but is true wilderness accommodation at its best - with no electricity or mod cons. Spend your days fully exploring the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy Trust.
• Giraffe Manor is a 1930s manor house by Nairobi National Park and with their own giraffes freely roaming around! Safaris are included in the price and the accommodation itself is lovely.
• Tortilis Camp offers luxurious tents in Amboseli National Park with splendid views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Come back after a safari trip to relax by the pool with a cocktail.
• Rekero Camp provides comfortable tents located in the heart of Masai Mara. Relax in your daybed and watch the wildlife go by as you're waited on by a private butler!
• Kicheche Mara Camp overlooks the Mara North Conservancy, with 8 luxurious tents featuring ensuites and splendid views.

Group Trips

• Mdoroni Villas offers two Arab/Swahili type houses overlooking the Indian Ocean. These are fully staffed and feature large living rooms as well as grand communal areas, whilst there's also an outdoor pool and luscious gardens.

For An Apartment Or Villa

• If you think you'd be best served by a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The best time to visit Kenya is probably between June and October, the dry season, when the average temperature is around 25°C and there's little chance of rainfall. This is also the best time to spot wildlife as the bush is less dense, as well as being when there are the least mosquitoes.
• That said, if you want to avoid peak season prices (and crowds), then aim to visit from November to May. Whilst there's more rainfall, the scenery is lusciously green and you have the opportunity to spot newborn animals as well as migratory birds.
• Kenya is served by four main airports, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Kisumu International Airport, Eldoret International Airport and Moi International Airport.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Kenya.
• Widen the net to include our list of all the best places to stay in Tanzania.
• Or, feel free to contact one of our gurus for advice.