Visit Nairobi Tented Camp: An Urban Safari Stay Inside Kenya’s Capital.
A serene forest retreat just minutes away from the city and the airports. This is a unique alternative to a hotel stay in the city centre and where guests can start or end their Kenya safari adventure.
A safari-style start or finish to your Kenya trip.
Swap a standard city hotel for a tented camp surrounded by trees and birdsong. It’s a calm, nature-filled hideaway where you can ease into your safari or enjoy one final night under canvas before flying home.
Enjoy wildlife just minutes from the city.
Nairobi National Park is only a short drive away, making it possible to see lions, rhinos and plains game without travelling far from the city. Other nearby attractions include the Giraffe Centre and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Convenient for airports & everything Nairobi has to offer.
Easy access to Nairobi’s international airport, Wilson Airport, plus a tonne of restaurants, coffee & tea farms and local excursions. It’s ideal if you want something more memorable than a city stopover.
Under canvas, without giving up comfort.
Enjoy the atmosphere of a tented safari camp with ensuite bathrooms, running water and lighting. You still get the feeling of being immersed in nature, but with the practical comforts that make your first or final night in Kenya feel effortless.
A safari-style start or finish to your Kenya trip.
Swap a standard city hotel for a tented camp surrounded by trees and birdsong. It’s a calm, nature-filled hideaway where you can ease into your safari or enjoy one final night under canvas before flying home.
Enjoy wildlife just minutes from the city.
Nairobi National Park is only a short drive away, making it possible to see lions, rhinos and plains game without travelling far from the city. Other nearby attractions include the Giraffe Centre and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Convenient for airports & everything Nairobi has to offer.
Easy access to Nairobi’s international airport, Wilson Airport, plus a tonne of restaurants, coffee & tea farms and local excursions. It’s ideal if you want something more memorable than a city stopover.
Under canvas, without giving up comfort.
Enjoy the atmosphere of a tented safari camp with ensuite bathrooms, running water and lighting. You still get the feeling of being immersed in nature, but with the practical comforts that make your first or final night in Kenya feel effortless.
Choose a local safari expert and start planning.
Easily see the best of bustling Nairobi, while staying in a wilderness haven.
With Nairobi Tented Camp, a ‘stopover’ in the capital city is actually an amazing opportunity to enjoy a truly unique urban safari experience.
Nairobi Tented Camp is a real haven and retreat within Nairobi. The contrast of moving from a megalopolis with a population of six million to a hideaway in such a short drive is unlike anything else you’ll encounter on Earth.
Our guests feel immersed in nature and the wilderness almost immediately, even though they are still technically within the city boundaries of Nairobi.
Hotels in the city are all the same. Swap yours for an extra day’s safari-ing instead.
Most of our customers opt for Nairobi Tented Camp as a bolt-on at the start or end of their sojourn in Kenya, instead of staying in a typical hotel in the midst of the city (where you certainly won’t find any lions!).
A stay here is also a stay in Karen, the very best part of Nairobi. Here you’ll see a side of the city with easy access to restaurants, excursions, coffee farms, tea farms, e-biking and more.
And while its not in Nairobi National Park itself, it’s only 20 minutes away. And if rhinos are high on your wish list to see, then Nairobi National Park can be a surprisingly rewarding final stop.
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There’s so much to do at Nairobi Tented Camp.
Here’s what you can expect to see and do in the area:
At the Camp
Main Wildlife: Monkeys, Bush babies, Owls, and Hornbills.
Scenery: Lush, indigenous woodland; very private and shaded.
Vibe/Atmosphere: A quiet hideaway feel; perfect for a gin & tonic by the fire.
Key Activity: Relaxation, birdlife and forest immersion.
Dining: Intimate meals in the mess tent or under the trees.
In the National Park
Main Wildlife: Lions, Rhinos, Giraffes, Zebras, and Buffalo.
Scenery: Wide-open gold savannah with a skyline backdrop.
Vibe/Atmosphere: Thrilling and vast; the classic ‘Out of Africa’ landscape.
Key Activity: Photography and tracking the ‘Big Four’ predators.
Dining: Picnic breakfasts at designated ‘Hippo Pool’ sites.
Nearby Excursions
Elephant Sanctuary: Meet baby elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Giraffe Centre: Stand on a raised platform to get eye-to-eye with (and feed) endangered Rothschild giraffes.
Karen Blixen Museum: Step into the 1910s at the farmhouse where the author of Out of Africa lived.
Kazuri Beads Factory: Watch local women hand-craft ceramic beads; great for high-quality, ethical souvenirs.
The Hub Karen: Visit world-class restaurants or the nearby Utamaduni craft center for shopping.
Nairobi Tented Camp
More Information
Nairobi Tented Camp re-opened in June 2025 in a new location nestled within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally located for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions.
The camp offers a tranquil retreat where nature’s rhythms set the pace of life. Towering indigenous trees form a natural canopy, filtering soft sunlight onto the forest floor creating an atmosphere of pure serenity. The air is crisp with the scent of damp earth, carrying the calls of birds and the occasional rustle of small wildlife such as bush babies, tree hyraxes and monkeys moving through the trees.
Carefully positioned between the trees, the canvas tents blend seamlessly with the environment, offering a sense of seclusion and ‘safari’ without sacrificing comfort and with their deep knowledge, warm hospitality, and commitment to excellence, our team aims to ensure that every guest enjoys a memorable and seamless stay at Nairobi Tented Camp .
This hidden gem in Nairobi's Karen area, provides a perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity, a place where guests can immerse themselves in nature while remaining just a short distance from Nairobi’s bustling city centre. The new location offers enhanced opportunities for guests to explore a variety of activities, including visits to the Giraffe Centre, Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, local shopping experiences, and cultural sites.
Nairobi Tented Camp Photos
Your stay- what you need to know
FAQs - Nairobi Tented Camp
No, Nairobi Tented Camp is located in the Karen area of Nairobi within a quiet forest setting, but it is just a short drive from Nairobi National Park for game drives and wildlife experiences.
No, it feels surprisingly peaceful and secluded. Although you are still within Nairobi, the camp is surrounded by trees, birdsong and nature, so it feels far removed from the traffic, noise and pace of the capital.
Yes, it can still be very worthwhile, especially if you want to see rhinos. Nairobi National Park offers a very unusual wildlife experience, with lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and buffalo in open grassland against the backdrop of the city skyline.
Nairobi Tented Camp is approximately 25–35 minutes from Nairobi’s international airport, making it a convenient and accessible option for travellers arriving or departing Kenya.
It is also closely located to Wilson Airport, the smaller airport used for safari flights.
There is phone signal and Wi-Fi .
Nairobi Tented Camp is fully able to cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice.
No, it can actually make your itinerary feel smoother. Because it is close to key Nairobi connections, Karen and Nairobi National Park, it lets you enjoy the city and wildlife and is not a complicated detour by any means.
Yes. Nairobi offers unique wildlife experiences within and around the city, including game drives in Nairobi National Park, where visitors may see lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife. Conservation attractions such as Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Giraffe Centre also provide opportunities to connect with Kenya's wildlife without travelling outside the city.
Unlike city hotels, Nairobi Tented Camp offers a safari-style experience in a natural forest environment, where guests stay under canvas surrounded by lush green woodland, in the heart of Karen district of Nairobi, close to Nairobi’s main attractions.
Nairobi Tented Camp is based on Bed & Breakfast basis with the option to add on half board (dinner) or Full board (lunch & dinner), which need to be prearranged.
There is also an additional nightly fee to Porini Wildlife Habitat Trust Payment US$ 5 per person per night.
Either works well. At the start, it gives you a calm, safari-style arrival after your international flight. At the end, it gives you one final night under canvas before flying home, without being too far from the airport.
Yes, it is ideal for one night. Many guests choose Nairobi Tented Camp as a more memorable first or final night in Kenya, especially if they want their safari to begin straight away rather than spending the night in a standard city hotel. (Although, there is so much to do in Nairobi we’d recommend 2-3 nights there).
Guests staying at Nairobi Tented Camp can enjoy safari experiences in nearby Nairobi National Park, home to a remarkable variety of wildlife. Common sightings include lions, black and white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, wildebeest, impalas, elands, hyenas, and more than 400 bird species. The park is particularly well known for its successful rhino conservation programme and offers excellent wildlife viewing just a short distance from Nairobi.
Nairobi Tented Camp offers a range of activities that allow guests to experience both Nairobi's wildlife and cultural attractions. Popular activities include game drives in Nairobi National Park, visits to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Giraffe Centre, guided nature walks, birdwatching, and excursions to local cultural and historical sites. Guests can also enjoy relaxing in the camp's peaceful forest setting while being conveniently located for exploring Nairobi and its surrounding attractions.
Yes, the camp is fully solar-powered with no permanent structures and is designed to have minimal environmental impact.
The camp has nine en-suite tents, creating an intimate and low-impact environment with personalised service.
Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari.
Kenya
North America & Canada
North America & Canada
North America
UK & Europe
South America
Australia
India
Kenya
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can contact our Nairobi team at info@gamewatchers.com or call at +254-722-509-200.
North America & Canada
Rick Mcintyre
Hello, I’m Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I’ve journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of a “once in a lifetime” vacation or you’re a seasoned safari traveler, I’m here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.
North America & Canada
Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!.
You can reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com
North America
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I’m Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I’m here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let’s embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
UK & Europe
Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com
South America
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Australia
Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.
India
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.
More Nairobi Hotels
Whether you’re arriving before an exciting safari or unwinding after an unforgettable adventure, Gamewatchers Safaris can arrange your stay, to provide the perfect base to relax and explore Kenya’s vibrant capital—a city rich in history, culture, and unique wildlife experiences. Here are more recommendations for where to stay for your stay in Nairobi.
Our Nairobi Tented Camp Reviews
