Emakoko

It may be hard to believe that, just a 45-minute drive from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, there lies a hotel where you can rest in utter comfort and still enjoy all the thrills of game drives and encounters with endangered animals. The Emakoko, an owner-managed 10-cabin hotel on the border of Nairobi National Park, is a popular stop-off for guests before starting or after completing an extended Kenyan safari. Its four Land Cruisers are available to take guests for game spotting in the neighbouring national park, which is a favourite with photographers who enjoy capturing the unusual juxtaposition of a lofty giraffe with jetliner flying overhead!

The guides at The Emakoko can also arrange visits to the nearby Sheldrick Trust, where you can see the incredible work they do with orphaned elephants and rhinos, and the Giraffe Centre for encounters with rare Rothschild's giraffe. In addition to their tracking skills, they are also skilled bargainers and are happy to accompany you on shopping expeditions into heady Nairobi.Keenly aware of their place in the community, The Emakoko are part-sponsors of the Lion Lighting Project, which illuminates local settlements to protect them from the very real chance of fatal lion attacks. Dotted on the green, hilly landscape, stand-alone rooms at The Emakoko are positioned to make the most of the views across the acacia-carpeted valley where Cape buffalo, zebra and water buck still roam. The tastefully appointed rooms have long verandahs, welcoming walk-in showers and stone fireplaces that are perfect for unwinding.