Elegantly situated around a busy waterhole that is fed by a freshwater spring straight from the snowy cap of Mount Kilimanjaro, Finch Hattons is arguably the most luxurious and plushest lodge in Kenya’s Tsavo National Park. Consisting of only 17 suites – including two family tents and a presidential suite – Finch Hattons prides itself on attention to detail and placing guests at the centre of the safari experience.
Named after Denys Finch Hatton, who was an early 20th century adventurer and lover of author Karen Blixen, the camp has been renovated to echo the 21st century’s modern, clean design aesthetic while retaining the glamour and glory of the early years of safari. The subdued tones of the suites, reception zone and common areas are punctuated by muted patterns and different textures, such as leather, wood and steel. Dotted here and there are artefacts that hark back to the days of Denys and Karen.
The vistas include not only the nearby waterhole but also the undulating Chyulu Hills. When you are not out finding some of the 12 000 elephants and other animals who reside in Tsavo, relax in the hammam, gym or yoga room, chill out in the library, bird watch from the lookout tower or enjoy a tipple in the bar. Although the atmosphere is serene and sophisticated, children have their own entertainment room and a nanny room is available as part of the Presidential Tented Suite.