Tours & Travel in Kenya
Best Camping Sites in Kenya: Locations, Prices and Facilities
Where to camp in Kenya — from KWS public campsites in the national parks to private lakeside sites, with prices, facilities and booking tips.
Camping is the cheapest way to sleep inside Kenya's wild places — and often the most memorable. Here is where to pitch a tent, what it costs and what to expect.
KWS public campsites
Most KWS parks have public campsites with basic facilities (long-drop or flush toilets, sometimes showers, a water point). Fees are per person per night and are very affordable for citizens and residents; non-residents pay more. Special/private campsites (exclusive use, no facilities) cost extra. Book through KWS in advance and confirm current rates on kws.go.ke.
Standout KWS camping parks:
- Hell's Gate (Naivasha): the classic first camping trip — cycle or walk among game by day, camp under cliffs at night. No dangerous predators, so it suits beginners and families.
- Amboseli: wake up to Kilimanjaro. Public campsite near the gate; dusty but unbeatable views. See the Amboseli guide.
- Lake Nakuru: campsites inside the fenced park with rhinos grazing nearby. See the Nakuru guide.
- Tsavo West and East: remote, wild camping for experienced campers.
Private campsites
- Naivasha lakeshore: several private camps offer lakeside pitches with hot showers, kitchens and firewood, from roughly KSh 1,000–2,500 per person per night. Some hire out tents if you do not own gear.
- Mount Kenya region: riverside campsites around Nanyuki and Naro Moru, popular as bases before or after a Mount Kenya trek.
- The coast: a handful of beach campsites near Diani, Kilifi and Watamu let you camp metres from the ocean at a fraction of hotel prices.
- Sagana and the Tana River: campsites paired with white-water rafting, about two hours from Nairobi.
What it costs (estimates)
| Type | Typical price (per person/night) | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| KWS public campsite | KSh 500–1,500 (citizens) | Basic toilets, water point |
| Private lakeside/farm site | KSh 1,000–3,000 | Showers, kitchen, firewood |
| Glamping/furnished tents | KSh 5,000–15,000 | Beds, bedding, sometimes meals |
Practical tips
- Book ahead for holidays — December and August weekends sell out at popular sites, as our school holidays guide notes.
- Bring everything: most sites do not rent gear. Tent, sleeping bag, mat, cooking kit, lighting and a cooler box.
- Respect wildlife rules: in parks, never leave food out, never walk at night, and use designated sites only.
- Check road access: some sites need a 4x4 after rain.
Camping pairs naturally with a road trip — see our road trips guide for route ideas.
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- #budget travel
- #outdoors kenya