Sheer luxury in the wilderness

After a four-hour drive from Nairobi to the Finch Hattons luxury tented camp at Tsavo West National Park, the contrast between the city and the bush was immediately clear. Birds chirping away and a fresh breeze blowing in our faces; the serenity of the bush was incomparable to the smoky, noisy ambience of Nairobi.

On arrival in time for lunch, two waiters – fresh, ice-cold juice in hand – ushered us into the reception area overlooking a beautiful view of a spring-fed natural pool and well-manicured lawns beyond.

The luxury tented camp is not fenced and animals have right of way. However, Maasai morans are available to escort visitors to areas where one may encounter wild animals.

I checked in in one of the renovated tents. The elevated deck gave a clear view of the natural pool, a home to hippos and crocodiles. The refreshing breeze put my mind at peace and was welcome after the long drive through hot and dusty terrain.

The room was spacious, with a king-sized bed taking centre stage, defining luxury in the bush. The opulent furniture was tastefully positioned and gave the room an out-of-the-bush feel. The tent’s bespoke decor matched the world class promise of the camp.

There was the option of taking a bath in a huge bronze tub, or showering under the stars or inside the tent. The tents are spread out and surrounded by bushes, giving privacy to visitors. Prior to recent renovations, the tents were closer to each other.

The exclusivity of such luxury in the bush was fantastic and being part of the experience was nothing short of exciting.

Located in Tsavo West National Park and 300 kilometres from Nairobi, Finch Hattons luxury tented camp is well thought-out and strives to satisfy the desires of those who yearn for the finest. Facilities are catered to match individual tastes and requirement.

The camp also gives proper meaning to fine dining in the bush. Tasteful servings are prepared by chef Isaac Muhika and served according to international catering standards. Seven courses are offered for dinner and three for lunch, all served in fine China and pure silver cutlery.

Finch Hattons is the best escape for those seeking a tranquil experience away from it all. For the ultimate adventure, go for a game drive in the vast national park. There are plenty of wild animals for you to catch a glimpse of, including the Big Five.

Fancy a massage, swim, workout or yoga session? There is no dull moment because all these options are available. Holidaymakers can indulge in a number of activities during their stay, including a visit to the library and watching the stars in the evening from a rooftop vantage point.

Among the new tents on the establishment are family tents, each of which accommodates four members, and a presidential suite that has a heated swimming pool.

Non-residents rates per night during low season are Sh53,100 ($590) per person sharing for a tented suite, Sh232,410 ($2,540) for a family tent and Sh228,750 ($2,500) for the presidential suite. High season prices are Sh71,100 ($790) for a tented suite, Sh302,400 ($3,360) a family tent and Sh337,500 ($3,750) for a presidential suite.

The costs are inclusive of two game drives, guided bush walks and airstrip transfers. The luxury tented camp has previously housed high profile guests like English supermodel Naomi Campbell, American actor Don Cheadle and several world dignitaries.

Driving to the camp may be adventurous but there is the option of flying there, with a helipad and an airstrip sitting nearby to receive guests.

Finch Hattons will reopen on 4th February, 18 months after it was closed for refurbishment.

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