Frequently asked questions
Looking for answers?
Find answers to our most frequently asked questions about staying at Finch Hattons.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Don’t worry if your flight is scheduled before the official check in time of 12pm. Just let us know in advance and we’ll be there to collect you from the private airstrip.
Time to say goodbye is officially 10am on the day of your departure, but we can look after your luggage at camp if your flight isn’t until later.
Want to sleep in a bit longer? Just swing by the front office the night before you leave, and we’ll do our best to organise a late check-out.
What to pack?
For game drives you should wear pale or neutral colours. In the warmer months from December to March these should be lightweight but take a windbreaker or light jacket for evenings.
For the cooler and wetter months take a jumper/sweater, fleece or warm jacket too. Trainers/sneakers are fine for safari walks, and it’s a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses for all seasons.
Around the camp, you can wear whatever you like. Formal wear is at your discretion. Make sure you don’t forget your swimsuit.
What's in my tent?
All our tented suites at Finch Hattons includes king size beds, en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, freestanding bathtub and a large deck to enjoy amazing views over the natural springs.
All rooms are equipped with a pair of binoculars, toiletries by Cinnabar Green, a hairdryer, sunscreen, insect repellent, torches, in-room safe, telephone, bathrobes, slippers, a complimentary maxi-bar, tea and coffee-making facilities and hot water bottles.
Free Wifi is provided throughout the camp.
Kenyan power sockets use the British standard three-pin plug, so guests visiting from other parts of the world will need an adaptor, which we provide in your room. Please note that the current in Kenya is 240 volts
Is Finch Hattons suitable for children?
Absolutely, Finch Hattons is the perfect spot for families, providing exciting activities and facilities to suit every generation!
Young Explorers (that’s the kids!) aged six years or older are welcome at Finch Hattons and can join in the fun on game drives with their parents. When not on game drives we ask parents to keep an eye on their young explorers at all times. We’re also happy to arrange special menus for the younger ones on
request.
We’re one of the few camps in Kenya offering two-bedroom tents connected by a cosy lounge – perfect for families! Our spacious Family Suites, over 200 sqm, provide luxurious comfort and are conveniently close to the public areas and the pool.
Kids under 12 must share a tent with parents, and while 12-15 year-olds can have their own tent, we recommend they bunk with their parents for added safety.
Because we know each ‘Young Explorer’ (as we call them) is different, we do not operate a set kids programme. Instead, we offer a range of activities that we tailor to each child or group depending on their ages and interests. Parents may choose to join their kids on these activities, or take time for themselves.
What's the best time to visit and what will the temperature be?
Tsavo National Park has abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes year-round, so your stay at Finch Hattons will be nothing short of extraordinary no matter when you decide to visit.
You can expect average highs of about 30°C/86°F in the months from December to March with cooler temperatures around 20°C/68°F from July to September.
Do I need a visa?
Virtually all visitors to Kenya will need a visa to enter the country. UK and Irish citizens travelling to Kenya can apply for their visa in advance online using the Kenyan e-visa portal: www.evisa.go.ke. Visas are generally issued within two working days.
Please note that the e-visa system only accepts debit cards and is roughly USD 51 per person. From 1st February 2016 visa fees do not apply to children under the age of 16.
Visitors are also required to have at least two blank pages in their passport which must be valid for six months beyond your expected departure date from Kenya.
As advice can change on a regular basis we recommend you check with the advice issued by your government’s state department or foreign office before you set off on your journey.
How about cash, what's the currency?
The currency is the Kenyan Shilling and is readily accepted for both large and small transactions. You may need at least USD 50 in cash per person to pay for your entry visa if you’ve not organised this prior to arrival.
The airport authorities accept payment in Euros and British Pounds however amounts may vary, and they are less likely to have the exact change. Credit cards are not accepted.
ATMs are available at the main international airport and in larger towns, however, they can struggle to process non-Kenyan cards. We recommend obtaining some Shillings before you depart for small purchases while you’re in transit (or if you plan on spending any time in Nairobi).
At Finch Hattons you will not need any cash. Purchases from the gift shop or spa treatments can be made by credit card.
Do I need to have any vaccinations before I arrive?
No vaccinations are required on entry unless you have just arrived from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Malaria is still a risk in some areas of Kenya so it is important to see medical advice on appropriate precautions during your stay.