Frequently asked questions

Tsavo National Park, located in Kenya's southeastern corner, is one of the largest national parks in the world and one of the country's best-kept safari secrets. Split into two distinct regions - Tsavo East and Tsavo West - the park offers a raw, untouched safari experience for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers seeking solace away from the crowds.

Tsavo East is known for its iconic red-dust plains and free-roaming elephant herds, while Tsavo West is defined by dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and the Chyulu Hills, which offer sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Natural springs across the park feed a landscape rich in birdlife, supporting one of Kenya's most diverse ecosystems.

With significantly fewer visitors than parks like the Maasai Mara, Tsavo offers a more intimate, uncrowded luxury safari experience in Kenya, one where wellness and stillness are as much a part of the journey as the wildlife itself.

Find out more here.

Kenya is the birthplace of the safari, and it’s not hard to see why. With its vast open plains teeming with wildlife, this country is truly magical, and visitors will often spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and African buffaloes – also known as the Big Five – within the first few days of their stay.

The main international airport in Nairobi is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with daily direct flights from the main European hubs: London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, as well as New York. There are also daily arrivals from Johannesburg in South Africa, as well as from hubs in the Middle East, including Dubai and Doha. Flights from Europe take, on average, just over 8 hours, and direct flights from New York take 15 hours.

Those connecting from any other USA hub will need to travel via one of the cities above. We can also book the Fast Track service for you at the Jomo Kenyatta Airport to speed up your journey. Our reservations team can help organise transfers to and from the airports. 

Daily scheduled flights from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi take just 50 minutes to reach our private airstrip in Tsavo, operated by our trusted partners, Safarilink and Fly ALS. Or, if you’re flying from Mombasa, Mombasa Air also offers direct flights to our airstrip. Once you land, it’s only a quick 10-minute drive to Finch Hattons.

For availability, rates, and to book your flights, you will need to contact your preferred airline directly. There are daily scheduled flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to our private airstrip in Tsavo, operated by our trusted partners, Safarilink and Fly ALS.

The flight takes about 50 minutes. From there, it’s just a quick 10-minute drive to Finch Hattons - our team will be there to pick you up. If you’re travelling from Mombasa, Mombasa Air offers convenient flights to our airstrip as well.

We offer private charter and helicopter flights upon request, giving you the flexibility to arrive at Finch Hattons whenever you wish.

Yes, the team at Finch Hattons can arrange transfers between international and domestic airports for arrivals from outside Kenya.

The luggage limit on the flights from Wilson Airport to Finch Hattons is 15kg, which includes your hand luggage. This is quite strictly enforced as the aircraft used doesn’t have a lot of extra space. It’s advisable to pack in soft-sided or duffel bags as they tend to be more flexible and easier to fit into the aircraft’s limited storage compartments.

If you’re on a longer trip and have additional luggage, you can usually leave this at the terminal free of charge until you return. 

Please check with your airline before departing. At the other end, when you land at the private airstrip, our team will collect you in Finch Hattons vehicles for the 10-minute transfer to the camp.

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.

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 seek medical advice on appropriate precautions during your stay.

Entry requirements for Kenya vary depending on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay. Most international visitors are required to obtain a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travelling, while certain nationalities may be exempt.

We recommend checking the latest requirements and applying for an eTA through the official Kenyan government website before your trip. Your passport should also meet the required validity and blank-page requirements.

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 their 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.

Insurance is always the guest’s responsibility. Make sure you have valid travel insurance that covers your safari trip to Kenya.

Finch Hattons is open all year-round with wildlife on the plains in every season.

Tsavo has abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes year-round. See “What's the best time of year to visit Tsavo?” in the new About Tsavo section below for full detail, including temperatures by season.

Check-in is 12pm; check-out is 10am. If your flight arrives earlier, let the team know in advance and you'll be collected from the airstrip on arrival. If it departs later, luggage can be stored at camp after check-out, and late check-out can be requested at the front office the evening before, subject to availability, timed, where possible, around your flight rather than the clock.

Yes, everything below is covered from the moment you land at the airstrip:

●      All meals and drinks, including alcohol

●      Twice-daily game drives in Tsavo National Park

●      Transfers to and from the camp's private airstrip

●      One complimentary local excursion, arranged by the camp

●      Laundry service

●      Complimentary mini-bar

●      Wi-Fi throughout the camp

●      In-room items: insect repellent, torches, extra blankets, binoculars, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, bathroom amenities, tea and coffee facilities, safety deposit box

See “What's not included at Finch Hattons?” below for what's charged separately.

Park and conservancy fees, private vehicle hire, and specialist paid excursions (the Chyulu hikes, the Bush Walk, cultural visits, and the rhino sanctuary trip - see Things to Do below) are all charged separately from the room rate. Ask reservations for current pricing before you book.

See “What's not included at Finch Hattons?” directly above -  conservancy fees, private vehicle hire and paid excursions are the main ones.

Throughout the year, we have special offers available for direct bookings - you can view these offers here.

Our best available rate is through our website booking engine. 

You can book your safari holiday online here.

Minimum lengths of stay may apply, depending on your selected dates.

You can use our website booking engine to search for your dates - follow this link here.

Any extras during your stay can be paid for using major credit/debit cards or cash.

You can find full details about our cancellation policy on our Terms and Conditions here.

12 to 18 months in advance is recommended, particularly for peak season (December to March and July to September).

Yes. The whole camp can be booked exclusively for weddings, birthdays, or group and family trips - just your group, the guides, and Tsavo. Contact the reservations team for availability and rates.

Yes! You can visit any of the properties in our Virgin Limited Edition Collection, but we think Finch Hattons is best paired with a stay at Mahali Mzuri for the ultimate Safari Experience.

Stay a minimum of four nights at either the luxurious Mahali Mzuri in the Maasai Mara eco-system or the timeless elegance of Finch Hattons in Kenya's oldest national park, Tsavo, and we’ll treat you to a complimentary night at the other. Two iconic camps.

Two extraordinary landscapes. One unforgettable journey. Start your safari in style, and let the adventure unfold.

You can find out more here.

Tsavo National Park is in southeastern Kenya, split into two protected areas - Tsavo East and Tsavo West - divided by the Nairobi–Mombasa highway and railway line. Finch Hattons is located within Tsavo West, in Taita-Taveta County, with views across to Mount Kilimanjaro. It's roughly 232km (a four-to six-hour drive, or a 50-minute scheduled flight) from Nairobi, and about 210km from the coastal city of Mombasa.

Tsavo covers approximately 22,000 km² in total - Tsavo East at 13,747 km² and Tsavo West at 9,065 km² - making it one of the largest protected wildlife areas on earth: larger than Wales, and more than 14 times the size of the Maasai Mara National Reserve (1,510 km²). That scale is a big part of why Tsavo still feels wild - even in peak season, its sheer size means far fewer vehicles per sighting than more compact reserves.

Finch Hattons is in Tsavo West National Park, the smaller and more topographically dramatic of the two Tsavo parks, known for volcanic landscapes, natural springs, and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Tsavo East, across the highway, is better known for its red-dust red elephants and wide open plains.

Tsavo is home to the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - along with hippo, crocodile, giraffe, and hundreds of recorded bird species. Guests at Finch Hattons see wildlife on twice-daily game drives included in every stay, with sightings possible in every season.

Tsavo is over 14 times larger than the Maasai Mara National Reserve (roughly 22,000 km² versus 1,510 km²) and receives far less visitor traffic, which typically means a quieter safari with fewer vehicles at each sighting. The Mara is famous for the wildebeest migration, roughly July to October; Tsavo offers strong Big Five sightings year-round with a more remote, off-the-beaten-track feel.

Yes, Tsavo is a long-established, actively managed national park, and Finch Hattons' game drives are led by experienced, trained guides. As with any wildlife destination, standard safari precautions apply: guests stay in the vehicle or with a guide during drives, and children under six do not join game drives for safety reasons. 

Tsavo can be visited year-round, since wildlife is present in every season. Expect hot, dry conditions of around 30°C (86°F) from December to March, and cooler, greener conditions of around 20°C (68°F) from July to September. Each season brings a different character of sighting rather than a better or worse one.

Most visitors fly: scheduled flights connect Nairobi's Wilson Airport to private airstrips in Tsavo in about 50 minutes via Safarilink and Fly ALS, and Finch Hattons arranges the onward transfer. Driving from Nairobi takes roughly four to six hours (about 232km) via the Mtito Andei gate; driving from Mombasa takes roughly four to five hours (about 210km).

Finch Hattons is an award-winning luxury camps set within Tsavo West itself, close to Mzima Springs, the Shetani Lava Flow, and Mount Kilimanjaro's foothills, rather than on the park's boundary. The camp's 17 tented suites sit around natural spring-fed pools, with twice-daily game drives, all meals and drinks, and transfers included in every stay.

There are 17 tented suites at Finch Hattons. Each suite offers stunning, unobstructed views of the shimmering natural springs, allowing you to wake up immersed in the breathtaking beauty and vibrant wildlife of the wilderness - all from the comfort of your own private sanctuary.

You can find out more about our tents here.

Settle in with luxury home comforts, en-suite bathrooms featuring indoor and outdoor showers, free-standing copper bathtubs, and a complimentary maxi-bar.

Within your tent, you will also find:

• Insect repellent
• Torches
• Extra blankets
• Pair of binoculars
• Hairdryer, bathrobes & slippers
• Bathroom amenities
• Tea and coffee-making facilities
• Safety deposit box

No, to minimise our impact on our surroundings, sustainably harvested makuti palm leaves have been used for the tent roofs and solar hot water heaters are in use throughout the camp.

Yes, guests can enjoy private, candlelit meals on their own deck, providing an intimate, luxurious dining experience in the bush.

In fact we have two pools. There is one pool at the spa, available to adults, and also a second pool which is the main infinity pool.

Yes. Our Chyulu Spa is a meaningful part of the Finch Hattons experience. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of Tsavo, it has two treatment rooms, a vast yoga deck for sessions with our expert instructor, infinity spa pool, hammam and a gym. It is the perfect place to slow down, restore balance and reconnect.

You can find out more about The Chyulu spa here.

Step into our gym, where fitness meets adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, our gym offers a space to sweat, stretch, and find your strength.

Included in your stay, twice-daily game drives take you through open plains, volcanic hills, and lush springs, with expert guides leading the way and stops to enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.

You can find out more about our game drives here.

Kenya is an excellent year-round travel destination.

Each season brings a new and exciting environment for viewing the animals, so no matter the weather, there will always be something to see.

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.

If you’ve caught the safari bug or simply want to explore more of the Tsavo’s spectacular, unspoilt landscapes, you can always book additional game drives directly at camp. Additional charges apply.

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. 

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 in these activities or take time for themselves.

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 their parents, and while 12-15-year-olds can have their own tent, we recommend they bunk with their parents for added safety.

Children aged six and over are welcome to join their parents on thrilling game drives, turning each wildlife encounter into a shared, unforgettable moment.

To keep the magic alive and ensure a safe experience for all, little ones are gently encouraged to stay quiet while spotting animals in the wild. If you’re travelling with very young children, one parent can relax back at camp while the rest of the family sets off into the bush for the day’s adventure.

With Tsavo’s roads kicking up a little dust, we recommend bringing sunglasses to keep small eyes comfortable and protected. It’s all part of the fun in the wild!

At Finch Hattons, every day is a new adventure for kids, so much so that they may never want to leave! Our Young Explorers can dive into the wonders of Tsavo National Park with engaging bush walks, mini safaris around camp, and interactive wildlife-spotting adventures. From colourful lizards and dazzling birds to fascinating insects, nature becomes their playground.

Led by our resident Conservation Manager and special guest experts, children can enjoy storytelling sessions and captivating talks that bring to life Tsavo’s rich history, vibrant cultures, and the deep connection between local communities and the wild.

As night falls, the magic continues with outdoor movie nights featuring classics like The Lion King and Madagascar. The next day, they’ll have the chance to spot their favourite animal stars - this time in real life, out on the savannah.

You can find out more about kids at Finch Hattons here.

While we don’t offer babysitting, our friendly camp guides are always happy to keep a gentle watch over tents with kids at night.

All meals and drinks are included, and each meal is accompanied by delicious homemade bread.

Inspired by the flavours, textures and aromas of the Tsavo region, our seasoned Kenyan chefs create delectable safari dishes paired with stunning views for a truly unforgettable world-class dining experience at Finch Hattons.

You can find out more about dining at Finch Hattons here.

Yes, all drinks and alcohol are included. 

As the night draws to a close, retire to our inviting bars and lounges that cater to every mood and occasion, offering a cosy atmosphere to unwind, relax and forget about the world beyond Finch Hattons.

We know that little appetites can be a big deal, so we’ve created delicious, kid-friendly meals and snacks made just for them. Whether it’s a familiar favourite or something new to try, our chefs happily tailor every dish to suit your child’s tastes and dietary needs.

Finch Hattons offers a range of hands-on activities designed to immerse guests in the wilderness of Tsavo West and challenge their sense of adventure.

Guests can hike through the Chyulu Hills, walk beneath the canopy of ancient cloud forest, and visit Mzima Springs, where crystal-clear waters are home to hippos and crocodiles. The dramatic Shetani Lava Flows offer a glimpse into the region's volcanic past, while sundowners and a Chyulu sunrise showcase views across to Mount Kilimanjaro.

For a deeper connection to the region, guests can meet the local Maasai community and learn about their traditions and way of life. For young explorers, warrior training and survival skills sessions teach essential techniques for thriving in the wild  - a chance to step outside the comfort zone and embrace the adventurous spirit of the Maasai.

Those looking to slow down can practise yoga or unwind at the Chyulu Spa, making Finch Hattons a destination where adventure and wellness exist side by side.

You can find out more here.

Twice-daily game drives, meals, drinks, the complimentary Camp Safari Walk, and one further complimentary local excursion (arranged by the camp, subject to availability) are included in every stay. Other specialist excursions - the rhino sanctuary visit, Chyulu hikes, cultural experiences and bush breakfasts - are bookable locally at camp for an additional charge, usually per person or per vehicle. Ask reservations or the camp team for current pricing before you travel.

Finch Hattons offers several guided walks and hikes: a 1.5-hour Camp Safari Walk spotting birds, insects and animal tracks, plus  excursions such as the 4am Chyulu Sunrise hike, the Chyulu Rainforest Hike through cloud forest, the one-hour Chaimu Crater climb up a dormant volcano, the three-hour Ol Doinyo Ololarami summit attempt. 

Yes, Mzima Springs is a short excursion from Finch Hattons, with an underwater observation chamber where guests can watch fish and Tsavo's resident hippos, for groups of up to six guests.

Yes, the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary near Finch Hattons is home to roughly 80 endangered black rhinos, around 18% of Kenya's black rhino population, with daytime visits best timed between 4 and 6pm. 

Yes, Finch Hattons offers an al fresco bush breakfast with a live cooking station and champagne, plus sundowner cocktails after game drives and a dedicated sundowner experience at the camp's viewing tower, both overlooking Mount Kilimanjaro and the Tsavo plains.

Yes, guided yoga sessions run on an open-air deck overlooking the Chyulu Hills, with private one-on-one sessions also available. 

Yes, Finch Hattons has a dedicated stargazing deck, and with minimal light pollution in Tsavo, guests can typically pick out the Milky Way and major constellations on clear nights.

We do. We can create bespoke experiences that cater to your taste, expectations and interests.

Say “I do” surrounded by the awe-inspiring wilderness of Tsavo National Park, with the iconic beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro as your backdrop. Finch Hattons offers a truly magical safari wedding experience - where nature’s grandeur meets intimate luxury.

Perfectly designed for exclusivity and charm, our camp accommodates up to 38 guests, making it the ultimate destination for couples seeking an unforgettable, personalised celebration immersed in the wild. From elegant ceremonies under acacia trees to festive receptions beneath the African stars, Finch Hattons transforms your special day into a breathtaking memory that lasts a lifetime.

You can find out more here.

Yes! Our dedicated team is committed to crafting a personalised experience tailored to your vision, ensuring every detail is perfect in this spectacular Tsavo wilderness retreat.

Yes. Finch Hattons is a beautiful choice for a honeymoon, combining elegant luxury, unforgettable wildlife and a spectacular setting at the foot of the Chyulu Hills. Enjoy private safari adventures, romantic dining and time to unwind together, with thoughtful personal touches throughout your stay.

Experience unparalleled privacy and breathtaking scenery at Tsavo West National Park, the perfect destination to celebrate milestone birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, or unforgettable gatherings with friends. With its unique blend of wild adventure and luxurious comfort, Finch Hattons offers a truly extraordinary setting where your special moments become unforgettable memories.

Packing for a safari is really very simple: neutral colours, breathable layers, and comfortable shoes. Practicality matters far more than variety.

At Finch Hattons, laundry services mean guests can travel lightly and focus on the experience rather than their wardrobe. What matters most isn’t what’s worn, but what’s noticed.

For game drives, you should wear neutral colours that will blend in with the landscape. In summer, these should be lightweight, but take a windbreaker or light jacket for evenings and early mornings. In winter, 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, sunglasses and suncream for all seasons. Colours to avoid include red, black, dark blue and white. Some predators identify red with wounded animals and Masai warriors. Dark colours like black and blue, in addition to absorbing heat, attract insects and biting flies. White clothing is noticeable and gets dirty quite easily outdoors.

Back at camp, you can wear whatever you like around the lodge and dining rooms. Whilst there’s no dress code at camp, it is always best to be mindful of the team’s local culture and customs. Formal wear isn’t always practical, but if you want to dress up for the evening, that’s absolutely fine.

Still need some tips? Check out our What to Pack for Safari Blog.

If any of our guests have health concerns, we have team members trained in first aid to attend to emergencies.

In case of necessity, Rescue offers air evacuation andambulance services across East Africa. Their planes are equipped with medical facilities and transport you to a modern private hospital in Nairobi. To access these facilities, a subscription to their insurance is required. If you already have travel or health insurance, please check if air evacuation is included. Note that flights cannot take off after 5 pm due to government regulations. For more information or to purchase Rescue insurance, visit www.rescue.co.

Before your arrival, please inform us if anyone in yourparty has a pre-existing medical condition, allergy, specific medical requirements, or is pregnant. We strongly recommend bringing sunscreen for your protection.

The nearest hospital is located in Mtito Andei, approximately an hour and a half drive away.

Tipping is discretionary and entirely up to you. If you have any questions about tipping, you can discuss this with the camp manager.