Safari Accommodation Types Explained: Lodges, Camps & Room Types (Single, Double, Twin)

When planning a safari in Kenya or East Africa, safari accommodation plays a major role in shaping your overall experience and budget. Many travelers are familiar with safari packages, that is Luxury, Mid-Range or Budget and also hotel rooms, but safari accommodations come in different styles, settings, and room configurations that can be confusing at first.

In this guide, we explain the main safari accommodation types and clearly break down the difference between Single, Double, and Twin rooms, helping you choose the best option for your safari in Kenya and beyond

Types of Safari Accommodation in Kenya

Safari accommodations are designed to immerse guests in nature while maintaining varying levels of comfort. They generally fall into three main categories.

1. Safari Lodges

Safari lodges are permanent structures, often built using stone, wood, or eco-friendly materials.

Key Features

• Located inside or near national parks and reserves

• Spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms

• Restaurants, bars, lounges, and swimming pools

• Reliable electricity and hot showers

This option is ideal for families, first-time safari travelers, as well as mid-range and luxury safari guests seeking a well-balanced and comfortable safari experience.

Common Locations: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo, Samburu

2. Tented Safari Camps

Tented camps combine the feel of camping with the comfort of a hotel.

Key Features

• Large canvas tents on permanent or semi-permanent foundations

• Proper beds, en-suite bathrooms, and running water

• Close proximity to wildlife and nature

• More intimate and authentic safari atmosphere

Types of Tented Camps

• Luxury Tented Camps: High-end furnishings, premium services

• Mid-Range Tented Camps: Comfortable, well-equipped tents

• Budget Tented Camps: Simple tents with basic amenities

This option is ideal for couples, adventure travelers, and guests seeking an authentic safari experience that offers a closer connection to nature and local wildlife.

3. Budget Camps & Campsites

Budget camps focus on affordability while still providing access to excellent wildlife areas.

Key Features

• Simple rooms or tents

• Shared or basic en-suite facilities

• Limited amenities

• Emphasis on wildlife experience over comfort

Ideal For

• Budget travelers

• Backpackers

• Students and group safaris

Understanding Safari Room Types: Single, Double, and Twin

In addition to accommodation style, room configuration also affects pricing and comfort.

1. Single Room- A Single Room is designed for one person only.

Key Points

• Usually has one bed

• Often priced higher due to single supplement

• Common for solo travelers

Important Note

Safari costs are typically calculated per person sharing. When one person occupies a room alone, the lodge charges a single supplement to cover unused space.

This option is ideal for solo travelers, business travelers, and independent explorers looking for a flexible and self-directed safari experience.

2. Double Room

A Double Room is designed for two people sharing one large bed.

Key Points

• One queen-size or king-size bed

• Most common room type for couples

• Best value for shared safari costs

Ideal For

• Couples

• Honeymooners

• Partners traveling together

3. Twin Room

A Twin Room accommodates two people with separate beds.

Key Points

• Two single beds

• Same price as a double room in most cases

• Offers flexibility for non-couples

This option is ideal for friends traveling together, siblings, colleagues, or any group of travelers seeking a shared and memorable safari experience.

Comparison Table: Safari Room Types

How Accommodation Choice Affects Safari Cost

Your safari accommodation directly impacts:

• Overall safari price

• Level of comfort

• Privacy and exclusivity

• Location inside or near the park

Luxury lodges and camps cost more due to premium services, while budget camps reduce costs by offering basic facilities.

Room type also matters sharing a double or twin room lowers the per-person cost, while single rooms usually attract an additional charge.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a safari lodge, tented camp, or budget camp, all options allow you to enjoy Kenya’s incredible wildlife. Understanding accommodation styles and room types ensures there are no surprises and helps you select the best option for your travel needs and budget.

Not sure which accommodation or room type suits your safari?
Talk to us for expert advice and customized safari packages based on your budget, travel style, and group size.