🌍 Introduction
Satao Camp is a timeless, elegant tented safari camp located deep within Tsavo East National Park, offering a rich wildlife experience in one of Kenya’s most pristine and unspoiled wilderness areas. Known for its giant red elephants, remote setting, and panoramic game viewing, Satao Camp is designed to immerse you in nature without sacrificing comfort.
From romantic getaways to family safaris, Satao is perfect for travelers who want to stay close to wildlife in a peaceful and authentic environment.
📌 Location & Setting
Satao Camp is located in the southern region of Tsavo East, about 45 minutes’ drive from Voi Gate. The camp is strategically placed around a natural waterhole, which draws wildlife throughout the day—meaning you don’t even need to leave camp to start your safari.
Set under towering tamarind trees, the camp’s layout blends naturally with its environment, providing shade, tranquility, and plenty of birdlife.
🛣️ How to Get There
- By Road:
- From Nairobi: Approx. 5–6 hours’ drive (via Voi Gate).
- From Mombasa: Approx. 2.5–3 hours’ drive via Bachuma Gate or Manyani Gate.
- By Air:
- Charter flights land at Satao Airstrip, just 5 minutes from the camp. Charter services can be arranged from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport or the Kenyan Coast.
🛌 Accommodation
Satao Camp offers 20 spacious en-suite tents, thoughtfully positioned in a semi-circle facing the waterhole to maximize wildlife viewing right from your veranda.
🏕️ Tent Types
- Standard Tents
- Comfortable safari-style canvas tents
- En-suite bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets
- Mosquito netting, writing desk, and lounge chairs
- Private verandas with a view of the waterhole
- Suite Tents (Family or Honeymoon Options)
- Larger layout with king-size beds or extra bedding for families
- Additional lounge area inside the tent
- Premium locations for privacy or honeymooners
All tents are eco-friendly, solar-powered, and fitted with solar-heated showers and sustainable amenities.
💲 Estimated Room Rates (Per Person Per Night)
- Standard Tent (Full Board): $140 – $180
- Suite Tent / Honeymoon Tent: $180 – $250
- Children under 12: Usually 50% of adult rate (contact for current offers)
Rates vary by season (high, low, and peak), with special packages available for residents, groups, or long stays.
🌿 Amenities & Services
- 🐘 Central Waterhole – A magnet for elephants, buffalo, impalas, giraffes, and predators
- 🍽️ Open-air dining area with view of the waterhole
- 🍷 Bush bar and lounge for sundowners and stargazing
- 📶 Wi-Fi in the lounge area
- 🔋 Solar-powered lighting and hot water
- 🧼 Daily housekeeping and laundry service on request
- 🔐 Night security and wildlife-safe fencing around tents
🍽️ Food & Dining
Meals at Satao Camp are an experience in themselves. Guests enjoy:
- Buffet-style meals using fresh local ingredients
- Full English breakfasts, 3-course lunches, and elegant candlelit dinners
- Special bush breakfasts or sundowners can be arranged on request
- All dietary requirements catered for with advance notice (vegan, gluten-free, halal, etc.)
The bush bar serves soft drinks, wines, beers, spirits, and local favorites. Evening storytelling or wildlife talks around the fire complete the experience.
✅ What’s Included
- Accommodation in en-suite tent
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Afternoon tea/coffee and snacks
- Bottled drinking water
- Wildlife viewing at the waterhole
- Government taxes and levies
❌ What’s Not Included
- Tsavo East National Park entry fees
- Game drives (can be pre-booked with or without a guide)
- Transfers to/from the camp (road or air)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Laundry and gratuities
- Optional activities (bush meals, guided walks)
🎯 Activities & Experiences
- Game Drives (Morning and Afternoon):
Explore Tsavo East in open safari vehicles with expert guides. Spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, zebras, and a wide variety of birds. - Birdwatching:
With over 500 species recorded in Tsavo East, Satao Camp is ideal for bird lovers. - Sundowners & Bush Dinners:
Enjoy drinks and meals in scenic locations for an unforgettable African experience. - Wildlife Viewing from Camp:
One of Satao’s best features is the ability to spot wildlife right from your tent or the dining area. - Nighttime Campfire:
Share stories, stargaze, and listen to the sounds of the wild.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Satao Camp suitable for children?
Yes. The camp welcomes children and has family-friendly tent options, but parental supervision is required due to the open wilderness setting.
Can I self-drive to the camp?
Yes, but it’s recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle. Transfers can also be arranged from Voi, Mombasa, or Nairobi.
Do I need to bring my own guide or vehicle?
Not necessary. Satao Camp provides guided game drives and excursions. You can book full safari packages with transport included.
Are the tents safe?
Yes. Each tent is fitted with lockable zippers and the camp is patrolled by trained staff. Wildlife fencing and escort services ensure safety.
Is the camp eco-friendly?
Yes. Satao Camp uses solar power, supports conservation efforts, and employs local community members.
🌟 Why Stay at Satao Camp?
- Front-row access to wildlife without leaving your tent
- Beautiful setting under shady trees, offering a real “Out of Africa” ambiance
- Great for both first-time safari-goers and experienced adventurers
- Locally owned and operated, with a strong emphasis on sustainability
- Personalized service, excellent food, and small camp atmosphere