Overview
A Tsavo favourite
In the heart of Kenya’s immense Tsavo East National Park, Satao Camp can be found overlooking an oasis of a waterhole drawing a diverse cast of animals and birdlife. Herds of impala, elephants, giraffes and the occasional lion wander through for a drink.
There are 20 classic canvas tents nestled among tamarind trees, including four larger suites sat slightly closer to the waterhole.
Lunches are enjoyed al fresco under a 200-year-old tree, with dinner in the dining tent followed by nightcaps around the campfire. Private dining and bush dinners can also be arranged. The team here are incredibly welcoming and while Satao isn't the most luxurious of spots, the friendly feel and abundant wildlife make it a favourite of those who visit.
Facts
At a glance
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20 tents
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Dining area
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Bar
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Waterhole
Experiences
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![Satao Camp2]()
Game drives
Satao Camp offers morning and afternoon game drives within the park with experienced guides. There is an incredible variety of wildlife and birdlife to be seen in Tsavo including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, ostrich, elephants and all kinds of antelope species.
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![Satao Camp11]()
Sundowners
Sunset over the Tsavo plains is a sight to behold and the ‘sundowner’ experience is a must for all our guests, accompanied with snacks and cocktails.
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![Satao Camp8]()
Birding
Satao Camp’s oasis is a favourite habitat for a great variety of birds and over 300 different species have been identified. Birders can safely walk around the camp’s grounds and watch the many beautiful birds coming to nest or take a bath in the waterhole. Hornbills, barbets, starlings, guinea fowls and pearl spotted owls are very common to see.
Community & Culture
The camp provides employment opportunities to the locals. Approximately 85% of all employees are hired from the local Taita and Duruma communities with others from the Indigenous Waliangulu community. Fruits and vegetables are obtained from the local suppliers in Voi Town.
The facility engages young students from Miasenye and Marungu primary schools in conservation through game drives within the park to raise their awareness on wildlife and nature conservation, while also making donations of material and upgrading facilities such as a more energy efficient stove in the school kitchen.
Footprint
The camp is built on low environmental footprint with the architectural design blends well with the local surrounding while the tents are made of canvas with traditional Makuti roofing, all unfenced to allow wildlife to move freely within the facility, with pathways left natural with lighting designed to minimise light pollution. Solar is used for water heating whereas generators are used for lighting and running the camp refrigerants.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
