One of the most affordable accommodations conveniently located just 10 minutes from Nairobi National Park (NNP) via Mokoyiet Road and Langata Road is the charming Wildebeest Eco Camp. Nestled in the serene suburb of Langata, this eco-friendly haven offers a perfect blend of comfort, sustainability, and affordability, making it an ideal base for travelers looking to explore Nairobi’s wildlife and attractions without breaking the bank.
Wildebeest Eco Camp provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush gardens, complete with a variety of accommodation options—from cozy safari tents to comfortable cottages—catering to both budget-conscious backpackers and families seeking a unique stay. Its proximity to Nairobi National Park, combined with excellent on-site facilities, makes it a top choice for visitors eager to experience the best of urban safari adventures and Kenyan hospitality.
Here is some background on how this camp got started:
In 2006, Australian travelers Alan and Lynita embarked on a global journey that serendipitously led them to Kenya. Initially planning a brief stay, they accepted an opportunity to manage a local hostel, which ignited their passion for Kenyan hospitality. Encouraged by guests and the hostel owner, they established Wildebeest Travels, starting from a small office where they assisted travelers with accommodations, safaris, and travel plans. In April 2007, after an extensive search, they found the ideal location for their camp in Nairobi. After operating there for over five years, they acquired the current property, which now houses Wildebeest Eco Camp and Wildebeest Travels.
Set within 3.5 acres of lush gardens in Nairobi’s Langata suburb, Wildebeest Eco Camp offers a tranquil retreat approximately 8 kilometers from the city center. Its proximity to essential amenities such as banks, ATMs, forex services, supermarkets, and various dining options makes it a convenient base for travelers. Additionally, many of Nairobi’s major attractions are nearby, providing guests with ample opportunities to explore the city’s highlights.
Accommodations:
Wildebeest Eco Camp provides a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets:
- Cottage Room: Refurbished, comfortable rooms nestled in a set of six facing a garden. Ideal for short stays or budget-conscious guests.
- Deluxe Cottage Room: Larger rooms with additional furnishings, suitable for longer stays.
- Garden Tent: Private tents with shared bathroom facilities, offering electricity and standard furniture.
- Family Garden Tent: Spacious tents accommodating up to four people, providing a unique ‘under-canvas’ experience with modern conveniences.
- Deluxe Safari Tent: Large, luxurious tents equipped with en-suite bathrooms, solar-heated showers, and 240v electricity.
- Dorm Bed: Shared accommodations for solo travelers or groups.
Each accommodation type is designed to provide comfort while maintaining an eco-friendly approach.
Wildebeest Eco Camp Accommodation Pricing
Wildebeest Eco Camp offers a variety of accommodation options tailored to meet different traveler needs, from budget-conscious backpackers to families seeking comfort. The pricing is competitive, reflecting the unique blend of eco-friendly lodging, serene garden settings, and convenient proximity to Nairobi’s major attractions. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of a Garden Tent or the luxury of a Deluxe Safari Tent, there’s something for everyone. Below is a detailed breakdown of the accommodation types, maximum occupancy, comfort level, and price per night.
Wildebeest Eco Camp Accommodation Pricing Table
Accommodation Type | Max Occupancy | Comfort Level | Price Per Night (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Cottage Room | 2 People | Comfort | 110 |
Deluxe Cottage Room | 2 People | Comfort | 160 |
Garden Tent | 2 People | Comfort | 70 |
Family Garden Tent | 4 People | Comfort | 130 |
Deluxe Safari Tent | 3 People | Comfort | 180 |
Dorm Bed | Not Applicable | Comfort | 40 |
This pricing structure ensures flexibility for solo travelers, couples, and families. For the best experience, consider booking directly with Wildebeest Eco Camp to take advantage of any exclusive offers or packages.
Facilities:
The camp boasts a range of amenities to enhance the guest experience:
- Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner
- Fully-stocked bar
- Infinity swimming pool
- Communal fire pit
- Free Wi-Fi
- Guest lounge with DStv (sports and international channels)
- Board games, pool table, foosball, table tennis, and darts
- Guest library and book swap
- Laundry service
- Beautiful gardens and two decks
- Children’s play area
- Gift shop with local crafts
- On-site parking and 24-hour security
- Travel desk for safaris, transfers, and tours
These facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and engaging stay for all guests.
Transportation Services:
Wildebeest Eco Camp offers assistance with various transportation needs within East Africa:
- Airport Transfers: Arranged from both Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Domestic Airport.
- Public Transport Guidance: Information on matatus, buses, shuttles, and trains.
Guests are advised to consider luggage space when booking transfers to ensure a comfortable journey.
Proximity to Nairobi National Park:
The camp’s location offers easy access to Nairobi National Park, allowing guests to embark on early morning game drives with minimal travel time. This proximity enhances the chances of witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Nearby Attractions:
In addition to the national park, several notable sites are within a short distance:
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: A sanctuary for orphaned elephants.
- Giraffe Centre: An educational facility for endangered Rothschild giraffes.
- Karen Blixen Museum: The former home of the famed author.
These attractions provide enriching experiences for guests interested in wildlife and history.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Committed to eco-friendly practices, Wildebeest Eco Camp implements solar power, rainwater harvesting, and waste recycling programs to minimize its environmental footprint.
Guest Reviews:
Wildebeest Eco Camp in Nairobi has garnered numerous reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Booking.com. Analyzing these reviews provides a comprehensive understanding of the camp’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Pros:
- Beautiful Grounds and Gardens: Guests frequently praise the camp’s lush gardens and well-maintained outdoor spaces, highlighting the presence of diverse bird species and vibrant flora.
- Comfortable and Unique Accommodations: The spacious tents with comfortable beds and private bathrooms offer a perfect balance between adventure and luxury.
- Friendly and Helpful Staff: Many reviewers commend the staff for their friendliness and willingness to assist, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
- On-Site Amenities: The availability of amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar enhances the convenience and enjoyment of guests during their stay.
- Proximity to Attractions: The camp’s location is noted for being close to key Nairobi attractions, making it a convenient base for exploration.
Cons:
- Noise Disturbances: Some guests have reported noise issues, particularly in tents located near external sources of loud music and barking dogs during the night.
- Basic Room Amenities: Certain accommodations, such as the Cottage rooms, are described as quite basic, with limited provisions like the absence of shampoo and only small bottles of water supplied.
- Pricing of Food and Beverages: A few reviewers feel that the on-site restaurant’s food and drink prices are on the higher side.
- Limited Dining Options: Some guests have mentioned a desire for more vegetarian options and greater variety in the menu offerings.
In summary, Wildebeest Eco Camp is lauded for its beautiful environment, unique accommodations, and attentive staff. However, potential guests might consider inquiring about room locations to avoid possible noise disturbances and be prepared for the basic nature of certain room amenities. Additionally, exploring off-site dining options could be beneficial for those seeking more diverse or affordable meal choices.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit the official website or check out reviews on TripAdvisor.
Whether you’re embarking on a safari adventure or exploring Nairobi’s cultural sites, Wildebeest Eco Camp offers a harmonious blend of comfort, convenience, and sustainability.