Self-Catering Resorts for Group Trips
While organizing and planning group trips is not an easy task, it can also be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences. Group trips can be for family members re-uniting, friends trying to get away from the usual routine, or a company team out to reinforce team-work and bonding. Whichever type of group in question, one important aspect that can make or break the group trip is accommodation. And meals. Finding the perfect accommodation that caters to everyone’s needs (read food), while maintaining a sense of togetherness is very important. This is where self-catering resorts comes in. Self-catering meal-plans takes into consideration dietary needs of individual group members that would otherwise be over-looked by the other types of meal plans. Self-catering could also be cost-saving.
In Kenya, there’s no shortage of comfortable and stunning self-catering accommodations that are perfect for group travel. Most of these self-catering resorts also offer privacy and flexibility. And the opportunity to create lasting memories while there.
Self-catering resorts are found almost everywhere in Kenya. It does not matter whether you are looking for beachfront villas, rustic countryside lodges, serene lakeside cottages or safari camps in the wild. You will find something to work with. Tthese self-catering resorts usually try to combine comfort, convenience, and breath-taking surroundings.
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Self-Catering Resorts in Kenya Ideal For Group Trips
In this article, we put together a list of 10 finest group-friendly self-catering accommodations in Kenya. While the common thing about the is self-catering, each of them have unique features. That means they likely would be suitable to different tastes and preferences.
This list comes from summary of feed-back and reviews from guests that we have provided bookings and reservation services to over the last few years.
Our guests come to us looking for an adventure in the wild, relaxing beach retreat, or a tranquil escape in the highlands. We shall always have something for every type of group traveler.
One thing: It is important to remember that self-catering does not mean you will be cooking all the meals by yourselves. Cooking your own meals is just a choice. In most cases there is a cook available. You provide them with the foodstuffs, ingredients and the recipe and they do the rest. This service comes with a small fee that you would be advised at the time of booking.
That said, let us go ahead and explore these exceptional resorts.
1. Watamu Treehouse, Watamu
This resort is located along the Kenyan coast , at Watamu. Nestled in the lush coastal beach line town of Watamu, the Watamu Treehouse is popular with beach and nature-lovers. People looking for a tranquil escape also book this resort. If your group is looking for calm and peace, consider the The treehouse in Watamu. It is an architectural masterpiece with open-air designs, vibrant mosaics, and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
To get to Watamu Tree House, from Nairobi, take a 45-minute flight to Malindi and then a 30-minute ride to the resort. Driving from Nairobi would take you almost 9 hours, and driving from Mombasa about 1 hour.
- Why we belive it’s perfect for groups: With multiple bedrooms and expansive communal spaces, the treehouse is ideal for group gatherings. Guests can enjoy cooking together in the fully equipped kitchen or relaxing on the rooftop terrace while watching the sunset.
- Activities nearby: Kayaking through the mangroves, snorkeling in the Watamu Marine Park, and exploring the nearby Gede Ruins.
2. Leleshwa House, Naivasha
Leleshwa House, located at Green Park, at the shores of Lake Naivasha is a great entertaining space for groups, families and friends to get together. The resort can take up to 9 persons.
It is a great place for families of friends to enjoy. The property has 3 double bedrooms and 1 twin bedroom. Two of the double bedrooms are en-suite. There is also a family bathroom, two large lounges, and a fully equipped kitchen.
There are terraces to sit out on, a large beautifully maintained garden, and a great pool area that has sun beds and seating for our guests, as well as security gates for family safety reasons. Barbecues are available to use by the house or in the pool area.
- Why we think it’s perfect for groups: Spacious cottages with multiple bedrooms and a large outdoor area make it perfect for group barbecues and bonfires. The property also provides a private chef upon request for those who prefer not to cook.
- Activities nearby: Boat rides on Lake Naivasha, hiking in Hell’s Gate National Park, and birdwatching.
3. Olepangi Farm, Nanyuki
For groups looking to combine rustic charm with modern comforts, Olepangi Farm is the ideal choice. Situated in the foothills of Mount Kenya, this boutique farm stay offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities for adventurous travelers. That is the reason most of our group guests like it. It can sleep up to a maximum of 10 persons. A small group of course, but still a group.
Coming from Nairobi, it would take about 3 hours driving to get to OlePangi Farm.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: The farm’s cottages and main house can accommodate large groups, and the fully equipped kitchens allow for self-catering. Communal areas like the dining room and fire pit foster a sense of togetherness.
- Activities nearby: Guided horseback rides, nature walks, and visits to the nearby Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
4. Lamu House, Lamu Island
Let your group experience a cultrual charm. Travel to Lamu Island to sample the Swahili culture. Dating back to the 14th Century, Lamu Town is one of the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlements in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a beautiful 12km stretch of unspoilt beach and a relaxed vibe.
Lamu House is located in the heart of Lamu Old Town. This collection of traditional Swahili-style homes is perfect for groups looking to immerse themselves in history, culture the beauty of the kenyan coast. The resort has 10 rooms, meaning it can accommodate quite a number of persons in a group.
The best way to get to Lamu from Nairobi is by Flying. The flight companies that offer services to Lamu include Skyward Express, Safarilink, Jambojet, Fly540 and Hahn Air. Fly from Nairobi to Manda Airport on Manda Island. From Manda Airport, it’s a short boat ride over to Lamu Island. The boat transfers can be arranged via your hotel if you book in advance. Alternatively, you can organise them when you arrive, as there are usually boats waiting.
- Why we think Lamu House is perfect for self-catering groups trips: The spacious homes feature multiple bedrooms, large kitchens, and rooftop terraces, providing ample space for relaxation and group meals.
- Activities nearby: Dhow sailing trips, exploring the narrow streets of Lamu Old Town, and lounging on Shela Beach.
5. Simba Oryx Beach Cottages, Diani
Simba Oryx Cottages is located in Diani. It has 10 self catering cottages, which are all well furnished with an African outlook. The cottages can accommodate between 2 and 6 guests. All rooms have been fitted with Lamu ceilings to boost privacy and comfortable Mwule beds. The big windows allow enough air circulation in the rooms which have additional ceiling fans. Bed linen, towels and mosquito nets are included.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: Each cottage has running hot and cold water, a granite kitchen with gas cooker, fridge, cutlery and crockery, a dining room with lounge as well as a toilet and shower. All the cottages have a veranda overlooking the blue Indian Ocean with a direct cool breeze.
Activities nearby: Apart from swimming, snorkelling, sun bathing and walking along the outstanding sandy beach, you can also indulge in boat rides, deep sea fishing and diving. Daily excursions to the near Shimba Hills (National Park) as well as Wasini Island (snorkelling, dolphins) are recommended. Shops, restaurants, bars and discos are easily accessible both with private, taxi or public transport
6. Kusini Beach Cottages, Diani
A short walk from the stunning Diani Beach, Kusini Beach Cottages offers a laid-back coastal retreat perfect for group getaways. These self-contained villas provide everything you need for a relaxing stay.
Built with coral bricks and makuti on the roofs (coconut palm tree leafs), right in front of the Indian ocean, this small complex is designed in a way you find yourself in the heart of Africa.
The space and tracks to the cottages are covered by white sand from the beach giving you the opportunity to walk barefoot from the moment you arrive at Kusini. Inspired by the magnificent surroundings, we have an elevated swimming pool that literally emerges from the beach giving the feeling you are on the stern of a boat. The Colubus and Sykes monkeys are commonly seen in any of the beautiful trees of our garden.
To get to Diani, you can fly directly to Ukunda Airstrip and then take a short transfer to the beach resort. One can also fly to Mombasa’s Moi International Airport and then 2 hour transfer to Diani.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: Each villa has multiple bedrooms, a private pool, and a fully equipped kitchen, giving groups the freedom to cook and relax together.
- Activities nearby: Snorkeling and diving at Kisite Marine Park, camel rides on the beach, and exploring Shimba Hills National Reserve.
7. Amboseli Bush Camps
The property features two adjacent camps. Choose between the luxurious elegance of the upper camp or the cozy charm of the lower camp tents. For larger groups, both camps can be reserved to accommodate your needs.
Amboseli Bush Camp is nestled in a stunning location with a view of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and offers a perfect balance of comfort and immersion in the wild. One of the highlights is the watering hole right in front of the camp. It attracts a variety of wildlife, and during our stay, we were treated to sightings of giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and even hyenas coming to drink.
It includes 3 classic safari tents, each with its own ensuite bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to 6 people. For larger groups, camping tents with mattresses and beddings are available.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: The camp features a spacious outdoor kitchen, a campfire area, and a comfortable lounge with a deck overlooking the plains and a watering hole frequented by wildlife.
- Activities nearby: Game drives, cultural and community tours, sundowners.
8. Watamu Beach Cottages
A homely, beach resort ideal destination for beach lovers looking for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or seeking a little active adventure. Situated on the North Coast of Kenya in Watamu, approximately 5 kms from Watamu Village on a large 5 acre, is located in the heart of the Watamu National Marine Park.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: The varied accommodation ranges from tents or tent huts in the forest for a Camping adventure, air-conditioned Clubrooms to comfy Cool Chalets, all located at Watamu Sailing Camp, to pool side Cottages with air conditioning, two sea-view Apartments, & a double story, sea facing Villa.
- Activities nearby: Explore a variety of cool excursions, visit interesting places and take part in host of fun water activities, like snorkelling, diving, kite surfing with JC Kiteschool, stand up paddle boarding or kayaking along the Mida Creek…
9. Pelican House, Ol Pejeta, Nanyuki
For a truly unique group experience, consider the Pelican House, Ol Pejeta, located within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Surrounded by wildlife, these cottages offer a mix of adventure and relaxation. It sleeps a maximum of 12 persons. Perfect for small groups of colleagues, family or friends.
- Why it’s perfect for groups: Each cottage has multiple bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and access to exclusive conservancy activities, making it ideal for groups who love wildlife and nature.
- Activities nearby: Game drives, chimpanzee sanctuary visits, and night safaris.
10.Oilepo Cottages, Naivasha
Planning the ideal group trip does not be a stressful affair. One of the most important aspects to take care of the dietary needs of the groups participants. To take care of this, self-catering meal plan can be a solution.
Kenya’s self-catering accommodations provide the perfect solution for group travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and flexibility. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront villa, a rustic countryside retreat, or an adventure-filled safari camp, these properties offer something for everyone. Start planning your group getaway today and create unforgettable memories in one of these incredible destinations
