Satao Camp –Tsavo
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Overview
Satao Camp, Tsavo East: Prices, Reviews, Photos & Safari Packages
Few safari camps in Kenya capture the feeling of being completely immersed in the African wilderness quite like Satao Camp. Hidden beneath a canopy of ancient tamarind trees in Tsavo East National Park, Satao Camp offers an authentic safari experience where wildlife often wanders past the camp's famous waterhole throughout the day.
Whether you're planning your first Tsavo East safari, a family holiday, a photography adventure, or a romantic escape, Satao Tented Camp combines comfortable accommodation, exceptional game viewing, and one of the most scenic locations in Tsavo National Park. The camp has earned a reputation as one of the best safari lodges in Tsavo East thanks to its close connection with nature and its excellent wildlife sightings.
Unlike larger safari lodges, Satao Camp provides a more intimate atmosphere. The spacious canvas tents blend into the surrounding bush, allowing guests to experience the sounds, sights, and atmosphere of the African wilderness without sacrificing comfort. It is not uncommon to watch elephants drinking at the waterhole while enjoying breakfast or relaxing on your private veranda.
At TheHolidayDealers, we offer tailor-made safari packages to Satao Camp Tsavo East, including road safaris, SGR train safaris, and custom itineraries that combine Tsavo East with Amboseli, Tsavo West, or Kenya's beautiful coastline.
Why Stay at Satao Camp?
If you're searching for an authentic safari camp rather than a conventional hotel, Satao Camp Kenya is an excellent choice. Its secluded location inside Tsavo East National Park places you close to some of the park's best wildlife viewing areas while providing the comfort and service expected from one of Kenya's leading tented camps.
Reasons travellers choose Satao Camp include:
- Prime location inside Tsavo East National Park
- Spacious luxury safari tents
- Natural waterhole attracting wildlife throughout the day
- Excellent elephant sightings
- Authentic bush atmosphere
- Friendly and experienced staff
- Outstanding birdwatching opportunities
- Family-friendly accommodation
- Delicious cuisine
- Easy access for road and train safaris
Whether you're spending one night or several days exploring Tsavo East, Satao Camp offers an unforgettable safari experience surrounded by nature.
Where is Satao Camp?
Satao Camp Tsavo East is located deep within Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya's oldest and largest protected wildlife areas. The camp sits in a peaceful area surrounded by open plains, acacia woodland, and seasonal rivers that support an incredible diversity of wildlife.
Its location allows guests to explore some of the park's most productive game viewing areas while enjoying a peaceful setting away from busy tourist routes.
Approximate travel times include:
- Nairobi – 6 to 7 hours by road
- Mombasa – 4 to 5 hours
- Diani Beach – approximately 5½ hours
- Watamu – around 5 hours
- Malindi – about 6 hours
Guests travelling by the Madaraka Express can also reach the camp via Voi Railway Station, where transfers can be arranged as part of a complete safari package.
About Tsavo East National Park
A stay at Satao Camp Tsavo East National Park places you in one of Africa's most iconic wilderness areas.
Covering more than 13,000 square kilometres, Tsavo East National Park is famous for its wide open landscapes, red-dust elephants, dramatic scenery, and abundant wildlife. It forms part of the larger Tsavo Conservation Area together with Tsavo West National Park, creating one of the world's largest protected ecosystems.
Unlike parks with dense vegetation, Tsavo East offers expansive plains that make wildlife easier to spot, particularly around rivers, dams, and waterholes.
The park is renowned for:
- Large elephant herds
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Buffaloes
- Masai giraffes
- Zebras
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Greater and lesser kudu
- Over 500 bird species
Every game drive offers something different, making Tsavo East one of Kenya's most rewarding safari destinations.
Accommodation at Satao Camp
The accommodation at Satao Tented Camp is designed to provide comfort while maintaining an authentic safari atmosphere.
Rather than traditional hotel rooms, guests stay in spacious luxury canvas tents set beneath shady trees and carefully positioned to offer privacy and uninterrupted views of the surrounding bush.
Each tent features:
- Comfortable king-size or twin beds
- Ensuite bathroom with hot showers
- Flush toilet
- Private veranda
- Writing desk
- Wardrobe
- Mosquito nets
- Solar-powered lighting
- Tea and coffee making facilities
The tents are tastefully furnished with locally inspired décor that reflects the beauty and character of Kenya's wilderness.
Families can also be accommodated in interconnected tents or family units, making the camp suitable for travellers of all ages.
Facilities at Satao Camp
Although Satao Camp embraces the traditional safari experience, it offers a wide range of facilities designed to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.
Facilities include:
- Open-air restaurant
- Bush-style lounge
- Bar overlooking the waterhole
- Swimming pool
- Gift shop
- Free Wi-Fi in selected public areas
- Laundry service
- Campfire area
- Comfortable viewing decks
- 24-hour security
The restaurant serves a variety of freshly prepared local and international dishes, while the lounge provides the perfect place to relax between game drives.
One of the highlights of the camp is the viewing terrace overlooking the nearby waterhole, where guests can watch wildlife without leaving camp.
Wildlife at Satao Camp
Wildlife viewing is what makes Satao Camp Tsavo so special.
The camp overlooks a natural waterhole that attracts animals throughout the day and night, giving guests excellent opportunities to observe wildlife from the comfort of camp.
Common sightings include:
- Tsavo's famous red elephants
- Buffaloes
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Impalas
- Waterbucks
- Warthogs
- Lesser kudu
- Dik-diks
- Baboons
- Vervet monkeys
Predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs are also regularly encountered during game drives, particularly during the cooler hours of the day.
For bird lovers, Satao Camp is equally rewarding. Hundreds of resident and migratory bird species can be seen around the camp and throughout Tsavo East National Park, making it one of Kenya's premier birdwatching destinations.
The Famous Waterhole
One of the defining features of Satao Camp Kenya is the natural waterhole located directly in front of the camp.
Throughout the year, particularly during the dry season, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and numerous bird species gather here to drink. Guests can often enjoy incredible wildlife encounters while having breakfast, relaxing on the viewing deck, or enjoying an evening drink.
Unlike many safari lodges where wildlife is only seen during game drives, Satao Camp allows nature to come to you. Every hour offers the possibility of a new sighting, making the camp especially popular with photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The waterhole is also floodlit after dark, allowing guests to continue watching animals as they visit during the evening—a memorable experience that few safari camps can offer.
Tsavo East Safari Packages Featuring Satao Camp
A stay at Satao Camp can be combined with a variety of safari itineraries, whether you're looking for a short escape or a longer wildlife adventure. We offer tailor-made packages for couples, families, photographers, honeymooners, and small groups.
Popular options include:
- 2-Day Tsavo East Safari
- 3-Day Tsavo East Safari
- Tsavo East and Tsavo West Safari
- Tsavo East and Amboseli Safari
- Tsavo East and Taita Hills Safari
- Tsavo Safari with Diani Beach Extension
- Tsavo Safari from Nairobi
- Tsavo Safari from Mombasa
- Tsavo Safari from Diani Beach
- Tsavo Safari from Watamu
- Tsavo Safari from Malindi
Our safari packages can include accommodation, transport, professional guiding, game drives, and park entry fees, allowing you to enjoy a seamless safari from start to finish.
Road Safari Packages
Experience Tsavo East National Park the traditional way with one of our Road Safari Packages to Satao Camp Tsavo East.
Travel in a custom-built 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser with an experienced professional driver-guide who knows the park's wildlife, landscapes, and hidden gems.
Road safari packages may include:
- Return transport in a 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Accommodation at Satao Camp
- Morning and afternoon game drives
- Meals as per your itinerary
- Optional KWS Tsavo East National Park entry fees
Road safaris are available from Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani Beach, Watamu, Kilifi, Malindi, and many other destinations across Kenya.
SGR Train Safari Packages
Looking for a faster and more comfortable journey? Our SGR Train Safari Packages combine the convenience of Kenya's Madaraka Express with the excitement of a safari in Tsavo East.
Travel from Nairobi or Mombasa to Voi Railway Station, where our guide will meet you before transferring you to Satao Camp.
Train safari packages can include:
- SGR train tickets (Economy or First Class)
- Return transfers between Voi Station and Satao Camp
- Accommodation at the camp
- Game drives in a 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser
- Professional safari guide
- Meals as per your itinerary
- Optional KWS park entry fees
An SGR safari is an excellent choice for travellers who prefer to avoid a long road journey while still enjoying one of Kenya's finest wildlife destinations.
Satao Camp Prices
The Satao Camp prices vary depending on the season, room type, and residency status.
Rates generally include:
- Accommodation
- Full Board meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- Access to camp facilities
Depending on your booking, rates may exclude:
- Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) park entry fees
- Drinks and beverages
- Transport
- Game drives
- Personal expenses
We offer Resident, East African Resident, and International visitor rates. Contact our travel experts for the latest Satao Camp rates and personalised quotations based on your travel dates.
Satao Camp Reviews
Over the years, Satao Camp has built a strong reputation among travellers looking for an authentic safari experience in Tsavo East.
Guests regularly praise the camp for its peaceful setting, attentive service, and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Highlights commonly mentioned include:
- Wildlife visiting the camp's waterhole
- Friendly and welcoming staff
- Spacious safari tents
- Excellent food
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Comfortable accommodation
- Outstanding game drives
- Fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography
Many visitors describe watching elephants from their veranda or the camp's viewing deck as one of the most memorable moments of their safari.
For those seeking an authentic bush experience rather than a conventional hotel, Satao Camp consistently ranks among the best safari camps in Tsavo East.
Satao Camp Photos
Photos of Satao Camp capture the beauty of one of Kenya's most scenic safari camps.
Popular photography subjects include:
- Luxury safari tents
- The famous waterhole
- Red elephants of Tsavo
- Lions and giraffes
- Colourful African sunsets
- The swimming pool
- Restaurant and lounge
- Birds and other wildlife
- Landscaped camp surroundings
Every season offers unique photographic opportunities, making the camp a favourite destination for amateur and professional photographers alike.
Best Time to Visit Satao Camp
Satao Camp welcomes guests throughout the year, with each season offering a different safari experience.
January to March
The dry weather makes wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. These months are excellent for photography and game viewing.
April and May
The green season transforms Tsavo East into a lush landscape. Birdlife is abundant, visitor numbers are lower, and the scenery is particularly beautiful.
June to October
This is one of the best times for a Tsavo East safari. Pleasant temperatures and excellent wildlife viewing make it a popular period for visitors from around the world.
November and December
Short rains refresh the landscape, creating beautiful scenery and attracting migratory birds while still providing rewarding game drives.
No matter when you visit, Satao Camp offers an authentic safari experience in every season.
Nearby Attractions
A stay at Satao Camp Tsavo East National Park allows you to explore many of the park's most famous attractions.
These include:
- Lugard Falls
- Mudanda Rock
- Aruba Dam
- Galana River
- Yatta Plateau
- Voi Safari Area
Your safari guide can tailor each game drive to include these highlights while maximising opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Satao Camp inside Tsavo East National Park?
Yes. Satao Camp is located within Tsavo East National Park, giving guests direct access to some of the park's best wildlife viewing areas.
Is Satao Camp suitable for families?
Yes. The camp offers spacious accommodation suitable for couples, families, and small groups.
What animals can I see at Satao Camp?
Guests regularly see elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, warthogs, hyenas, and a wide variety of bird species.
Does Satao Camp have a swimming pool?
Yes. The camp features a swimming pool where guests can relax between game drives.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Wi-Fi is available in selected public areas of the camp.
How do I get to Satao Camp?
You can travel by road from Nairobi or the Kenyan coast, or take the SGR train to Voi Station and continue by road transfer to the camp.
Book Your Satao Camp Safari
If you're looking for an authentic safari experience surrounded by nature, Satao Camp is one of the finest choices in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya. Its secluded location, luxury safari tents, famous wildlife waterhole, and outstanding game viewing make it one of the most sought-after Tsavo East lodges.
Whether you're planning a short weekend safari, a family holiday, or a longer Kenya safari, our travel experts can create a tailor-made itinerary that matches your interests, travel dates, and budget. From road safaris and SGR train safaris to beach-and-bush combinations, we'll help you experience the very best of Tsavo East National Park with Satao Camp as your home in the wilderness.
Highlights
- Stunning Wild Location
- Full Board accommodation
- Luxury Tented Camp
- Ideal for Families
- Game Drives opportunities
Satao Camp Tsavo Prices
What are the 2026 Prices for Satao Camp – Tsavo?
Planning a stay at Satao Camp Tsavo East? Below are the 2026 resident rates for both Full Board Accommodation and the Ground Package, making it easy to choose the option that best suits your safari.
Here are Satao Camp Tsavo Resident Rates:
Satao Camp Tsavo East Rates
| Satao Camp Room Prices (FB) | Satao Camp Full Board Prices | Satao Camp Ground Package Prices | ||
| Standard Tent Rates, Per Night | Sharing | Single |
Sharing | Single |
| 6th Jan 2026 – 31st Jan 2026 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 17,100/- PP | KES 19,000/- PPS | KES 23,900/- PP |
| 1st Feb 2026 – 28th Feb 2026 | KES 13,700/- PPS | KES 18,600/- PP | KES 19,900/- PPS | KES 24,900/- PP |
| 1st Mar 2026 – 14th Apr 2026 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 17,100/- PP | KES 19,000/- PPS | KES 23,900/- PP |
| 15th Apr 2026 – 15th Jun 2026 | KES 8,800/- PPS | KES 8,800/- PP | KES 12,700/- PPS | KES 12,700/- PP |
| 16th Jun 2026 – 31st Oct 2026 | KES 13,700/- PPS | KES 18,600/- PP | KES 19,900/- PPS | KES 24,900/- PP |
| 1st Nov 2026 – 15th Dec 2026 | KES 12,200/- PPS | KES 17,100/- PP | KES 19,000/- PPS | KES 23,900/- PP |
All rates are quoted in Kenya Shillings (KES), per person, per night.
Third Adult Sharing: 80% of the PPS rate.
What’s Included in the Full Board Rate?
The Satao Camp Full Board Rate includes:
- Full Board accommodation (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water in your tent
Full Board Rate Excludes
- Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Tsavo East National Park entry fees
- Game drives
- Transfers from Satao Airstrip
- Bush sundowners
- Drinks and beverages
- Laundry services
- Personal expenses
What’s Included in the Satao Camp Ground Package?
The Ground Package is ideal for travellers looking for a more complete safari experience.
It includes:
- Full Board accommodation
- Two extended game drives per day
- Bottled drinking water in your tent
- Return transfers from the local airstrip
- One bush sundowner (for guests staying two nights or more)
Ground Package Excludes
- Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Tsavo East National Park entry fees
- Drinks and beverages
- Laundry services
- Champagne, premium spirits and fine wines
- Personal expenses
Mbulia Conservancy Fees
- Adults: KES 1,400 per person
- Children (3–16 years): KES 700 per child
Satao Camp Child Policy
Families are welcome at Satao Camp Tsavo East, with discounted rates for children sharing with adults.
| Child Age | Rate |
|---|---|
| 0 – 1.9 years | FREE when sharing with adults |
| 2 – 12 years | 50% of the PPS rate when sharing with adults |
Safari Packages to Satao Camp
Looking for more than just accommodation? We can arrange complete Satao Camp safari packages tailored to your travel dates, budget, and preferred style of travel. Choose between a classic road safari or a convenient SGR train safari, both offering an unforgettable experience in Tsavo East National Park.
Road Safari Packages
Travel to Satao Camp in a custom-built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a professional driver-guide. A road safari allows you to enjoy Kenya’s beautiful landscapes while beginning your wildlife adventure from the moment you leave.
Our road safari packages can include:
- Return transport in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Accommodation at Satao Camp
- Game drives in Tsavo East National Park
- Meals as per your selected package
- Optional KWS Tsavo East National Park entry fees
Road safaris are available from Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani Beach, Watamu, Malindi, Kilifi, and other destinations across Kenya.
SGR Train Safari Packages
For a faster and more relaxing journey, choose one of our SGR Train Safari Packages. Travel on the Madaraka Express from Nairobi or Mombasa to Voi Station, where our safari guide will meet you and transfer you to Satao Camp.
Our SGR safari packages can include:
- SGR train tickets (Economy or First Class)
- Return transfers between Voi Station and Satao Camp
- Accommodation at Satao Camp
- Game drives in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Meals as per your itinerary
- Optional KWS Tsavo East National Park entry fees
An SGR safari is perfect for travellers who want to combine the comfort of train travel with an authentic stay at Satao Camp Tsavo East. After arriving at Voi Station, you’ll enjoy a scenic transfer into Tsavo East National Park, with opportunities to spot wildlife even before reaching the camp.
Satao Camp offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests. Here are some of the main facilities available at the camp:
- Accommodation: Satao Camp has 20 spacious tents, each with en-suite facilities, hot water showers, and a private veranda overlooking the river. The tents are elegantly decorated with hand-carved furniture and African-inspired decor.
- Dining: The camp has a large dining area where guests can enjoy delicious meals, including local and international cuisine. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the accommodation rate, and the camp can cater to special dietary requirements upon request.
- Lounge and bonfire: There is a comfortable lounge area at the camp where guests can relax and socialize. The lounge is equipped with comfortable seating, a fireplace, and a bar.
- Game drives: Satao Camp offers game drives in open 4x4 vehicles with experienced guides. Guests can explore the vast wilderness of Tsavo East National Park and see a wide range of wildlife.
- Guided nature walks: Guests can also go on guided nature walks with experienced guides to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
- Birdwatching: Tsavo East National Park is home to over 500 species of birds, and guests can go on birdwatching walks with experienced guides.
- Cultural visits: Guests can visit nearby Maasai villages to learn more about the local culture and way of life.
Overall, Satao Camp offers a range of facilities and activities to ensure an unforgettable safari experience for guests.
Satao Camp – Accommodation
Satao Camp boasts 20 authentic safari style en-suite tents, each with private verandahs, nestled among the tamarind trees surrounding the camp’s very own watering hole. The tents are carefully positioned to allow uninterrupted views of the visiting wildlife whilst ensuring total privacy.
There are 16 tents and 4 suites at Satao Camp Tsavo. The tents interiors are simply exquisite. All are attractively furnished to a unique African design. The suites are larger and positioned closest to the water hole. Satao Camp tents are suitably designed & adapted to cater for guests with disabilities.
Satao Camp tents are large enough to accommodate extra beds.
When it comes to wining and dining, you would never believe you are in the African bush. Satao Camp’s chefs prepare a tasty range of dishes all prepared with the freshest ingredients. After your early morning game drive, enjoy breakfast with eggs cooked to order. Lunch is served ‘al-fresco’ under a 200-year old Tamarind tree where you can enjoy watching the elephants at the watering hole. And dinner is served in the restaurant area, usually followed by nightcaps around the campfire. Private dining and bush dinners can also be arranged in Satao Camp Tsavo.
For guests with special dietary requirements, please let us know when booking and our chefs will ensure your needs are catered for.
Game drives
Satao Camp offers morning and afternoon game drives within the Park. If you’re looking for the legendary Big Five, you won’t be disappointed.
All Satao Camp safari vehicles are open 4×4s equipped with everything you need for the perfect game drive. We provide binoculars, guide books about African birds and mammals and even a cool box with chilled drinks at the ready.
Satao Camp guides are qualified Professional Safari Guides and have worked for many years in Tsavo. Their passion and understanding of the environment and the rich biodiversity of Tsavo are unequalled and they will be delighted to share their knowledge with you.
Sundowners
Sunset over the Tsavo plains is a sight to behold and the ‘sundowner’ experience is a must for all our guests at Satao. At the end of a leisurely late-afternoon game drive, your driver/guide will take you to “our” special sundowner spot. The fire is lit, delicious bitings are served and the chilled sparkling wine or the famous ‘dawa’ cocktails are poured. Sit back and relax, watch the sun slip behind the Sagala Hills and listen to the sounds of the wild. It’s an experience you will treasure forever.
For aspiring photographers, the hour before the sun goes down is blessed with what the professionals call ‘magic light’ – a time of soft golden light that displays the Kenyan wilderness to optimum advantage.
To book your sundowner experience, please ask the camp manager on arrival.
Birding
Satao Camp’s oasis is a favourite habitat for a great variety of birds: 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, barbits, starlings, guinea fowls and pearl spotted owls are very common to see. Our resident flock of colorful guinea fowl are a pleasure to watch.
Nearby attractions
As well as teeming with wildlife, Tsavo East offers visitors some spectacular scenery. Some notable sights include:
The Mudanda Rock is a 1.6 km inselberg of stratified rock that acts as a water catchment that supplies a natural dam below. It offers an excellent vantage point for the hundreds of elephants and other wildlife that come to drink during the dry season.
On the Galana River, Lugard Falls is a series of white water rapids running between some remarkable rock formations. On request, clients can book a full day game drive with a picnic lunch to see both the falls and also Yatta Plateau, the world’s longest lava flow. Its incredible 290 km length was formed by lava from Ol Doinyo Sabuk Mountain.

