Luxurius Finch Hattons in Tsavo West re-opens after refurbishment
The award-winning luxury eco safari camp Finch Hattons is set to reopen after an extensive refurbishment.
The camp, 300km from Nairobi, Kenya, first opened in 1992. Set in the Tsavo West National Park, near an oasis of natural spring pools, the eco camp is located close to local wildlife and features stunning views of both Mount Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Hills. There are over 500 species of birds that call the area home, plus characteristic African wildlife such as giraffes, elephants and leopards. Known for its exquisite cuisine and long history, the camp allows guests to indulge in the surroundings of the African bush from the comfort of their own luxury tent.
The refurbishment includes new tented suites, a pool, spa, conference facilities, a star-gazing terrace and a yoga deck with views over the Chyulu Hills.
‘We are very excited to be opened to guests in February 2015,’ says Director Leena Gehlot. ‘It is a multi-million dollar investment, confirming our faith and confidence in the Kenyan tourism industry and Africa as a number one tourism destination. Heart, soul and a great team have come together to produce a hospitality product that cannot be described by words. We have ensured that the history of Finch Hattons has been retained in the refurbishment so that both our repeat and new guests from all over the world will still feel the magic of the camp as they did before. A lot of planning has gone into the sustainability and architecture of the new Finch Hattons, credited to the renowned South African lodge architect, Mr. Francois Theron.’
Mr. Theron says: ‘Experiencing Africa in colonial campaign fashion has by no means been this luxurious. The thrill of Africa is experienced from 17 intimate tented luxury suites; which are positioned around a water hole fed by a natural spring from Mount Kilimanjaro, perfect for guests and ideal for wildlife. The open plan design of the tents invites the cooling breeze closer over the water, transporting all the authentic African sounds, tastes and smells right onto your doorstep. Each unit features a private outdoor shower with magnificent views through the unit towards your own glimpse of the water hole. A personal deck allows you to get lost in Africa while spoiling yourself with elite conveniences, such as opulent furniture and all the creature comforts you would expect from the best tented camp in the world.’
The camp was founded by German hotelier Peter Frank with Kishan Gehlot, drawing inspiration from the legendary British aristocrat Denys Finch Hatton – best known as Baroness Karen Blixen’s lover. A game hunter, Finch Hatton turned safari guide to the aristocracy.
Finch Hattons has won numerous awards, including being named Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge in 2014 at the World Travel Awards. Rates for the Finch Hattons tented suites start at $590 (about £400) per person per night.
For more information on Finch Hattons Camp visit finchhattons.com.
