The type of accommodation whilst on a safari in Kenya is a critical issue for Africa holiday makers. There are over 500 accommodation options in Kenya alone, they range from tented camps, cottages, game resorts and hotels. Making a decision on self-catering and catered options is important, and you know what, prince wily and Kate Middleton self catered somewhere in a log cabin on the slopes of Mount Kenya. On did they?

Over the years we have seen increased traffic on tourist who want to run an authentic safari in all game locations, they will bring own food, tents and camping gear and all they need is a guide and transport.

Locations like Laikipia and coastal beach resorts are more and more offering self-catering options, these is encouraging as the guests are more flexible on when, what and where they want to have their next meal.

Though cost for self-catering is usually cheaper, the value is what most travelers will look at. If you have the energy and guts to do it I would back you up all the way. It’s actually rumored that prince William and Kate made out at Rutundu log cabins before coming out to announce the engagement the next morning. So did Kate actually cook? In traditional Kenya, the lady cooks and the man attends to the cattle and sheep.

Located on the rim of Lake Rutundu and overlooking the north eastern face of Mount Kenya, the rustic chic cabins are the perfect escape from the usual ‘safari circuit’ or the bustle of Nairobi. At 10,200 feet (3100 meters), both the vegetation and the wildlife are distinctive. There are two log cabins each with open log fires and en-suite bathrooms. One room is attached to the sitting room and dining room area as well as the breakfast veranda and kitchen.

The room at the Kenya’s Rutundu cabins is detached from the main building – Most likely this is where the love birds nestle. Rutundu can accommodate four people comfortably, if you come with security, but another four beds are available, providing that sharing rooms is acceptable. Walking – The area surrounding Rutundu is a hiker’s paradise. They are currently in the process of finding and creating the best trails in the area. There is also a beautiful walk around Lake Alice, through Giant Groundsel and Heather forests. In contrast to this moorland terrain, the Cedar and Podo forest, a half hour drive below Rutundu, provides lovely walks and picnic sites.

It is said up mount Kenya near Rutundu is one of the few places that is completely silent. Imagine that, No sounds of birds, trees as there is no wind, no wildlife etc. you can here a pin drop. Imagine that. Is Birmingham noisy? Anyone. Kenya safari is where to unwind.

Rutundu Kenya is not only a nature lover’s haven, but is also an ideal spot for fishermen. Both Lake Rutundu and Lake Alice, a two-hour walk further up the mountain, are stocked with Rainbow Trout, and provide excellent opportunities for fishing. The average catch is 2 to 3 Ibs, with larger fish reaching up to 6 Ibs. (It is not everyone who can claim to have caught a trout within 5 Km of the equator.)

A boat is provided and there are three casting platforms. Previous experience in fly-fishing is not necessary. Next to Lake Rutundu is the Kizita River Gorge, a crystal clear river with small brown trout to catch. Bird watching- Due to Rutundu’s unique location there are ample opportunities for birdwatchers, not least from the breakfast table where scarlet-tufted malachite sunbirds Nectarinia johns Toni are seen most mornings.

There is now an option of riding to Rutundu. Neighboring Kisima Farm does rides up the moorland and all the way to Rutundu. Overnight stays are advisable in this case. The horses are well trained polo horses and you need to be an experienced rider. Weather conditions on Mount Kenya can be unpredictable, with bright sunny days changing into cloud, rain or hailstorms, therefore bookings for Rutundu must be made with the understanding that the weather may adjust your travel plans. When it rains on Mt Kenya it can be very hard and at times impossible to get to Rutundu by road.

If it is raining it is not advisable to try and drive up. Rutundu is hired out on a self-catering basis. Guests are required to bring all of own food and drinks. Catering is available on request for a supplement charge. Good drinking water is available, but please take up tea/coffee, juices and any alcoholic drinks. All bedding, towels, crockery, cutlery and cooking utensils are provided. There is no electricity; lighting is by hurricane lamps. There is a gas oven and an ‘out-door’ fridge but no deep freeze.

The award winning Kenya’s Il N’gwesi Safari Lodge is often considered as the role model for community based tourism in Kenya. Only local materials have been used in the construction of the lodge, which is open plan and ‘organic’ in character. The timber floors flow around tree trunks, which support the grass-thatched roofs. Below the lodge is a waterhole and ‘hide’ for observing game. The big five are regularly seen.

Accommodation is in six spacious sleeping bandas, two of which have been linked by a skillfully constructed rope bridge feature, attractive rustic furniture made by the Maasai. Two band as have ‘star beds’ which pushed out on the verandah allows sleeping under the star studded night sky.

Activities from the safari lodge include guided bush walks along the sand rivers, game drives, hill hiking, game viewing and visiting the black and white rhino, the first to be Trans located back into a community conservation area. Bush breakfasts and dinners can be arranged. The cultural ‘boma’ (village) provides a special opportunity for visitors to gain an insight into the history and traditions of the Maasai;

The Kembu cottages and campsite are located on a large 900 acre farm where one can enjoy the freedom to go on long walks, relax or pursue any one of the many activities offered by Kembu. This wonderful high altitude climate means there is no malaria. Crisp clean air and ample space makes for an ideal family sojourn where young children can help feed horses, calves and chickens and burn up all their pent up energy.

The Acacia Cottage at Kembu is perfect for a couple wanting to get away for the weekend and enjoy the tranquility of a country lifestyle. This romantic relaxing retreat is set aside under the largest Acacia lahai in Kenya; I still think Willy and Kate should have taken this one.

The Kibo Villa is secluded in five acres of gardens, lawns and a little forest of indigenous Tortillas tress. It has its own privacy and provides an open and generous atmosphere with a combination of majestic and exclusive yet gracious comfort and the aesthetic appeal of its rugged surroundings. Built in natural stone and elegant gum pole structures, Kibo Villa has three large master ensuite bedrooms, a lounge and dinning that overflow onto a large veranda and a fully facilitated kitchen.

The master bedroom on the top floor once again opens onto a terrace. One can relax in the Jacuzzi and admire the views of the plains and mountain directly ahead.

The property has its own private entrance leading through a long drive and into a carport. Accommodation may be self-catering or full meal services can be provided with a chef and waiter. The kitchen is well facilitated and there is also a barbeque area. Guests may also use the main lodge facilities

The Tigoni Kenya home is hosted home that offers self catering guest a peace and comfort. Set out in the vast tea farms of Limuru highlands the house has spacious rooms with en suite bathrooms for a maximum of 10 guests. Facilities include open beamed ceilings, natural woodwork, log fires in the lounges and views over one of the last pockets of indigenous forest, and complement the serenity.

Situated on the edge of Shela Village Lamu Kenya is one favorite Garden house, alongside the dunes that fringe the long stretch of Shela beach, Garden House stands on the corner of a small walled garden and is screened by large neem trees full of birds. The house has a ground floor dinning and seating area; a double bedroom and a children’s twin on the first floor and a top floor master bedroom with a shaded rooftop baraza and open terrace with sun beds.

If you choose self-catering option, the cook will still do all your shopping and keep a record of your expenditure for every meal he prepares for you. Please bring luxury food items and condiments with you. Fresh dairy products, meat and chicken are difficult to find in Lamu. We have a small supply of goods not available on the island for sale in our store.

The kitchens are well equipped with gas cooker, fridge, deep-freeze, bottle cooler, icemaker, ice-cream machine and liquidizer. Sodas and beer can be bought locally, Wine is locally available or they can help with an order from a Nairobi wine supplier. Spirits should be brought along.

Bed linen, mosquito nets, house towels and beach towels are supplied. In case of a self-catering booking laundry is charged to the guest, if the house is rented on a full-board basis the laundry service is included.

Most beach self-catering houses have in-house staff and a cook. Houses with a swimming pool have pool attendant. Nannies can be available to help with children at an extra cost.

There you are. Now you get to choose how you wish to run your safari in Kenya.