So you’ve decided to escape to The Big North, where the landscapes are wild, the wildlife roams free, and the nights are filled with more stars than you thought possible. But now comes the big question—where should you stay? In this vast, untamed corner of Kenya, travelers typically find themselves choosing between two distinct experiences: camping in the wild or cozying up in a banda. Both options are incredible in their own way, but which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
For the Wild at Heart: Camping
If you’re the type who loves falling asleep to the sounds of rustling trees, distant hyenas, and the occasional elephant wandering nearby, then camping in The Big North is calling your name. Campsites like Lgweita, Tumot, and Sunyai offer incredible, off-the-grid experiences where nature is the only thing on your itinerary.
Picture this: you wake up with the sunrise, brew your coffee over an open flame, and spend your day hiking, rock climbing, or spotting wildlife. Your nights end with a crackling fire, a simple meal under the stars, and stories shared in the glow of lantern light. This is adventure at its purest.
Pros of camping:
- Total immersion in nature.
- Absolute freedom to create your own schedule.
- Ideal for self-sufficient travelers who love the “roughing it” lifestyle.
- Affordable for both residents and non-residents.
Considerations:
- You need to bring everything: tents, bedding, food, cooking gear, and water.
- Some areas have no phone signal (which can be a blessing or a curse).
- Rangers are available to keep you safe and guide you, but you’ll still be off the beaten track.
For the Comfort Seekers: Bandas
Maybe you love nature, but also prefer the idea of a hot shower and a real bed after a long day. We hear you! In that case, bandas like Tassia Lodge, Olgaboli Bandas, and Melako Bandas are perfect. Bandas are traditional-style accommodations made from local materials like stone and wood, often perched beside rivers, under ancient trees, or on scenic ridges. They blend beautifully into the landscape and offer a peaceful, rustic, and incredibly comfortable place to stay.
Many bandas are fully staffed with chefs, stewards, and housekeeping teams. That means you can kick back while someone else whips up your dinner or helps you plan your next adventure. Plus, most bandas come with all the essentials: hot showers, comfy beds, equipped kitchens, and even extras like swimming pools or viewing decks.
Pros of bandas:
- All the comfort of home in the heart of the wild.
- Perfect for families, groups, or travelers who love a bit of pampering.
- Meals and housekeeping are often taken care of.
- Great for mixing adventure with relaxation.
Considerations:
- Slightly pricier than campsites.
- You’ll still need to bring food and drinks in most cases.
- Bandas book up fast—so plan ahead!
So, Which Should You Choose?
If you’re a hardcore adventurer who craves total freedom, loves self-catering, and doesn’t mind getting a bit dusty, camping is for you. The campsites in The Big North are raw, beautiful, and as close as you can get to feeling like you’re in the middle of nowhere.
If you’re looking for comfort, community, and a touch of luxury in the wild, a banda stay is your best bet. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and ease, giving you access to the same jaw-dropping landscapes, but with a cozy bed to crash in at the end of the day.
And hey, who says you can’t do both? Start with a few nights camping under the stars, then reward yourself with a couple of nights in a banda, complete with a hot shower and a home-cooked meal. Now that’s the best of both worlds.
Whatever you decide, one thing is certain: The Big North will leave you with stories to tell, photos to treasure, and a longing to come back for more.