I didn’t grow up camping, but I fell in love with it in my 20s and haven’t stopped since. In this guide, I’ll be explaining why camping is one of the best activities you can enjoy as well as how to get the most out of your trip.
First, what’s camping for those starting out?
Camping is an outdoor activity that involves setting up a temporary shelter, such as a tent, to stay overnight in. It’s an activity enjoyed by people of all ages and can be done anywhere from the countryside to the beach.
Camping vs glamping:
Camping is the more traditional form of outdoor overnight stay, usually involving bringing your own tent and sleeping bag. Glamping is a new take on camping where you can enjoy the same experience in luxurious surroundings. It usually involves staying in high-end accommodations such as yurts, cabins, or tipis.
The cost advantage of camping:
Camping can reduce your Safari cost in Kenya by up to 50% as compared to staying in a hotel, lodge, or resort. What you’ll realize with most hotels in Reserves such as Mara or in Parks such as Nakuru is that they put a really high premium on the rooms. Some rooms or tented camps go for as high as $300 per night. With camping, you’ll be able to save by bringing your own tent and sleeping bags and camping in designated areas that don’t have a high premium on them.
The experience advantage of camping:
Camping can offer you a unique experience like no other. You’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature without the disturbance of modernity. From singing birds in the morning to the distant roar of lions in night, camping lets you explore and appreciate our natural environment.
So why should you go camping? 17 Key Benefits:
1. Immersed in Nature:
Camping is perfect for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re hiking, fishing or just soaking in the views, camping provides an opportunity to appreciate mother nature and be surrounded by her beauty.
2. Affordable:
Staying close to home can help keep your travel costs low. Camping is relatively inexpensive and can be enjoyed with minimal equipment.
3. Quality Time:
Camping is a great way to spend quality time with friends, family or even just yourself! Whether you’re cooking around the campfire, playing games or telling stories, camping gives you an opportunity to create lasting memories with those closest to you.
4. Get Active:
Camping can be a great way to stay active and explore new terrain. Many campsites offer activities like hiking, kayaking and swimming that not only help keep you fit but also allow you to experience beautiful locations!
5. Recharge Your Batteries:
The fresh air and natural beauty of camping can help reduce stress and allow you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Camping gives you an opportunity to relax, recharge your batteries and just enjoy the moment!
6. Connect With Your Surroundings:
Camping gives you an opportunity to learn more about the environment around you. Whether it’s observing wildlife, identifying the plants around you or just enjoying a peaceful moment, camping allows you to connect with your surroundings in a way that few other activities can.
7. Educational Opportunities:
Camping provides an opportunity to learn new skills, such as basic survival techniques and orienteering. It can also be a great way to get kids interested in STEM activities and the outdoors.
At Kambu we have a soft spot for the travelers coming to Kenya on bio-conservation efforts and happy to thrown in some discounts to make it more affordable for more biologists to come to Kenya and promote conservation.
8. Embracing Simplicity:
Camping involves embracing simplicity and living with what you have. Without daily distractions, camping gives us an opportunity to appreciate the little things in life that we often take for granted.
9. Form Lasting Bonds:
Camping can be a great way to form strong and meaningful friendships. With no modern-day distractions, camping encourages people to share stories and experiences, which can create lasting bonds.
10. You’ll get Unforgettable Experiences:
Camping offers a unique opportunity to unplug from the world and experience unforgettable memories that will last you a lifetime. Whether it’s a picturesque sunset, a campfire sing-along or simply the sound of the night, camping gives you an opportunity to create indelible moments in your memory.
11. To Enjoy Campfire Gatherings:
Nothing beats a good campfire gathering! Whether you’re eating s’mores, telling stories or just enjoying each other’s company, it’s one of the best parts of camping. So gather around the fire and enjoy some quality bonding time!
12. Enhanced Creativity and Self-Awareness:
Camping allows you to step away from the distractions of everyday life, giving you time and space to reflect on yourself. By disconnecting from society, camping encourages creative thinking and helps foster greater self-awareness.
For kids under the age of 18 and students camping offers them a chance to be themselves, creative and to make mistakes without the pressures of everyday life. This is so valuable for their growth and development.
13. Camping Gives You a Sense of Freedom:
Camping gives you an unparalleled sense of freedom, allowing you to explore and discover new places with no boundaries or restrictions. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended backpacking trip, camping allows you to truly be free and live life on your own terms.
We have made an effort on our site here at Kambu to make it easy for you to find the great camping destinations in Kenya – whether in the Kenya’s National Parks, Reserves or even outside the Reserves or Parks.
14. Appreciate Nature:
One of the greatest benefits of camping is that it gives you an opportunity to reconnect with nature. By going out into the wilderness, you can appreciate the beauty of our planet and make a commitment to protecting our environment.
We have recently started a campaign on our site here at Kambu to get more people involved in conserving the environment and helping the local communities that live around Kenya’s national parks and reserves. We are hoping to create a community of campers who can share their experiences, learn from each other and help protect the wildlife and nature that we are all so lucky to enjoy.
15. Gives you a new perspective in life:
Camping comes with some form of humility where you forego all the convenience you’d normally have access to at home. This can often give you a new perspective in life and cause you to appreciate the little things more. Moreover, with camping comes an appreciation of nature and its resources which is usually beneficial for your mental health as well.
16. Builds resilience and survivalist skills:
Camping also provides you with an opportunity to build resilience and survivalist skills that come in handy in many different scenarios. From gathering firewood to cooking over a campfire, you can learn how to survive in nature while having a good time!
17. Gives you the Chance to Explore:
One of the great benefits of camping is that it gives you the chance to explore new places. Whether it’s a nearby state park or an exotic destination, getting out in nature can give you a whole new appreciation for the world around us. So don’t hesitate to hit the road and explore!
18. Makes You More Self-Reliant:
Camping also helps you become more self-reliant and teaches you how to be resourceful. With limited access to modern conveniences, camping forces you to rely on your own skills and ingenuity in order to survive.
19.Has physical and mental health benefits
Camping can offer a variety of physical and mental health benefits. Physically, you’ll be able to enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, kayaking or just enjoying the tranquility of nature. Mentally, camping can help reduce stress levels and allow you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
For those just starting out, camping can be daunting but with the right preparation, you can make sure that your experience is fun, safe and enjoyable. As I mentioned earlier, it’s an activity enjoyed by people of all ages and a great way to get away from the everyday routine. So grab your tent and sleeping bag and get ready to explore the great outdoors.
Drawbacks of camping:
Despite the numerous benefits of camping, there are some drawbacks that should be taken into account. These include:
– You may have to deal with bugs, dust and dirt
– Campgrounds can be noisy if they’re crowded
– Weather conditions may not always be ideal
– There is a risk of running out of supplies
– In some cases, camping can be dangerous if you don’t know the area well.
Despite these drawbacks, camping remains a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, spend time outdoors, and reconnect with nature. With proper planning and preparation, you can experience all of the benefits of camping without any of the downsides!
What are some practical skills I can learn camping?
Some practical skills you can learn while camping include:
– Setting up a tent/shelter and managing the campsite
– Basic first aid, including safety procedures in case of an emergency
– Proper use of campfire and cooking over it
– Orienteering and understanding the terrain
– Catching, cleaning and preparing fish
– Selecting and using the right camping gear for different conditions
– Identifying useful plants or edible wild food sources
– Building a shelter out of natural materials.
What are some benefits of camping for health and fitness?
Camping can be beneficial for your physical and mental health in many ways. It allows you to get fresh air, sunshine, and exercise which are all important for overall health. Additionally, spending time in nature has been linked to reducing stress level and improving mental wellbeing. Other benefits of camping include:
– Improved cardiovascular fitness
– Reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer
– Developed immunity to different environmental conditions
– Improved sleep quality due to physical activity during the day
– Overall improved mental wellbeing thanks to relaxation and stress relief.
Here are key benefits of camping for families:
Camping provides a great opportunity for families to bond and reconnect with each other, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Families can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing and swimming together which can help create memories that will last a lifetime. Other benefits include:
– Spending quality time outdoors in nature
– Building relationships between parents and children
– Learning important life skills like teamwork, cooperation, problem solving and responsibility
– Improving communication between family members
– Developing creativity, imagination and resourcefulness.
Here is why Youth should go camping – key advantages:
Youth can gain many benefits from camping, as it provides a great opportunity for them to learn new things and explore their environment. Through camp activities, youth can develop important life skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Camping also encourages creativity and self-confidence in kids by allowing them to take risks and try new things. Other advantages include:
– Building friendships and social skills
– Developing a sense of responsibility
– Improving teamwork and leadership qualities
– Enhancing physical activity levels, such as hiking and swimming
– Gaining an appreciation for nature and the environment.
Do children such as toddlers benefit from camping at all?
Yes! Camping can be a great opportunity for toddlers to learn new things and develop important skills. Through camping activities, toddlers can experience nature in a safe and fun way. They can explore the outdoors, recognize different plants and animals, and develop motor skills by playing games on the campground. It is also an excellent way for children to gain self-confidence and learn about teamwork, problem solving and responsibility. Camping can also provide quality bonding time between parents and children, allowing them to create lasting memories.
If you’re going camping with a toddler I recommend:
– Bringing appropriate clothing and gear such as extra layers, rain gear and hats.
– Preparing a first aid kit with essential supplies like bandages, ointment, medications and tweezers.
– Planning activities in advance to ensure there is something for the toddler to do throughout the day.
– Bringing plenty of snacks like dried fruit and nuts to keep them energized.
– Making sure the campsite is secure with a designated play area that is free from potential hazards.
– Researching the area in advance so you know what plants and animals may be encountered during your trip.
– Taking breaks throughout the day to rest and cool down.
– Bringing along toys and books to keep them entertained during downtime.
– Setting up a routine for sleeping and meal time that is similar to their home schedule.
– Making sure the campsite has plenty of shade from the sun and wind protection from trees or structures.
Are there benefits of camping to Seniors?
Yes, there are many benefits of camping for seniors. Camping can provide much-needed physical activity in a safe and fun environment. It also provides an opportunity to connect with nature and explore different environments. Additionally, as camping often involves community activities like cooking together or telling stories around the campfire, it encourages socialization and connecting with others. For seniors with mobility issues, camping can also be an opportunity to build independence and self-reliance. Other benefits include:
– Improving mental health through spending time in nature
– Developing a sense of purpose and accomplishment by completing tasks such as setting up the campsite
– Reducing stress levels by focusing on the present moment
– Enhancing self-confidence and resilience by challenging yourself in new ways.
If you’re going camping with a senior I recommend:
– Ensuring the campsite is accessible for those with mobility limitations or other physical impairments.
– Checking the weather forecast and packing accordingly to ensure they will be warm and comfortable.
– Packing a first aid kit with essential supplies such as bandages, ointment and medications.
– Planning activities in advance that are appropriate for their level of mobility and fitness.
– Bring along comfortable chairs or a hammock so they can rest and relax throughout the day.
– Keeping an eye out for signs of dehydration and making sure they stay hydrated.
– Making sure the campsite is secure with a designated play area that is free from potential hazards.
– Spending quality time together doing activities such as cooking, telling stories or playing games.
-Get enough rest if you are hiking in or near your camp location
– Set up your tent or camper in a safe spot, away from hazards such as steep drop-offs and bodies of water.
– Have an emergency plan in case of bad weather or other unexpected circumstances.
– Bring along extra layers to keep the senior warm on cool nights.
– Respect wildlife by keeping your distance and not feeding them.
– Use bug repellent to keep mosquitoes and other pests away.
– Preferably, go with someone young who may have better chance of responding to emergencies.
At Kambu, we haven’t dealt much with senior travelers on a safari but expecting our first set next Summer and super excited to get them to love my favorite camps including Kijito in the Mara Triangle.
When to avoid going camping:
- When there are weather hazards:
It’s important to be aware of the weather conditions when planning a camping trip. During extreme weather such as heavy rains, high winds, and thunderstorms, it is best to avoid going camping. These conditions can cause trees to fall and create other dangerous situations that could put you at risk. It’s also important to note that if temperatures drop below freezing, you could be at risk of hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses.
When camping in areas with aggressive wildlife:
It is important to use extra caution when camping in areas with a large population of wild animals. Make sure to check for signs of bears or other large predators before setting up your campsite. Additionally, be sure to store food and other scented items away from the campsite. If you do encounter a wild animal, stay calm and back away slowly. Do not attempt to feed or get too close to the animal. Camping in areas with colorful birds and small animals can be fun but remember that the wildlife is still wild and should not be disturbed.
When you are sick:
If you are feeling ill, it’s best to avoid camping. Not only can the illness spread to other campers and make their experience unpleasant, but the environment itself could worsen your symptoms. When camping outdoors, there is always a chance of encountering mosquitos or other insects that can increase inflammation and cause allergies to flare up. Additionally, cold temperatures and being exposed to the elements can make it difficult to fight off an illness.
If Your body’s reaction to insect bites could be fatal:
If you have some serious allergies to insect bites, it is best to avoid camping during times when the insects are most active. Mosquitos and other biting bugs can be a nuisance while camping and could potentially cause an allergic reaction in some people. Be sure to check with your doctor before embarking on a camping trip to make sure your allergies are under control and that you have any necessary medications with you.
Camping in National Reserve vs in Conservancy:
If you’re looking to go camping in Kenya, there are two main options – national reserves and private conservancies.
National reserves are protected areas managed by the government and typically offer a range of activities such as wildlife viewing, hiking, bird watching and more. In addition to these activities, many national reserves also have camping facilities.
Private conservancies, on the other hand, are usually privately owned and managed. The focus is usually on game drives and safari experiences but some also offer camping opportunities.
The key differences between national reserves and private conservancies are that national reserves tend to be more affordable, have more wildlife activity (for wildlife viewing), and better infrastructure. Private conservancies, on the other hand, tend to be more exclusive and can offer a more luxurious custom safari experience with more privacy and comfort.
Using the example of the Mara, I recommend camping in the conservancies which are a few dollars more than the Nation Reserve fees. Here are the key benefits of using Mara Conservancy Camps, for example over MMNR camps;
- More equipped: Conservancy camps have better equiped campsites and you are likely to find amenities such as showers, swimming pools and even WiFi in some of the more luxurious camps.
- More activities: Private conservancies provide more activities than the National Reserves, such as game drives, balloon rides and bush walks.
- Advanced in bio-conservation efforts: Private conservancies are more advanced in terms of their bio-conservation efforts and they employ private wildlife rangers to protect and monitor the wildlife.
- Privacy: Private conservancy camps also provide a greater sense of privacy as there are less people, making it easier for you to fully appreciate and enjoy your experience.
- More staff: Conservancies have more armed rangers that can even offer nighttime walks in the Reserve up to 9 Pm. In the Reserve, you don’t get this luxury.
How to Pick a Campsite location:
The first step to picking a good campsite location is to research the area and find out what amenities are available. You should also consider the type of terrain – whether it’s flat or hilly, sandy or marshy, etc. – as this will affect how comfortable your camping experience will be.
Other factors to consider are accessibility, as you’ll need to be able to get to and from the campsite without too much difficulty. Also consider the amount of privacy – if you’re camping with a large group, it may be worth opting for a more secluded spot.
Finally, take into account the facilities available at each site. Does the campsite have amenities such as running water, electricity, or a kitchen? These will all make your camping experience much more enjoyable.
FAQs
Is camping worth it?
Yes, camping is definitely worth it! Not only does it offer a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but there are also many other benefits such as connecting with nature, learning survival skills, and saving money.
What should I bring when camping?
The items you should bring on a camping trip will depend on where you’re going and for how long. Generally, packing items such as a tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear, toiletries, first-aid kit, flashlight or headlamp and some form of shelter are essential. It’s a good idea to also bring something to entertain yourself with in case the weather is bad.
What are the risks of camping?
The main risk associated with camping is that you’ll be exposed to a variety of elements such as strong winds, rain, or extreme temperatures. It’s important to take the necessary precautions and dress appropriately for the conditions. In addition, wild animals can pose a threat so it’s essential to never leave food out and try to stay as quiet as possible.
Finally, there is always the risk of getting lost or injured while camping so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety measures.
Can I go camping while pregnant?
Yes, you can go camping while pregnant but there are some precautions to take. Firstly, it’s important to make sure that your doctor has given the OK and that you’ll be able to stay hydrated and warm throughout the trip. Additionally, you should opt for campsites with amenities such as access to running water and toilets so that you can remain comfortable. Finally, make sure to bring a first-aid kit in case of any medical emergency.
By following these tips, you should be able to enjoy a safe and comfortable camping experience while pregnant.
Who owns the Conservancies in Kenya?
The conservancies in Kenya are owned by a variety of stakeholders, including the government, private companies, local communities and conservation groups. In recent years, more control over land ownership has been given to local communities – particularly those who rely on natural resources for their livelihoods. Conservation groups also play an important role in monitoring the conservancy and ensuring its sustainability.
What is the difference between a conservancy and a Reserve?
The main difference between a conservancy and a reserve is the type of management involved. Reserves are managed by government agencies and usually have stricter rules in terms of access and use, while conservancies are managed by private or community-owned entities with more flexible rules. Conservancies also typically focus on sustainable use of the land and its resources, while reserves may be more restrictive in terms of human activity.
Both conservancies and reserves work towards the same goal – protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats. However, each has its own set of rules and regulations that must be followed in order to ensure the sustainability of the land.
