Joys Camp Samburu

Joys Camp is a luxurious tented oasis set within the breathtaking arid landscapes of Shaba National Reserve, in the eastern corner of the greater Samburu ecosystem. Built on the historic site of Joy Adamson’s tented home, where she released her beloved leopard “Penny,” the camp embodies the spirit of adventure and conservation that inspired her famous book, Born Free. 

Overlooking a large natural spring frequented by elephants, lions, buffalo, and rare northern species such as Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffe, Joy’s Camp offers guests an exclusive blend of history, culture, and refined safari living.

The camp’s elegant design draws inspiration from the art and traditions of local nomadic tribes, with vibrant textiles, handmade glass, and Borana–Somali patterns creating a sophisticated yet authentic atmosphere. This secluded hideaway invites guests to unwind in the stillness of the wild, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Shaba’s rugged hills and lush springs.

Location & Accessibility

✓ Surrounded by rugged volcanic hills, rocky gorges, and lush acacia woodland nourished by 17 natural springs
✓ Set on the historic site of Joy Adamson’s original tented home, overlooking a natural spring that attracts elephants, lions, and herds of buffalo year-round
✓ Located within the secluded eastern corner of the Samburu landscape, offering guests privacy, tranquility, and exceptional wildlife viewing away from the crowds
✓ Ideal base for exploring Shaba National Reserve, part of the greater Samburu ecosystem, renowned for its rare northern species — Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich

By Road:

✓ Private transfers available from Nairobi, Nanyuki, or Isiolo
✓ Guests can enjoy game viewing en route as they approach Shaba National Reserve
✓ Road journey includes a combination of paved A2 highway and well-maintained reserve roads
✓ Approximately 6 hours (314 km) drive from Nairobi via the scenic Thika–Nanyuki–Isiolo–Archer’s Post–Shaba route

By Air:

✓ Charter flights available from Nanyuki (around 45 minutes)
✓ Short 15-minute transfer from Chaffa Airstrip to Joy’s Camp by 4×4 vehicle
✓ Scenic aerial views of Samburu’s rugged hills and Ewaso Ng’iro River during descent
✓ Scheduled flights available daily from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Chaffa Airstrip (approximately 90 minutes)

Accommodation – Luxury Safari Tents

Joys Camp features 10 elegant tented suites — 7 doubles and three twins, each set on raised platforms offering panoramic views of Shaba’s hills and the surrounding wilderness.

Each tent includes:

✓ Solar-powered lighting and eco-friendly amenities
✓ Vibrant décor inspired by Borana and Somali nomadic artistry
✓ Private dressing area and furnished veranda overlooking the spring
✓ Spacious bedroom (80 sqm) with comfortable beds and a lounge area
✓ En-suite bathroom with stone floors, flush toilet, and hot running water
✓ Option for extra beds for children under 16 (maximum five across the camp)

Room Features & Amenities

✓ Wi-Fi in common areas
✓ Solar-powered electricity and lighting
✓ 24-hour security and guest assistance
✓ Private verandas for game and bird viewing
✓ Complimentary drinking water and room cleaning
✓ Comfortable beds with fine linens and mosquito nets
✓ En-suite bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers
✓ Daily housekeeping and laundry service available on request
✓ Airy, open-plan tent design allowing natural breeze and light

Dining & Culinary Experience

Dining at Joys Camp is a refined experience that blends Northern Italian cuisine with traditional African flavors, inspired by the Cheli family’s heritage.

Culinary Highlights:

✓ Fully stocked bar serving wines, cocktails, and soft drinks
✓ Elegant open-air dining with sweeping views of Shaba’s hills
✓ Al fresco meals served on wooden-stone decks or by the pool
✓ Private bush breakfasts and candlelit dinners under the stars
✓ Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available on request
✓ Full board — three gourmet meals daily prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients

Facilities & Guest Services

✓ 24-hour security and guest assistance
✓ Eco-conscious design powered by solar energy
✓ Child-friendly environment welcoming families
✓ Lounge and library area for reading and relaxation
✓ Conference and meeting facilities for private groups
✓ Spa and massage parlour offering relaxation therapies
✓ Gift shop featuring local Samburu and Borana beadwork
✓ Support for local communities and conservation initiatives
✓ Sparkling swimming pool overlooking the surrounding hills
✓ Airport and airstrip transfers (Chaffa Airstrip – 15 mins away)

Experiences & Activities

✓ Cultural Visits – Experience Samburu traditions, music, beadwork, and pastoral life in authentic village visits
✓ Camel Rides & Painting Excursions – Unique activities for guests seeking creative or immersive bush experiences
✓ Bush Breakfasts & Sundowners – Enjoy open-air dining in the wild and scenic sunset views from elevated lookouts
✓ Spa Treatments & Pool Relaxation – Rejuvenate with massages or unwind by the pool amid the tranquil bush setting
✓ Weddings & Vow Renewals – Celebrate love and new beginnings with traditional blessings and intimate ceremonies in the wild
✓ Joy Adamson Museum Visit – Discover the life and legacy of Joy Adamson, her work with wildlife, and her lasting impact on Shaba
✓ Game Drives – Explore Shaba’s dramatic terrain and spot elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, reticulated giraffes, and the rare Grevy’s zebra
✓ Guided Nature Walks & Birdwatching – Learn from experienced naturalists as you observe the reserve’s unique flora and over 450 bird species

Highlights of Joys Camp Samburu

✓ Swimming pool, spa, and elegant open-air lounge
✓ Excellent game viewing and guided nature activities
✓ Exclusive experience in a secluded, history-rich setting
✓ Renowned cuisine combining Italian and African influences
✓ Overlooks a natural spring attracting abundant wildlife year-round
✓ 10 luxurious tented suites blending elegance with local tribal artistry
✓ Set on the historic site of Joy Adamson’s home in Shaba National Reserve

Non-Residents Accommodation Rates Per Night Include

Full board Accommodation + Limited laundry +  Chaffa or Samburu main airstrip transfers

Joy’s Camp comprises just 10 luxury tented suites (7 doubles, three twins), each set on raised platforms to take full advantage of the views of the hills and the spring. Within the walls of the canvas, artisan glass and colorful textiles from local nomadic tribes mingle alongside authentic “Borana” African details with chic decor.

Permanent en-suite baths are private havens of luxury, featuring stone floors, flush toilets, and hot running water, ensuring no modern convenience is overlooked. Lounge in the comfort of the large bedroom or take in the surroundings from the furnished private verandah of each suite.

Meals at Joys Camp Samburu are a sumptuous fusion of Northern Italian and traditional African flavors, prepared with fresh, locally sourced produce. Dining is a private experience at Joy’s Camp; special breakfasts can be arranged along the Ewaso Nyiro River or romantic candlelit meals under the stars.

Guests can also enjoy their meals on the wooden-stone decks outside, which are perfect for al fresco meals or for relaxing. The bar serves a variety of alcoholic and soft drinks.

The camp boasts a sparkling pool where guests can cool off from the heat of the day and soak up this remarkable bush environment, as well as a spa and massage area where guests can ease the stress from tired shoulders and backs.

Shaba National Reserve is home to extraordinary wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, gerenuks, buffaloes, grant gazelles, dik-diks, waterbucks, and the rare desert species beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, and grevy’s zebra, which are attracted to the 17 springs in the area. The river forest attracts a wide variety of birds.

Joy’s Camp Samburu activities include day game drives, bush breakfasts, guided camel game walks, sundowners, game walks, night game drives, cultural visits, painting, swimming, and visits to the Joy Adamson Museum. The camp also hosts weddings, blessings, and vow renewals for guests.

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