Basecamp Samburu Kalama Conservancy

Basecamp Samburu is an intimate eco-luxury tented camp set within the pristine Kalama Conservancy, part of the greater Samburu ecosystem. Nestled in Kenya’s Northern Frontier, the camp offers uninterrupted views of Mt. Ololokwe, a sacred mountain revered by the Samburu people.

With vast open skies, rugged landscapes, and an authentic wilderness feel, the camp delivers an exclusive safari experience that beautifully blends sustainability, culture, and comfort.

Designed with eco-conscious principles, Basecamp Samburu reflects the spirit of early explorers through its under-canvas accommodations and locally inspired architecture. Built from natural materials, the camp merges seamlessly into its surroundings, embodying a true low-impact, zero-plastic philosophy.

By night, it transforms into a stargazer’s paradise, with elevated star beds and jacuzzis inviting guests to sleep under the endless Samburu sky.

Location & Accessibility

✓ Offers panoramic views of Mt. Ololokwe and the Samburu wilderness
✓ Located in Kalama Conservancy, bordering Samburu National Reserve
✓ Accessible by road via the Nanyuki–Isiolo–Archer’s Post route (approx. 6 hrs from Nairobi)
✓ Daily flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to nearby airstrips (Buffalo Springs, Kalama, or Oryx) followed by a short transfer to camp

By Road

Basecamp Samburu is situated in the heart of the Kalama Conservancy, part of the greater Samburu National Reserve ecosystem in northern Kenya.

To reach the camp by road from Nairobi, travellers typically drive via the Thika Super-Highway, then through Nanyuki and Isiolo, and onwards along the A2/Marsabit highway before turning onto the dirt tracks leading into Kalama Conservancy. The whole journey from Nairobi takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on road and weather conditions. 

By Air

For faster access, Basecamp Samburu can be reached by air. Daily scheduled flights depart from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to nearby bush airstrips — notably Kalama Airstrip, situated within Kalama Conservancy, which accepts chartered and scheduled safari aircraft.

Flight time is around 1 hour. From the airstrip, a short 30-45 minute transfer by vehicle brings you directly to the camp nestled against the backdrop of Mt. Ololokwe.

Accommodation – Tented Suites

Basecamp Samburu features five spacious tents – four double tents and one family tent – each blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Every unit offers an ensuite bathroom, private terrace, and panoramic wilderness views, ensuring a peaceful and intimate retreat.

Family Tent (1 Unit)

The Family Tent accommodates up to four adults or a couple with children. Two bedrooms are connected by a central lounge with timber doors and a shaded pergola, offering both privacy and togetherness. The setup includes a super king-size bed, two single beds, and a spacious ensuite bathroom with a bathtub, shower, and bidet.

Features:

✓ Lounge area with pergola
✓ Private terrace with seating
✓ Solar-powered lighting and fans
✓ Spa tub and full bathroom amenities

Double Tents (4 Units)

Each double tent is an intimate hideaway featuring a double or twin bed, an ensuite bathroom, and a private deck for unwinding with sweeping views of Samburu’s dramatic terrain.

Features:

✓ Desk and safe box
✓ Complimentary Wi-Fi
✓ Eco-friendly solar power
✓ Private terrace with seating
✓ Ensuite bathroom with shower and bathtub

Star Beds

Unique to Basecamp Samburu, the elevated star beds redefine romance and adventure. Set apart for privacy, each offers unmatched views of Samburu’s clear, star-filled skies.

✓ Deluxe Star Bed – Includes a jacuzzi for relaxing evenings under the stars
✓ Standard Star Bed – Features private dining for intimate moments

Both include full bathrooms and a secluded setup perfect for stargazing or celebrating special occasions.

Dining & Communal Spaces

The camp’s main tent houses the lounge and dining area, open-sided to provide 360° views of the wilderness. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared African and international cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Evenings are spent around the fire pit, sharing stories beneath the glittering Samburu sky.

Facilities include:

✓ Private verandahs
✓ Complimentary Wi-Fi
✓ Solar-powered electricity
✓ Communal lounge and dining area

Activities & Experiences

Basecamp Samburu offers a curated collection of activities that connect guests to both nature and culture:

✓ Scorpion Safaris – A thrilling nocturnal experience
✓ Star Gazing – Experience Samburu’s unpolluted night skies
✓ Guided Bush Walks – Explore the conservancy with Samburu warriors
✓ Cultural Visits – Meet Samburu communities and learn their traditions
✓ Bush Meals, Picnics & Sundowners – Dine in scenic wilderness locations
✓ Day and Night Game Drives – Track elephants, lions, and the Samburu Special Five
✓ Reteti Elephant Sanctuary Excursions – Visit Kenya’s first community-run elephant orphanage

Wildlife Highlights

The surrounding conservancies and Samburu National Reserve host the Samburu Special Five:

✓ Gerenuk
✓ Beisa Oryx
✓ Grevy’s Zebra
✓ Somali Ostrich
✓ Reticulated Giraffe

Other wildlife includes elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, and numerous bird species. The conservancy is home to over 60 elephant families, making sightings frequent and unforgettable.

Facilities & Guest Services

✓ Laundry and housekeeping services
✓ Eco-friendly, solar-powered systems
✓ Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
✓ Airport transfers and 24-hour security
✓ Battery charging facilities and guided tours
✓ Lounge and restaurant with panoramic views
✓ Spa tub and ensuite bathrooms in select tents

Reasons to Visit Basecamp Samburu

✓ Star Beds – Sleep under Samburu’s glittering night sky in luxury
✓ Eco-Friendly Design – Fully solar, zero plastic, and sustainably built
✓ Community Focus – Supporting local Samburu livelihoods and conservation
✓ Exclusivity & Intimacy – Only five tents ensuring privacy and personalized service
✓ Immersive Experiences – Game drives, cultural interactions, and bush adventures
✓ Unparalleled Location – Panoramic views of Mt. Ololokwe and the northern wilderness

Mobile: + 254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
Reservations: +254 718-179-967
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com