Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is considered one of the most untamed wilderness areas in Africa, with much of it being completely inaccessible until recent years. The vast breathtaking landscapes and countless intriguing inhabitants of Samburu have remained largely unaltered by man. It is 165 km² (64 sq mi) in size and is situated approximately 320 kilometers from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It ranges in elevation from 800 to 1,230 m (2,620 to 4,040 ft). 

How do I get to Samburu National Reserve?

By Road: Travelling from Nairobi, the six-and-a-half-hour journey north takes visitors along the Thika and the Nyeri/Karatina highway. There are five gates into the reserve, namely Archer’s Gate (the most popular), West Gate, Kalama Gate, Uaso Bridge Gate, and Central Airstrip Gate.

By Air: Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport take 90 minutes, with flights landing in Buffalo Springs, Samburu Oryx Airstrip, and Kalama Airstrip.

Samburu National Reserve Vegetation | Ecosystem

The Samburu National Reserve’s ecosystem is a vivid tapestry of semi-arid landscapes, where the Ewaso Ng’iro River—the lifeblood of the region—meanders through the reserve, creating a lush ribbon of riverine forests amidst the dryness.

This river, flowing from the Kenyan highlands, supports a diverse array of vegetation, with acacia trees and doum palms dominating the riverbanks, providing shade and sustenance to a myriad of species.

Beyond the river’s reach, the vegetation transitions to scattered acacias and scrubby bushes, characteristic of the reserves’ broader ecosystem, which includes the neighboring Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve.

The thorn trees and grassland vegetation are interspersed with volcanic mountains and granite outcrops, creating micro-habitats that support the reserve’s unique wildlife, including the Samburu ‘Special Five’—Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.

What is the best time to visit Samburu National Reserve?

The Samburu National Reserve, together with the neighboring Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves, is defined by its arid and semi-arid climate, marked by hot days and cool nights. The moisture index fluctuates between 42 and 57, signifying that evapotranspiration often surpasses the available moisture.

Daytime temperatures hover around 84°F (29°C) to 90°F (32°C), while at night, they can drop to between 61°F (16°C) and 66°F (19°C). The region experiences its long rains from April to May, and a shorter rainy season from mid-October to mid-December, with November typically being the wettest month.

The dry seasons span from June to early October and from January to March. These dry periods, particularly the long dry season from late June to October and the short dry season from December to March, are considered the best times for visiting the reserve.

During these months, wildlife viewing is at its prime as animals congregate around permanent water sources like the Ewaso Ng’iro River, and the sparse vegetation enhances the chances of sightings.

What animals will we get to see in Samburu National Reserve?

While being a relatively unknown travel destination it is famous thanks to two very special lionesses that caught the public’s imagination over the years. The one is Joy and George Adamson’s lioness Elsa, on which the book Born Free is based and where the film was made, and the second is a lioness known as Kamunyak who adopted and cared for oryx calves within Samburu Reserve. Besides these two famous residents, Samburu is home to Africa’s Big Five, a long and fascinating list of other animals and over 450 bird species.

Large herds of elephants still roam freely enjoying the vast beauty of Africa and often have a reddish appearance from the red earth that they use to have dust baths. Sadly, there are alarmingly few rhinos left in this area due to the unscrupulous poaching activities plaguing much of Africa’s wild spaces.

The very peculiar Gerenuk gazelle can be spotted here. Also known as the giraffe-gazelle, this long-necked antelope stands up on its hind legs to feed and is wonderful to watch going about its daily business. Other special sightings include the shy Oryx and some of the biggest crocodiles in Africa.

What activities can be done at Samburu National Reserve?

✔ Warriors Academy: Learn survival skills and Samburu warrior traditions
✔ Camel Safaris: Peaceful, guided camel rides offer wildlife encounters in remote areas
✔ Walk to Caves & Samburu Rock Art: Visit prehistoric rock art depicting early life in guided walks
✔ River Rafting on Ewaso Ng’iro: Adventure-filled rafting with wildlife sightings along the riverbanks
✔ Picnics, Bush Meals & Sundowners: Enjoy meals in scenic spots and sundowners at sunset in the wild
✔ Crocodile Watching: Watch Nile crocodiles along the Ewaso Ng’iro River and learn about their behavior
✔ Game Drives: Spot iconic wildlife, including the “Samburu Special Five,” with morning or afternoon drives
✔ Mount Ololokwe Excursion: A guided trek up the sacred mountain with stunning views and cultural insights
✔ Reteti Elephant Sanctuary Excursion: Visit a community-run sanctuary that rehabilitates orphaned elephants
✔ Nature Walks: Guided walks explore the semi-arid landscape, offering insight into the flora, fauna, and wildlife tracks
✔ Samburu Singing Wells: Observe Samburu herdsmen singing to their livestock while fetching water from ancient wells
✔ Birdwatching: Home to over 390 bird species, Samburu is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially between November and April
✔ Traditional Samburu Village Visits: Experience the culture and traditions of the Samburu people, including dances and beadwork
✔ Helicopter Excursions & Scenic Flights: Experience scenic flights over Samburu’s diverse landscapes, offering unique aerial views

Click on the following links below to view some of our Samburu National Reserve safaris:

(1.) 2 Days 1 Night Samburu Game Reserve Road Safari | Click Here
(2.) 2 Days 1 Night Samburu Game Reserve Flying Safari | Click Here
(3.) 3 Days 2 Nights Samburu Game Reserve Road Safari  | Click Here
(4.) 3 Days 2 Nights Samburu Game Reserve Flying Safari  | Click Here
(5.) Samburu National Reserve Full Day Excursion from Nanyuki | Click Here

What are the accommodation options in Samburu National Reserve?

Samburu National Reserve has a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxurious lodges to eco-friendly camps. Below are some of the notable camps in Samburu National Reserve:

Ashnil Samburu Camp: Situated in Buffalo Springs Game Reserve along the Ewaso Nyiro River, Ashnil Samburu Camp offers mid-range accommodations with 19 deluxe en-suite tents and 30 luxury hexagon tents.

Guests can enjoy stunning river views from their private terraces. The camp’s restaurant serves international and traditional African cuisine and has a seating capacity of 100 guests. The camp is accessible via a five-hour drive from Nairobi or a one-hour flight, with the airstrip just 12 km away.

Elephant Bedroom Camp: A small, exclusive luxury tented camp located along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve. Elephant Bedroom Camp features 14 spacious tents, each with a private plunge pool, offering a serene and intimate safari experience.

The camp blends rustic charm with vibrant safari style, offering gourmet meals and al-fresco dining under the stars. Game drives and private meals are available, and guests can unwind with a drink while listening to the sounds of the wilderness.

Elephant Watch Camp: Set in the rugged wilderness of Samburu National Reserve, Elephant Watch Camp offers a luxurious yet eco-friendly experience with 6 desert-style tents. The camp is designed to celebrate elephants and nature, with reclaimed wood furnishings and open-air bathrooms. Solar-heated showers, vibrant textiles, and a relaxing lounge area provide guests with a comfortable stay. The camp is known for its environmentally conscious ethos and its proximity to wild elephants.

Lion’s Cave Camp: Located near Kalama Wildlife Conservancy, Lion’s Cave Camp is a rustic retreat offering over 5 spacious tents built with natural materials. Perched on a rock, the camp provides sweeping views of the Ewaso Nyiro River and surrounding wilderness.

Each tent is equipped with modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, flushing toilets, and hot showers. The camp is ideal for those seeking a tranquil, nature-immersed experience in Northern Kenya.

Lion King Bush Camp: Situated along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, Lion King Bush Camp offers a mix of luxury and self-catered options with 6 private tents. Each tent is furnished with double beds and en-suite facilities, providing an authentic safari experience.

The camp caters to both small and large groups, with additional tents available upon request. Guests can enjoy the camp’s riverside location and wildlife sightings while staying in comfortable accommodations.

Samburu Elephant Lodge: This privately owned lodge offers a luxurious experience with 10 villas, each providing views of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Managed by the local Samburu people, the lodge features a pool, bar, and conference center, making it suitable for both leisure and business. Guests can enjoy activities such as game drives, bush dinners, and riverside breakfasts, all while staying connected with free Wi-Fi.

Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp: Nestled deep in Samburu Game Reserve, this luxury camp offers 28 modern tents, each with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. The camp overlooks the Ewaso Nyiro River, where wildlife frequently gathers.

Guests can enjoy game drives, bush dining experiences, and a free-form swimming pool. The camp also offers educational talks and wildlife documentaries, providing a well-rounded safari experience.

Samburu Riverside Camp: This budget-friendly, Maasai-owned camp is located inside Samburu National Reserve, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations. The camp has 3 deluxe and 3 standard tents with en-suite facilities and solar-powered lighting. Meals are provided, with early morning tea and coffee available at the tents. The camp’s riverside location offers guests a peaceful retreat amid nature.

Samburu Sopa Lodge: A family-friendly lodge built on high ground inside Samburu National Reserve, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The lodge features 30 guest cottages, each with two rooms and private verandas.

The architecture reflects traditional Samburu design, and the dining area offers live cooking stations with diverse culinary options. Guests can also enjoy wildlife sightings at a nearby waterhole.

Soroi Larsens Camp Samburu: A luxurious camp set along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, Soroi Larsens Camp offers 12 luxury tents with private terraces. The camp provides an intimate and exclusive safari experience, with amenities such as a spa, swimming pool, and gourmet dining. Guests can enjoy sundowners by the river and relax with in-room spa treatments while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Soroi Samburu Lodge: Located on 10 acres along the Uaso Nyiro River, this luxury lodge offers 58 rooms with river views and access to a pool, gift shop, and dining area. The lodge provides full-board and fly-in packages, which include meals, game drives, and transfers. Guests can enjoy modern comforts while staying in the heart of Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu National Reserve is a sanctuary for a rich diversity of mammals, known particularly for the ‘Samburu Special Five’: the Grevy’s zebra, with its distinctive narrow stripes; the Somali ostrich, recognizable by its blue legs and neck; the reticulated giraffe, with its striking net-like patterned coat; the gerenuk, an antelope with an unusually long neck often seen standing on its hind legs to feed; and the Beisa oryx, with its sharp horns and beautiful markings.

Beyond these, the reserve hosts the ‘Big Five’, minus the rhino, including the lion, elephant, leopard, and African buffalo. The elephant population is particularly noteworthy, with over 900 individuals roaming the area.

Predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs are also prevalent, with the reserve offering one of the highest chances of spotting leopards in Kenya. Other commonly seen mammals include Grant’s gazelle, Kirk’s dik-dik, impala, waterbuck, olive baboons, warthogs, and more, creating a vibrant ecosystem that is both dynamic and delicate.

The reserve boasts a bird checklist that encompasses an impressive 686 species. The reserve’s varied habitats, from the riverine forests along the Ewaso Ng’iro River to the arid scrublands, provide a haven for both endemic and migratory birds.

Notable species include the Somali Ostrich, with its distinctive blue neck and legs, and the Vulturine Guineafowl, known for its striking appearance. The Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, and Lilac-breasted Roller add to the reserve’s raptor and colorful bird species.

Waterbirds like the Egyptian Goose, Yellow-billed Duck, and various species of sandgrouse are drawn to the life-giving waters of the river, while the dry bushland is home to the Rufous-naped Lark and Speckled Mousebird. The presence of globally threatened species further underscores the ecological importance of Samburu as a critical habitat for bird conservation.

Nature Walks

Nature walks in Samburu offer a unique way to explore the semi-arid landscape. These guided walks bring you closer to the flora, fauna, and volcanic terrain of the reserve. As you walk through the bush, your guide will help you discover small creatures, plants, and even track signs left by the wildlife.

It’s a peaceful way to observe the ecosystem from a different perspective, taking in the sights and sounds of nature that you might miss during a game drive.

Crocodile Watching

The Ewaso Ng’iro River, which runs through the reserve, is home to a population of Nile crocodiles. Crocodile watching is an exhilarating experience where you can see these massive reptiles basking on the riverbanks or lurking just beneath the surface. Guides provide fascinating insights into their behavior, including their feeding habits and role in the ecosystem.

Game Drives

Game drives are a highlight of any visit to Samburu, offering opportunities to spot iconic wildlife like lions, elephants, and leopards. In particular, Samburu is famous for the “Samburu Special Five”—Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.

Drives typically take place in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. You’ll traverse the varied landscapes, from riverine forests to open plains, maximizing your chances of wildlife sightings.

Traditional Samburu Village Visits

A visit to a Samburu village allows you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Samburu people. You will learn about their semi-nomadic lifestyle, livestock herding practices, and the intricate beadwork for which Samburu women are known. This cultural experience often includes traditional dances and ceremonies, giving you a deeper appreciation of their way of life.

Camel Safaris

Camel safaris are a peaceful way to explore the arid landscapes of Samburu. Riding a camel, often referred to as the “ship of the desert,” allows you to move quietly through the bush, offering close encounters with wildlife and access to remote areas that are hard to reach by vehicle.

These safaris are typically guided by Samburu warriors, who share their deep knowledge of the land and its animals.

Birdwatching

Over 390 bird species have been documented in Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves, which encompass diverse habitats such as arid acacia savannah, scrubland, and gallery forest along the Ewaso Nyiro River.

These dry, open landscapes offer excellent birdwatching opportunities and are home to several northeastern African species also found in Ethiopia and Somalia, including the vulturine guineafowl, Somali bee-eater, and golden-breasted starling.

Samburu is a birdwatcher’s paradise year-round, with many rare dry-country species present throughout the year. However, the excitement peaks between November and April when migratory birds arrive.

Keep in mind that weather can impact your birding plans—November and April experience the heaviest rainfall, making the period from December to March the optimal time for birdwatching.

Visiting the Singing Wells

Known locally as ‘Kisima Hamsini’ (Fifty Wells) are visited daily by semi-nomadic pastoralists and their herds. Water is scarce in Samburu for most of the year, but thankfully these wells run deep.

During the dry season, Samburu herdsmen, festooned with beaded necklaces and bracelets, take their herds to the Singing Wells, where they dig down searching for water for their precious cows, goats, and camels. While doing so, they sing a distinctive melodious song soothing their livestock and driving them to ancient hollowed-out logs to drink their fill.

Walk to Caves & Samburu Rock Art

This activity offers a glimpse into Samburu’s ancient cultural heritage. Visitors embark on guided walks to nearby caves that house prehistoric rock art. These paintings, made by early hunter-gatherer communities, depict animals, human figures, and everyday life scenes.

The walks provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, learn about the Samburu people’s deep connection to the land, and gain insight into the significance of these ancient artworks.

River Rafting on Ewaso Ng’iro

The Ewaso Ng’iro River flows through the Samburu ecosystem, offering opportunities for adventure-filled river rafting. Depending on the water levels, participants can navigate the river’s gentle rapids while soaking in the surrounding scenery, which includes lush riverbanks, wildlife sightings (such as elephants or giraffes drinking along the shore), and birds of prey circling overhead. It’s a thrilling yet tranquil way to experience the natural landscape.

Picnics, Bush Meals & Sundowners

Picnics and bush meals are organized in scenic spots within the reserve, often in secluded locations with panoramic views of the plains or river. These meals are set up in traditional safari style, with guests enjoying gourmet food while surrounded by nature.

Sundowners—an iconic safari tradition—allow guests to sip drinks at sunset, watching the golden hues of the setting sun over the rugged terrain. It’s a peaceful and luxurious way to end the day.

Warriors Academy

The Warriors Academy experience is designed to immerse guests in Samburu culture. Visitors spend time with the renowned Samburu warriors, learning about their way of life, survival skills, and traditions.

Activities may include spear-throwing, fire-making, learning about medicinal plants, and understanding the role of the warrior in Samburu society. It’s an interactive experience that fosters a deep appreciation of the region’s indigenous culture.

Mount Ololokwe Excursion

Mount Ololokwe is a sacred mountain to the Samburu people and offers one of the most rewarding hikes in northern Kenya. A guided trek up this towering flat-topped mountain leads to breathtaking views of the surrounding savannah and mountain ranges.

The hike takes several hours and provides a unique opportunity to explore the area’s flora and fauna and learn about the mountain’s spiritual significance to the Samburu community.

Reteti Elephant Sanctuary Excursion

Near Samburu, Reteti is a community-run elephant sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can tour the sanctuary, learn about elephant conservation efforts, and witness the care and feeding of baby elephants.

This experience allows guests to see conservation in action, emphasizing community involvement and wildlife protection.

Helicopter Excursions & Scenic Flights

Helicopter excursions offer a bird’s-eye view of the diverse landscapes around Samburu. Guests can fly over Mount Ololokwe, the Ewaso Ng’iro River, and the vast plains of the reserve. Scenic flights provide an unparalleled perspective of the region’s wildlife and natural formations, giving a sense of the scale and beauty of the wilderness.

Click the following link to view the scenic flight luxury experience | Click Here

Samburu National Reserve Entrance Fee (1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024)

Notes

* Child rates apply to persons 3 to 17 years of age. Persons under 3 are free
* Student rates are only applicable for persons aged up to 23 years old, sponsored by a recognized learning institution, and in possession of a valid student ID and visiting the reserve on a pre-arranged school-organized trip or for research authorized by the ticketing office of the Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserves in Isiolo County. Students must obtain permission to use these special rates at least two weeks in advance of their visit.

Other Conservancies & Game Ranches Bordering Samburu, Shaba, And Buffalo Springs National Reserves Such As Kalama Conservancy, West Gate Community Conservancy, And Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy

Below are Samburu Game Reserve Rules;

* Respect the privacy of the wildlife, this is their habitat
* Keep below the maximum speed limit (40 kph/25 mph)
* Never drive off-road, this severely damages the habitat
* Beware of the animals, they are wild and can be unpredictable
* Don’t crowd the animals or make sudden noises or movements
* Leave no litter and never leave fires unattended or discard burning objects
* Don’t feed the animals, it upsets their diet and leads to human dependence
* Keep quiet, noise disturbs the wildlife and may antagonize your fellow visitors
* Stay in your vehicle at all times, except at designated picnic or walking areas
* When viewing wildlife keep to a minimum distance of 20 meters and pull to the side of the road to allow others to pass
* Stay over or leave before dusk, visitors must vacate the Park between 6.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. unless they are camping overnight. Night game driving is not allowed
* Respect the cultural heritage of Kenya, never take pictures of the local people or their habitat without asking their permission, respect the cultural traditions of Kenya, and always dress with decorum

Ashnil Samburu Camp

Ashnil Samburu Camp is a mid-range safari camp located in Buffalo Springs Game Reserve on the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River. The camp is 12 km from Ngare Mara Gate near Archers Post and 325 km – a 5-hour drive) from Nairobi.

The flying time from Nairobi is about 60 minutes and scheduled flights land at Buffalo Springs Airstrip which is 12 km away from Ashnil Samburu Camp. There are a total number of 19 deluxe en-suite tents each featuring a decked terrace with views of the Ewaso Nyiro River.

The Camp has 30 luxury hexagon tents; 18 double tents, 9 twin beds tents, and 3 triple beds. Each of the exclusive comfortable deluxe tents features a dressing area, sitting area, luggage rack, safe, Parquet floors, wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom with shower cubicle.

There is a wooden decked terrace with a perfect view of the Ewaso Nyiro River and a beautiful surrounding landscape. The open-sitting restaurant located in the main building overlooks the Ewaso Nyiro River and can seat up to 100 guests.

The restaurant serves set buffets featuring international, oriental, and traditional African cuisine. The lounge is also located in the main building. The décor has an African touch that makes it a wonderful place to pass time and relax and can accommodate up to 60 guests. Click Here for more details.

Elephant Bedroom Camp

Elephant Bedroom Camp is a small and exclusive luxury safari-tented camp set along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River within the boundaries of the Samburu National Reserve and shaded by doum palms and other trees that make up the green belt of riverine forest in Samburu National Reserve.

The camp is located 343 km from Nairobi; the driving time is approximately 5 hours. Flying time from Nairobi to Samburu takes about 1.5 hours followed by a 25 minutes transfer to Camp. Scheduled and private Charter flights can also land at Kalama, Oryx, or Buffalo airstrips (from the airstrip – a 30 to 60-minute drive to the camp with a game drive en route).

There are 14 spacious tents all furnished with rustic and colorful African touches, offering all the comforts including a private plunge pool on the deck, hot and cold running water, and electricity.

The lounge and dining area is decorated with vibrant safari style, its soft intimate lighting assuring that this is the ultimate place to relax in between exciting game drives. This is the ideal place to spend an evening unwinding with a drink in hand while listening to the sounds of the wilderness.

Elephant Bedroom Camp dining offers a culinary experience with an al-fresco breakfast, 3-course lunch, and a 4-course candlelit gourmet dinner set either under the African sky or inside the well-appointed dining area. There are hammocks set up for guests to relax after their meals. Private meals can be arranged on the guest tent’s veranda or under the stars. Click Here for more details. Click Here for more details.

Elephant Watch Camp

Elephant Watch Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the arid North of Kenya on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, in a land of rugged beauty and untamed wilderness where wild elephants roam freely. The camp is located 343 km from Nairobi and the driving time is approximately 5 hours. The scheduled flight from Nairobi to Samburu Game Reserve takes about 1.5 hours landing at Samburu Airstrip followed by a few minute’s transfers to the camp.

the camp has 6 wide and breezy desert-style tents. The camp can accommodate up to 16 guests and is adorned with colorful cushions with elephant inspiration. Each Camp is tastefully fitted with a high thatched roof and private verandas.

The 6 tented rooms are colorfully furnished with bright textiles and hand-woven rugs and have furniture made from reclaimed wood and trees felled by elephants. The netted windows admit the breeze. Each tent has a king-size bed, bedside tables, and lamps.

The bathrooms are built in the open air around trees. There is solar-heated water for showers, and organic soap and shampoo. The main house is an expansive structure with a comfortable lounge and dining area. It also has a small library from where guests can choose books. Click Here for more details.

Lion’s Cave Camp

Lion’s Cave Camp is owned and managed by Daniel and Roseline Letoiye and offers accommodation in Archers Post. It is situated just 13 km from Kalama Wildlife Conservancy and 29 km from Samburu National Reserve. Samburu Airport is 80 km away. The Camp is in proximity to the Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves in the country’s Northern Frontier District. Lions Cave camp is suspended on the rock top overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River waterfalls

the camp consists of over 5 spacious and comfortable tents with a view of the river and the wilderness that reflect the African traditional building style with natural materials and are constructed with stones and grass thatched roofs.

The tents are well elevated with a raised platform and furnished with high-standard private en-suite facilities of flushing toilets, separate cold and hot showers heated on the fire, wrapped mosquito nets, free bottled water, free toiletries, complimentary bottled water, chairs, and tables, etc.

Each room has sitting areas, verandas, and terraces overlooking the stunning views of the savannah, River Ewaso Nyiro, and mountains beyond.  Tents are well equipped with comfortable and excellent beds with clean beddings. Click Here for more details.

Lion King Bush Camp

Lion King Bush Camp is a safari-tented camp located along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, which is situated at the southeastern corner of Samburu District in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya.

 The camp is 500 km from Nairobi and approximately 22 km from Archer’s Post directly adjacent to the old bridge in Samburu National Reserve. Driving time from Nairobi to Lion King is about 6 hours while scheduled flights from Nairobi to Samburu take about 1.5 hours followed by a few minute’s transfers to the camp.

The Camp offers 6 very private tents, each with an outside seating area, double beds, private showers, and toilets, each with an outside seating area, double beds, private showers, and toilets. Adjustments can be made for triple or four-people sharing. The camp can put up an extra 2 tents if needed for a larger group. On request, some guests pitch their tents while others use the camp’s tents. Lion King Bush Camp is available for hire exclusively on a self-catered, part- or fully-catered basis. Click Here for more details.

Samburu Elephant Lodge

Samburu Elephant Lodge is a privately owned 16 (bed) lodge, located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, Northern Kenya. The camp is located 345 km north of Nairobi about 6 hours by road and 1 hour by air.  The closest airstrip to the lodge is the Samburu Oryx airstrip which is only 10 minutes away.

The lodge is managed and run by the traditional Samburu people and has 4 luxury villas and 6 deluxe villas, a wonderfully set swimming pool, where you can swim with uninterrupted views of the Ewaso Nyrio River, a fully stocked bar, a conference center that holds up to 60 people, and a restaurant.

There is free Wi-fi in all areas, providing you with communication with the outside world. Samburu Elephant Lodge offers a wide range of activities, which include, full or half-day game drives in the reserve and its environs.

Enjoy Breakfast at the lodge or take advantage of the day and take a picnic with you, to enjoy whilst sitting in the various dry river beds that the reserve has to offer, or atop a hill overlooking the spectacular views. Enjoy dinner under the stars, during a bush dinner. Click Here for more details.

Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp

Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp is a luxury tented lodge located deep inside Samburu Game Reserve on the shady trees on a scenic stretch of the Ewaso Nyiro River banks.  The Camp is located 345 km north of Nairobi and the driving time is about six hours. Flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Samburu airstrip take approximately 50-minute followed by a 20-minute drive through the reserve to the camp. Samburu Intrepids Camp looks out over riverbanks where herds of elephants, Buffalos, and Zebras come daily to drink).

Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp has 28 modern luxury tents comprising double tents & single tents. Each thatched-roof tent is tastefully fitted with 4 poster beds, mahogany closets, a work desk, a balcony, and an en-suite bathroom with a steaming hot shower, twin washbasin, and a flush toilet.

The thatched guest seating area, dining room, and bar are located in a single structure where guests can spend time with a good hardcover from the camp library while sipping a cool drink. The lounge and bar area also offer an ideal venue where the Samburu naturalists deliver fascinating slide shows on most evenings and an intimate conference room with a television for viewing wildlife documentaries.

The camp serves an appetizing range of dishes that can be enjoyed on the private veranda or at one of a series of specially selected ‘bush sites’ close to camp. Samburu Intrepids Camp has a free-form swimming pool with a sunbathing garden and a boutique selling souvenirs and safari essentials. Click Here for more details.

Samburu Riverside Camp

Samburu Riverside Camp is a Maasai-owned budget-friendly camp situated inside Samburu National Reserve, near Ewaso Nyiro River, 22 km from Archers Post Town and 15 km from Marti Lgirgir Plateau. Located in the heart of the beautiful Samburu National Reserve and close to the mighty Ewaso Ng’iro River.

The camp offers 3 deluxe tents and 3 standard ones, each one with an en-suite bathroom, changing room, and outside seating area. The camp can also accommodate larger groups with smaller but comfortable tents. Enjoy 24-hour-a-day solar-powered lighting and charging stations in your tent and the dining area. 

The accommodation at Samburu Riverside camp includes 3 home-cooked meals a day and early morning tea and coffee served either at the tents or in the dining area. Hot beverages and refreshments are also available at all times; simply specify your preferences and we will have them available. Click Here for more details.

Samburu Sopa Lodge

Samburu Sopa Lodge is a 3-star family-friendly safari Accommodation located inside the Samburu National Reserve in Northern Kenya. The lodge is built atop high ground allowing panoramic views of the vastness of Samburu.

Samburu Sopa is located 350 Km away from Nairobi, driving time by road takes 6 hours while the flying time takes about 1 hour from Wilson Airport to Samburu Oryx airstrip followed by a 10 minutes transfer to the Lodge. 

The Lodge has 30 individual guest cottages each comprising 2 rooms, forming buffalo horn patterns converging at the public facilities area, leaving the open end to the free movement of wildlife to access the waterhole. Local materials have been used in the construction, furnishings, and interior decoration.

Each guestroom is tastefully fitted with 2 queen size beds, a closet, a large dressing table, an en-suite bathroom with a shower stall, and an open-air veranda that overlooks the waterhole.  The architecture blends in with the area, to keep up with the style of the housing by the local Samburu people.

There are 2 inter-connecting wheelchair-accessible rooms closest to the reception for the physically challenged. The dining area is open-air and has superb views of the landscape and of the water hole.

The dining area features traditional designs, curvaceous buffet tables, and live cooking areas with a wide selection of delicious fusions of different culinary disciplines coupled with garden-fresh fruits and vegetables. Outdoor dining is available on the terrace. Click Here for more details.

Soroi Larsens Camp Samburu

Soroi Larsens Camp Samburu is a luxurious, permanent camp located in Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve, beautifully set along the Ewaso Nyiro River with a dramatic backdrop of jagged mountains. Named after the legendary Dane, Erik Ole Larsen, who pioneered luxury safaris, the camp provides an exclusive and intimate experience. Situated 350 km from Nairobi, it can be reached by a five-hour drive or a 1.5-hour scheduled flight, followed by a brief transfer.

The camp features 12 luxurious tents, two family units, and two deluxe suites, each with private terraces and stunning river views. Guests can enjoy various amenities including a bar, swimming pool, spa, sundowner deck, photo hide, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the camp. Dining is an indulgent experience, with daily seasonal breakfasts, complimentary beverages, and 4-course lunches and dinners crafted by expert chefs.

Soroi Larsens Camp offers amenities such as in-room spa treatments, campfire conversations, and sundowner drinks by the river. The camp ensures 24-hour security with Maasai guards and creates an authentic yet safe wildlife experience for its guests. Click Here for more details.

Soroi Samburu Lodge

Soroi Samburu Lodge is a luxury safari Lodge beautifully situated in 10 acres of pristine riverine forest on the western banks of the Uaso Nyiro River in the arid heart of Samburu National Reserve, Kenya.  The lodge is a 50-minute drive from Kalama Airstrip (a private airstrip near the Kalama Conservancy Headquarters) and 350 km from Nairobi by road. Flying time from Nairobi to Wilson Airport takes approximately 1 hour.

The lodge has a total of 58 guest rooms (44 standard rooms,4 Family Units, 4 Superior Rooms, and  2 Executive Suite (3 Bedrooms each). The lodge’s facilities include a conference room, swimming pool, gift shop, viewing platform, and overlooking the river. The dining area opens to the river, offering a culinary experience with breathtaking views, and a pool area that provides a relaxing oasis.

Soroi Samburu Lodge offers a full board package which includes 3 meals daily and accommodation. Soroi Samburu Lodge fly-in package includes accommodation, 3 meals daily, 2 shared game drives in custom-built 4×4 safari vehicles with accredited English-speaking safari guide,  local airstrip transfers to/from Kalama Airstrip and filtered water, coffee and teas. Click Here for more details.

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