Samburu Riverside Camp

Samburu Riverside Camp is an authentic eco-friendly safari retreat nestled in the heart of the spectacular Samburu National Reserve, along the banks of the mighty Ewaso Ng’iro River. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife, the camp offers guests a truly immersive nature experience with minimal interference to the environment and its inhabitants.

Home to a vibrant community of birds, mongoose, vervet monkeys, tortoises, and elephants, Samburu Riverside Camp blends simplicity, comfort, and a genuine sense of place. It is an intimate escape where nature’s rhythms set the pace, offering both adventure and tranquility under the acacia-shaded skies of northern Kenya.

Designed for the conscious traveler, the camp features solar-powered lighting and facilities that reflect a commitment to sustainability. Guests can relax, dine, and unwind to the soothing sounds of the Ewaso Ng’iro River while enjoying exceptional hospitality from the local Samburu team.

Location & Accessibility

✓ Ideal base for exploring the Samburu ecosystem, home to the renowned “Samburu Special Five”
✓ Surrounded by iconic acacia woodland, riverine forest, and open savannah teeming with wildlife
✓ Set along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River — a lifeline for elephants, leopards, and countless bird species
✓ Located inside the Samburu National Reserve, approximately 20 km west of Archer’s Post in Samburu County

By Road:

✓ Private transfers available from Nairobi, Nanyuki, or nearby conservancies
✓ Only 2 hours (120 km) from Nanyuki on a paved and well-maintained A2 highway
✓ Approximately 5½–6 hours (310 km) drive from Nairobi via the scenic Thika–Nanyuki–Isiolo–Archer’s Post route
✓ After entering Samburu National Reserve from Archer’s Post gate, continue 16 km before turning left at the signs for Samburu Riverside Camp

By Air:

✓ Charter flights available directly to the reserve on request
✓ 20–30-minute scenic game drive transfer from the airstrip to camp
✓ Daily scheduled flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Samburu Oryx, Kalama, or Buffalo Springs Airstrips (approximately 1 hour)

Accommodation – Safari Tents

Samburu Riverside Camp offers six spacious tents — three Deluxe and three Standard — as well as several smaller Budget tents for groups or budget travelers. Each tent has been thoughtfully designed to blend into its surroundings while providing comfort and a close connection with nature.

All tents feature en-suite bathrooms, changing areas, and private verandas where guests can enjoy the tranquility of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and the calls of the wild. Lighting and charging facilities are solar-powered, ensuring sustainable comfort.

Deluxe Tent

✓ Ideal for families or couples seeking extra space
✓ Quiet solar-powered lighting and charging station
✓ Outdoor seating area with river and savannah views
✓ En-suite changing room and fully equipped bathroom
✓ Two large double beds with soft linens and mosquito nets

Honeymoon Tent

✓ One queen-size bed with cozy, romantic ambience
✓ Warm lighting and intimate décor for a private retreat
✓ En-suite bathroom and veranda surrounded by nature
✓ Perfect for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special moment

Standard Tent

✓ Solar-powered lighting and fan
✓ En-suite bathroom and changing area
✓ Two smaller double beds and a private outdoor seating area
✓ Comfortable, budget-friendly option for adventurers or friends traveling together

Budget Tent

✓ Shared bathroom facilities nearby
✓ Compact yet comfortable, with 1–2 single or double beds
✓ Full board meals included for a complete safari experience
✓ Ideal for backpackers or larger groups seeking simplicity and value

Room Features & Amenities

✓ Wi-Fi access in common areas
✓ 24-hour security and guest assistance
✓ Mosquito nets and comfortable bedding
✓ Complimentary drinking water and room cleaning
✓ Private outdoor seating areas under shady acacias
✓ Solar-powered lighting and phone charging stations
✓ Full board accommodation including three daily meals
✓ En-suite bathrooms with hot showers (except Budget tents)
✓ Daily housekeeping and laundry service available on request
✓ Panoramic views of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and surrounding wilderness

Dining & Culinary Experience

Dining at Samburu Riverside Camp is a homely and communal affair. Guests enjoy freshly prepared meals inspired by local and international cuisine, served in the open-air dining area or under the stars beside the river.

Culinary Highlights:

✓ Full board — three home-cooked meals daily
✓ Open-fire dining and bush breakfasts on request
✓ Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available
✓ Hot beverages and refreshments available at all hours
✓ Locally sourced produce and traditional Samburu touches
✓ Early morning tea and coffee delivered to tents on request

Lounge & Common Areas

The camp’s central area features a shaded lounge, dining space, and outdoor fireplace overlooking the river. Guests can gather here to relax, share safari stories, or simply listen to the sounds of the bush. Hammocks and shaded seating areas provide tranquil spaces to nap, read, or reflect between game drives.

Eco-conscious and intimate, the communal areas embody the spirit of Samburu hospitality — unhurried, authentic, and deeply connected to nature.

Experiences & Activities

✓ Stargazing Nights – Experience the dazzling clarity of Samburu’s unpolluted night skies
✓ Birdwatching Tours – Spot over 450 bird species, from kingfishers to raptors, accompanied by experienced local guides
✓ Warrior Training Sessions – Try your hand at spear throwing, stick fighting, and archery alongside Samburu warriors
✓ Walking Safaris – Enjoy a safe and personalized walking safari with rangers, tailored to your fitness level and interest
✓ Cultural Weddings – Celebrate love the Samburu way — authentic ceremonies, traditional music, and blessings by the elders
✓ Walk to the River – Take a guided stroll to the Ewaso Ng’iro River, observing elephants, monkeys, and waterbirds in their natural habitat
✓ Photography & Nature Study – Capture the magic of Samburu’s wildlife and landscapes, with guidance from passionate local naturalists
✓ Bush Meals & Sundowners – Savor breakfast by the river or sundowners at scenic viewpoints, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild
✓ Cultural Visits – Visit authentic Samburu villages, meet elders, witness traditional dances, and learn about pastoral life, beadwork, and warrior ceremonies
✓ Guided Game Drives – Explore Samburu National Reserve in open 4×4 Land Rovers, encountering elephants, lions, leopards, and the rare Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx

Facilities & Guest Services

✓ Barbecue area and open-fire dining
✓ 24-hour guest assistance and security
✓ Car hire and guided tour arrangements
✓ Currency exchange and luggage storage
✓ Complimentary Wi-Fi in common areas
✓ Laundry service and daily housekeeping
✓ Complimentary full board meals and beverages
✓ On-site gift shop featuring Samburu beadwork
✓ Child-friendly and family-welcome environment
✓ Spa and massage sessions available upon request
✓ Airport and airstrip transfers available on request
✓ Support for local community and conservation initiatives
✓ Eco-friendly operations powered entirely by solar energy

Highlights of Samburu Riverside Camp

✓ Six luxury tents plus budget options for all travelers
✓ Locally inspired meals and warm, personalized service
✓ Commitment to sustainability and community empowerment
✓ Excellent game viewing of the Samburu Special Five and Big Cats
✓ Guided walks, birding tours, and immersive cultural experiences
✓ Located inside Samburu National Reserve along the Ewaso Ng’iro River
✓ Authentic eco-tourism experience run by the local Samburu community

Samburu Riverside Camp is a small, eco-friendly camp offering 3 deluxe tents and three standard tents, each with an en-suite bathroom, changing room, and an outdoor 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.

Choose between the Deluxe, Standard, or Honeymoon tent. All offer comfortable beds and a relaxing ambiance that will keep you happy throughout.

The accommodation at Samburu Riverside camp includes three 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; specify your preferences, and we will have them available.

Enjoy an afternoon nap, read a book, doze off in contemplation of nature, stay in touch with family and friends, sort your pictures, discuss life issues, or be. The camp has a perfect place for you to unwind!

Activities available at Samburu Riverside Camp include a game Drive, a Birding Tour, a cultural visit, a Walk to the River, a cultural wedding, etc.

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