Lodges and Camps - Samburu National Reserve

Where to Stay: From Riverside Luxury to Cultural Eco-Lodges in Kenya’s Wild North

Samburu National Reserve offers one of Kenya’s most authentic and scenic safari experiences — and its lodges and camps reflect that same spirit of wilderness and cultural warmth. Nestled along the Ewaso Nyiro River or perched on rugged hillsides overlooking the reserve, Samburu’s accommodations range from luxury tented lodges to community-run eco-camps that directly support local conservancies.

This guide provides a complete overview of lodges and camps in Samburu, covering accommodation inside the reserve, nearby conservancy lodges, budget and community options, public campsites, and sustainable travel considerations to help you plan the perfect stay.

🏞️ Inside-Reserve Lodges

Lodges located inside Samburu National Reserve offer direct access to wildlife, stunning river views, and immersive safari experiences. Staying inside the reserve means shorter travel times for game drives and the opportunity to hear lions, hyenas, and elephants from your tent at night.

🐘 Elephant Bedroom Camp

Location: On the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, shaded by doum palms.
Highlights: Luxurious tented suites with plunge pools; elephants often wander through the camp.
Experience: Combines intimacy (12 tents only) with a sense of wild immersion.
Amenities: En suite bathrooms, open-air dining, bar, lounge, Wi-Fi, solar power.
Unique Feature: Personalized service and close encounters with resident elephant herds.

🦓 Samburu Game Lodge

Location: Within the heart of the reserve, along the river.
Legacy: One of Kenya’s oldest safari lodges, established in 1962.
Highlights: Comfortable cottages and family rooms, swimming pool, riverside terrace dining.
Experience: Ideal for families or first-time visitors; traditional safari feel.
Amenities: Pool, spa, conference center, souvenir shop, and Wi-Fi.
Wildlife Viewing: Regular elephant and crocodile sightings from the restaurant deck.

🌅 Ashnil Samburu Camp

Location: In a prime game-viewing area near the bridge connecting to Buffalo Springs Reserve.
Highlights: Spacious tents with modern comforts, swimming pool, open dining deck overlooking the river.
Experience: Blend of luxury and modernity in a scenic setting.
Amenities: Bar, lounge, Wi-Fi, gift shop, swimming pool, and evening bonfires.
Notable For: Efficient service, great buffet meals, and excellent access to both Samburu and Buffalo Springs.

🐆 Samburu Intrepids Camp

Location: Northern bank of the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Highlights: Renowned for family-friendly programs and children’s “Adventurers Club.”
Experience: Combines adventure and comfort; ideal for families and small groups.
Amenities: En suite luxury tents, open dining area, bar, pool, library, Wi-Fi.
Special Feature: Offers guided nature walks and cultural lectures from Samburu naturalists.

🦩 Larsens Camp

Location: Riverside site within the reserve’s lushest forest area.
Heritage: Named after explorer Eric Larsen; among Kenya’s classic safari camps.
Highlights: Riverside luxury tents with vintage safari décor and open-air showers.
Experience: Romantic and tranquil; perfect for honeymooners and photographers.
Amenities: Gourmet dining, lounge bar, spa services, and private bush dinners.
Sustainability: Operates with a low-impact, solar-powered design.

🌄 Nearby Conservancy Lodges

The Samburu–Laikipia landscape surrounding the reserve is dotted with private and community-run conservancies that host some of Kenya’s most exclusive lodges. Staying here provides privacy, walking safaris, and community-based experiences often unavailable inside the main reserve.

🏞️ Saruni Samburu (Kalama Conservancy)

Location: Built into a rocky escarpment in Kalama Conservancy, just north of the main reserve.
Highlights: Panoramic views of the plains and Mount Kenya; spacious villas carved into stone.
Experience: Boutique luxury and cultural immersion in one.
Amenities: Infinity pool, spa, private butlers, and guided walking safaris.
Sustainability: Supports Kalama Conservancy and employs local Samburu staff.

🐫 Sasaab Lodge (West Gate Conservancy)

Location: Overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River in West Gate Conservancy.
Style: Moroccan-inspired architecture with open-air design.
Highlights: Private plunge pools, camel safaris, and wellness spa.
Experience: Blends desert luxury with cultural authenticity.
Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, and Samburu community visits.
Sustainability: Operates on solar power; supports conservation through the Safari Collection Foundation.

🏕️ Kalama Conservancy Lodges & Eco-Camps

Other lodges and camps in Kalama and surrounding conservancies include:

Samburu Trails Camp – rustic eco-camp perfect for walking safaris.
Reteti House (Namunyak Conservancy) – close to the famous Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.
Ngutuk Ongiron Eco-Lodge (West Gate) – community-run, simple yet comfortable lodging with cultural immersion programs.

These conservancy lodges combine luxury with sustainability, ensuring tourism revenue supports rangers, education, and wildlife protection across the Northern Rangelands Trust network.

💰 Budget Options and Community Stays

For travelers seeking affordable accommodation or immersive cultural experiences, Samburu offers several excellent budget lodges and campsites that are locally managed and community-friendly.

🌾 Umoja Women’s Camp (Archer’s Post)

Location: Just outside Archer’s Gate, run by Umoja Women’s Group.
Highlights: Traditional huts built by Samburu women, cultural performances, beadwork demonstrations.
Experience: Learn about women’s empowerment and Samburu traditions.
Amenities: Basic but clean bandas and tents, shared bathrooms, local meals.
Rates: From ~$30 per person per night.
Impact: All proceeds support women’s education and community projects.

🐪 West Gate Community Campsite

Location: Within West Gate Conservancy, near the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Experience: Ideal for self-drive safaris and overlanders.
Amenities: Shaded camping spots, basic showers, kitchen area, and optional local meals.
Unique Feature: Opportunity to interact with local morans (warriors) and learn about daily life.
Fees: Approx. KES 1,500–2,000 per person per night (payable to the community office).

⛺ Special and Public Campsites Inside Samburu

Camping inside Samburu offers the most immersive wilderness experience, ideal for seasoned safari travelers.

🏕️ Naiburta Campsite

Location: Along the river, in a quiet zone near the reserve’s center.
Facilities: Basic pit latrines, no electricity or water — guests must be self-sufficient.
Experience: Exclusive wilderness feel; excellent for birdwatchers and private groups.
Booking: Through the Samburu County Government or Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

🌋 Koitogor Public Campsite

Location: At the base of Koitogor Hill, offering panoramic views.
Facilities: Pit latrine, no permanent water source, ideal for wild campers.
Experience: Surreal night skies, close to major wildlife routes.
Security: Rangers can be arranged on request for safety.

💡 Tip: Bring all supplies (water, food, fuel) and a reliable 4WD vehicle if camping inside the park — facilities are minimal but the experience is unmatched.

🍽️ Amenities and Dining in Samburu Lodges

Despite its remote location, Samburu offers a wide range of culinary and hospitality standards — from gourmet bush dining to home-style meals.

🍴 Common Amenities in Most Lodges

Open-air restaurants overlooking the river or plains
Buffets combining African and international cuisine
Bar and lounge areas with sundowner service
Swimming pools (Ashnil, Samburu Game Lodge, Sasaab, Saruni)
Spa and wellness centers at high-end lodges
Solar-powered lighting and limited Wi-Fi
Gift shops selling local beadwork and art

🌅 Dining Experiences

Bush breakfasts: Served after early game drives under acacia trees.
Sundowners: Set up at scenic lookouts with drinks and snacks.
Candlelit dinners: Beside the Ewaso Nyiro River or under the stars.

🌍 Sustainability and Ecolodge Certifications

Many Samburu lodges and conservancies are pioneers in eco-tourism and responsible travel. Lodges here often combine comfort with conservation and community benefits.

✅ Sustainable Practices

Solar energy and eco-waste systems: Saruni Samburu, Sasaab, and Larsens use renewable energy.
Water conservation: River water recycling and minimal-use policies in semi-arid zones.
Community employment: Majority of staff are recruited from nearby Samburu villages.
Cultural preservation: Lodge programs promote Samburu art, beadwork, and traditions.
Wildlife protection: Conservancy lodges fund ranger patrols and anti-poaching initiatives.

🌿 Certified Eco-Lodges

Several properties are recognized under the EcoTourism Kenya Certification Scheme:

Gold-rated: Saruni Samburu, Sasaab Lodge
Silver-rated: Ashnil Samburu Camp
Bronze-rated: Samburu Game Lodge

These certifications ensure lodges meet high standards of environmental stewardship, cultural respect, and community benefit.

🧭 Summary: Where to Stay in Samburu

Category	Example Lodges/Camps	Ideal For	Experience Type
Luxury (Inside Reserve)	Elephant Bedroom, Larsens, Samburu Intrepids	Honeymooners, photographers	Riverside elegance and close wildlife encounters
Mid-Range	Ashnil Samburu, Samburu Game Lodge	Families, first-time visitors	Comfort and convenience
Luxury (Conservancies)	Saruni Samburu, Sasaab	Couples, eco-travelers	Privacy, walking safaris, and cultural connection
Budget & Community	Umoja Camp, West Gate Campsite	Backpackers, ethical travelers	Cultural immersion and local impact
Camping	Naiburta, Koitogor	Self-drive adventurers	Wilderness solitude and star-filled nights

✨ In Summary

From luxurious cliff-top villas to riverside camps and community-run lodges, Samburu offers accommodation for every traveler — united by one theme: authentic wilderness comfort in harmony with people and nature.

Each stay supports a living ecosystem of wildlife conservation and cultural resilience, ensuring that your safari not only offers unforgettable memories but also contributes directly to the protection of Kenya’s northern frontier.