Sarova Shaba Game Lodge
$ 106/ night
Samburu
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is located in a natural oasis in Shaba National Reserve and offers complete serenity amidst wild and beautiful...
Kenya · Samburu
Home to the Special Five, species found almost nowhere else in Kenya, verified by a team that has stayed in every camp on this list.
Samburu is not simply a quieter version of the Maasai Mara; it is a truly distinct ecosystem. This arid northern landscape is home to the Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich. These species are specifically adapted to semi-arid conditions and are largely absent from Kenya’s more frequently visited southern parks. For travellers who have already experienced a classic safari, Samburu often proves to be the most surprising region.
We have stayed at various camps across Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba. Below, I will outline what each location offers, their costs, and what makes this region worth the extra journey from Nairobi.
Our full curated list, in one place.
3 properties in this collection
In the heart of Samburu’s arid landscape, the majestic Grevy’s zebra captivates with its striking appearance, boasting narrower stripes and rounder ears that set it apart as the largest and most endangered of all zebra species. Its rarity makes it one of the most coveted sights for visitors. Equally enchanting is the reticulated giraffe, distinguished by its unique, sharp geometric patterns of white lines that create a stunning contrast against its tawny coat.
Among these remarkable creatures, the gerenuk stands out with its graceful neck and the remarkable ability to balance on its hind legs, reaching high into acacia trees to nibble on succulent leaves. The beisa oryx, with its long, elegant horns and distinctive markings, traverses the rugged terrain, while the striking blue-necked Somali ostrich, a visual marvel, adds a splash of vibrant color to the landscape. Together, these five species have adapted uniquely to their environment, making Samburu a sanctuary for wildlife that cannot be found reliably further south.
The Ewaso Ng’iro River serves as the vital artery of the Samburu ecosystem, providing essential sustenance to a diverse array of wildlife. Its banks attract magnificent elephants, regal lions, and elusive leopards, offering them a vital refuge even during the harshest dry seasons when the surrounding landscape becomes parched and dusty.
Nestled along the river’s edge are several charming camps, among them the distinctive Elephant Bedroom Camp. This camp is uniquely positioned so close to the river that it allows for an intimate and breathtaking experience, where guests can witness elephants gracefully wandering through the property itself. This level of closeness fosters a truly immersive experience, setting it apart from the more conventional game drives and providing a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat up close.
Samburu National Reserve rarely operates alone, Buffalo Springs sits directly across the river, and Shaba National Reserve lies just east, all three managed as a connected ecosystem. Shaba holds a specific literary connection: it’s where naturalist Joy Adamson raised Elsa, the lioness whose story became the book and film Born Free, and later where Adamson herself worked and, ultimately, died. It’s a quieter, less-visited reserve worth including for travellers interested in that history.
The Samburu people, who are closely related linguistically and culturally to the Maasai, possess their own unique traditions, language, and attire. As semi-nomadic pastoralists, their daily lives are deeply influenced by their relationship with cattle and the land, a connection that has persisted for generations. Engaging in guided village visits that are organized directly with Samburu communities provides travelers with an authentic cultural experience, distinguishing it from typical tourist photo opportunities.
Samburu’s accommodations typically focus on smaller, more intimate properties compared to the larger, more expansive lodges found in the Mara. These camps are thoughtfully constructed using local materials that harmonise with the surrounding environment, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.
Guests can expect to stay in canvas tents, which offer a unique blend of comfort and a connection to nature, set against the stunning backdrop of the landscape. The common areas are often open-sided, promoting a sense of community while allowing for unobstructed views of the wilderness.
This design choice not only reflects the region’s remoteness and authenticity but also enhances the guest experience by immersing visitors in the sights and sounds of the African bush. Overall, the emphasis is on creating a tranquil and immersive experience, rather than the more conventional luxury typically found in large hotel-style accommodations.
Samburu sits a 45-minute scheduled flight or a 5 to 6 hour drive from Nairobi, and pairs well with Laikipia as part of a northern Kenya itinerary focused on rare species and conservation, distinct from a Mara-and-Amboseli circuit further south.
Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba, so our recommendations reflect direct experience.
Not just another savannah safari, but a distinct ecosystem worth understanding first.
Every stay we arrange is built around your own itinerary, not a fixed group schedule.
That access means better rates and more current availability than a booking platform can offer.
Tell us if this is a standalone trip or paired with Laikipia or the Mara. We will match you to the right camp and build a private itinerary around it.
Tell us which camps you're considering and when you'd like to travel. We reply within 24 hours with a private itinerary built around it.