Samburu National Park is a breathtaking place, it really is one of the most majestic wilderness areas that Kenya has, with rich red soil, large savannahs and the colourful and interesting Samburu people we think that Samburu should be on many more Kenya itineraries that it is… In a similar way to the Masaai Mara the Samburu has a main reserve which has bordering concessions, and as with the Mara the majority of the properties that we recommend are within these private areas.
The park combines perfectly with a trip to the Masaai Mara with contrasting scenery and a generally slightly more laid back approach in most of the properties. Samburu is also home to some excellent camps, from the luxurious Saruni Samburu and Sasaab to the rustic but charming and wilderness centric Elephant Bedroom and Elephant Watch camps.
The park is home to both the wildlife and the Samburu people for the same reason, the presence of permanent water which comes in the form a river flowing from Mount Kenya and bringing life to what would otherwise be a far more baron landscape.
The Samburu has a rainy season fairly similar to the southern part of the country, although being a far more arid landscape. The best time to visit is between late June and early October although travel is possible year round and the only times less suitable are April, May and November when rainfall may make ground conditions difficult.
Kenya’s network of scheduled light aircraft flights has made fly in safaris the way forward for most travellers to the country and while it is possible to drive we don’t tend to recommend it since a flying circuit is a much nicer way to experience the country. Combining Samburu, the Masaai Mara and the Kenya coast is simple with internal flights.
Samburu is a vast arid country and the game driving is a very different experience to the Masaai Mara or other parts of Africa, this combined with the other activities available such as bush walks, Samburu cultural interactions and even spa treatments at several camps make it a superb contrast to other destinations.
Top Samburu camps
Saruni Samburu
Samburu, Kemnya
Perfect for a really up market yet African feeling lodge with stunning views. Located in a quiet area outside the national park this is a top option for those looking for luxury.
Elephant Watch Camp
Samburu, Kemnya
Perfect for a really those that are interested in conservation. Being owned and run by the Douglas-Hamilton family this authentic camp offers a very classic safari experience.
Sasaab
Samburu, Kenya
Perfect for a combination of great safari and pure indulgence, this is the ideal place to end a safari, take things slower and spend some time relaxing in an amazing location.
Elephant Bedroom Camp
Samburu, Kenya
Perfect for a great value and authentic safari in this amazing national park. This great tented camp offers the best in terms of value in the area in the main part of the Samburu Reserve.