Top 10 Best-value Lodges and Camps in and Around Samburu.

One of Kenya’s top safari sites is Samburu National Reserve. Although this small and easily accessible reserve is home to amazing wildlife, it is sufficiently far from the rest of Kenya’s safari circuit to maintain a low volume of visitors.

Excellent lodging is available in this exceptional park, particularly along the picturesque Ewaso Nyiro River. Although it shouldn’t be, Samburu isn’t often at the top of safari travelers’ lists of must-see destinations.

Within Samburu’s borders, there are many lodging possibilities, but there are also alternatives. Some visitors choose to remain at the nearby Shaba or Buffalo Springs National Reserves, which are both two to three hours away by car.

Although you will have to pay different admission fees for each reserve, it is a great idea to combine a visit to Buffalo Springs and/or Shaba with Samburu. See our selection of the most affordable lodges and campers in the region by reading on.

There is no set order of quality for the hotels listed below.

 

1. Samburu NR’s Samburu Sopa Lodge

Samburu Sopa Lodge is close to the hills and far from other lodges or camps, in contrast to many other lodging options in Samburu that are grouped along the riverbed. Because of this, it’s incredibly peaceful and you won’t likely run into other safari cars as soon as you leave camp.

Splashes of color contrast with a calming palette of earth tones in these spacious bungalows with thatched roofs and traditional safari décor. Prepare yourself for expansive views of Samburu. A good restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool are among the amenities, which are perfect for cooling off in the scorching Samburu sun.

2. Buffalo Springs National Reserve’s Ashnil Samburu Camp

An excellent option for lodging in Buffalo Springs is Ashnil Samburu Camp, which is located along the southern bank of the Ewaso Nyiro River. The vista over the river into Samburu is one of the breathtaking vistas. Elephants frequently stroll along the riverside adjacent to the camp, so wildlife interactions start practically as soon as you exit the camp gate.

With timber furnishings and striking safari hues, the hexagonal safari tents are roomy and well decorated. An open-sided restaurant and a spacious bar are housed in the beautifully lush gardens. Both of these, as well as the tents at night, can provide a soothing soundtrack to this otherwise desolate setting as the river roars. Additionally, there is a gift shop, a spa and wellness center, and a swimming pool.

 

3. Buffalo Springs National Park’s Samburu Simba Lodge

The abundance of trees on the lodge grounds, which helps keep things cool, makes Samburu Simba Lodge unique in the Samburu region. However, the surrounding open land provides amazing views and opportunities to see wildlife. Situated on the Buffalo Springs side of the river, the resort offers a broad view in all directions, including north across the river to Samburu and the mountains beyond. Additionally, you have a great view of the stars at night because you’re far from most other lodges and lights.

The design, which incorporates Samburu crafts and artwork, gives the rooms a warm, intimate sense despite being in such a large country. You can take advantage of the restaurant, bar, massage parlor, gift shop, and swimming pool while you’re in camp.

4. Shaba Game Lodge Sarova (Shaba NR)

One of the greatest places in Shaba National Reserve may be found at this outpost of the reputable, skilled, and professional Sarova chain of lodges. It is dispersed far from other lodges and camps along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River.

For a few days, this serene setting is the perfect safari getaway. Traditional regional resources like wood and ornamental bricks are used in the rooms. In addition, the lodge features a restaurant, a charming bar and lounge, a lovely pool surrounded by palm trees, a wellness and massage center, and a small gift store.

5. Samburu National Reserve’s Elephant Bedroom Camp

The view of the Ewaso Nyiro River from the terrace of your safari tent at Elephant Bedroom Camp will make you want to sit there forever. A private plunge pool is an added luxury on several of the decks. A pride of lions, a leopard, or an elephant may come down to the water’s edge to drink while you’re here.

You may hear lions roaring or elephants trumpeting nearby at night thanks to the tents, which perfectly reflect the fantasy of being on safari. Additionally, they provide all the conveniences and minor extras of one of Samburu’s greatest camps.

The meals, communal lounges, and excellent service are some of the best in the main reserve. The best part is that Samburu’s renowned wildlife is always nearby.

6. Samburu NR’s Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp

Samburu Intrepids offers opulent tents with wooden flooring and a timeless sense of light and space, all while being nearly encircled by a bend in the scenic Ewaso Nyiro River. The camp is dedicated to and maintains relationships with the Samburu communities in the area. The activities, which may involve time spent learning about the local way of life, and the décor both exhibit this.

There are amazing views of the stars from various locations across the camp, and the entire area appears to shine in the lantern light after dark. Naturally, the camp also features a wonderful swimming pool, great dining options, and beautiful spots to unwind.

 

7. Samburu NR’s Soroi Larsens Camp

One of the more opulent lodging options in the Samburu region is Soroi Larsens Camp, which is situated in a prominent location on the Ewaso Nyiro riverside. The tents are spacious and beautiful, with wooden floors covered in elaborate antique furnishings and Persian rugs. After dark, listen to the enchanting night noises of Africa through the canvas walls and open the doors to enjoy views of the river from your bed.

Everything about camp life is luxurious, from the superb food at the high riverbank restaurant to the flawless service. Additionally, the spa facility will make you feel appropriately treated.

8. Saruni Samburu Camp (near Samburu NR, Kalama Conservancy)

At Saruni Samburu Camp, also called Saruni Basecamp, you’re going to have an amazing time. To begin with, you are lodging in Kalama Conservancy’s sole camp, which is adjacent to Samburu National Reserve. You’ll most likely see more elephants here than other tourists because it has a lot of the same species and none of the safari vehicle traffic.

The ridgetop setting is exceptional and unmatched in the Samburu region. There are numerous possibilities to interact with Samburu locals while in the conservancy.

Built into the cliffs, these opulent suites provide breathtaking views. However, the vistas extend beyond the rooms. A seemingly endless panorama is visible from the restaurant, the swimming pool, and the sundowner campfire.

9. The Lion’s Cave Camp by Samburu National Park

Made of wood, earth-colored canvas, and stone that was mined nearby, the distinctive Lion’s Cave Camp appears to be formed out of the ground itself. The entire experience consists of a blend of joyfully rustic amenities and basic, cozy quarters.

The entrance town of Archers Post and Samburu National Reserve are both near the camp. Its restaurant, public spaces, and swimming pool all aptly depict (and feel very much a part of) the untamed local environment that is so characteristic of northern Kenya. A wonderful accompaniment to your stay is the murmur of the river.

10. Surana Ashnil Buffalo Springs Camp (Reserved Forest)

The Ashnil Surana is a designer hotel with expansive views of rivers and far-off mountains, perched on a hill overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River on the Buffalo Springs side. The style is dominated by earthen walls with sensual curves, with touches of canvas and wood. Each of the rooms includes a private plunge pool and is spacious and well-lit.

A fantastic package is completed with the swimming pool, superb food, and a wonderful location in the center of Buffalo Springs, surrounded by beautiful wildlife. If you’re extremely fortunate, you may even spot a leopard or two and elephants within ten minutes’ drive from your camp.