In the Maasai and Samburu language, ‘Saruni’ means ‘sanctuary’ and Saruni Samburu certainly lives up to its name. The lodge, celebrated for its innovative, eco design and its gourmet Italian-inspired cuisine, is the only camp in the Kalama Conservancy in Kenya, giving guests privacy and exclusive access to over 200,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness teeming with wildlife.
Six luxury villas sit high above the plains, heralding views over Kenya’s Northern Frontier District and Mount Kenya. Guests can enjoy panoramas from private lounges, the dining area, the two infinity pools, and the spa. The hospitality is another highlight, as are the daily interactions with Samburu warriors.
Samburu has one of the best concentrations of elephants anywhere in the world. The area around Saruni Samburu is also home to the Samburu Special Five: the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk (species that occur only in this part of the country).
Location & Getting There
Saruni Samburu is the only lodge in the Kalama Conservancy, bordering Samburu National Reserve in Kenya, with over 200,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness teeming with wildlife to explore exclusively. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi is approximately 6 hours by car. Safarilink and Air Kenya offer regular flights from Nairobi to nearby Kalama airstrip, around a 40 minute drive.
Accommodation
The innovative tiered design of the six luxury eco-villas maximizes the breathtaking views and offers absolute privacy and exclusivity. Couples, honeymooners, families - Saruni Samburu will provide an exceptional and completely personal experience. All villas have open sides to take in the incredible panoramic views. Bedrooms are spacious with ensuite baths, romantic mosquito-netting over large comfortable beds, and solid stone floors warmed by colourful rugs. Some villas feature spa-inspired bathtubs and outdoor showers, while others offer spacious living rooms, private dining areas, and outdoor fireplaces to stay warm and cosy while gazing up at the stars.
Activities
At Saruni Samburu you can participate in a wide range of diverse activities appealing to all tastes and ages. The exciting offerings have been developed in celebration of the incredible Kenyan wilderness and the unique people who call it their home. Set out on day and night game drives across the plains and to waterholes where the famous Samburu elephant, leopard, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and Grevy’s zebra gather to drink. Learn from the Samburu warrior guides who are passionate about their land and their culture, and eager to impart their customs, traditions, and ancient knowledge to guests.
Enjoy panoramas from the dining and lounge area at the lodge, the two infinity pools, or the Samburu Wellbeing Space spa. Salute the African sun with a personal yoga practice on the veranda. Go on a sacred mountain trek or view the landscape by helicopter.
Children
Children are welcome at Saruni Samburu, especially over the age of 8-10 years. Young guests will love the unique Warriors Academy, an interactive experience designed for families that allows you all to explore the wilderness, wildlife and authentic lifestyles of two of Africa’s last remaining tribes - the Maasai and the Samburu.
The tribal lands of Samburu National Park in Kenya are less frequented than the more famous Maasai Mara yet offer a completely different experience. Saruni Samburu is perched on a spectacular hilltop location with panoramic views over the yellow grass plains and red soil that typify the area. One of the highlights here is the fascinating interactions with the local Samburu - we totally recommend it.
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour holiday will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
