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Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Saruni Samburu

KSh28620
Hotel Type
Reviews 4.8
4.8/5

Description

Saruni Samburu is a luxury safari lodge located in the heart of the Kalama Conservancy in northern Kenya, near the Samburu National Reserve. The lodge offers guests an exclusive and authentic African safari experience, with stunning views of the wilderness and a range of activities to explore the local wildlife and culture.

Saruni Samburu’s six luxury, eco-chic villas are open and spacious, heralding spectacular views over Kalama Conservancy and Mount Kenya. As the only lodge in over 200,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness teeming with wildlife to explore exclusively, and guided by Samburu warriors passionate about their land and culture, the safari experience at Saruni Samburu is intimate and truly exceptional.

Guests can enjoy the vast panoramas from the dining and lounge area, the two swimming pools and the Samburu Wellbeing Space. Nearby there is a ground-level photographic hide next to a waterhole where the famous Samburu elephant, leopard, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx and Grevy’s zebra gather to drink.

The lodge is admired for its innovative, eco-chic architecture and interesting design and décor, as well as its Italian-inspired cuisine.You are guided from start to finish by Samburu warriors who are passionate about their land and their culture, learning first-hand about their fascinating customs and traditions and their ancient, local knowledge – a truly authentic experience.The vastness and purity of this landscape, combined with the untouched local culture, elegant comfort and welcoming hospitality makes for an intimate, exceptional and life-changing experience.

It is about 7 km from the Northern border of the Samburu National Reserve (accessed through the Kalama Gate). It also borders Ngutuk Ongiron to the west, Namunyak Community Conservation Trust to the north and Sera Community Wildlife Conservation to the northeast.

The lodge is designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape and is made up of six cottages and one private villa, each with its own unique style and décor. The cottages are built with local materials and feature traditional Samburu design elements, while still providing modern comforts such as en-suite bathrooms and private verandas.

Saruni Samburu offers a range of activities to guests, including game drives, guided walks, cultural visits to local Samburu villages, and bush meals. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and more, and guests have the opportunity to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.

The lodge is committed to sustainable tourism and works closely with the local community to protect the environment and support local development. It is part of the Saruni Collection, a group of luxury lodges in Kenya that are dedicated to providing exceptional service and experiences while also promoting responsible tourism practices.

How to Get to Saruni Samburu

You can drive or fly to and from Saruni Samburu. Driving from Nairobi takes approximately 5-6 hours. There are numerous flights landing at the two nearest airstrips daily on Safarilink, Air Kenya and private charters. Kalama Airstrip is just 30 minutes away from the lodge. Email us for more information.

Saruni Samburu vehicles

At Saruni Samburu we have a fleet of 4×4 Land Rovers for all game drives and transfers, which are open sided for the best game viewing, each with a canvas roof for shade. Guests share vehicles, unless Exclusive Use of a vehicle has been requested (US$350 per day)

6 Reasons to visit Saruni Samburu

WOW! Location

Saruni Samburu is located in tribal lands to the north of Samburu National Reserve. The lodge overlooks a vast private wildlife sanctuary called Kalama Conservancy, and has exclusive access to the surrounding 200,000 acres of pristine, protected wilderness.

Incredible Wildlife

The area around Saruni Samburu is teeming with wildlife – from the giant herds of Samburu elephant coming to drink at the waterholes, leopard making their lairs on rocky outcrops nearby, to endangered packs of African wild dog seen traversing the plains below the lodge. The area is also home to rare endemic species, the ‘Samburu Five’: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.

Fascinating Culture

The Samburu are the indigenous nomadic tribe and custodians of the area where the lodge is found. Guests have the unique opportunity to witness, interact with and learn from one of the oldest remaining tribes in Africa. Our guides are Samburu warriors who are professionally qualified, but more importantly, who share their authentic local knowledge, ancient traditions and customs with guests.

Innovative Eco-Design

Saruni Samburu is the first and most exclusive design lodge of its kind in Kenya. It uses eco-design in an architecturally fascinating and innovative way, where it is built into and around a giant volcanic rock face, high up with unbelievable views. It is open and spacious, blending into and becoming a part of the natural surrounding environment. It is bold, dramatic, beautiful and truly unique.

Unique Activities

At Saruni Samburu, guests can enjoy exciting, relaxing and unusual activities. From day and night drives, picnic breakfasts by the Ewaso Nyiro River or bush dinners in a dry river bed with firelight and Samburu dancers, to guided bush walks and visits to the local village and local caves featuring ancient Samburu art. Fancy something more relaxing? Hang out in our elephant-proof, ground-level photographer’s hide in front of a waterhole frequented by elephant, hyena, leopard, plentiful birdlife, and much more. Maybe lounge away your time at the infinity pools or having a massage at the Samburu Wellbeing Space, browsing around the Saruni shop and night stargazing…..days spent at Saruni Samburu are as peaceful or adventurous as you desire.

Community Focused

Saruni Samburu is the only lodge in Kalama Conservancy, and the sole source of income for the communities found in the area. Since its opening, Saruni Samburu has provided jobs, income, training and guidance for the local Samburu people in the area. Tourism directly supports conservation – by visiting Saruni Samburu, you are directly giving back to the community who protects this beautiful land, improving their quality of life, while at the same time encouraging the purpose for conservation.

Highlights
  • Stunning Wild Location
  • Complete Luxury Experience
  • Full Board Accommodation
  • Perfect for Couples and Adults
  • Game Drives opportunities

What are the 2023 Prices for Saruni Samburu?

Here are Saruni Samburu Resident Rates:

What Does PPS Mean? PPS (Per Person Sharing) means cost Per Adult when sharing the Room with another. Example KES 10,000/- PPS means, 2 Adults in 1 Room pay KES 20,000/-

Saruni Samburu Rates

Saruni Samburu Rates Standard Villa
Family Villa
(up to 4 Pax)
FB with Drinks, Package Sharing Single
Per Unit
Per Night
1st Feb 2023 – 28th Feb 2023 KES 31,580/- PPS KES 36,520/- PP KES 126,340/-
1st Mar 2023 – 31st May 2023 KES 28,620/- PPS KES 30,600/- PP KES 114,490/-
1st Jun 2023 – 30th Jun 2023 KES 31,580/- PPS KES 36,520/- PP KES 126,340/-
1st Jul 2023 – 30th Sep 2023 KES 41,450/- PPS KES 46,390/- PP KES 165,820/-

Saruni Samburu Rates/Prices (above) are in KES, Per Person (Full Board with Drinks), Per Night

Kalama Conservancy – Samburu, Mandatory Conservancy Fees (Per Day):
Adults: KES 2,320/-  PP | Children (5 – 16 years): KES 1,160/-  PP

Saruni Samburu Child Rates/Policy:
Up to 4 years, Sharing with Adults: FREE
5 – 16 years, Sharing with Adults: 50% of PPS

Saruni Samburu Rates include:
Full Board Accommodation
Soft Drinks, House Wines, Beers & select Non-luxury spirits
Shared day & night game drives in 4×4 Vehicles and Guided Bush Walks
Bush Meals, Sundowner & Picnic Excursions
1 Complimentary Back & Neck massage (30 min.) per room per stay
Warriors Academy (upon request in advance)
Return airstrip transfers
Limited Laundry Service

Saruni Samburu Rates Exclude:
Conservation Fees
Exclusive use of vehicle (US$350 per day)
Premium drinks (champagne, luxury spirits and special wines)
Additional Wellbeing Space treatments
Gratuities to staff & guides and anything of a personal nature
Temporary Flying Doctors cover
Transport & Entry fees to Reteti Elephant Sanctuary (bookable in advance)
Cultural village visits
Own private guides (contact us for rates)
Late departure fees (US$150 per adult / US$75 per child)
All statutory increases beyond our control
Any payable extra services

Expand All

Which Hotel Facilities are available for guests at Saruni Samburu?

Saruni Samburu offers a range of facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests.  Saruni Samburu provides a comfortable and luxurious experience for guests while still maintaining a connection to the local culture and environment. Some of the facilities include:

  1. Accommodation: The lodge offers six luxury cottages and one private villa, all of which are designed with traditional Samburu style and offer modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms and private verandas.
  2. Dining area: The lodge has a main dining area where guests can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the lodge's chefs.
  3. Bar: The lodge has a fully stocked bar offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
  4. Swimming pool: The lodge has a swimming pool where guests can relax and cool off during the hot afternoons.
  5. Spa: The lodge has a spa offering a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.
  6. Library: The lodge has a small library where guests can relax and read books about the local wildlife and culture.
  7. Gift shop: The lodge has a gift shop where guests can purchase locally made souvenirs, such as beaded jewelry and traditional crafts.
  8. Wi-Fi: The lodge offers Wi-Fi in the main areas of the lodge, although it may be limited due to the remote location.
  9. Laundry service: The lodge offers a laundry service for guests, which is included in the cost of the stay.
  10. 24-hour security: The lodge has 24-hour security to ensure the safety and security of guests.

Which Rooms Types are in Saruni Samburu?

Family and Single Villa

The villa has a spacious sitting and dinning area for private dinners, a large and open veranda and a fridge stocked with cold refreshments. Villa Two is Saruni Samburu’s biggest and most spacious villa, and is perfect for families or for two separate groups of guests. The beautiful uninterrupted views, outdoor showers and luxurious rooms will not disappoint. Villa Two is just a short walk down the main pathway to Kudu House, the main lodge, and is very close to the bottom infinity pool and Wellbeing Space.

Family Villa

Villa One is a large family villa with two separate en suite bedrooms joined by a spacious living room and veranda. This villa is fantastic for families with young children. The spectacular bathrooms have bath tubs and outdoor showers, the open verandah has a fire place to keep away the chill on the cool Samburu nights, and the spacious sitting and dinning area is great for private dinners. Villa One is accessible by car and is only a short walk from Kudu House, the main lodge.

What are the Foods & Drinks options at Saruni Samburu?

Saruni Samburu cater for all dietary requirements and allergies as informed prior to arrival. The cuisine at Saruni is Italian-inspired and we use fresh and local ingredients, as well as special imported products. We offer communal dining hosted by our guides and managers, however we also encourage private dining in the rooms. Meals will be organised to suit guests’ needs so there are no set times. The lodge has a daily three-course set menu. Bottled drinking water is provided in all rooms, at all meals and in all game drive vehicles. Guests also receive a personal aluminium water bottle on arrival that can be filled from various dispensers in camp.

Saruni Samburu offers a variety of food and drink options to guests during their stay.

Meals are usually served in the main dining area or in a bush setting, depending on the guest's preference. The lodge's chefs specialize in creating delicious and creative dishes that incorporate local ingredients and flavors, including traditional Samburu dishes.

Guests can enjoy a variety of breakfast options, including fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, and pancakes. Lunch is usually a light affair with salads, sandwiches, and soups, while dinner is a more formal affair with a three-course menu featuring a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. Guests can also enjoy a traditional Kenyan barbeque or "braai" under the stars.

For drinks, the lodge offers a selection of soft drinks, fresh juices, and bottled water, as well as a fully stocked bar with a range of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits. Guests can also enjoy sundowner cocktails while watching the sunset over the African wilderness.

The lodge is able to cater to guests with special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Guests are encouraged to inform the lodge in advance so that the chefs can prepare accordingly.

Which Hotel Activities are available for guests at Saruni Samburu?

Saruni Samburu offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. These activities are designed to provide guests with an authentic African safari experience and to showcase the local wildlife and culture. Some of the activities include:

  1. Game drives: Guests can embark on game drives in the Kalama Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve, accompanied by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife. The drives are conducted in 4x4 safari vehicles and provide an opportunity to see a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and more.
  2. Guided walks: Guests can take guided walks with Maasai warriors, who will provide insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as the Maasai culture and traditions.
  3. Cultural visits: Guests can visit a local Samburu village and interact with the community, learning about their daily lives, customs, and traditions. The lodge works closely with the local community to provide a responsible and sustainable tourism experience.
  4. Bush meals: Guests can enjoy a romantic and intimate dining experience in the bush, complete with a campfire and stunning views of the wilderness.
  5. Sundowners: Guests can enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over the African wilderness.
  6. Spa treatments: The lodge has a spa offering a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs.
  7. Swimming: The lodge has a swimming pool for guests to relax and cool off during the hot afternoons.
  8. Conservation activities: Guests can participate in conservation activities such as tracking wildlife, monitoring waterholes, or planting trees as part of the lodge's commitment to sustainable tourism.

These activities are included in the cost of the stay, except for spa treatments, which are available for an additional fee.

Weddings and Honeymoons at Saruni Samburu

Saruni Samburu offers a stunning setting for weddings and honeymoons, with its beautiful location in the heart of the Kenyan wilderness.  Saruni Samburu provides a breathtaking setting for weddings and honeymoons, with a range of personalized services to make the occasion unforgettable.

Weddings at Saruni Samburu can be arranged either in the main lodge or in a bush setting. The lodge can accommodate up to 16 guests, making it an ideal venue for an intimate wedding ceremony. The lodge can provide a wedding planner to help with all aspects of the wedding, from arranging the ceremony and reception to coordinating the legal requirements. The lodge's chefs can prepare a special wedding menu, and guests can enjoy traditional Maasai dances and music during the ceremony.

For honeymooners, Saruni Samburu offers a range of romantic packages to make the occasion unforgettable. Couples can enjoy private game drives, bush dinners, and spa treatments in a stunning natural setting. The lodge's honeymoon package includes a romantic bush dinner, a couples' massage, and a private sundowner with champagne.

The lodge's staff is always ready to assist with any special requests or arrangements, such as hot air balloon rides or helicopter tours. The lodge can also arrange for a photographer or videographer to capture the special moments.

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