Saruni Samburu

Nestled on a rocky outcrop in the Kalama Conservancy, Saruni Samburu is a luxury safari lodge that combines stunning architecture with an intimate connection to the wild. Opened in 2008, this lodge has quickly become synonymous with high-end safari experiences, offering guests panoramic views of the Samburu landscape, the distant Mount Kenya, and a direct link to the vibrant wildlife below.

The lodge’s design is a masterclass in blending with nature, with the main lounge and dining area, Kudu House, opening up to reveal the wilderness in a dramatic fashion. The decor reflects a blend of African and Arab influences, with clean, whitewashed spaces, Persian rugs, and terracotta pots, creating an ambiance that’s both tranquil and luxurious.

From the comfort of the lodge, guests can engage with the environment through expansive windows or from the comfort of outdoor seating, where the line between indoors and out blurs. Saruni Samburu isn’t merely a place to sleep; it’s an invitation to live amidst nature, with every villa designed to offer privacy, comfort, and a connection to the surrounding beauty.

Location:

Situated in the exclusive Kalama Conservancy, Saruni Samburu provides access to some of the best wildlife viewing in Kenya. The conservancy allows for off-road game drives, offering a quieter, more intimate experience with nature. The lodge is also within reach of the Samburu National Reserve, known for its unique species and dense wildlife population.

The journey to Saruni Samburu can be made by air, with flights from Nairobi landing at a nearby airstrip, or by a scenic road trip from Nairobi, which takes approximately 6 hours.

Accommodation:

Saruni Samburu offers six distinctive villas:

• Single Villas:
  • Honeymoon Villa (#5): Offers an unparalleled romantic setting with one bedroom, a spacious living area, and a verandah with breathtaking views.
  • Villa #3: Provides similar luxury, adaptable for different bed configurations, ensuring comfort for couples or solo travelers.
• Family Villas:
  • Villas #1a-1b & #4a-4b: Ideal for families or groups, featuring two en-suite bedrooms around a central lounge.
  • Villas #2a-2b & #6a-6b: Offer flexibility as they can be booked together or separately, each with two bedrooms and shared living spaces.

Features of the villas include:

• Aesthetic: Stone structures with open fronts, canvas and netting for privacy at night.
• Comfort: Wrought-iron beds, standing fans, and elegant furnishings.
• Bathrooms: Large, with both indoor and outdoor shower options, offering luxury with a view.

Amenities:

Saruni Samburu enriches your stay with:

• Culinary Experience:
  • Dining: From Italian-inspired dishes to bush breakfasts, dining is an event with a choice of settings.
  • Meal Styles: Enjoy communal dining or private meals in your villa.
• Relaxation:
  • Pools: Two infinity pools for relaxation, one with a spectacular view from the lodge’s highest point.
  • Spa: A haven for relaxation with treatments that bring a touch of Italian spa luxury.
• Adventure and Culture:
  • Game Drives: Explore the conservancy’s exclusivity or the reserve’s abundance.
  • Cultural Immersion: Interact with the Samburu people, learning about their traditions.
  • Nature and Hiking: Including challenging hikes like Ololokwe for the adventurous.
• Conservation and Community:
  • Local Shop: Supporting the local community through sales of handcrafted items.
  • Conservation Involvement: Saruni Samburu’s operations directly contribute to community conservation efforts.