Overview
Samburu Intrepids Camp is set beneath towering riverine acacia and doum palm trees along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the heart of Samburu National Reserve. The camp's 30 luxuriously appointed tents are raised on wooden platforms overlooking the river, where elephants come to drink, crocodiles bask on the sandy banks, and the occasional leopard pads silently through the dappled shade at dusk. Samburu is one of Kenya's most rewarding and least crowded wildlife destinations, famous for species found nowhere else in the country — the Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. The semi-arid landscape, dominated by rust-red earth and dramatic rocky outcrops, provides a striking contrast to the green southern parks and creates exceptional conditions for wildlife photography. The camp blends adventure with comfort. Days begin with early morning game drives through the reserve's varied habitats — from dense riverine forest to open scrubland where cheetah hunt. Afternoons might include a guided walk with a Samburu warrior, a visit to a traditional Samburu village, or simply relaxing by the swimming pool watching monitor lizards patrol the riverbank. As night falls, the camp's open-air restaurant serves freshly prepared meals while the sounds of the African bush provide the soundtrack.
Highlights
Quick Facts
Room Types
Food & Drink
The open-air restaurant serves buffet-style breakfast and lunch with a blend of continental and Kenyan dishes. Dinner is a set menu featuring seasonal produce, grilled meats, and fresh salads. Bush breakfasts beside the river and sundowner cocktails on the rocky outcrops can be arranged. A well-stocked bar offers wines, spirits, and freshly squeezed juices.
Things to Do
Twice-daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, guided bush walks with Samburu warriors, camel trekking excursions, Samburu cultural village visits, birdwatching along the river, sundowner excursions to scenic viewpoints, and a behind-the-scenes visit to a local wildlife conservation project.
What You'll See
Samburu is famous for the Special Five — Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich — species not found in southern Kenya. The reserve also supports lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, hippo, Nile crocodile, and wild dog. Over 450 bird species have been recorded, including vulturine guineafowl, palm-nut vulture, and golden-breasted starling.
Best Time to Visit
June to October is the peak dry season with excellent game viewing as animals concentrate along the Ewaso Nyiro River. January to February is also rewarding with warm weather and good visibility. The wet months of March to May bring lush vegetation and migratory birds, but some roads may become difficult.
