”There's something magical about Northern Kenya that few travellers ever discover. While millions make their pilgrimage to the Maasai Mara, Samburu remains one of the region's crown jewels - a place where ancient mountains touch the stars and wildlife roams freely across vast savannas. It's here, in this untamed paradise, that we're thrilled to introduce the newest member of Saruni Basecamp's portfolio: Basecamp Samburu, that opened its doors in January 2025. It's a dream we've been nurturing, and now it's ready to share its magic with you.
Tucked between two protective ridges and facing the sacred Mount Ololokwe, our intimate tented camp feels like it’s been here forever, though it’s only just begun its story. We chose this spot carefully – not just for its natural beauty, but for its unique microclimate. The ridges create a natural cooling effect that sets us apart in the Samburu heat, while the positioning captures something else entirely – a feeling that washes over you the moment you arrive. There’s a peace here that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget.
Finding Your Way Home
The journey to Basecamp Samburu is part of the adventure. As you approach the community-owned Kalama Conservancy, you’ll notice how the landscape begins to embrace you. The camp reveals itself slowly, like a well-kept secret, with each tent thoughtfully positioned to blend with its surroundings while maximizing views of the wilderness beyond.
Our Norwegian architects from Bull Arkitekter understood something essential about this place – that luxury here means something different. It’s not about glitz or glamour, but about authenticity and connection. They’ve created spaces that speak to both the adventurous spirit of safari and the rich cultural heritage of the Samburu people. You’ll find this reflected everywhere, from the warm woods and leathers in our open lounge spaces to the contemporary African art pieces that catch your eye just when you least expect them.
Your Home Under Canvas
Petitely proportioned, the lodge’s five suites give it its feeling of exclusivity – offering a rare sense of escape and opportunity for personal connection. Each of the four double tents features a thoughtfully furnished space with an ensuite bathroom and private terrace—perfect for quiet contemplation of the Samburu wilderness. The family unit offers an extra touch of luxury with two bedrooms connected by a central lounge, complete with timber doors and a pergola for added privacy.
Gazing up at a star-filled sky is one of life’s most magical experiences. Far from city lights and pollution, the African night sky offers a pristine view of the sparkling heavens above. As darkness falls, Basecamp Samburu transforms into a stargazer’s paradise. Our signature addition—two open-air Starbeds—offers an unforgettable experience beneath the African night sky. These exclusive spaces feature private jacuzzis, intimate dining arrangements, and full bathroom facilities, making them perfect for honeymooners and adventure seekers alike.
Your stargazing experience comes alive with camp manager Benson Oldapash, whose generations of Samburu astronomical knowledge illuminate the celestial wonders above. His deep understanding of traditional Samburu astrology adds a fascinating cultural dimension to each evening, as he shares ancient stories written in the stars that have been passed down through generations. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Days Filled With Wonder
As the sun peeks above the horizon and golden light bathes the camp, accompanied by birdsong, Basecamp Samburu gently comes to life. The spaces invite relaxation just as easily as they do curious observation – birds alight at the edge of the deck’s railings as baboons call out from a distance. This is a place to practice the art of being present and witness life’s small and large miracles unfolding in front of you.
While nature wakes around you, you can choose to take the day on in a number of ways: adventuring out in the wilderness with your dedicated Guide in search of the ‘Samburu Special Five (oryx, gerenuk, ostrich, Grevy’s Zebra, reticulated giraffe),’ participating in late-night stargazing sessions, joining thrilling dark-night scorpion safaris, visiting traditional Samburu villages, or simply contemplating life and your surroundings in the comfort of your tent. With private access to 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness in the Kalama Community Conservancy and the neighboring Samburu National Reserve, unforgettable game-viewing experiences await.
A Feast for the Senses
Our dining experiences at Basecamp Samburu reflect the same thoughtful approach as our accommodations. Dining is never just about the food – though our chefs might beg to differ. Our carefully crafted menus blend international cuisine with local flavors, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible. From bush breakfasts to candlelit dinners under the stars, each meal becomes a memorable part of your safari experience.
More Than Just a Safari
Basecamp Samburu represents more than just a luxury wilderness experience. When you stay with us, you’re becoming part of a story that’s bigger than a safari. Through our partnership with the Samburu community in Kalama Conservancy, we’re helping to protect not just the wildlife you’ll see, but the very future of this landscape and its people.
Nine out of ten of our team members come from nearby communities, bringing authentic Samburu culture and wisdom to every aspect of your stay. They’re not just staff – they’re your hosts, your guides, your storytellers, and by the end of your stay, your friends.
Making It Happen
You might be wondering when to visit – truth is, Basecamp Samburu has its own charm in every season. Come during the dry seasons (June to September and December to March) for classic game viewing, when animals gather around water sources. Or visit during the green seasons (April to May and October to November) to see the landscape burst into life with a vibrancy that has to be seen to be believed.
Getting here is part of the adventure, but we’ve made it simple. Daily flights from Nairobi land at Kalama Airstrip, and from there, it’s a beautiful game drive to camp. Whether you’re combining your stay with visits to our other properties or making Basecamp Samburu your exclusive destination, our team will help craft your perfect journey.
Your Journey Awaits
Some places change you. Not in big, dramatic ways, but in the quiet moments – a sunset that makes you pause, a star-filled sky that reminds you how vast the world is, a connection with someone from a completely different walk of life who somehow feels like an old friend.
That’s what we’ve created here at Basecamp Samburu. A place where luxury means having time to breathe, space to wonder, and freedom to connect – with nature, with others, and with yourself.
Ready to start your journey? We’re here to help make it happen.
Contact us: Email: reservations@sarunibasecamp.com Phone: +254 (0)796 222 555
The delicate balance between wild immersion and thoughtful comfort at Basecamp Samburu creates those soul-stirring moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home. It’s not just accommodation—it’s a gateway to reconnection with our natural world.
Your next cherished memory is just a click away…
Saruni Basecamp operates within six community-owned wildlife conservancies across Kenya, offering pioneering, ethical safari experiences deeply rooted in community-based conservation. Our business model demonstrates how tourism can directly empower environmental protection rather than simply coexist with it. As The Long Run’s first Group Member, all 13 of our properties now meet rigorous standards across Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce.
