Established in 2002, this 49,000-hectare reserve is a member of the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), an umbrella organization dedicated to safeguarding Kenya’s rangelands. Owned and managed by the indigenous Samburu people, Kalama Conservancy serves as a vital wildlife corridor, enabling the free movement of large herds of elephants and other wildlife migrating between Samburu and Marsabit. This spectacular region, marked by its acacia-grassland mosaics and dramatic upland forests, is not just a haven for wildlife but also a living, breathing cultural tapestry woven by the pastoral Samburu tribes.
Read MoreKalama Conservancy
Nestled within the vast and rugged landscapes of northern Kenya, Kalama Conservancy stands as a testament to the power of community-driven conservation.
What Makes Kalama Conservancy Special?
Exclusivity
With only two properties within its 49,000 hectares, Kalama Conservancy offers a truly exclusive safari experience, ensuring privacy and a deeper connection with nature.
Dramatic Landscapes
Kalama Conservancy is renowned for its breathtaking views, featuring dramatic hills and iconic landmarks like Mount Kenya and Mount Ololokwe. These majestic landscapes paint the horizon in mesmerizing hues, creating a tranquil and almost hypnotic effect.
Rich Wildlife
The conservancy is a crucial migratory corridor for elephants and is home to the Samburu Special Five: reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the long-necked gerenuk. With over 200 bird species and regular leopard sightings, Kalama is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Cultural Immersion
The Samburu, known as the butterfly people, are deeply connected to the land and their traditions. Visitors have the unique opportunity to engage with the Samburu people, learn about their conservation efforts, and experience their vibrant culture.
Proximity to Samburu National Reserve
Located close to the Samburu National Reserve, Kalama Conservancy provides easy access to even more wildlife experiences, enhancing the overall safari adventure.
Where to Stay in Kalama Conservancy
Saruni Samburu
This lodge boasts an extraordinary location atop the Kalama Mountains, offering sweeping views of the plains below and Mount Kenya in the distance. Saruni Samburu provides a perfect blend of big game encounters, relaxation, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences that embody the essence of Samburu.
Basecamp Samburu
Opening January 2025
Featuring the first star beds in our portfolio, Basecamp Samburu elevates the safari experience with the opportunity to sleep under the starlit skies, immersing guests in the romance and adventure of the African wilderness. This property promises a dynamic and sustainable travel experience that captures the spirit of Kalama’s dramatic landscapes.
Things to Do at Kalama Conservancy
Game Drives
Enjoy day and night game drives through Kalama’s growing wildlife populations, or explore the nearby Samburu National Reserve for extended safari adventures.
Guided Bush Walks
Experience the wilderness up close with guided bush walks, offering a deeper connection to the natural surroundings.
Visit Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
Observe the inspiring efforts of Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, where orphaned calves are rescued, rehabilitated, and released, making a positive impact on both wildlife and the local community.
Underground Photographic Hide
Capture intimate wildlife moments from a unique underground hide overlooking a waterhole.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
Engage with Samburu traditions through activities like the Warriors Academy or visits to local villages, witnessing firsthand the vibrant cultural heritage of the region.
Stargazing Safaris
Kalama is famed for its clear night skies, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities. Enjoy the romance and wonder of a stargazing safari, making the most of the pristine, unpolluted skies above Samburu.
