Wild Adventures in Samburu

Sasaab delivers a safari experience to dazzle all the senses. Perched on a hilltop above the Ewaso Nyiro River, this stunning luxury lodge offers a heavenly oasis from which to explore the rich culture and wildlife of Samburu and northern Kenya. From those seeking to feel the thrill of the wild to those searching for the ultimate soothing escape, Sasaab promises an exceptional northern safari experience for everyone.

Adventure lovers

Adventure lovers will delight in the myriad of ways to explore the wild at Sasaab. Located in Westgate Conservancy, there is diverse wildlife to spot in the area, including the ‘Samburu Special Five’ which are endemic to the region: Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk antelope, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and reticulated giraffes. Game drive, walk, ride a camel or zoom down dry riverbeds on a quad bike. Being just outside Samburu National Reserve gives the freedom to enjoy all these wild experiences and more, including night game drives and fly camping expeditions (sleep out in mozzie domes under the stars).

Listed under Magical Kenya’s signature experiences, Sasaab’s fly camping offers a real chance to disconnect, immerse yourself in nature and do something a little different. Already included in your stay, all it takes is a little forward planning to pre-book this once-ina-lifetime night in the wild, as it is subject to availability.

Game drive excursions into Samburu National Reserve are enriched by Sasaab’s specially adapted vehicles which have pull out gas stoves, allowing them to cook up the best bush breakfasts in the wild. Tuck into eggs made to order and hot pancakes, with a high chance of enjoying one of Samburu’s majestic elephant herds as part of the scenery.

Intrepid journeys

For those eager to venture as far off the beaten track as they can, it doesn’t get much better than a helicopter safari to northern Kenya. Sasaab sits on the cusp of Kenya’s vast, wild and mystic north, scattered with ancient rock art, marvellous geological formations and extraordinary landscapes few people have ever set foot on. Sasaab guests benefit from a Tropic Air helicopter stationed right at the lodge for several months of the year, meaning it’s super easy to hop on board for a life-changing trip (as described by guests who’ve experienced it). Sasaab guests save having to splurge the extra flying fees from further afield by the helicopter being at the lodge already.

Heli adventures are tailor made to suit guest’s interests. They might include touching down to discover ancient rock art; landing on top of Mount Ololokwe, the sacred Samburu mountain, for a coffee at sunrise; walking around the rim of a volcano; picnicking amongst ancient cycads in the Mathews Range; photographing the pink plumage of thousands of flamingos; or stopping to catch a fish in one of Mount Kenya’s high altitude lakes. There is so much to explore right on Sasaab’s doorstep.

Ultimate zen

The outlook from Sasaab is spectacular and a real feeling of serenity fills the air. Those seeking total relaxation might find it hard to tear themselves away from their private verandas and plunge pools overlooking the river and panoramic views beyond. For those that do, a beautifully designed spa area awaits, with expert therapists offering a range of indulgent and pampering treatments. There’s also a gym and a main lodge horizon pool. Anyone eager for a jog can do so with a Samburu guide accompanying them, which certainly makes for a unique running experience!

The wellness offerings at Sasaab extend beyond the spa and gym, with wholesome, fresh meals. Many of the ingredients use by the chefs are grown on site in an impressive organic veggie garden, which guests can take a tour of if they wish. Their daily, vibrant lunchtime salad selection perfectly suits the balmy climate.

After sunset, private roof top star beds offer an incredible way to gaze up at the thousands of stars shining in the inky sky, free from light pollution. Currently, four rooms enjoy roof top star beds, but plans to extend this to all rooms are already underway.

Culture and sustainability

As a certified Global Ecosphere Retreat, Sasaab is exemplary when it comes to safaris that make a positive impact on people and wildlife. Awarded by The Long Run and recognised as one of the highest sustainability standards in the world, GER status means that Sasaab has carved out a harmonious existence between itself as a tourist operator, the local community, wildlife conservation and safeguarding the unique culture of the Samburu people.

Sasaab exists in partnership with the local Westgate community. Guest conservancy fees support development projects in the area, and most of the lodge team are employed from the community. Additionally, The Safari Collection’s Footprint foundation supports a range of impactful health and education projects in the area. As such, people share in the benefits of tourism and are invested in protecting a core area for wildlife and managing the grazing of livestock.

This mutually beneficial partnership brings a great deal to the guest experience, as interactions with local Samburu people are not only made possible but are entirely authentic. Village visits and ceremonial experiences offer a fascinating glimpse into a unique and vanishing culture. The most recent addition is an impressive learning hub which celebrates Samburu culture and the unique geology and history of the area surrounding Sasaab. Guests can visit at any time to gain a real insight into local culture, Sasaab’s context and this area of Kenya.

Family first

As a family run safari business, The Safari Collection always enjoys welcoming families to create special safari memories of a lifetime. Children of all ages can stay at Sasaab and the Samburu guides will enthusiastically take younger guests under their wing, perhaps taking them on a nature walk around camp, showing them the ‘toothbrush’ tree or how to make a traditional bow and arrow. The kitchen team are brilliant at catering to children’s meal requests.

Sasaab has one spacious family tent with an expansive private deck and plunge pool, offering a relaxed and secluded set up for groups. The family tent also comes with exclusive use of game drive vehicle. Infants (two years and under) stay free of charge and the lodge offers a ‘baby listening’ service. However, the number of steps and steep incline of the property is worth bearing in mind if travelling with toddlers. A stunning new family suite is currently being created from the former spa and gym area (which has had an amazing upgrade) and will be ready soon, taking the current nine rooms up to eleven in total.

Good to know

Getting there: Sasaab is located in Westgate Conservancy on the edge of Samburu National Reserve. Scheduled and charter flights land at Sasaab’s private airstrip. Driving from Nairobi takes approximately 8 hours through Archer’s Post.

Rooms: Sasaab has 9 luxury ensuite tents (2 of which connect to form a spacious family suite), each with a private plunge pool and stunning outlook.

How to get there

Experience: Accommodation is full board and most activities are inclusive. Day and night game drives, sundowners and bush breakfast excursions, nature walks, camel walks and cultural experiences are all included. Fly camping is included but must be pre-arranged at the time of booking. Helicopter trips, quad bikes and spa treatments are extra.

Cost: from $999 per person per night.

How to book: Sasaab can be booked directly through The Safari Collection.

Fly to Sasaab Airstrip with AirKenya.

AirKenya flies daily to Samburu (Sasaab, Kalama and Buffalo Springs) from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.