Kenya Ultimate Highlights

Guests can enjoy morning, afternoon and all day game drives through renowned and teeming conservation areas; Kalama Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve, two fantastic habitats for African wildlife. Saruni also highly recommends night game drives in Kalama Conservancy, when nocturnal species can be encountered. This is a unique activity not permitted in the National Reserve.

Guests enjoy breakfast along the Ewaso Nyiro River and starlit dinners in a dry river bed under the vast African skies (weather permitting). Saruni loves to take guests to their secret spots for a bush dinner or for a picnic lunch that allows guests to be with elephants, waterbuck, lion, impala and the Samburu Five that stop to take water. Note – bush dinners are usually part of a group, unless the lodge can accommodate otherwise.

Saruni Samburu offers guests a unique experience for Kenya: access to an elephant-proof, open ground level hide based at a waterhole, where from both novice and professional photographers can photograph wildlife from ground level. Designed with the needs of photographers in mind, buried partially underground, located a few steps from a waterhole: the perfect spot for 'stealing' amazing images of what occurs at the well-frequented waterhole. It can have up to 8 guests inside, it has maps and books available, and bean bags for photographers. The waterhole at Saruni Samburu offers a unique opportunity to spot from very close up the elephants that come and drink its water, the fantastic birds species and the 'Samburu Five'; reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostrich and Grevy’s zebra. Being in the middle of an arid area, the hide also provides excellent opportunities to photograph from ground level and from very close up the predators of Samburu, especially lion and leopard.

Walking safaris are individually tailored to guests' interests and are set in a breath-taking landscape. Walking with the Samburu warriors out in the African bush is a fantastic experience and guests learn from their authentic local knowledge of the plants, animals and landscape, about their traditions and about their lives. Having discovered Samburu rock art in several caves nearby the lodge, Saruni includes a visit to these extraordinary archaeological sites during the bush walks.

Saruni runs the Samburu Wellbeing Space in the most serene and relaxing environment, guests enjoy massage and wellness treatments under the supervision of highly trained staff. The techniques combine sophisticated methods developed at Centro Benessere Stresa with ancient Samburu wisdom and knowledge. The Spa therapists use the Olmurmuru seedas (Albizia Harvey) to reduce muscular discomfort and pure gel from Usunguru (Aloe Kedongesis) for sun burnt areas. Among the treatments available, guests can choose between the lymphatic drainage massage, decongestive or nourishing or purifying facials, manicare, pedicare and the popular sport massage. All with an open view of Kalama Wildlife Conservancy, where elephant, kudu and giraffe roam freely.

Should it get too hot up on the hot rock - and sometimes it does - guests have the option of relaxing and taking a refreshing dip in not just one but two infinity pools! The upper infinity pool is located high on an impressive panoramic view point near to villas 5 & 6. The spectacular lower infinity pool is situated close to Kudu House (main communal area) on a rocky formation.

If guests are passionate about birds, Samburu is the perfect place to visit; not only are the species abundant but the birds can be easily spotted and photographed. Saruni's guides are birdwatchers by instinct and training and share a love for birds. Saruni's guides always carry field guides in the game drive vehicles.

The sundowner is a well-deserved drink at the end of a long day on safari to ‘salute’ the African sun as it is setting. Saruni guide's drive guests to an unforgettable panoramic viewpoint and serve guests' favourite drink along with a selection of scrumptious ‘bitings’; small snacks to whet appetites ahead of the delicious dinner which awaits.

The Warriors Academy is a special interactive safari experience with a strong educational flavour, designed especially for families with children or small groups. It is a fun learning experience, that allows families to explore not only the wildlife, but also the authentic lifestyle of one of the most well-known and culturally fascinating tribes left in Africa; the Samburu. Under the tutelage of their ‘Moran’, or warriors, participants get to know, enjoy and understand these unique people and see the Kenyan wilderness from a different perspective. Combined with regular safari activities, and tailored to guests' interests and timeframe, the Warriors Academy can last between 1-3 days, and needs to be booked in advance.

Saruni safaris are not only focused on wildlife but also on culture and people. Some call it ‘cultural tourism’. Saruni calls it ‘meet the neighbours’. Guests visit genuine Samburu villages - the lodge's neighbours and friends, and are privileged to share moments of their life. They are the ancient custodians of this land and Saruni feel it is an integral part of the overall experience for guests to see how they live, how they protect the environment and in what way they differ from other African tribes. Be prepared for the Samburu to ask questions too as they will be curious about life outside of their way of life! Consider it an exchange of ideas and information.

*Please note, this visit incurs an additional charge of US$20 per person that goes to the community directly.

Located in Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy in Samburu County of Northern Kenya, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is the first community owned and managed elephant sanctuary in Africa. The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is situated in the remote Mathews Range, among Kenya’s second largest elephant population. Similar to the world-famous Sheldrick Sanctuary in Nairobi, it takes in orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with the aim to release them back into the wild herds adjoining the Sanctuary. This excursion needs to be arranged in advance with reservations at the time of booking, or lodge management, and is payable extra.

Saruni Samburu is the perfect place if guests want to be part of an unusual but very genuine Samburu wedding ceremony. The experience can be enjoyed either by newlyweds who want to re-affirm their vows in the middle of a very spiritual land or by those who plan to actually get married in Kenya. The ceremony takes place in a Samburu village, with the participation of the elders, the women and the warriors, or on the top of a mountain overlooking the endless landscape.

These are available upon request and payable extra, with excursions to Mount Kenya, Turkana and everything in between.

As part of the guided bush walks, guests can also visit nearby mountain caves where, hundreds of years ago, the Samburu have drawn hunting scenes and animals in what the experts call ‘white rock art’. The caves evoke a past when the Samburu were mostly pastoralist warriors.

Standing proud on Saruni Samburu’s doorstep, Mount Ololokwe is the Samburu tribe’s sacred mountain. It is a pillar of cultural significance to the Samburu and an exciting trekking venture to many others. Setting off at dawn, Saruni's professional guides will accompany guests during this day’s excursion to the summit (with picturesque pit stops for breakfast and lunch) teaching guests along the way about the mountain, its cultural significance and all of its wonders.

*Please note, this trek is payable extra.

Interested in scorpions and all that lies beneath the sand, hidden away from sight? Guests can venture out on a ‘scorpion safari’ to understand the many different types of scorpion that call the earth surrounding Saruni Samburu their home. Walking shoes or boots advised!

The night skies above Saruni Samburu and the ‘hot rock’ upon which it sits are among some of the brightest and most beautiful in the world. Unpolluted and unobscured, every evening the night skies provide guests with an alternative ‘playground’.

Here in the heart of the Maasai Mara, Emboo is more than a backdrop; it’s a whole new way to feel as close as possible with nature.

Let’s dive deep into the real, raw, untouched world, far from the growl of engines and closer to the heartbeat of the earth. It’s about moments that stick with you... The lion’s roar at sunset, watching a baby elephant trying to figure out its trunk and the shared laughter because of it. It’s about the stories shared around a fire, feeling the pulse of Maasai chants and enjoying a heartily prepared dinner under a blanket of stars.

Just Chilling Credit: Emmett Sparling

Lilac Breasted Roller Credit: Emmett Sparling

Lioness and Cub Credit: Emmett Sparling

Vultures Credit: Emmett Sparling

Let's paint the sky white Credit: Emmett Sparling

Calm before the storm Credit: Emmett Sparling

Did you catch a glimpse of Emboo River's new Bush Spa and Gym, nestled between the trees and overlooking the river?

Emboo River’s Spa is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy treatments made with natural and local ingredients. 

Emboo River’s swimming pool is the perfect place to relax and cool down. The natural swimming pool uses zero chemicals. Now that's refreshing.

Having fun you said Credit: Backdrop

Goofy at the pool Credit: Brian Siambi

Massage in the WIld Credit: Backdrop

Capturing views Credit: Brian Siambi

Running Track Credit: The Backdrop

Strike a pose Credit: Backdrop

Emboo is a Maasai word that translates to a pride or a community. We are a proud member of the Maasai culture, empowering local women and men and sharing traditions. Learn survival skills, track wildlife, make fire with elephant dung, shoot a bow and arrow, and discover the power of medicinal plants. Share stories around the campfire and connect not just to the adventure around you but also to the story within you.

Stand Tall in the Wild Credit: Emmett Sparling

Beauty of Culture Credit: Emmett Sparling

Melody Tunes Credit: Emmett Sparling

Fireside Credit: Emmett Sparling

Fly Credit: Dennis Mwangi

At Emboo, eco-friendly isn’t an add-on—it’s the air we breathe, the ground we tread on, and the legacy we’re building. 100% solar-powered 24/7, farm-to-fork feasts, and more make sustainability second nature. Our solar powered vehicles take you deeper into the wild without disturbing the peace—no noise, no fumes, just pure connection to nature, maximising sightings while keeping the environment untouched.

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

The sun fuels our camp, fresh produce grows steps from your plate, and rainwater is thoughtfully used. Join our Chefs in the garden, sip fresh herbal teas and Maasai cocktails, unwind with an African botanical spa treatment, or cool off in the pool overlooking the river, plant trees. Here, nature provides, and we thrive.

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Help green the Mara—one seed at a time! Grab a slingshot, launch seedballs on your safari, and watch nature do its magic. Each ball holds an indigenous seed, ready to sprout when the time is right

Credit: Backdrop

Credit: Backdrop

Get a new perspective during a walking safaris and enjoy birdwatching, animal tracking, and the secrets of medicinal plants. Want to level up your perspective? Glide over the savanna in a hot air balloon at sunrise.

Credit: Backdrop

Meet Emboo River's night guards who safely escort you to your rooms in the evenings and who ensure that there are no unexpected encounters between animals and guests. Listen to Emboo River's guards' fascinating stories, wild adventures and join them on a short walk around the lodge when it is dark.

Starry Nights Credit: Emmett Sparling

Beautiful Nights Credit: Emboo

Let the Night Credit: Emboo

Watch the sun rise over the Maasai Mara from a hot air balloon. This magical experience takes approx. 1 hour and is followed by a breakfast in the bush.

Sunrise Credit: Samy Ghannam

Raise a glass to another beautiful sunset in the savanna.

Let's create unique memories. The Emboo River will help you create your dream ceremony in the heart of the Maasai Mara. This tailor made experience can be organised in coordination with the Emboo River team.

Emboo River has been a favourite destination for families. Our youngest guest was only 4 weeks old. For our youngest guests, we have special activities such as the below:

- Children's bush walks
- Emboo River's beach is a sandy spot along the riverbank which is perfect for a picnic lunch, playing in the shade or building sand castles 
- Arts and crafts materials and family games are available in our lounge area
- Maasai toys: make figurines from mud and twigs! If you wish to do this, please ask the team in advance.
- Maasai Warrior training, followed by a 'graduation ceremony' where new warriors get a certificate
- Safari bingo, a game to be played during drives
- The swimming pool is a major success and has a kids' section
- Nap time will be a dream in our beautiful wooden children's beds

Warrior Training Credit: Ken Lai