Unveiling Kenya’s Northern Frontier: The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Samburu and Laikipia
Introduction: The Call of Northern Kenya’s Wild
While Kenya’s famous Masai Mara and Amboseli captivate many, there is a wild frontier further north that offers an even more exclusive safari experience. Stretching across Samburu and Laikipia, this lesser-explored region is a sanctuary of rugged landscapes, rare wildlife species, and ancient cultures. Here, the Samburu Special Five roam free: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich—species found nowhere else in the country.
What sets this region apart is not only its biodiversity but also its luxury safari lodges, which seamlessly blend five-star comfort with the raw beauty of the wilderness. These lodges don’t just offer safaris—they offer a gateway into a land where conservation, culture, and adventure intertwine.
In this guide, Stawi Adventures unveils the top luxury safari lodges in Samburu and Laikipia, presenting you with tailor-made safari experiences that resonate far beyond the ordinary.
Why Northern Kenya?
1. Rare Wildlife Encounters
The north is home to unique species like the Samburu Special Five, alongside lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and wild dogs. The low tourist density ensures that each sighting feels personal and special.
2. Exclusive Safari Activities
Unlike national parks, private conservancies here offer off-road driving, night game drives, walking safaris, camel treks, and horseback rides.
3. Authentic Cultural Experiences
Meet the Samburu and Maasai communities, learn about their traditions, join in their dances, or even learn warrior skills.
4. Stunning Landscapes
From semi-arid savannahs to forested highlands under Mount Kenya, the terrain is as diverse as the wildlife.
5. Conservation-Focused Tourism
Most lodges here directly support wildlife conservation, anti-poaching units, and local community development.
The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Samburu and Laikipia
1. Saruni Samburu – Kalama Conservancy, Samburu
Perched on a rocky outcrop with commanding views across Kalama Conservancy, Saruni Samburu is a masterpiece of eco-architecture and luxury. Its six open-air villas blend into the surroundings, offering panoramic vistas as far as Mount Kenya.
Key Highlights:
- Infinity pools with views over the Kalama plains.
- Samburu Warrior Academy where guests learn survival skills, tracking, and cultural traditions.
- Access to both Kalama Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve.
Wildlife Experiences:
Daily game drives and walking safaris offer encounters with elephants, big cats, and the Samburu Special Five.
Conservation Impact:
Saruni Samburu’s partnership with local Samburu communities ensures proceeds support education, healthcare, and conservation initiatives.
2. Sasaab Lodge – Westgate Conservancy, Samburu
Overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River, Sasaab Lodge features Moorish-style architecture, creating a unique fusion of African wilderness and Middle Eastern design. The nine luxurious suites offer private plunge pools and panoramic views.
Key Highlights:
- Camel safaris along riverbeds.
- Spa treatments in an open-air pavilion with views across the landscape.
- Fly camping for nights under the stars.
Wildlife Experiences:
Sightings of elephants, wild dogs, and leopards are common, along with Samburu Special Five.
Conservation Impact:
Sasaab supports local Samburu communities with education and healthcare programs while playing a vital role in Westgate Conservancy’s wildlife management.
3. Lewa Wilderness – Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Laikipia
Set within the UNESCO-listed Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Lewa Wilderness merges history, conservation, and luxury. The lodge features nine stone cottages, each overlooking the Lewa plains, home to black and white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, and more.
Key Highlights:
- Horseback safaris allowing guests to approach wildlife without the rumble of a vehicle.
- Scenic flights over Mount Kenya and the Samburu plains from the lodge’s private airstrip.
- Guided bush walks for intimate wildlife encounters.
Wildlife Experiences:
Rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and elephants dominate the landscape, alongside the Samburu Special Five.
Conservation Impact:
As one of Kenya’s most successful community-based conservancies, Lewa channels funds into anti-poaching, healthcare, education, and sustainable land use.
4. Borana Lodge – Borana Conservancy, Laikipia
Located on the Laikipia Plateau, Borana Lodge overlooks Mount Kenya and shares a fenceless border with Lewa Conservancy, creating one of Kenya’s largest rhino sanctuaries. The eight stone cottages offer luxurious privacy and incredible views.
Key Highlights:
- Horseback safaris, mountain biking, and yoga retreats.
- Rhino tracking on foot.
- Family-friendly accommodations with activities for all ages.
Wildlife Experiences:
Expect encounters with rhinos, lions, elephants, and leopards.
Conservation Impact:
Borana reinvests all profits into wildlife conservation and community projects—a leading example of sustainable tourism.
5. Ol Malo Lodge – Laikipia Plateau
Ol Malo Lodge is perched dramatically above the Laikipia plains, with stone-and-thatch cottages offering panoramic views. The lodge is family-run, creating an intimate safari atmosphere with personalized service.
Key Highlights:
- Helicopter safaris to Lake Turkana, Ololokwe Mountain, and beyond.
- Camel rides, horseback treks, and guided bush walks.
- Strong focus on Samburu cultural experiences.
Wildlife Experiences:
From elephants and giraffes to predators, enjoy wildlife sightings on foot, camel, or from the lodge.
Conservation Impact:
Ol Malo supports local Samburu projects in education and healthcare, ensuring a community-driven conservation model.
6. Sanctuary Tambarare – Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Laikipia
Located in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sanctuary Tambarare offers boutique tented accommodations amidst open plains. Guests enjoy access to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Big Five safaris.
Key Highlights:
- Rhino tracking with rangers.
- Night drives, bush walks, and horseback safaris.
- Views of Mount Kenya from camp.
Wildlife Experiences:
Home to the Big Five, including the last northern white rhinos.
Conservation Impact:
Ol Pejeta channels revenue into anti-poaching, wildlife monitoring, and community outreach.
7. Loisaba Tented Camp – Loisaba Conservancy, Laikipia
Loisaba Tented Camp sits atop an escarpment with endless views over the Laikipia plains. Its spacious tents blend modern design with natural materials. A standout feature is the Loisaba Star Beds, allowing guests to sleep under the stars.
Key Highlights:
- Star Beds—open-air platforms with luxurious beds beneath the sky.
- Camel trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and guided bush walks.
- High chances of spotting African wild dogs.
Wildlife Experiences:
Loisaba is home to lions, leopards, elephants, and the Samburu Special Five.
Conservation Impact:
Managed by the Loisaba Community Trust, ensuring all profits support local communities and wildlife protection.
Cultural Etiquette: Engaging with Samburu and Maasai Communities
- Greet respectfully: A simple “Sopa” (hello) or “Ashe oleng” (thank you) goes a long way.
- Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages.
- Ask before photographing: Always request permission.
- Engage genuinely: Show interest in their customs and stories.
- Support local crafts: Buying beadwork directly from artisans supports livelihoods.
Conservation in Action: How These Lodges Make a Difference
The lodges featured here don’t just offer luxury—they actively engage in conservation and community development:
- Anti-poaching patrols funded by tourism revenue.
- Wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration.
- Education initiatives: Many fund local schools.
- Healthcare projects: Clinics supported by lodge profits.
- Cultural preservation: Empowering Samburu and Maasai to retain traditions while benefiting from tourism.
Plan Your Northern Kenya Safari with Stawi Adventures
At Stawi Adventures, we specialize in customized luxury safaris that align with your interests. Whether you seek wildlife, culture, conservation impact, or all of the above, we craft experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Ready to explore Kenya’s northern frontier?
Contact Stawi Adventures today and let us design your tailor-made safari through Samburu and Laikipia, staying at the region’s finest lodges, meeting remarkable people, and witnessing breathtaking landscapes.
