Sasaab Camp

The Samburu National Reserve is a semi-arid ecosystem characterised by its rugged terrain, acacia woodland, and the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River.

Sasaab Camp is situated upon a rocky ridge within the Westgate Community Conservancy, which borders the reserve, affording it a commanding position with panoramic views over this critical riverine environment.

Sasaab Camp's Location and Access in Samburu

The camp's strategic location provides direct access to the prime game-viewing sectors of Samburu. Guests typically arrive via a scheduled light aircraft flight from Nairobi, a journey of approximately 90 minutes, to a local airstrip.

A guided 4x4 vehicle transfer to the camp follows, with the 45-minute drive serving as an initial game drive and introduction to the region's unique flora and fauna. Sasaab Camp's elevated position ensures privacy and acts as a natural vantage point, with the river below serving as a constant draw for the area's wildlife, including large elephant herds.

Moroccan and Swahili Architectural Style

Sasaab Camp is constructed with a distinct Moroccan and Swahili architectural influence that sets it apart from the traditional canvas-and-thatch safari aesthetic. The main lodge and guest tents feature white-washed walls, open archways, and cooling stone floors, creating a spacious and airy atmosphere that effectively mitigates the region's high daytime temperatures.

The central lodge area is open-sided, comprising a lounge, bar, and dining space that integrates naturally with the expansive terrace and main swimming pool, all oriented towards the river view.

Expansive Tented Suites at Sasaab Camp

The camp offers nine expansive tented rooms, each positioned to maximise both privacy and the view of the Ewaso Ng'iro River. These permanent structures are built on solid foundations, blending canvas walls with stone and plasterwork elements.

The sheer scale of each unit, at over 100 square metres, provides a level of private space and comfort consistent with a luxury property. The accommodation is divided between individual suites and a larger family villa.

Individual Tented Suites

Eight of the nine tents operate as vast individual suites. Each is a self-contained sanctuary with an open-plan design that connects the bedroom, living space, and bathroom. The configuration is ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking solitude and a deep connection with the surrounding wilderness, enhanced by a private veranda and plunge pool.

The Sasaab Family Villa

For families or small groups, Sasaab provides one two-bedroom family villa. This unit consists of two separate en-suite bedrooms joined by a central, private lounge and dining area. This layout provides both proximity and privacy, allowing families to enjoy the shared spaces while having their own distinct sleeping quarters, all sharing a large private veranda and swimming pool.

Suite Amenities and Design

Each guest suite contains a large bedroom with a four-poster bed, an adjoining lounge area, and a spacious, fully-equipped en-suite bathroom with both an indoor and outdoor shower. The extensive private veranda is a key design element, featuring a shaded seating area and a personal plunge pool.

These pools are not heated, as they are designed to offer a cool respite from the Samburu heat. A solar farm generates 24-hour power for the camp, and complimentary WiFi is available in every tent.

• Private plunge pool
• Spacious shaded veranda with day beds
• En-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers
• Separate lounge area
• 24-hour solar power and charging points
• Complimentary WiFi access

Safari Activities and Samburu Wildlife

Primary activities centre on morning and afternoon game drives into the Samburu National Reserve. Game drives focus on locating the region's endemic species, known as the 'Samburu Special Five': the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and the gerenuk.

Sasaab Camp also offers unique activities such as camel riding excursions along the riverbank, guided bush walks, and visits to a local Samburu community village. The camp's elevated position over the river ensures wildlife viewing is a continuous activity, and guests can frequently observe elephants, impala, and other plains game directly from their suite's veranda.

Safety Protocols in an Unfenced Setting

Sasaab is an entirely unfenced camp, designed to offer an immersive wilderness experience where wildlife moves freely through the property. This operational model necessitates strict safety protocols. Trained Samburu guides and watchmen escort guests to and from their tents after dark.

This direct interaction with the environment is a core component of the Sasaab experience. The unfenced nature and proximity to potentially dangerous wildlife mean families with young children should carefully evaluate the camp's suitability. Minimum age restrictions may apply and must be confirmed prior to booking.

Sasaab Camp at a Glance

Who Should Stay at Sasaab Camp?

Sasaab Camp is best suited for couples, honeymooners, and discerning travellers seeking a unique, high-comfort safari that deviates from the conventional. The architectural style, combined with the exclusivity afforded by the private plunge pools and vast personal suite space, creates an atmosphere of secluded luxury.

The unfenced, immersive nature of the camp, while a significant asset for adult guests, makes it a less straightforward choice for families with very young children. Its offering of alternative activities, such as camel riding and cultural visits, also appeals to repeat safari-goers looking for a more varied itinerary.