Ashnil Samburu Camp: Your Ultimate Samburu Safari Escape
Nestled along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Kenya’s dramatic northern frontier, Ashnil Samburu Camp offers an exceptional safari experience that blends luxury, comfort, and wildlife viewing. This premium tented camp, operated by the renowned Ashnil Hotels group, provides refined accommodations amid dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife opportunities.
It has earned recognition as one of Kenya’s premier safari destinations. Travel+Leisure named it No.1 in 2024.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a honeymooning couple, or a family seeking adventure, Ashnil Samburu Camp delivers an authentic immersion into the heart of Samburu’s unique ecosystem.
Prime Location: Where the Wild Things Are
Ashnil Samburu Camp is strategically positioned within the Buffalo Springs National Reserve, with the iconic Ewaso Nyiro River flowing between it and the renowned Samburu National Reserve. This riverside location is nothing short of spectacular—the permanent water source attracts an abundance of wildlife, offering guests front-row seats to nature’s drama.
The camp’s location provides a stunning backdrop of Mount Ol Olokwe and is just a short drive from the Samburu National Reserve Uaso Gate. Nearby landmarks include:
- Buffalo Springs National Reserve – 0.1 km
- Ngiro Bridge – 12.2 km
- Samburu National Reserve – 21.3 km
- Shaba National Reserve – 22.1 km
[Internal Link: Compare this prime location with other Samburu accommodations like Samburu Sopa Lodge and Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp]
Accommodation: Luxury Tents with a View
Ashnil Samburu Camp features 30 spacious luxury tents, each elevated on sturdy wooden platforms and designed to blend comfort with authentic safari ambiance. Accommodation options include:
- 18 double-bed tents
- 9 twin-bed tents
- 3 triple-bed tents
Each tent boasts an en-suite bathroom, dressing area, lounge space, and a private deck overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River. It is the perfect spot for watching elephants, baboons, and other wildlife gather at the water’s edge. Guests consistently praise the comfortable beds and spacious interiors. Some tents would benefit from updates, according to guests.
[Internal Link: Explore more accommodation options at Ashnil Mara Camp and Ashnil Aruba Lodge]
The Wildlife: Seeking the Samburu Special Five
The Samburu ecosystem is home to some of Kenya’s most rare and extraordinary wildlife. Unlike the more famous Masai Mara, Samburu offers the chance to spot the legendary “Samburu Special Five”:
- Reticulated Giraffe – with its striking, geometric coat pattern
- Grevy’s Zebra – the largest and most endangered wild equid
- Beisa Oryx – with its distinctive long, straight horns
- Somali Ostrich – characterized by its blue neck and legs
- Gerenuk – the “giraffe-necked” antelope known for standing on hind legs to feed
With over 400 bird species recorded in the area, the camp is also a paradise for birdwatchers.
Find out more about the Samburu Special Five and where to spot them on our Samburu safari packages
Activities and Experiences
Game Drives
The camp offers twice-daily game drives—morning and afternoon—led by passionate, experienced guides who know the terrain and wildlife patterns intimately. These excursions explore both Buffalo Springs Reserve and the adjacent Samburu National Reserve.
Guided Nature Walks
For a more intimate bush experience, guided nature walks allow guests to discover the smaller wonders of the ecosystem—from fascinating insects to medicinal plants—while walking alongside experienced trackers.
Cultural Visits
Engage with the local Samburu community and learn about their traditional way of life, ancient customs, and enduring connection to the land.
Bush Dinners and Sundowners
The camp offers spectacular bush dining under the African night sky and sundowner experiences with breathtaking sunset views over the savanna.
Dining and Facilities
The camp’s restaurant offers river views and serves a diverse menu of Oriental, traditional, and international cuisine, with personalized table service and special dietary accommodations available.
Additional facilities include:
- Outdoor swimming pool with river views
- Comfortable lounge and bar area
- Conferencing facilities and business centre
- Infirmary with a nurse
- Laundry services
- Massage services (additional cost)
Discover the dining experiences at Ashnil Mara Camp and Surana Buffalo Springs
Ashnil Samburu Rates and Seasons
Ashnil Samburu Camp offers excellent value for a luxury safari experience. Rates are seasonal:
| Season | Dates | Half Twin (USD) | Single (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | 15 Jul – 30 Sept | 317 | 475 |
| Festive | 21 Dec – 2 Jan, 29 Mar – 1 Apr | 289 | 433 |
| High | 3 Jan – 28 Mar, 16 Jun – 14 Jul, 1 Oct – 20 Dec | 220 | 330 |
| Low | 1 Apr – 15 Jun (excl. Easter) | 141 | 141 |
Child rates:
The camp’s game package includes airstrip transfers and two game drives per person per night.
Getting There
Access to Ashnil Samburu Camp is available via:
- Flight: Scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu Airstrip (approximately 1 hour), followed by a camp transfer
- Road: Scenic 5–6 hour drive from Nairobi through Kenya’s breathtaking countryside
[Internal Link: Combine your Samburu safari with a visit to our sister camps: Ashnil Mara Camp and Ashnil Aruba Lodge]
Why Choose Ashnil Samburu Camp?
- Prime riverside location with exceptional wildlife viewing
- Excellent value for luxury tented accommodation
- Access to the unique Samburu Special Five
- Professional, passionate guides
- Family-friendly with dedicated children’s activities
- Rated among Kenya’s best by Travel+Leisure
Plan Your Safari with Beyond Kenya Safaris
At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we specialize in crafting unforgettable Kenya safari experiences. Ashnil Samburu Camp is a featured property in our carefully curated portfolio, offering exceptional wildlife encounters and warm Kenyan hospitality.