web analytics
Eco-lodge on stilts with thatched roofs connected by wooden walkways, nestled in a lush hillside forest.

Ithumba Camp –

A Luxurious self-catering retreat

Experience the Heart of Elephant Conservation in Tsavo East National Park

Hidden deep within the remote wilderness of northern Tsavo East National Park, Ithumba Camp is one of Kenya’s most extraordinary safari destinations. Owned and operated by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, this exclusive eco camp offers visitors an authentic wilderness experience while providing rare access to one of Africa’s most successful elephant rehabilitation programmes.

Unlike traditional safari lodges, Ithumba Camp allows guests to become part of an inspiring conservation story. Every stay directly supports the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating and rewilding orphaned elephants, while protecting thousands of square kilometres of Kenya’s wildlife habitats.

For travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari filled with meaningful wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery and exceptional conservation experiences, Ithumba Camp is one of Kenya’s hidden gems.

See our best Safari Itinerary to Ithumba camp

Where is Ithumba Camp?

Ithumba Camp is situated in the rugged northern sector of Tsavo East National Park, one of the largest protected wildlife areas in Africa. This remote landscape is characterised by rolling hills, ancient lava flows, rocky kopjes, expansive savannahs and iconic baobab trees.

Its isolation is one of its greatest attractions. Far from busy tourist routes, guests enjoy a peaceful safari experience surrounded by untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife.

The camp also enjoys privileged proximity to the Ithumba Reintegration Unit, where orphaned elephants gradually transition back into the wild after spending their early years at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Nairobi Elephant Nursery.

A Camp Built Around Conservation

Ithumba Camp is unlike any other safari accommodation in Kenya.

Rather than focusing solely on luxury, the camp was created to support conservation and provide visitors with an opportunity to witness the remarkable journey of rescued elephants as they regain their independence.

Revenue generated through guest stays helps fund:

By choosing Ithumba Camp, every guest contributes directly to preserving Kenya’s wildlife heritage.

Accommodation at Ithumba Camp

Designed to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings, Ithumba Camp offers a relaxed and intimate safari atmosphere.

The camp accommodates a limited number of guests, ensuring privacy, personalised service and an exclusive wilderness experience.

Each spacious cottage features:

The open-plan architecture allows cooling breezes to circulate naturally while offering spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.

Ithumba Camp 2026 Rates

Non Resident Rates for Self Catering in US$

No of GuestPer night in US$
1-6 guests                                 2,668 Per Night for entire Property
7 guest                                 3,045 Per Night for entire Property
8 guests 3,480 Per Night for entire Property

Tsavo East national Park Entry Fees are extras and payable per person per night

Self-Catering at Ithumba Camp

Unlike traditional safari lodges operating on a full-board basis, Ithumba Camp offers a unique self-catering experience, giving guests complete flexibility over their meals while still enjoying the support of an experienced camp team.

Guests bring their own groceries, while the camp provides a professional chef and support staff who prepare, serve and clean up after every meal. This arrangement allows visitors to enjoy freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and dinners without the hassle of cooking during their safari.

Whether you prefer simple family-style meals or more elaborate menus, the camp chef will prepare your chosen dishes using the ingredients you provide.

Beyond Kenya Safaris Shopping & Menu Planning Service

At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we make planning a self-catering safari effortless.

Before your departure, we liaise directly with the chef at Ithumba Camp to prepare a personalised menu based on your preferences, dietary requirements and the duration of your stay. From this menu, the chef prepares a detailed shopping list, ensuring you purchase only the ingredients required for your holiday.

Upon your arrival in Nairobi, our team assists you with shopping at carefully selected supermarkets, helping you source quality ingredients quickly and efficiently before your journey to Tsavo.

This personalised service removes the guesswork from self-catering and allows you to relax, knowing everything has been carefully organised before you reach camp.

Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or have specific dietary preferences, we work closely with the camp team to ensure your meals are tailored to your needs.

Our menu planning and shopping assistance is one of the many ways Beyond Kenya Safaris provides a seamless and stress-free Sheldrick Wildlife Trust safari experience.

Meet the Famous Ithumba Elephants

One of the biggest reasons travellers choose Ithumba Camp is the opportunity to observe the remarkable elephant reintegration programme.

Many of the elephants living around Ithumba were rescued as tiny calves after losing their mothers to drought, poaching or human-wildlife conflict.

Following years of dedicated care in Nairobi, they now live largely independent lives while voluntarily returning to the reintegration unit each day for supplementary feeding and interaction with their keepers.

Guests often witness:

These encounters provide an extraordinary insight into one of the world’s most successful wildlife rehabilitation programmes.

Wildlife Around Ithumba Camp

The northern Tsavo ecosystem supports an impressive diversity of wildlife.

During game drives, guests may encounter:

Birdwatching at Ithumba:-Northern Tsavo is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Over 500 bird species have been recorded within the greater Tsavo ecosystem.

Regular sightings include:

Photographers will find exceptional opportunities throughout the year.

Activities at Ithumba Camp

Guests staying at Ithumba Camp can enjoy a variety of unique safari experiences.

Photography Opportunities

Ithumba Camp is a dream destination for wildlife photographers.

Highlights include:

The combination of natural light, uncrowded game viewing and remarkable conservation stories creates outstanding photographic opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Ithumba Camp

Ithumba Camp is open throughout the year.

Getting to Ithumba Camp

Guests can reach Ithumba Camp by:

Beyond Kenya Safaris can arrange all transport, including flights, transfers and combined itineraries.

Combine Ithumba Camp with Other Destinations

Many visitors combine Ithumba Camp with:

These combinations create unforgettable safari holidays showcasing Kenya’s extraordinary diversity.

Why Stay at Ithumba Camp?

There are many excellent safari lodges in Kenya, but few offer an experience as meaningful as Ithumba Camp.

Reasons to stay include:

Frequently Asked Questions

Book Your Ithumba Camp Safari with Beyond Kenya Safaris

At Beyond Kenya Safaris, we specialise in tailor-made conservation safaris that showcase Kenya’s most inspiring wildlife experiences. Whether you’re planning a dedicated Sheldrick Wildlife Trust itinerary or combining Ithumba Camp with destinations such as Amboseli, Samburu, Laikipia or the Maasai Mara, our team will design a personalised safari that matches your interests, travel style and budget.

Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today to begin planning your unforgettable journey to Ithumba Camp—where every stay contributes to the protection of Kenya’s elephants and the preservation of one of Africa’s greatest wilderness areas.

More of Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Kenya