
Sasaab Lodge: A Moroccan-Inspired Oasis in Samburu’s Wild Heart
Location: Westgate Community Conservancy, Samburu, Kenya
Accommodation Type: Luxury Tented Lodge
Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, families (children 6+), and discerning travellers seeking exclusivity, culture, and adventure.
Overview
Perched high above the Ewaso Nyiro River, Sasaab Lodge is among Kenya’s most striking safari retreats.The Lodge blends adventure, cultural immersion, and serenity within Samburu’s rugged landscape.
A member of The Safari Collection, Sasaab is renowned for its exceptional service and its commitment to the local community and environment is equally strong.
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The Architecture: A Fusion of Africa and Morocco
Sasaab stands out for its unique architectural style. The lodge blends traditional Swahili design with exotic Moroccan influences. The main ‘souk-style mess building features high thatched roofs, whitewashed stone floors, Arabic arches, and colorful, comfortable seating. This aesthetic carries into the guest tents, creating a sense of elegant, exotic escapism amidst the wilderness.
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The Accommodation: Suites of Spacious Luxury
Sasaab’s accommodations are superb and highly regarded. The lodge has nine or eleven spacious suites, depending on configuration, each covering over 100 square meters. The luxury canvas tents are designed for privacy and provide a private sanctuary.
Luxury Suite Features:
- Four-Poster Zanzibari Beds: For a touch of romance and colonial elegance.
- En-Suite Bathrooms: With stylish rain showers.
- Private Plunge Pools: A private oasis to cool off in the heat of the day while watching wildlife.
- Rooftop Stargazing Beds: A unique feature where you can sleep under the vast, star-filled Samburu sky.
- Lounge Areas & Verandas: Providing ample space to relax and take in the uninterrupted views of the river and the Laikipia Plateau
Family Suites
For families or groups of friends, Sasaab offers two unique two-bedroom Family Suites: the Riverside Family Suite (Tents 8 & 9) and the Poolside Family Suite (Tents 10 & 11). These suites feature two en-suite bedrooms connected by a shared lounge area, a private deck, and a plunge pool. Guests staying in the Family Suites enjoy the benefit of an exclusive-use safari vehicle.
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The Setting: A Wildlife Haven for Sasaab Lodge,camp
Sasaab Lodge,camp is situated in the Westgate Community Conservancy, bordering both the Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves. This location offers exceptional access to the region’s unique wildlife. Additionally, it is famous for the Samburu Special Five: the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich. Large herds of elephants are common, often coming down to the river below the lodge. The area is also a critical habitat for predators like lion, leopard, and cheetah.
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Experiences and Activities
Experience & Highlights at Sasaab Lodge
Sasaab offers a diverse and enriching array of activities, led by knowledgeable Samburu guides.
- Game Drives:-Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Westgate Conservancy, Samburu National Reserve, and Buffalo Springs in search of the unique northern species and a thriving population of big cats
- Camel Safaris:-Experience the bush from a different perspective on a camel ride. For the adventurous, you can even trek to a “fly camp” for a night or two, sleeping under the stars in a mobile expedition camp
- Cultural Encounters:-A stay at Sasaab offers meaningful interactions with the local Samburu community. Guests can visit nearby villages, learn about traditional customs, or attend a local market day (particularly vibrant on Wednesdays and Thursdays)
- Quad Biking:-For a thrilling change of pace, explore the conservancy on a quad bike excursion
- Spa, Fitness & Infinity Pool:-After a day of adventure, unwind at SpaSaab, the lodge’s riverside spa. Relax by the stunning main infinity pool overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River, or maintain your fitness routine at the gymnasium
- Fly Camping & Bush Dining:For the ultimate immersive experience, try fly camping under the stars. Bush breakfasts, sundowners at a scenic rock, and elegant al fresco dining are all part of the Sasaab experience
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Commitment to Sustainability
Sasaab is deeply integrated with its local environment. The lodge is an active supporter of local projects like Uaso Lions, which works to foster peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife. It also employs staff from the local community and operates a kitchen garden (“shamba”) to provide fresh, sustainable ingredients for its meals
Additionally, Sasaab Lodge,camp offers unique experiences.
A Brief Note on Sasaab’s Sister Properties
Sasaab Lodge is a flagship property of The Safari Collection. Its sister camps offer equally extraordinary experiences in different ecosystems across Kenya. For a comprehensive Kenyan safari, Sasaab is often paired with these properties to provide a diverse and complete journey.
Giraffe Manor, Nairobi
Perhaps The Safari Collection’s most famous property, Giraffe Manor is an iconic, historic hotel in the suburbs of Nairobi. It is world-renowned for its resident herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, which often pop their heads into the windows to greet guests during breakfast, offering a magical start to any safari
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Solio Lodge, Laikipia
Located in the private Solio Game Reserve, this lodge is at the heart of one of Kenya’s most successful rhino sanctuaries. It offers a starkly different landscape to Samburu’s arid plains and is the premier destination for seeing both black and white rhino in a spectacular, mountainous setting.
Sala’s Camp, Maasai Mara
Situated in the private Mara Naboisho Conservancy on the edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Sala’s Camp offers an intimate, authentic safari experience. This area is famous for its exceptional predator sightings and, during the Great Migration (July–October), the chance to witness the dramatic river crossings of wildebeest and zebra.
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Beyond Kenya Safaris’ Experience
Combining Sasaab with one or more of its sister camps lets guests experience Kenya’s diverse landscapes, from Giraffe Manor’s city-fringe magic to Laikipia’s rhino-rich plains, Samburu’s unique northern species, and the Maasai Mara’s big cats. This creates a seamless, world-class safari experience that showcases Kenya’s wildlife and luxury hospitality at its best.
Why Choose Sasaab Lodge?
- Exclusivity & Luxury: One of the most beautiful and premium properties in Kenya.
- Unique Setting: High above the river, offering spectacular views.
- Exceptional Wildlife: Home to the rare “Samburu Special Five”.
- Rich Culture: Deep and respectful engagement with the local Samburu community.
- Diverse Activities: Beyond game drives, enjoy camel rides, quad biking, spa treatments, and cultural visits.
Sasaab Lodge is more than just a safari camp; it is a destination in itself—a place of breathtaking beauty, profound peace, and unforgettable adventure in the heart of Samburu.
What Makes Sasaab Special
- Location: Perched above the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, in the heart of Samburu land, within the Westgate Community Conservancy. You get breathtaking views across the river, over semi-arid bush, all the way to the Laikipia Plateau and Mount Kenya.
- Architecture & Style: The lodge is built with local materials, featuring a Moroccan influence — large thatched roofs, canvas walls, open plan verandas, star beds, airy open-air bathrooms, cooling design to manage the heat during the day.
- Rooms & Suites: Nine luxury suites (seven individual, one family unit), each over 100 m², with private plunge pools, large en-suite bathrooms, semi-open design, wonderful river views. The family unit connects two bedrooms via a shared lounge and has its own pool. Some rooms feature rooftop beds for stargazing.
Practical Information & Useful Details
- Getting There
• By air: about 1–1.5 hour flight from Nairobi to either the Samburu or Sasaab airstrip; charter flights possible. — perfect for combining with Lewa House in Laikipia
• By road: scenic drive from Nairobi (~6-8 hours depending on route and road condition) through changing landscapes—from the slopes of Mt Kenya into the Northern Frontier District. - Accommodation & Room Types
• Total capacity: up to 18 guests. Nine suites: seven individual + one family unit (two inter-connected rooms).
• All rooms have private plunge pools, open verandas, large en-suite bathrooms, spectacular views. Some offer rooftop beds. - Best Time to Visit
The dry seasons are ideal for game viewing: around June to October and December to February. However, the semi-arid region offers good visibility and wildlife action nearly year round; animals congregate around the river, birds are active, landscapes dramatic. Note: the lodge closes for a short period (mid-November in some years) for maintenance. - Stays, Rates, Booking
Minimum stay is usually two nights. Suite rates vary by season. Park & conservancy fees are additional. For exclusive use, or private vehicles, prior request required (especially for family suites or special excursions). - Guest Considerations
Elegant but rustic — canvas and thatch mean some exposure; the heat in afternoons is managed by design but still noticeable. Some walking and adventure activities require moderate fitness. Young children accommodated (family unit), but some room locations are steep, so let the lodge know about mobility constraints. For a dedicated family safari option, explore El Karama Lodge in Laikipia
Ready to Go!
Ready to experience Kenyan wilderness from a vantage most never see? Book your stay at Sasaab Lodge Samburu — where elephants roam below your suite, Samburu warriors share their stories, and every sunrise brings the drama of wild Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions – Sasaab Lodge Samburu
1. Where exactly is Sasaab Lodge located?
Sasaab sits in the Westgate Community Conservancy, on a ridge above the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu, northern Kenya. It overlooks Mount Kenya and is close to Samburu National Reserve.
2. What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll see elephants daily along the river, as well as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the Samburu “Special Five” — Reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and Gerenuk.
3. What activities are available besides game drives?
In addition to game drives, guests can enjoy camel rides, quad biking, fly camping, river walks, and cultural visits. Sasaab is also known for wellness experiences at SpaSaab and stargazing from rooftop beds.
4. How do I get to Sasaab Lodge?
Guests can fly from Nairobi to Samburu or Sasaab airstrip (about 1–1.5 hours), or drive 6–8 hours via Laikipia. Many travelers combine Sasaab with Lewa House in Laikipia or the Masai Mara Adventure Safari
5. Is Sasaab suitable for families?
Yes. The lodge has a dedicated family suite with two bedrooms, a shared lounge, and private pool. For families seeking even more child-friendly safari options, we recommend El Karama Lodge in Laikipia.
6. When is the best time to visit?
Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round thanks to the river, but the dry seasons (June–October and December–February) are especially rewarding.
Bucket List Safari
The magic of a Kenyan safari doesn’t end with Sasaab. The Safari Collection is the proud owner of six distinct camps and lodges in some of Kenya’s most spectacular locations, including Giraffe Manor and The Retreat in Nairobi, Sala’s Camp in the Masai Mara, Sasaab in Samburu, Solio Lodge in Laikipia and Siruai Mobile Camp
| Per Child Rate | US$ 845 | |
| Per Child Sharing (in an extra bed aged 3yrs to 11yrs inclusive) | US$ 622 | |
| Single Room | US$ 1,859 |
Sasaab Rates
| The Season: 01-5 January 2026 ,01 June 2026 – 31 October 2026 / 16-31 December 2026 | ||
| Family Suite | RATE | |
| Minimum Room Rate (based on up to 2 adults & 2 children sharing) | Fully Inclusive | US$ 6,282 |
| 3rd Child Rate (3yrs to 15yrs inclusive) | US$ 974 | |
| 4 Adults Sharing Rate | US$7,411 | |
| Per Adult Sharing in an extra bed | US$ 1,852 | |
| All Other Suites | RATE | |
| Per Person Sharing | Fully Inclusive | US$ 1,852 |
| Per Child Rate | US$ 1,288 | |
| Per Child Sharing (in an extra bed aged 3yrs to 11yrs inclusive) | US$974 | |
| Single Room | US$ 2,635 | |
| Saving Season:06 January – 31 May 2026 / 01 November-15 December 2026* | ||
| Family Suite | RATE | |
| Minimum Room Rate (based on up to 2 adults & 2 children sharing) | Fully Inclusive | US$ 4,520 |
| 3rd Child Rate (3yrs to 15yrs inclusive) | US$ 622 | |
| 4 Adults Sharing Rate | US$ 5,319 | |
| Per Adult Sharing in an extra bed | US$ 1,329 | |
| All Other Suites | RATE | |
| Per Person Sharing | Fully Inclusive | US$ 1,329 |
| ADDITIONAL RATES | |||
| Professional Guide Room Per Person Per Night Exclusive of Park & Conservation Fees | US$ 170 | ||
| Park & Conservation Fees (Samburu Park & Westgate Conservation Fees) | Adult | 85 & 75 | US$ 160 |
| Child | 50 & 37.5 | US$ 87.50 | |
| Exclusive Use of Vehicle Per Day | US$ 490 | ||
| Samburu Cultural Experience (Either the Women’s Ntorosi celebration or a Warrior Dance. Please note, this is at the discretion of the local community, with prior arrangement only and subject to weather.) | US$ 350 | ||
| Extra Lunch per person | US$ 46 | ||
| Quad Bike Excursions | US$ 35 Perpersonperhour | ||
RATES INCLUDE:-All meals and drinks including house wines, beers and spirits; game drives, bush meals and sundowners; guided walks; camel walks; airstrip transfers; fly camping (by prior arrangement and can involve exclusive vehicle hire at US$ 490 per day); laundry, Samburu manyatta visit, community project, school and market day visits (the latter two may involve exclusive vehicle hire).
RATES EXCLUDE Champagne, luxury spirits, selected wines, cigars, tips, travel & emergency evacuation insurance, treatments in Spasaab, quad bikes and personal effects.
CHILDREN:-Children are ages 3 to 15 years inclusive. 16 years and over is an adult. 2 years and under is an infant. Infants stay FOC. Extra beds are available on request. We recommend parents book the family suite (rooms 8 & 9), as it has a shared central area and pool where families can enjoy time together. It can also be taken as an exclusive use villa, as it has separate access and in-room meals can be provided. Local Samburu guides speak excellent English and are delighted to teach children about their culture, such as making a traditional bow and arrow. Baby-listeners and special meals are by prior arrangement.
The child rate is based upon the following instances:
- Two children sharing a room (rate applies to each child)
- A child sharing with one adult.
The child sharing in an extra bed rate is based upon the following instances:
- A child (or children if more than one extra bed is needed, aged 3yrs to 11yrs inclusive) sharing a room with two others (whether it be adults or children) on an extra bed. This is a third person rate for children.
Notes
- CHECK OUT Guests need to be out of their rooms by 10:00 am, although they can continue to use the rest of the lodge facilities. Please note that extra lunches are charged at US$ 46 per person.
- CLOSURE:-Sasaab is closed from 16 November to 30 November 2025 inclusive. These dates are subject to change and there is flexibility with closure dates. Please contact reservations for more information.
- GUIDE RATE:-This rate is for a guide to stay in a guide room fully inclusive of meals and drinks at the lodge.
- GAME DRIVES Guests staying in one of our Family Suites (rooms 8 & 9 or rooms 10 & 11) have exclusive use of a vehicle. Guests staying in all other suites will share vehicles with other guests. Exclusive use of a vehicle can be booked prior to arrival at an additional charge and subject to availability.
- ROOM TYPES:-Sasaab has 11 suites all over 100m². Our Family Suites (rooms 8 & 9 and rooms 10 & 11) each have two spacious en-suite bedrooms connected via expansive shared lounge areas with private plunge pools. All other rooms have their own private plunge pools. Rooms are open plan with large en-suite bathrooms & showers and some have rooftop stargazing beds. The lodge is situated on quite a steep bank, so it is essential that we are notified of any physical disabilities, medical conditions or very young children in order to allocate the most appropriate room. Please note that we will always do our best to fulfill specific rooming requests, but we cannot guarantee this.
- PARK AND CONSERVATION and EES Park and conservation fees are per person per night. Please note that park and conservation fees are subject to change at any time in accordance with the local councils. These changes are beyond our control.
- ACCESS BY AIR Approximately 1.5hr flight from Nairobi into Samburu or Sasaab airstrip directly. It is important when booking flights to always notify the airline that guests are staying at Sasaab. There can be multiple stops on scheduled flights. This is beyond our control and only confirmed the day before travel. Charter flights into Sasaab’s airstrip are available from anywhere in the country. For internal fights within Kenya, guests are advised to pack in soft bags with a maximum of 15kg per person including hand luggage.
- ACCESS BY ROAD Approximately 8 hr drive from Nairobi (subject to condition of road), past Mount Kenya and up into the Northern Frontier District. Directions available from head office.
- -PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMING:Please send filming or photography content requests for publications, commercials and brands to The Safari Collection’s marketing department. The Safari Collection has the right to evaluate each booking request that involves filming or photography on a case-by-case basis and the right to refuse bookings to ensure that all content is aligned with brand values.
- Minimum Stay:This property is bookable for a minimum number of two nights.
Special Offers
VALID: 01 JANUARY 2025 – 31 DECEMBER 2025
- 25% Off Accommodation:-Stay at one or a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties excluding Giraffe Manor (Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 4 nights during The Season and get 25% off accommodation.Valid for travel between: 01 January 2025 – 05 January 2025,01 June 2025 – 31 October 2025 and 16 December 2025 – 31 December 2025 inclusive.
- 30% Off Accommodation:-Stay at one or a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties excluding Giraffe Manor (Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 4 nights during Savings Season and get 30% off accommodation. Valid for travel between: 06 January 2025 – 31 May 2025 and 01 November 2025 – 15 December 2025 inclusive.Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 7 nights during The Season and get 30% off accommodation. Percentage discount does not apply to Giraffe Manor but Giraffe Manor can be used in the combination. Valid for travel between: 01 January 2025 – 05 January 2025, 01 June 2025 – 31 October 2025 and 16 December 2025 – 31 December 2025 inclusive.
- 35% Off Accommodation:-Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 7 nights during Savings Season and get 35% off accommodation. Percentage discount does not apply to Giraffe Manor but Giraffe Manor can be used in the combination. Valid for travel between: 06 January 2025 – 31 May 2025 and 01 November 2025 – 15 December 2025 inclusive.Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Solio Lodge or Sasaab) for a minimum of 10 nights during The Season and get 35% off accommodation. Percentage discount does not apply to Giraffe Manor but Giraffe Manor can be used in the combination. Valid for travel between: 01 January 2025 – 05 January 2025, 01 June 2025 – 31 October 2025 and 16 December 2025 – 31 December 2025 inclusive.
- 40% Off Accommodation:-Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Solio Lodge or Sasaab) for a minimum of 10 nights during SavingsSeasonand get 40% off accommodation. Percentage discount does not apply to Giraffe Manor but Giraffe Manor can be used in the combination. Valid for travel between: 06 January 2025 – 31 May 2025 and 01 November 2025 – 15 December 2025 inclusive.
- 30% OFF THE RETREAT AT GIRAFFE MANOR:-Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 7 nights and get 30% off The Retreat’s Day Room accommodation or Early Bird Breakfast package. Valid for travel throughout the year.
COMPLIMENTARY RETREAT DAY PASS
Stay at a combination of The Safari Collection’s properties (Giraffe Manor, Sala’s Camp, Sasaab or Solio Lodge) for a minimum of 7 nights and get a complimentary Day Pass at The Retreat. Valid for travel throughout the year.
Offers are subject to availability.They are non-transferable, cannot be combined with any other offer and apply to new bookings only
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Discover Similar Camps in Samburu and Masai Mara
Whether you’re seeking to explore the rugged landscapes of Samburu or the rich wildlife of the Maasai Mara, there’s an array of luxurious accommodations that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Here are some similar camps in Samburu and Maasai Mara that promise an authentic and comfortable safari experience.
Samburu Safari Lodges:
- Elephant Bedroom Camp:- Set along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Elephant Bedroom Camp offers luxury in a setting of breathtaking beauty. It is a haven for elephant lovers, with the gentle giants often spotted wandering through the camp.
- Saruni Samburu:- Perched on a rocky cliff, Saruni Samburu’s villas offer panoramic views of the Kalama Conservancy. This eco-friendly lodge allows guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and pristine wilderness.
- Larsens Camp: Nestled in lush woodland on the banks of the river, Larsens Camp offers an exclusive experience with its luxury tents and attentive service, all within the heart of Samburu National Reserve.
Customer Reviews of Sasaab Camp Samburu
Sophia & James Trenton
★★★★★
“An unforgettable journey into the wild beauty of Samburu! Sasaab Camp exceeded our expectations with its thoughtful blend of luxury and authenticity. From the private plunge pools to the personalized safari experiences, every moment here felt tailored just for us. We left with full hearts and a treasure trove of memories. Highly recommend!”
Miguel Rodriguez
★★★★★
“My stay at Sasaab Camp was nothing short of spectacular. The attention to detail—from the amazing design of the tents to the fresh, garden-sourced meals—made my experience incredibly special. What really stood out was the professionalism and warmth of the staff; they made us feel like family. The cultural insights into the Samburu people added a layer of richness to the trip that you just can’t put a price on.”
Sarah L. Peters
★★★★☆
“Sasaab Camp is a slice of heaven in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness. The panoramic views of the Ewaso Nyiro River took my breath away every morning. Game drives and bush dining were top-notch, though it’s worth noting that the Wi-Fi can be a bit spotty—then again, who needs Wi-Fi when you’re surrounded by such majestic beauty? A solid 4 stars from me!”

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