Samburu Simba Lodge stands as a premier wildlife sanctuary in Kenya’s iconic Samburu National Reserve. This remarkable lodge blends luxury accommodation with authentic wildlife experiences and gives you direct access to Africa’s unique species and landscapes.
The lodge features comfortable en-suite rooms, expert-guided game drives, and world-class dining facilities. Your journey from Nairobi to Samburu Simba Lodge can be a perfect family vacation or a romantic getaway. The property provides everything you need for an exceptional safari experience. You can visit local Samburu communities and enjoy the refreshing swimming pool with stunning sunset views.
Location and Setting of Samburu Simba Lodge
Samburu Simba Lodge stands within Buffalo Springs National Reserve, a pristine wilderness covering 165 square kilometers of Kenya’s northern frontier. The lodge’s prime spot along the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River offers unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities.
Geographical location in Samburu National Reserve
The area features three remarkable reserves that join together – Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserve. A tropical semi-arid climate dominates the region with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 30°C. Wildlife viewing reaches its peak during two distinct seasons: the short rains (November-December) and the long rains.
Unique landscape and wildlife of the area
Striking doum palms rise majestically from red earth against a backdrop of yellow grass plains and granite inselbergs around your accommodation. This remarkable region is home to the famous “Samburu Special Five”:
- Somali Ostrich
- Grevy’s Zebra
- Reticulated Giraffe
- Gerenuk
- Beisa Oryx
The surrounding conservancies support a thriving population of 40-50 lions and more than 900 elephants.. Bird enthusiasts will find paradise here with 450 recorded species calling this area home.
Lodge architecture and design
The lodge blends naturally with its surrounding environment. Local craftsmen use indigenous materials skillfully to create stone-clad walls both inside and out. Distinctive gum poles wrapped in intricate rope designs define the public areas, while the bespoke lighting features natural and locally beaded elements. Warm-toned ethnic fabrics and hardwood combine beautifully with wicker furniture throughout the property.
Accommodation Options at Samburu Simba
Samburu Simba Lodge offers a luxurious retreat with spacious accommodations overlooking the wilderness. The pristine, expertly managed rooms will boost your safari experience. Modern conveniences blend perfectly with the natural surroundings.
Room types and amenities
We offer non-smoking rooms, suites, and family rooms that provide comfort and convenience 1. Each room features:
- A private balcony
- In-room safe
- Dedicated luggage and hanging space
- Bathroom stocked with toiletries
- Four water bottles replenished daily
- Air conditioning and refrigerator
Views and comfort features
The private balcony offers spectacular views of Buffalo Springs Game Reserve’s untamed wilderness. Your room’s optimal location lets you watch wildlife directly from your accommodation. The lodge combines rustic charm with luxury and features spacious interiors that enhance guest comfort.
Family-friendly accommodations
Need a family safari plan? The lodge has interconnecting rooms when you ask in advance. Your group will love the property’s spacious layout that has multiple swimming pools and open areas. Groups of all sizes will feel right at home here. 24-hour room service makes your stay convenient and comfortable.
The lodge has great amenities to make your stay better:
- Currency exchange at reception
- Gift shop with reasonable prices
- Dry cleaning and laundry services
- Wi-Fi connection
- Staff who speak multiple languages
Room quality and cleanliness at the lodge earned an impressive 4.5 out of 5 rating. Solo travelers, families, and groups will find these rooms perfect for their needs. The staff’s attentive service has earned them a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating.
Safari Activities and Experiences
Samburu Simba Lodge welcomes you to authentic African wildlife experiences through curated safari activities. You can enjoy thrilling game drives and meaningful cultural encounters. These experiences help you learn about the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Game drives and wildlife viewing
Safari adventures start with exciting game drives that let you watch animals roam freely in their natural habitat. Each drive lasts 3 hours and runs in the morning and afternoon. The reserve gates stay open from 6 AM to 6 PM. You can plan full-day trips into the park to spend more time observing wildlife.
Guided nature walks
Discover the raw beauty of wilderness through two amazing walking safari experiences:
- Camp walks: 45-60 minutes of exploration at USD 50-75 per person
- Extended walks: 2.5-3 hours across 9-15 kilometers of pristine wilderness at USD 90-150 per person, complete with packed meals and game drives
Local Samburu guides lead these adventures during early mornings or late afternoons when temperatures remain pleasant. These expert guides share their deep connection and knowledge of the region’s plants and wildlife throughout your journey.
Cultural visits to local Samburu communities
Local Samburu village visits will improve your safari adventure. A few hours in these traditional settlements costs USD 30-50 per person. You’ll find fascinating traditional Samburu huts that the women build with interwoven sticks, mud, and cow dung. The Samburu people call these dwellings “manyatta,” and each settlement houses four to ten families. These unique structures have distinctive features:
- Round structures with small entrances
- Two-room interior divisions
- Ventilation holes that let in light and release smoke
The Umoja Women’s Village in Archer’s Gate offers a unique cultural experience where traditional dances come alive and local customs tell their story.
Dining and Relaxation at the Lodge
Samburu Simba Lodge offers a perfect blend of exceptional dining and wilderness views. Guests can relax in comfort while watching unique wildlife scenes unfold before them. The lodge’s thoughtful combination of luxury and nature creates lasting memories for everyone who stays here.
Restaurant offerings and cuisine
The spacious restaurant gives you a dynamic buffet dining experience with fresh selections that change daily. Your dining experience has:
- Two live cooking stations
- Table-served soups
- Multiple cuisine options
- Quality ingredients and tasty preparations
The restaurant’s design reveals panoramic views of the wilderness, and you can watch wildlife gather at the nearby watering hole while dining. The quality remains consistent across breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The buffet service stands out with superior selections compared to other establishments.
Bar and lounge areas
The decorated bar area serves you quickly with comfortable furniture. You can unwind on the welcoming deck that offers dedicated bar service in the evenings, which creates a perfect spot to observe wildlife. Guests have spotted remarkable wildlife from this vantage point, including young lionesses with their cubs.
Swimming pool and sunset views
The infinity pool stands as the highlight of Samburu Simba Lodge’s relaxation offerings. It sits perfectly above the wildlife watering hole. You can enjoy a refreshing afternoon swim while watching elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The pool area gives you:
- Free pool towels
- A dedicated pool attendant
- Clear views across the plains
- The best spots to watch the sunset
Your time by the pool could bring amazing encounters with elephants, waterbucks, and even crocodiles at the watering hole. These magical moments combine luxury with wilderness. The infinity pool naturally blends into the landscape and gives you a unique viewpoint of the African savanna without compromising on comfort.
Conclusion
Samburu simba lodge kenya is a remarkable sanctuary that blends luxury with wilderness to give guests an authentic African safari experience. Its prime spot next to the Ewaso Nyiro River creates amazing wildlife viewing opportunities. The lodge’s thoughtful design provides comfort while preserving the natural experience. Guests can join expert-guided safaris and visit Samburu villages to learn about local culture. They also get a chance to spot the unique “Samburu Special Five” which makes each stay both memorable and educational.
The lodge delivers excellence through its attentive service and world-class dining options. Activities are carefully selected to suit both adventure seekers and those who prefer to relax. Guests can watch elephants from the infinity pool, enjoy sundowners at the bar, or take guided nature walks. This perfect mix of African wilderness and modern comfort creates lasting memories that truly capture Samburu’s spirit.
FAQs
- Is a visit to Samburu National Reserve worthwhile?
Absolutely, Samburu National Reserve is an excellent destination for those looking for a safari experience that is rich in wildlife and less crowded with tourists. Located in northern Kenya along the Ewaso Nyiro River, the reserve is renowned for its unique array of wildlife, including several rare species. - What are the ‘Special Five’ animals of Samburu?
Samburu is famous for its ‘Special Five’, a group of unique animals that includes the reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. These species are particularly special to the region and are a must-see for visitors. - Is there a risk of malaria in Samburu?
Yes, malaria is present in Samburu, but the risk can be significantly reduced with proper precautions. It is advisable to take antimalarial medication as recommended by a healthcare provider. Additionally, using mosquito repellent with DEET and wearing protective clothing during dusk can help prevent mosquito bites. - Which animal is most significant to the Samburu people?
For the Samburu people, the camel holds great importance. It is not only a vital source of transportation but also plays a significant role in their culture. The Samburu National Reserve also features a diverse range of wildlife, including some rare and endangered species like Grevy’s Zebra and the Reticulated Giraffe.
