Highlights of this trip
6 Days in Samburu: Rhinos, Remote Wilderness & Remarkable People
Step into one of Kenya’s most raw and inspiring landscapes—northern Samburu—where conservation is rewriting the future and culture remains deeply rooted in the land. This 6-day journey takes you from the pioneering rhino sanctuary of the Sera Conservancy to the wildlife-rich banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve.
Expect close encounters, not just with wildlife—but with the people protecting it.
Highlights of Your Journey:
Rhino Conservation in Action – Track endangered black rhinos on foot in Sera Conservancy, one of the first community-led rhino sanctuaries in East Africa. Learn how the Samburu people are restoring and protecting these iconic animals after local extinction.
Walking Safaris with Samburu Guides – Experience the bush on foot with expert local trackers, reading the land in a way few ever do.
The Singing Wells – Witness Samburu warriors chanting as they draw water for their cattle—an ancient, rhythmic tradition still alive today.
Rare Northern Wildlife – Discover species unique to Samburu, including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.
Wild Landscapes & Sacred Mountains – Visit the dramatic Mount Ololokwe, a spiritual landmark rising from the plains.
Sleep Under the Stars – Spend a magical night in a starbed, where the Milky Way is your ceiling and the sounds of the wild surround you.
Community & Conservation – Your journey directly supports Samburu communities and conservation initiatives that protect both wildlife and culture.
This is more than a safari. It’s a journey into the future of conservation – where communities lead the way, wildlife is returning, and every step connects you more deeply to the land.
Are you ready to track rhinos on foot?
Photogallery
what does this journey look like?
DAY 1 – Arrival in Nairobi & Flight to Sera Conservancy
Arrive in Nairobi, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to Wilson Airport for your scenic flight north into Samburu. As the landscape shifts from green highlands to arid beauty, you’ll land in the remote wilderness of Sera Conservancy.
Settle into Saruni Rhino, an intimate, design-led camp and the only lodge in East Africa offering rhino tracking on foot.
After lunch, head out for your first activity: a gentle introduction to the conservancy and its wildlife. As the sun sets, enjoy dinner under the stars and the quiet magic of this remote landscape.
Stay at Saruni Rhino (2 nights)
DAY 2 – Rhino Tracking on Foot & Samburu Culture
Today is something few people on Earth will ever experience.
At first light, head out on foot with expert Samburu trackers to locate one of Sera’s endangered black rhinos. Tracking rhinos this way is both thrilling and humbling: reading footprints, dung, and subtle signs in the bush until you encounter these powerful animals at a respectful distance.
Sera Conservancy is a conservation success story. Once devoid of rhinos, it now protects a growing population through community-led efforts, combining traditional knowledge with modern conservation science.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some downtime at camp or an optional game drive. As night falls, the wilderness comes alive with distant calls and endless stars.
Later that afternoon, visit a local Samburu community. Spend time learning about their traditions, daily life, and deep connection to the land. This is not a performance—it’s a genuine exchange that offers insight into a culture that has lived in balance with nature for generations.
Return to camp for a relaxed evening by the fire.
DAY 3 – The Singing Wells & towards Samburu National Reserve
This morning, head out In the afternoon, visit the famous Singing Wells. Watch as Samburu warriors descend deep wells, singing in rhythmic harmony as they draw water for their cattle—a cultural ritual that connects people, livestock, and land. on a walking safari to explore the smaller details of the ecosystem: tracks, plants, insects, and the stories they tell.
After lunch, depart Sera and journey south to Basecamp Samburu, set along the Ewaso Nyiro River. This area is famed for its rich wildlife and striking contrasts: lush riverbanks against dry, rugged landscapes.
Stay at Basecamp Samburu (3 nights)
DAY 4 – Full-Day Safari
Today is all about immersion in Samburu’s wild beauty.
In the early morning, head out on your first game drive in Samburu National Reserve, home to elephants, lions, leopards, and unique northern species like the “Samburu Special Five.”
Return to camp for late breakfast and enjoy some rest durign the hottest part of the day.
Later that afternoon, you will go out again on a sunset game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for lions resting in the shade, leopards in the trees, and herds of elephants crossing the river. Enjoy sundowners in the beautiful landscape, and return back for dinner.
DAY 5 – Ololokwe Adventure
Set out early for you journey towards the iconic Mount Ololokwe. This sacred mountain dominates the landscape and offers breathtaking views and a sense of deep spiritual presence. Together with your Samburu guide, you will hike this mountain and learn the stories of people that have lived here for centuries.
Return to camp for dinner and as night falls, experience something truly special: a night in a starbed. Elevated above the ground and open to the sky, it’s one of the most magical ways to experience Africa – falling asleep beneath a blanket of stars.
DAY 6 – Final Game Drive & Departure
Enjoy a final early morning game drive or a relaxed breakfast overlooking the river.
Afterward, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi, carrying with you stories of rhinos, Samburu traditions, and a part of Kenya that few travelers ever truly experience.
Practical information
Dates & Availability
This private experience is available year-round. Ideal for groups of 2 to 6 people. Special rates apply for solo travelers or larger groups. Ask us for the options.
Costs (Included & Excluded)
From €3790 per person (based on 2 people and depending on season)
Included:
- 5 nights’ accommodation in private en-suite tents/camps (Saruni Rhino and Basecamp Samburu).
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as described in the itinerary, including water, coffee, tea and soft drinks
- All game drives, walking safaris, excursions and tracking with experienced Samburu guides as described in the itinerary
- Park fees and conservancy fees for Sera Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve.
- Domestic flights (Nairobi to Samburu return).
- Airport transfers in Nairobi and Samburu.
- Donation to Rhino Conservation and the Samburu Foundation for Girls as part of our commitment to conservation & communities.
Excluded:
- International flights to/from Nairobi.
- Travel insurance (mandatory).
- Visa fees for Kenya (e-Visa recommended).
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, drinks).
- Optional upgrades, e.g., a private vehicle/safari guide for €200 per vehicle, overnight or extension at a Luxury Camp such as Saruni Samburu, or an extended stay by the coast – to relax and unwind at Kenya’s beaches or islands.
Logistics / Transport
Fly into Nairobi (NBO), where you’ll be met and transferred to Wilson Airport for your flight to the Samburu.
Fly back from the Samburu to Nairobi for your international flight, or add some days in the Maasai mara to your trip, such as our Walking in the Maasai Mara journey.
Internal flights and transfers are included; 4×4 safari vehicles are used for all game drives.
Accommodation
- Saruni Rhino (2 nights): Luxury camp with traditional stone banda’s with en-suite facilities, located on a dry riverbed. Supports Samburu community projects.
- Basecamp Samburu (3 nights): Comfortable midrange tented camp near the Samburu National Reserve, offering exclusive wildlife sightings and stunning views.
If you’d like more luxury and a pool, we recommend an upgrade to Saruni Samburu.
Food
All meals are included, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Bush breakfasts, picnic lunches, and campfire dinners add to the adventure.
Dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice.
Health & Safety
Experienced Samburu guides accompany you on all walks and drives.
Small-group experience (max 6 travelers per vehicle) ensures personalized attention.
Eco-friendly lodges prioritize sustainability and community benefits.
Your trip supports conservation through park fees, community projects, and donations.
Testimonials
Local team & guide
Experienced Samburu guides accompany you on all walks and drives.
READ MORE about Samburu in our latest blog
