Elephant Strolling past one of the tents at Elephant Bedroom

Elephant Bedroom Camp

Overview Elephant Bedroom Camp is an intimate tented camp with simplistic elegance, luxury, and style that provides an astonishing safari experience. It offers luxury in a setting of breathtaking beauty. It is set along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and shaded by Doum palms and other trees that make up this green belt of riverine forest in Samburu National Reserve. Go on early morning and afternoon game drives to explore the incredible Samburu National Reserve, known for its lion and leopard sightings. Enjoy a guided nature walk for a more intimate experience of the African bush. Interact with the local Samburu people, learn about their fascinating culture, and be mesmerised by traditional dance performances. Architecture and Set Up at Elephant Bedroom Camp The main area consists of a pair of spacious tents that are raised on a smart wooden deck made from cypress wood. Open at the front, they have lovely views out over the river and their stylish furniture, much of which is made locally by Samburu craftsmen, is a mix of African and European styles. Elephant Bedroom Camp’s dining area is set with individual tables and chairs, and the comfortable lounge area, with large chairs and a sofa, is complemented by a couple of lounging areas on the broad, open-air deck. The 14 tented rooms at Elephant Bedroom Camp are spacious, comfortable and luxurious, but also unfussy. These are all raised on individual wooden platforms, eleven to the east of the main area and the other three to the west. Of these, 12 are standard tents, eight with twin double beds and four with one king-size bed; each tent has space for a third, single bed if required. In addition, there are two deluxe rooms – one configured as a double and the other as a twin. All the tents are furnished with a sofa or lounging chairs, coffee table, writing desk and very comfortable king-sized or twin double beds. Wool rugs are laid across the floors and handmade cushions decorate the sofas and beds. Neutral tones and dark-wood furniture are used throughout, resulting in a rustic but stylish safari look. The bathroom area at the back of each tent with stone floors and canvas walls. Hot and cold running water is available to both the plumbed-in shower and the twin wash basins, which are set on a wooden table, with electric water boilers providing the hot water. In addition, there’s a flush toilet, hanging space for your clothes and a wrought-iron towel rail, and toiletries are provided. Each tent also features a small, private plunge pool on the veranda for cooling off in the heat of the day. This is welcome in Samburu where it is often very hot. As the name suggests, elephants frequently walk calmly through camp. The deluxe rooms are much larger, with a lounge area, wooden flooring, an outside shower and bathtub, and a bigger deck and plunge pool. A stay in one of these rooms will certainly elevate the overall luxury and comfort of the camp. Activities at Elephant Bedroom Camp The activities based on Elephant Bedroom focus mostly on safari drives in comfortable 4WD vehicles. Guests typically go out from 06:00-09:30, then return to camp for a leisurely breakfast, relaxing and lunch, before heading out again from 16:00. Samburu is far less visited than areas such as the Maasai Mara and it is unlikely to feel crowded. Back at camp during the day, you might also want to take advantage of the ‘spa tent’ for a massage. It is also possible to visit a local village, around a 15-minute drive away, for an insight into the Samburu culture and rural life. There are extra charges for these activities. Game walks, led by two armed rangers and a guide, can also be arranged for an additional US$45 per person, but these are best booked in advance. It is also possible to book a private sundowner, which is an extra cost but includes nibbles and drinks. Bush dinners and breakfast are a fun way of dining al fresco but these also cost extra: typically around US$45 per person for dinner and US$50 for breakfast.

Dining by the pool setting at Sarara Camp

Sarara Camp

Sarara is a luxurious, romantic tented camp on the edge of the magnificent Samburu wilderness. Set on the slopes of the Mathews Mountains and offering awe-inspiring views, Sarara Camp welcomes continuous connections with this remote wilderness and the wildlife calling it home. Stretching over 850,000 acres of pristine wilderness in the Mathews Range, this remote and dramatic landscape is home to the indigenous Samburu people, whose age-old traditions (including the revered ancient Singing Wells) are as much a part of the fabric of this land as the wildlife. Sweeping savannah plains, lush mountain slopes, and riverine forests provide the backdrop for a diverse range of species including Kenya’s second-largest elephant population, the endangered Reticulated giraffe, Grévy’s zebra, leopard, wild dog, kudu and more. The conservancy is also a bird-lovers paradise with an astounding number of endemic, migratory and predatory birds. Set on the slopes of the Mathews Mountains, Sarara Camp offers expansive verandas with awe-inspiring views. Accommodation at Sarara Camp Six spacious en-suite tents, all with uninterrupted views of Namunyak’s 850,000-acre wilderness and the majestic Mathews Mountain Range. Each beautifully appointed en-suite tent features solar-heated outdoor showers – and two of the suites are interconnected with an outdoor path, making for the ideal family unit. Each intimate tent is positioned to maximise the stunning views of the Mathews Range and the waterhole that attracts a variety of games throughout the day. The tents are spacious and high-ceilinged with private terraces with tables and chairs and morning coffee and tea are brought to you so that you can leisurely arise gazing out over the mountains. There is an outdoor bathroom offering a superb view of the hills from the shower and an indoor toilet and sink at the back of the tent. Sarara Camp also offers the exclusive two-bedroom Sarara House, which is perfect for families or friends and includes a spectacular plunge pool, private dining, and a spacious lounge area with panoramic views.

Pool area at Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab Lodge

Sasaab is a stunning luxury-tented camp in the heart of the Samburu wilderness. Perched on the edge of a river valley, the architecture of Sasaab blends Swahili and Moroccan design principles, with the African heat of primary consideration. Each of the eleven canvas-sided rooms is over 100m² with private plunge pools and breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau toward the jagged peaks of Mount Kenya. Its position above the river naturally facilitates watching the herds of elephants that come to bathe below and a host of other wildlife. Built into the hillside, the camp’s main swimming pool boasts views over the cooling river waters. The camp’s spa offers invigorating treatments using an assortment of natural Kenyan ingredients. For hands-on pampering, in-room massages and beauty treatments will invigorate guests. Adventures include twice-daily game drives (including spotlit night drives), walking safaris along the river or in the grasslands, day trips to the Samburu Reserve, mountain biking, and cultural excursions. Sasaab Lodge Tented Camps Sasaab is a spectacular luxury-tented camp offering the ultimate safari in Samburu. Situated just outside Samburu National Reserve in Kenya’s Northern Frontier District, the landscape is dotted with mountains, wildlife and a rich cultural heritage. It is a place of abundant natural diversity with an astounding number of animals, from elephants to cheetah and wild dogs to the ‘Samburu Special Five’ (five species unique to the area): the Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Gerenuk antelope and Somali ostrich. Activities at Sasaab Lodge Sasaab offers a fabulous range of exciting activities for everyone, from exploring the wilderness on foot, camel or quadbike, to fly-camping under the stars and epic helicopter experiences in Kenya’s remote north. A stunning infinity pool and spa area create serene spaces in which to relax against a backdrop of nature, perfect for those seeking a slower safari experience whilst others are out exploring. Sasaab Helicopter Experience Sasaab provides the perfect starting spot from which to explore Kenya’s remote, untouched north. With a private helicopter, some of Kenya’s wildest and most breathtaking geographical features lie at your fingertips. Fly through the dramatic rocky gorges of the Suguta Valley, soar alongside flamingos over Lake Logipi, land on vast desert dune fields or visit the top of a sacred Samburu mountain for a breakfast with unimaginable views. The Safari Collection 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.

A ranger tracking rhino with modern tech

Rhino Tracking in Africa: Saruni Rhino

Nestled among the swaying doum palms of Samburu in northern Kenya, Saruni Rhino offers one-of-a-kind rhino tracking safaris. This is the first community-owned and community-run Rhino Sanctuary in Sera Community Conservancy, after an absence of a quarter of a century, marking a historical achievement for conservation and tourism in Kenya. It is unique not only for the unforgettable, raw beauty of its habitat but also because, as the name says, it is the gateway to an extraordinary place: the rhino sanctuary where black rhinos have been successfully re-introduced and are guarded by the community. The camp offers several diverse experiences. One is the first on-foot black rhino tracking experience in East Africa. This incredible walking safari provides a thrilling adventure and the opportunity for guests to actively contribute to the protection of this iconic species. The rhinos are located in a 350 000-hectare wilderness region known as the Sera Community Conservancy, which is the first community conservancy in Africa to own and operate a sanctuary for black rhinos – providing state-of-the-art protection, allowing the species to roam its natural habitat in northern Kenya for the first time in decades. Guided by highly trained rangers, you can get very close to these giant browsing mammals. After locating a rhino in your vehicle, you will disembark and approach on foot, advancing very close but never giving away your presence. Although rhinos’ eyesight is very poor, their hearing is exceptional and your guide will ensure that the animal is never frightened by your presence. Accommodation Options for this Safari Saruni Rhino is a 4-banda camp. A banda is a rustic stone cottage with a thatched roof and canvas zip-down windows and doors. All bandas have flushing loos, hot & cold water and natural stone showers. The bandas are situated along a dry river bed lined with beautiful doum palms in a way that ensures maximum privacy for guests but is intimate enough for group bookings on an exclusive basis. Make a Positive Impact Through Travel Saruni believes in the ethical creation of wealth. This is the way forward for Africa, and for conservation: the protection of wildlife and nature based on the distribution of income and jobs to its stakeholders. This is why they are proud to be among the founding members of Mara North Conservancy (MNC) and to be part of Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) – two leading community-run conservation organizations in Kenya, which demonstrate the vital connection between communities, conservation and wildlife, a relationship fueled by tourism.

Camel Safari in Lewa

Camel Safari Across the Wilderness of Kenya

One of the most refreshing and fun-filled safari experiences is exploring Kenya’s wilderness on a camel safari. Be adventurous and do as the Samburu do; ride a camel through the African wilderness. A fun-filled alternative to the traditional game viewing experience, a camelback safari allows guests to get up close with plains games such as zebra, giraffe, and ostrich. This activity can be tailored to your preferences and combined with some of our exciting wildlife safari packages. A Camel Safari is a Unique Safari experience with the Samburu people in one of the most untouched destinations in Kenya. A camel safari is the ideal means of travelling through northern Kenya. The experience is unmatched, and you get to have an authentic trip accompanied by Samburu people, learning their ways and culture. One of the most refreshing and fun-filled safari experiences is exploring Kenya’s wilderness on a camel safari. Escape the constraints of a vehicle and lose yourself in the wilds where the camel train is the only traffic for miles.  Walk out into the bush, with Samburu tribesmen and camels carrying the camp, or ride them through the dry riverbeds of Northern Kenya – you will walk or ride through some of the most remote and scenically beautiful lands in Northern Kenya. Northern Kenya consists largely of very dry land, which camels thrive in. This is a peaceful journey through a spiritual and historical wilderness. Camelback safaris take place in northern Kenya’s Laikipia county. This mode of transport was (and still is) used by the Arab traders and has filtered down to northern Kenya’s Samburu and Turkana tribes. These gentle creatures have a soft nature as they quietly stroll through the arid landscape. Just like horseback riding, the wildlife is not disturbed on a camel safari. It’s a great way to get closer to the animals. There are a few lodges and camps that offer camelback safaris, and they are traditionally found close to the northern frontier in Kenya’s Samburu country Need help planning your next Kenyan Safari? We will help get you the best safari experience, void of traffic and overcrowding associated with other regions. Let us help you plan.

Xanzdu Villas & Retreat

Xanadu Luxury Villas Zanzibar

Xanadu Villas features 9 unique and individually designed villas located on one of the finest beaches in Zanzibar. Xanadu Villas & Retreat is an experience, a lifestyle, and an awakening of what life can be and what it should be. It exceeds tranquillity, luxury and expectation. Six uncompromising villas surround a pool area so magical it excites images of African and Arabian folklore and a private beach with the warm Indian Ocean a few short steps from each villa. Unmatched in Zanzibar, Xanadu Villas & Retreat was conceived and crafted by her owners Eileen and Marcus out of a desire to breathe. Xanadu is situated on the South East Coast of Zanzibar on a beautiful stretch of beach, just South of the luxury Baraza Lodge. It is relatively new but establishing a quick name for itself as one of the best luxury villa options on the island. Since its opening, Xanadu has only had Michelin-starred chefs, so naturally, the menu is a big focus and the food is incredible. There is no dining room as such, with guests free to choose where they want to eat, whether it be in the privacy of their villa lounge or in the main pool/bar area. Both diving and snorkelling can be organised from Xanadu, as well as excursions to the spice farms and into the bustling Capital of Zanzibar, Stone Town. The hotel is perfect for all Tanzania holidays, honeymooners and families alike. It does come with a fairly hefty price tag, but it certainly doesn’t have many rivals in Zanzibar. If you are looking for other honeymoon recommendations, please see our blog on the most romantic options for a Zanzibar honeymoon. The accessibility of Zanzibar makes it a great destination after a safari in either the North or the South of Tanzania. If you have time constraints then a Southern Tanzania Itinerary is better suited due to the easier and shorter internal flights. Getting from Dar es Salaam to the lush and vibrant Selous or the arid Ruaha is very straightforward as is flying from them to Zanzibar. Nothing quite compares to sipping a cool drink on the beach after an enthralling and exciting safari full of late nights and early mornings. Private Villas at Xanadu Mawingu (meaning ‘clouds’ in Swahili) is the newest and largest one-bedroom villa at Xanadu, and it certainly was impressive. There was a long private entrance to the villa, past a large sectioned-off private beach area with both natural parasol and sun loungers, and a perfect area for us to have either breakfast, lunch, or dinner all of which were included in the daily rate. In terms of outside space, as well as the extensive beach area, raised up a set of steps was the villa itself. The building itself consisted of a large circular dome as the extensive bedroom and living space, adjoined by another circular pod containing the super-large bathroom. Outside there was a decent-sized open deck area with sun loungers, as well as a very large thatched roofed canopy where there were two large beautifully upholstered patterned sofas, a large coffee table and a small dining table, again with African design upholstery. From here, the balcony seemed to extend out onto the beach with stunning views to the ocean. While Kimwondo villa was lovely (we would later have a tour around it), it was very clear to see why a premium price was charged for Mawingu being much bigger, having more extensive space, and a better location; albeit the rooftop pool in the smaller villa is its incredible asset. What I hadn’t appreciated from the Xanadu website, but I did from meeting the Director/Owner Eileen who introduced herself one day, as to how much of a focus Xanadu had on sustainability, recycling, and upcycling. So many of the villas were using reclaimed wood, which was good to see. Our main bedroom and living space was huge – this had (yes!) three large sofas, again all with varying African designs, a massive bed, a wardrobe made from recycled wood, a SMEG fridge for complimentary drinks (wine, fizz, beer, juices, water etc.) which were replenished daily, or on demand, and a separate tea/coffee station

Zuri Zanzibar

Zuri Zanzibar: 5-star luxury beach resort in Zanzibar

Located along one of Zanzibar’s most alluring stretches of white sand on the northern shores of the island, Zuri Zanzibar opened in 2018 as the island’s first-ever Design Hotel. And immaculately designed it is, from the 32-metre-long infinity pool and the 56 stunning bungalows, suites and ocean-fronting villas, to the blissful Maua Wellness Room and the fabulous spice gardens. The food is quite something too, with no less than four restaurants and bars to choose from, all serving a mouth-watering fusion of Arabic, Asian and European flavours. Truly a beach-lovers dream – with a few added extras too! Zuri Zanzibar is situated in Kendwa, a long stretch of soft sand extending down the sunset-facing west coast of Zanzibar Island. This idyllic location enjoys favourable tidal patterns that ensure safe swimming conditions all day long. With a gorgeous cliff backdrop and 300 metres (980 feet) of private beach to enjoy, Zuri offers guests ample space to relax in total privacy. Culinary Experience at Zuri Zanzibar Zuri Zanzibar offers a fusion of European, African, Arabic and Indian cuisine, creating a rainbow of sensational flavours and bringing the very best of the Indian Ocean cuisine. Experience unforgettable dining in one of the resort’s three restaurants and four bars. Architecture and Interior Design The garden-like landscape, as designed by Ferdinand Leffler, resembles a traditional African village, with thatched roofs, palm trees, and greenery lending privacy to each Jestico + Whiles-designed bungalow and villa. Natural materials are abundant throughout, from the wooden beams used in the structures to the refined pieces of furniture that embody the overall African-chic visual identity. Many of the private terraces also play host to hammocks and sun loungers. Prague’s Jestico + Whiles studio combined modern design with traditional African and Asian pieces at Zuri creating a property that is both ecologically and socially sensitive. The multidisciplinary studio used natural and local materials, as well as making the most of Zanzibar’s heritage of craftsmanship: bungalows, villas, and communal spaces are characterized by artefacts from local markets, furniture of polished and exposed woods, and 1960s-style chairs, stools, and lamps. Sustainability at Zuri Zanzibar Ecology and sustainability are the central pillars of Zuri Zanzibar’s concept. The hotel proudly carries out numerous socially responsible activities that touch on areas of water management, environmental protection, conservation, and bettering the lives of locals through education programs and long-term local initiatives that improve the Zanzibari population’s daily life.

The Sands Beach Resort

The Sands Beach Resort: Luxury Resort in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s luxury accommodation options are as diverse as they are opulent, catering to the discerning tastes of travellers seeking an unparalleled experience. Experience the pinnacle of extravagance as you delve into the world of opulence at The Sands Zanzibar. Find your piece of paradise, admire the turquoise of the Indian Ocean and stroll along the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar and a beach bar to die for. The Sands Beach Resort Zanzibar welcomes you to its lush gardens that slope down to an infinite white beach, where you can breathe in the fresh air and aromas of spices. Find your piece of paradise, admire the turquoise of the Indian Ocean, and stroll along with one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar. You will be enchanted by the tropical backdrop of the luxuriant vegetation and wonderful coral reef. The journey to explore the splendour of the African fauna and flora, including forest excursions, a safari in Tanzania, and swimming with dolphins, will be unforgettable. Experience an oasis of peace and relaxation in a stylish, warm, and authentic atmosphere. Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 20 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars. Rooms have private balconies or patios. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include safes and electric kettles, and housekeeping is provided daily. Facilities at The Sands Beach Resort Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages and facials. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and barbecue grills. Dining Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel’s room service (during limited hours). Need to unwind? Take a break with a tasty beverage at one of the 2 bars/lounges. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10 AM.   Sands Beach Resort is the perfect destination to escape your everyday life.  

Baraza Resort Villa

Baraza Resort and Spa Zanzibar: Luxury Zanzibar

An exclusive retreat of unparalleled luxury, alluring with its distinct Swahili and Arabian influence. Baraza Resort might be mistaken for a whitewashed sultan’s palace, with stylish arches, ornate brass antiques, and ornaments. With its breathtaking villas, signature Frangipani Spa, and spectacular services and facilities, Baraza is the perfect place to discover the splendour of Zanzibar. Discover wonder at the Baraza Resort and Spa, a 5-star all-inclusive boutique resort in Zanzibar. The resort was voted as one of the 60 best new hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveller, a prestigious worldwide travel magazine. The resort is located along the Bwejuu-Paje beach in Zanzibar with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. With just 30 villas, this stunning resort evokes the heritage of Zanzibar dating back to the era of the Omani Sultans. A fusion of Arabic, Swahili and Indian design, with Swahili arches, intricate hand-carved décor, beautiful antiques, handmade furniture and intricate brass lanterns; Baraza offers unparalleled standards of luxury on the Island of Zanzibar. Baraza Resort and Spa has a kids’ club and children’s activities – the Water Club is the perfect place to experience the very best of the Indian Ocean, where kids can learn how to snorkel, play beach sports and cycle down the beautiful white beaches of the east coast. The resorts many dining venues are inspired by local spices, combining Arabic, Persian, Asian and Swahili flavours with continental fare. Guests can choose from a casual open-air Livingstone Terrace, light lunch fare in the Ocean Lounge or the decadent Sultan’s Dining Room, ending their day with a nightcap in the Dhahabu Bar. Various treatments and therapies are available in the Frangipani spa, complete with lap pool, fitness centre and tennis court. The Water Club offers a vast array of water and land activities for the whole family, from beach games and bikes to kite surfing, kayaks and paddle boarding. In contrast, the Dive Centre offers exclusive dives and dive courses for enthusiasts of every level.

lion smeared with blood

Kenyan Wildlife Adventure

Venture into the heart of Kenya’s wilderness with an 8-day wildlife adventure through the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the legendary Masai Mara. Enjoy an up-close and personal encounter with the world-renowned Great Migration and relish the chance to meet some of Africa’s most endangered animals. Both Ol Pejeta Bush Camp and Rekero Camp offer incredible game-viewing opportunities as well as the chance to sit back, relax, and allow yourself to become one with the rhythm of Africa’s wild heart.

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