gallery of 6 photos

Samburu National Park, Kenya

Elephant Watch Camp

This camp attracts the likes of famous poets, musicians and other artists. Many come here to paint the beautiful scenery of the river with brightly swathed Samburu warriors walking with their camels. The feel is funky & eclectic.

Supporting the hefty price tag to stay here - some of the local Samburu guides are arguably the most knowledgeable elephant experts in Africa. How can someone possibly remember and recognize over 450 elephants by name?

 — Mango's view

Elephant Watch Camp is perched on the sand banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, beneath big Kigelia trees and Acacia Elatiors. It is home to some of the largest bull elephants in Samburu who can often be spotted resting under an acacia tree or picking pods beside the tents. The trees are filled with a multitude of birds and monkeys. At dawn a gentle chorus echoes overhead announcing the new day in the wild.

The camp, which is eco-friendly, has been specially constructed for comfort and coolness, accommodating a maximum of ten guests with its wide and breezy desert tents, individually styled, draped with colorful cloth and unusual furniture. Bathrooms are built around trees, giving our guests a novel washing experience with plenty of sun heated water and lights.

Everything about Elephant Watch Camp is a feast for the senses, with bright swathes of cotton fanning in the breeze, huge cushioned sofas, woven local mats and special beds and furniture made from fallen trees. Menus are a fusion of bush gourmet, fresh from our farm, with tropical fruit and drinks and a selection of good wine. Books, films and information on elephants are provided for guests. At night, flame torches and lanterns light up the camp along the river. Baboons call out as leopards stalk, while lions and elephants are always nearby.

Elephant watching begins on arrival. Elephant Watch guides meet their guests at either of the two airfields and drive them gently through the Reserve spending time with many of our well known elephant families as well as introducing them to some of the particular Northern inhabitants - the slim necked gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, Grevy Zebras and over 400 species of birds. A special visit to Save the Elephant Research Center can also be organized.

Each day opens with a new adventure. Early morning or evening bush walks along well-traveled elephant paths or collecting medicinal plants and honey are always accompanied by our Samburu Warriors. At times one can witness the great river crossings of camels and cattle, fire making and Samburu ceremonies.

Includes: All meals, soft drinks, beer & house wine, sundowners, safari activities, & laundry