For decades, Kenya has remained one of the most magical places on earth. A land of contrasts and vastness, where the golden grasses of the savannah blend with the endless sky, and the echoing footsteps of elephants and the laughter of hyenas remind us that this is where nature still reigns supreme.
In this wild, beautiful world, Saruni, a network of luxury, boutique lodges, offers more than just a safari—an experience deeply rooted in culture, hospitality, and an authentic connection to Africa. Private trips to Kenya and tailor-made tours to the Masai Mara and Samburu are the essence of travel with a travel agency. CARTER!
Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya - Explore the heart of Africa at Saruni Mara
A safari in Kenya wouldn't be complete without a trip to Masai Mara, a reserve known for the Great Migration and its incredible abundance of wildlife. Here, in a secluded valley among the hills of Lemek Conservancy, lies Saruni Mara – an intimate lodge with just a few villas, each with a unique character and a breathtaking view.
Mornings begin with a cup of hot coffee served on the terrace, from where you can watch giraffes glide through the mist. Days are spent on safari with experienced Maasai guides – true nature experts. In the afternoon, amid the scent of wild thyme and the chirping of birds, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of an African sunset, and in the evening, enjoy dinner under the stars.
It's here that you can feel the pulse of Africa—the rhythm of life defined by sunrise, the sounds of lions at dawn, and the rustle of grass in the wind. Every day in the Masai Mara brings a different experience—spectacular encounters with wild animals, the unpredictability of nature, and a sense of freedom found nowhere else. This is a place where time slows down, and people become part of a landscape that has remained unchanged for millennia.
Saruni Wild – romantic wilderness
For those who love silence and the atmosphere of the old days, the perfect place will be Saruni Wild – a small, intimate camp in the heart of a private enclave in the Masai Mara. Three tents of the highest standard, surrounded solely by nature. This is where you can truly reset and disconnect from the world. Here you can hear the rhythm of the savanna, smell the scent of acacia, and understand what a true safari expedition is like in the spirit of a bygone era. Evenings by the campfire with a glass of wine, conversations with guides, and the chirping of crickets create an atmosphere you will never forget.
Samburu – the raw beauty of the north and Saruni Samburu
A few hundred kilometers to the north, in the Kalama Conservancy region, lies Saruni Samburu – a place that captivates not only with its style but also with its extraordinary location. The lodge is built on rocky hills overlooking the endless desert plains of Samburu. This is a completely different Kenya – raw, wild, and more primal.
Here, visitors have the opportunity to encounter elephants, oryxes, gerenuks, and the famous Grevy's zebras—species found only in the northern regions of the country. But the true heart of this place is its people— Samburu warriors, called moransThey have watched over their herd and territory for generations, symbolizing strength, courage, and connection with nature. Dressed in red shukis, adorned with beads and metal bracelets, they move with a pride and dignity that reflects their tradition. Meeting them is an extraordinary lesson in the harmony between humans and nature, and in a world where rituals, dance, and campfire stories still hold immense significance.
After the excitement of the day, evening at Saruni Samburu is pure magic – a private pool, a dip in the open-air bathroom under a starry sky, and then the sounds of Samburu chants and drums echoing through the desert. It's an experience that will stay with you forever.
Geography, fauna and flora of Samburu
The Samburu Reserve covers an area of approximately 165 km² and lies at an altitude of approximately 800–1200 meters above sea level. This area has a hot, dry climate, which has shaped a unique semi-arid savanna ecosystem. The Ewaso Nyiro River flows through the reserve – a key water source for animals, especially during the dry season. It is along its banks that life is concentrated. It is worth planning a trip to the Samburu Reserve to discover its secrets at any time of year – the safari season lasts year-round.
Samburu is famous for the so-called "Samburu Special Five"—five species found nowhere else in Kenya: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and beisa oryx. The reserve is also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, Nile crocodiles, and numerous bird species—over 450 recorded species, including the picturesque hornbills, kingfishers, and weavers.
Saruni Rhino – meeting a rhinoceros
In the heart of northern Kenya, in a reserve Cheese Conservancy, lies Saruni Rhino – a small, eco-friendly lodge built of stone and wood, perfectly nestled into the rugged bush landscape. Consisting of just a few spacious cottages overlooking a dry riverbed, it offers privacy and a direct connection with nature. Guests can relax by the natural pool, enjoy local cuisine based on fresh produce, and enjoy the tranquility far from civilization.
The biggest attraction is black rhinoceros walking safari – a unique experience led by experienced trackers and rangers from the local Samburu community. They ensure the safety of the animals and share their knowledge of nature conservation, demonstrating how tradition and modern ecology can coexist.
Saruni Rhino it's perfect a trip for travelers looking for authentic experiencesand contact with wild Africa. Such safari trip to Kenya not only provides excitement, but also supports local residents and their efforts to protect endangered species.
A journey between worlds – the perfect combination of Masai Mara and Samburu
The best way to get to know a country is to plan a sightseeing tour of Kenya to connect these two places – Saruni Mara and Saruni Samburu – in one journey. It's like meeting two different souls of Africa – the green, soft savannah of the south and the wild, rocky north.
Charter flights between reserves take less than an hour, and the change of scenery is like being transported to a completely different world. In a single week's vacation, you can experience everything from lions in the grass of the Masai Mara to elephants roaming the red sands of Samburu.
Why is it worth choosing a trip to Kenya staying at Saruni camps?
Saruni isn't just African luxury—it's a philosophy of traveling with respect for nature and people. Each lodge is deeply connected to the local community, and most of the staff come from nearby Maasai and Samburu villages. A portion of the proceeds from your stay supports education, conservation, and regional development.
A trip to Kenya with overnight stays at the luxurious Saruni camps is a journey not only through landscapes but also through emotions. It's a return to roots, to simplicity, and to a sense of wonder at the world as it truly is. After all, as the Maasai say, "Safari sio haraka," meaning "we don't rush on safari." Here, time flows with the rhythm of nature. When planning your next vacation in Africa, it's worth considering a stay at one or more of the Saruni camps in Kenya to experience extraordinary experiences that will stay with you for years to come.
Unforgettable tours around Kenya
Dreaming of a true African adventure? Kenyan tours are the best way to experience wildlife, learn about Maasai culture, and relax on the paradise beaches of the Indian Ocean. CARTER has prepared comprehensive programs for you that combine a thrilling Kenyan safari with a comfortable holiday. The essence of every Kenyan expedition and tour is the safari. It's here, in these legendary national parks, that you can come face to face with Africa's Big Five: the most magnificent sunsets over the Masai Mara savannah, the Laikipia Plateau, and the Samburu mountain range. Our tours include visits to the most famous reserves, such as:
Masai Mara: Home to the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, this is a natural spectacle not to be missed. This is where the chances of witnessing predators at work are greatest.
Samburu: Samburu National Reserve is ideal for observing rare species known as the "Northern Five": Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and beisa oryx. Samburu is also home to large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, and endangered wild dogs.
Amboseli: This park offers postcard-perfect views of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, towering over herds of elephants. It's the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.
Tsavo East and Tsavo West: Vast areas where you can meet the famous "red elephants" and admire diverse landscapes – from dry savannas to green oases.
Lake Nakuru: A birdwatcher's paradise, famous for its thousands of flamingos and the chance to spot rhinos.
During the safari, accommodation is organised in comfortable lodges or high-standard tents (so-called tented camps), which allows you to feel close to nature without giving up comfort.
Expedition to Mount Kenya : For trekking and mountain hiking enthusiasts, Mount Kenya offers breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to conquer the country's highest peak. Trekking Options: Depending on your experience, you can take a multi-day trek to Point Lenana (4985 meters) or explore the mountains on day trips with lunch included. Mount Kenya is often visible from the Laikipia Plateau, providing a picturesque backdrop for safaris.
Which travel agency is best to go to Kenya?
Choosing the best travel agency for Kenya depends on your expectations: if you are looking for comprehensive package and For a luxury, tailor-made trip and a local safari with a licensed guide, the best choice will be the agency CARTER. We offer interesting, original programs as well as a wide selection of ready-made "safari & relaxation" packages, with the best all-inclusive hotels on the coast of Diani, Malindi, Watamu and Zanzibar.
When planning a holiday in Kenya and Zanzibar, it is good to read the opinions of satisfied customers:
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Sample prices for individual holidays in Kenya with Saruni
- Combined stay (Base Camp Wilderness + Base Camp Samburu + Saruni Rhino, 7 nights/8 days) from approximately USD 5,500 per person (full board, safari, local flights, transfers).
- Combined safari package (Base Camp Samburu + Sirikoi + Saruni Mara, 9 nights/10 days) from approximately USD 9050 per person (full board, safari, local flights, transfers).
