Sasaab

Perched above a river valley in Kenya’s remote Northern Frontier District, Sasaab is an exceptional luxury eco-lodge where Swahili and Moroccan design meets the practical demands of the African climate. Its eleven expansive, canvas-sided rooms feature private plunge pools and sweeping views across the Laikipia Plateau toward the dramatic peaks of Mount Kenya. From its elevated position, guests can often watch elephant herds bathing in the river below, along with a remarkable variety of other wildlife.

Set within Westgate Conservancy and just a short drive from Samburu National Reserve, Sasaab offers access to one of Kenya’s most distinctive and wildlife-rich safari regions. The surrounding landscape is defined by open plains, rugged mountains, riverine habitats and a vibrant Samburu cultural heritage. It is home to impressive elephant herds, lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and an exceptional diversity of birdlife.

The region is particularly renowned for the “Samburu Special Five,” species closely associated with northern Kenya and rarely encountered elsewhere on safari: Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk and Somali ostrich. Guests may also encounter bat-eared fox, spotted hyena and wild dog on the Naibelibeli Plains, while evening returns to camp offer opportunities to spot nocturnal wildlife such as genet, white-tailed mongoose, porcupine and bushbaby.

Game drives explore both Westgate Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve. Westgate’s network of tracks provides access to the core conservation area for endangered Grevy’s zebra, while longer excursions into Samburu National Reserve can be enjoyed with a picnic breakfast or lunch in the bush. Scenic sundowners, cook-out bush breakfasts and unhurried wildlife viewing add to the sense of place.

Sasaab’s specially designed open-sided safari vehicles are equipped for comfort and optimal game viewing, with refreshments and wildlife reference books on board. Guiding is led by professionally trained local Samburu guides, whose intimate knowledge of the land, wildlife and culture brings an especially authentic dimension to every outing. Exclusive use of a game-drive vehicle is included for guests staying in the lodge’s family rooms.

Recognised as a Global Ecosphere Retreat® by The Long Run, Sasaab meets one of the world’s most rigorous sustainability standards. Its approach balances conservation, community, culture and commerce, ensuring that a stay here is not only deeply luxurious, but also genuinely meaningful.