🌄 Introduction
Shaba Safari Camp is a serene, authentic tented safari camp set deep within Shaba National Reserve, one of Kenya’s most visually dramatic and ecologically rich protected areas. Built along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, the camp is surrounded by natural springs, doum palms, and volcanic hills, offering guests a blend of comfort and raw wilderness.
Perfect for those seeking a quiet, less crowded alternative to Kenya’s southern parks, Shaba Safari Camp is ideal for birdwatchers, wildlife lovers, photographers, and those looking for an intimate connection with nature. The lodge is known for its personalized service, peaceful setting, and scenic safari experiences.
📍 Location & Accessibility
Location:
Shaba Safari Camp is located inside Shaba National Reserve, within Isiolo County, northern Kenya. The reserve is part of a triad of protected areas including Samburu and Buffalo Springs, known collectively for their rugged semi-arid beauty and unique wildlife.
Getting There:
- By Road: The camp is about 6 to 7 hours by road from Nairobi, passing through Nanyuki, Isiolo, and Archer’s Post. The journey is scenic and offers glimpses into Kenya’s changing landscapes—from fertile farmlands to dry northern plains.
- By Air: Scheduled flights depart daily from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to airstrips near Shaba—such as Kalama, Samburu Oryx, or Buffalo Springs. Road transfers from the airstrip to the camp take 30–60 minutes, depending on wildlife sightings en route.
🛏️ Accommodation
Shaba Safari Camp is designed to reflect the earthy, raw essence of northern Kenya while providing modern comfort. The camp offers well-furnished en-suite tents, each offering privacy, river views, and ambient connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Tent Features:
- Elevated wooden decks with private verandas overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River
- Queen or twin beds with mosquito netting
- En-suite bathrooms with hot showers, flushing toilets, and stone finishes
- Solar lighting and USB charging points
- Writing desk, luggage stand, and clothes storage
- Comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge areas
- Wooden floors, canvas walls, and thatched roofs for natural ventilation
Room Capacity:
- Standard Luxury Tents: Ideal for couples or solo travelers
- Family Tents: Interconnected tents with shared sitting areas
- Honeymoon Tent: Private, romantic, and with extended deck space
💵 Rates (2025)
Shaba Safari Camp operates on a per person per night basis, with rates varying seasonally.
| Season | Rate per Person (Full Board) |
|---|---|
| Low Season (Apr–Jun) | $250 – $280 |
| High Season (Jul–Oct) | $350 – $380 |
| Peak Season (Dec–Mar) | $400 – $450 |
Note: Rates include meals, accommodation, selected camp activities, and taxes. They exclude park entry fees, drinks, premium excursions, and transfers.
✅ What’s Included
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Accommodation in luxury en-suite tents
- Use of shared lodge amenities (pool, bar, dining)
- Guided bush walks within safe camp boundaries
- Cultural storytelling by Samburu hosts (select nights)
- Wi-Fi in public areas (signal dependent on weather)
- 24/7 security and camp staff support
❌ What’s Not Included
- Shaba Reserve park entry fee (~$70–$80 per adult per day)
- Premium alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
- Laundry and spa services
- Game drives (can be arranged at extra cost)
- Airport or airstrip transfers
- Travel insurance or emergency medical evacuation
- Staff gratuities
🍽️ Dining & Cuisine
Meals at Shaba Safari Camp are served in a shaded open-air dining area with views of the river or surrounding bush. Food is freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
Dining Highlights:
- Breakfast: Fresh fruit, homemade bread, eggs, cereals, tea, and coffee
- Lunch: Light salads, grilled meats, vegetable dishes, desserts
- Dinner: A hearty 3-course meal including soups, mains, and sweet treats
- Bush Dinners and sundowners arranged on request
- Special diets (vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan) accommodated with advance notice
A small bar area serves wine, local beers, cocktails, and spirits.
🌿 Facilities & Amenities
- Swimming Pool: Small plunge pool perfect for cooling off in the afternoon heat
- Fire Pit Lounge: Cozy evening space for sundowners, storytelling, and stargazing
- Gift & Craft Shop: Locally made jewelry, textiles, and safari memorabilia
- Laundry Service: Available at an extra fee
- Wi-Fi: Present in central areas (limited in tents)
- Campfire Evenings with Samburu dancers and traditional performances (occasionally scheduled)
🚙 Safari Activities
Game Drives:
While the camp doesn’t operate its own safari fleet, it works closely with trusted partners and guides for:
- Morning and evening game drives in Shaba Reserve
- Full-day excursions into neighboring Samburu and Buffalo Springs
- Photography-focused drives on request
Wildlife Viewing:
Shaba is known for the Samburu Special Five:
- Reticulated giraffe
- Somali ostrich
- Beisa oryx
- Gerenuk
- Grevy’s zebra
Other highlights include:
- Lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyena
- Elephants and crocodiles along the Ewaso Nyiro
- Hippos in natural springs
- Over 450 species of birds
Other Activities:
- Guided Nature Walks near the camp
- Birdwatching tours with a local guide
- Cultural visits to Samburu homesteads
- Sundowner sessions with snacks and drinks in scenic spots
👨👩👧👦 Family Policy
Children are welcome at Shaba Safari Camp, though it’s best suited for children aged 6 and above due to the wild, unfenced nature of the reserve.
- Children under 3: Free
- Ages 4–12: 50% of adult rate when sharing
- Children under 12 are not allowed on shared game drives unless on private hire or at the manager’s discretion
- Family tents and early mealtimes available
💬 Guest Reviews: What Visitors Say
⭐ Highlights:
- “A peaceful, scenic, and quiet camp — ideal for reconnecting with nature.”
- “Staff went above and beyond to make our anniversary special.”
- “Morning coffee on our veranda with elephants crossing the river — unforgettable!”
- “The cultural evening with Samburu warriors was magical and heartfelt.”
⚠️ Minor Drawbacks:
- “Long drive from Nairobi — flying is a better option.”
- “Wi-Fi is only available in the dining area and can be slow.”
- “Not as many big cats as in the Mara, but birdlife and landscape are unmatched.”
📅 Best Time to Visit
- January to March: Warm and dry, great for birding and big game
- April to June: Green season, beautiful landscapes, and fewer crowds (some rains)
- July to October: Best for predator sightings and overall game viewing
- November to December: Short rains, active wildlife, and lush backdrops
🕓 Check-in & Check-out
- Check-in: From 12:00 PM
- Check-out: By 10:00 AM
Late check-out possible depending on availability.
🌟 Why Stay at Shaba Safari Camp?
✔️ Tranquil setting with river views
✔️ Close proximity to wildlife action without the crowds
✔️ Small, personalized camp with attentive staff
✔️ Access to three reserves in one trip (Shaba, Samburu, Buffalo Springs)
✔️ Perfect for couples, birders, and off-the-beaten-path adventurers