Shaba National Reserve, nestled in Kenya’s northern wilderness, offers a range of accommodation options that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking luxury tented camps, affordable safari stays, or family-friendly lodges, Shaba has something for everyone. Unlike the crowded southern circuits, Shaba’s accommodations are more intimate, with prime access to rare wildlife and spectacular landscapes.
This comprehensive guide breaks down your best options for staying in and near Shaba National Reserve, from high-end retreats to budget bush camps.
🏨 Top-Rated Lodges in Shaba National Reserve (2025 Edition)
These lodges stand out for their service, scenery, proximity to wildlife, and eco-conscious practices.
1. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge
- Location: Inside Shaba National Reserve
- Style: Upscale lodge with stone cottages and lush gardens
- Key Features:
- Located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River
- Large swimming pool, spa, and riverside dining
- Guided game drives, bush dinners, and cultural tours
- Ideal For: Couples, families, photographers
2. Joy’s Camp (currently under seasonal reopening schedules)
- Location: Built on the site of Joy Adamson’s original tented camp
- Style: Boutique luxury with historical charm
- Key Features:
- Elegant canvas suites with views of natural springs
- Historical connection to Joy Adamson and Elsa the lioness
- Personalized game drives and private guides
- Ideal For: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, conservation enthusiasts
🏩 Best Safari Camps in Shaba: Stay Wild in Style
These camps offer authentic bush experiences with immersive access to the wildlife and landscape.
1. Shaba Safari Camp
- Location: Inside the reserve, near volcanic hills
- Style: Semi-permanent canvas tents with en-suite facilities
- Highlights:
- Morning coffee with giraffe sightings
- Locally guided walking safaris
- Evening campfires and storytelling
- Price Range: Mid-range
- Best For: Adventurers and small groups
2. Samburu Eco Camp (Shaba access zone)
- Location: Near Archer’s Post, bordering Shaba
- Style: Rustic and eco-friendly
- Highlights:
- Solar lighting and compost toilets
- Strong community ties
- Budget-friendly full-board packages
- Best For: Backpackers, student groups, eco-conscious travelers
🏠 Top Hotels Near Shaba National Reserve
If you’re not camping or prefer to stay just outside the reserve, here are some hotel options in nearby towns:
1. Isiolo Resort Hotel
- Location: Isiolo town (approx. 45 minutes to the park gate)
- Style: Basic modern hotel
- Highlights:
- Air-conditioned rooms
- On-site restaurant and secure parking
- Suitable for overnight transit or early morning entry to Shaba
- Best For: Road trippers, transit visitors
2. Alba Hotel Meru
- Location: Meru town (1.5–2 hours from Shaba)
- Style: Contemporary hotel with business-class facilities
- Highlights:
- Pool, restaurant, and WiFi
- Comfortable base for day trips to Meru and Shaba
- Best For: Families combining multiple parks or those needing a longer stay
🛌 Luxury Tented Camps in Shaba You’ll Fall in Love With
These properties combine the romance of the wild with 5-star hospitality and comfort.
1. Joy’s Camp (highlighted again for luxury seekers)
- Hand-crafted decor, private decks, gourmet meals
- Tranquil, private, and rich with history
2. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge Executive Suites
- Spacious luxury suites with river views
- Private dining and personalized butler service available
3. Elephant Watch Portfolio (cross-access from Shaba)
- While based in Samburu, it offers easy access to Shaba
- Chic, bohemian safari style
- Led by the family of conservationist Iain Douglas-Hamilton
🧳 Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Shaba
If you’re traveling on a budget, Shaba still delivers big value.
1. Samburu Eco Camp (noted above)
- Shared tents or bandas, local cuisine, cultural add-ons
2. Public Campsites (Shaba KWS Campsites)
- Location: Inside the reserve
- Style: Basic camping (bring your own gear)
- Fees: Citizens: KES 250/night; Non-residents: USD 30/night
- Best For: Overlanders, campers, researchers
Note: These campsites offer minimal facilities. Confirm with KWS about water availability and ranger presence before arriving.
Best Family Lodges in Shaba National Reserve
Families will appreciate accommodations that offer space, safety, and engaging activities.
1. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge Family Rooms
- Multiple room options for parents and kids
- Shallow pool sections for children
- Guided nature walks and wildlife talks
2. Private Safari Camps with Full Buy-Out Options
- Some camps allow full bookings for families or private groups
- Ideal for multigenerational safaris with tailored activities
📲 Final Tips for Booking Accommodation in Shaba
- Book early during high season (July–October and December holidays)
- Ask about included activities like game drives, bush meals, and village visits
- Confirm park entry is included or needs separate payment
- Check for kid-friendly amenities if traveling with children
- Verify payment methods (not all places accept cards; mobile money or cash may be required)
Shaba National Reserve offers accommodations for every style and budget. Whether you want to sleep under canvas with elephants nearby or sip wine in a riverside suite, there’s a perfect base waiting for you.
Ready to book your stay? Let the spirit of Shaba shape your safari experience from the moment you check in.