Crossing the equator opens a magical new world! Filled with large, iconic umbrella acacia trees in a stunning, arid environment, among the rich, red African soil, Samburu Reserve evokes the traditional vision of “I Dream of Africa.”

As the wind blows through the stunning doom palms, one knows they are in a magical place. Roaming through this primal land and unique to this reserve are the maneless lions, rare and exotic Grevy’s Zebras, red soil–stained red elephants, reticulated giraffes, Oryx and Somali ostrich. In the stillness of what seems like an empty land, one might hear the rustle of the brush as a cheetah or leopard makes himself or herself known. In stark contrast to this dry, neutral landscape, wander the vivid, semi-nomadic colorful Samburu tribe.

Originally part of the Maasai tribe when they first came down the Nile River, still speaking the same language, the Samburu split off from the Maasai as they continued their journey south to Tanzania. The name Samburu means butterfly people. They not only flew away from their original tribe but also became more colorful and flamboyant in their traditional dress, wearing bright colorful fabrics, feathers and bright ornaments adorned the long braids of the warriors, with their bodies beautified with red ochre and loads of colorful beaded jewelry. Warriorhood and ceremonies continue to be deeply rooted in the culture.

After a long, exciting day on safari, you will love sitting under the whispering Doum palms, with a sundowner, overlooking the beautiful Ewaso Nyiro river. Staying in a small traditional luxury tented camp completes the whole safari experience.