Game Drivesa.National Reserves
Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves are a short drive from the lodge. Elephants are probably the highlight of a game drive in the reserves. The Samburu elephants are generally comfortable with the presence of vehicles, and you can have a close encounter with the world's largest land mammal. The reserves are also a great place to see the Samburu Special Five - Grevy Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Gerenuk and Somali Ostrich. Lions, Leopard and Cheetah can also be seen. To fully appreciate these reserves, it's best to spend some time there; either leaving early with a picnic breakfast or later with a picnic lunch.
b. Community Conservancy. A network of tracks allows us to game drive around the conservancy. We can take you through the core conservation area for the endangered Grevy Zebra as well as out onto the Naibelibeli plains where we have seen Bat Eared Fox, Hyena and Wild Dog. The conservancy is a great place to do night drives, departing after an early dinner looking out for Gennet, White-tailed Mongoose, Porcupine, Bushbabies and other nocturnal species.
Walks
A breathtaking way to experience the vastness of Africa and the richness of the land. On foot, like the Samburu, you are an equal terms with the wildlife. You will find yourself alongside Dik Dik, Gerenuk, Waterbuck, Impala, Elephants, Warthogs and an abundance of bird life. Accompanied by an experienced guide you will learn how to identify and understand the behaviour of all the animals and insects you see. Discover fascinating plants and herbs and their traditional medicinal properties as you go. Look out for the signs of the wild, such as Dik Dik dung middens and scent marking, Leopard paw prints, and the passage of Elephants.
a. Morning Bird Walks. Enjoy an early morning tranquil walk along the edge of the Ewaso Nyiro River, which is teeming with bird and wildlife.
b. Afternoon Walks with Sundowners.
A forty-five minute walk through the Samburu bush to a stunning kopje. A short climb will take you to an expansive view where you can relax and enjoy a traditional Kenyan Sundowner and watch the day draw to a close. (Walking Shoes recommended)
c. Half Day Walks. Longer walks along the river or towards the hills can be arranged for those with energy and an adventurous spirit. Setting off in the morning, some great views can be had from the tops of inselbergs and around the next bend in the river.
Air Safari
View the spectacular beauty of this breath taking area from the air for a truly unique experience. Tropic Air offers two amazing air safaris using their Aerospatial helicopters based in Nanyuki.
a. Mount Lolokwe is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Northern Kenya with its stunningly massive rock face. The mountain is immersed in Samburu folklore, with the Samburu god Nkai living in the high places and streams. A flying safari over the mountain promises to be an indelible memory.
Minimum Flight time: 2 hours.
b. Mount Kenya is an imposing extinct volcano dominating the landscape of the Kenyan Highlands. It is here, where the Kikuyu god Ngai resides. It is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in Africa, with pristine glaciers, ice lakes, and two magnificent peaks it is an exceptionally inspiring sight from the air.
Minimum Flight time: 2 ½ hours
If you are interested in either of these excursions please speak to Tony or Ali and they can show you a promotional DVD, to wet your appetite for more, and make the arrangements for you with Tropic Air. There are two helicopters, a 5 seater and a 6 seater. The charter rates are US$ 1,800/hour per helicopter. Please note that the transit time from Nanyuki is 30 minutes each way, which will be included in your charter costs.
