The recently opened Sarara Wilderness is one of Africa’s most exciting new safari experiences. It takes you deep into one of the continent’s most timeless landscapes, offering a deep plunge into nature at its most extraordinary. Highlighted by Condé Nast Traveller in their line up of the best new safari camps in 2025, the experience is summed up perfectly …… “it’s an adventure like no other. It’s remote, it’s raw, and it connects you to both the land and its people.”.
The camp harks back to the golden age of mobile safaris, featuring just a handful of elegant, old-school canvas tents – albeit with modern comforts and indulgent extras (a mobile swimming pool, anyone?). But what sets Sarara Wilderness apart is its location. This exclusive-use camp sits in splendid isolation, opening a window onto Kenya’s untouched northern frontier. Here, thousands of elephants continue to tramp their ancient paths, animals of all kinds gather in abundance, stars sparkle unfettered, and the Samburu people maintain an intimate connection to the land.
Sarara Wilderness’ focus is to partner with community conservancies across the landscape to widen the potential for much needed revenue and benefits to the committees that own and live on the land. The camp is entirely run by the Sarara community as part of a long-term partnership that has seen this flagship model grow into a leading community and conservation initiative.
Samburu culture infuses every aspect of a stay; they are the hosts, chefs, guides, and storytellers, welcoming guests into their world and sharing their profound knowledge. After all, no one knows this immense, raw and seemingly untouched landscape better.
Every experience feels organic and uncontrived and just being immersed so deeply in nature is the most incredible and grounding experience. Guests can try their hand at the intricate craft of beading with Samburu women, observe a blacksmith at work, or simply gather around the campfire as the sun sinks, the stars bursting as the Samburu reveal the myths and legends that have shaped this land for generations.
What’s remarkable is that this sharing is done on the Samburu’s terms. There’s no exploitation, no staged cultural performances. Instead, there’s an authentic exchange that respects their heritage and keeps them in control of their narrative. Every visit supports their efforts to preserve this delicate balance, ensuring wildlife thrives, landscapes endure and their community prospers.
The wildlife here is as extraordinary as the setting. The nearby Ewaso Nyiro River serves as a lifeline, drawing a rich diversity and density of species. Hippos wallow, Elephants roam, and big cats prowl the plains – the headline acts of an impressive ensemble cast. Sarara Wilderness places guests at the heart of this teeming ecosystem; with Samburu guides leading the way, they won’t miss a thing.
Combining time in the wilderness with a stay at one of Sarara’s permanent lodges is the ultimate combo ….. the perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, deep cultural connection and wild adventure.
Sarara Wilderness isn’t just another safari camp. It’s next-level wilderness: raw, real, life-affirming. It’s a place where the enormity of the landscape makes anyone who visits feel small yet deeply connected to something larger, and where becoming briefly part of the Samburu way of life teaches visitors to see the world differently.
