Sarova Shaba Lodge

The Sarova Shaba Lodge can be accessed from Nairobi by air (45-minute flight) or 4-wheel drive car (5 hours). The lodge is set in a green oasis alongside the Uaso Nyiro River – a beautiful location among the arid northern reaches of Kenya.

The camp has been designed to maximise views of the river and reserve, with streams and lush vegetation intertwining between the buildings. The rooms are in two-storey chalets and are very spacious, includong a large bed, en-suite bathroom, mini bar and ceiling fan. In addition to the 80 standard rooms there are four executive suites that have their own lounge, and one Born Free suite which has a lounge and private jacuzzi. The standard rooms can become inter-connected which is very useful for families and groups. The restaurant is raised on stilts overlooking the pool and river and serves buffet-style breakfast, lunch and dinner. For special nights the lodge will set up a ‘Boma Dinner’ which includes al fresco dining, bonfire and a bar all set within a clearing in the gardens.

The Shaba and Samburu National Reserves offer a different flavour of safari than that of the Mara or other parks in Kenya. The Special Five animals that can be seen in this area include the Gerenuk, the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zabra, Somali Ostrich and Beisa Oryx. Back at the Sarova Shaba Lodge, the facilities on-site include a refreshing, free-form swimming pool, massage tent, gift shop and a special spot by the river where you can watch the crocodiles being fed left-overs (nothing goes to waste!).

During my visit to this lodge, I was able to take part in a sundowner with drinks and barbecue alongside the river – it was all set up for us in the reserve but out of the camp itself. As we watched the sun set, our guide, a member of the Samburu tribe, shared with us the fascinating culture and history of the Maa-speaking tribes. Sarova are only too happy to arrange this experience for anyone staying at the Shaba Lodge. The other stand-out features I experienced during my stay was the friendly, helpful staff, the spaciousness of the rooms which were well-appointed and clean, and the variety of food on offer. Oh, and not forgetting that you need to make sure your shut your room door while you are out, otherwise the resident monkeys may pay a visit!