Elephant Bedroom Camp

Location: Elephant Bedroom Camp is set in a grove of doum palms on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, deep in the heart of Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya. It’s a wild and strikingly beautiful part of the country, known for its rugged landscapes, red-earth plains, and the distinctive wildlife found only in Kenya’s northern regions. The camp’s riverfront setting is both scenic and strategic - elephants often wander through, attracted by the water and shade, and the birdlife is superb. Despite the remote feel, it’s easily accessed via a short flight from Nairobi, making it a perfect combination of adventure and accessibility.

Rooms: There are just 14 tented suites at Elephant Bedroom, all raised slightly on wooden decks and facing the river for maximum views and wildlife-watching opportunities. Each tent is spacious and comfortably furnished, with large beds, soft rugs, and a private deck where you can enjoy a drink while watching the elephants drift past. The style is earthy and elegant, with natural materials and rich tones that echo the Samburu landscape. All tents have en-suite bathrooms and hot showers, and each comes with its own private plunge pool - a welcome luxury in this warm, arid region. It’s a lovely blend of comfort, simplicity, and closeness to nature.

Amenities: While the camp is relatively small and intimate, it offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. The main mess tent serves as the lounge and dining area, open to the river and decorated with locally crafted furniture and colourful fabrics. Meals are fresh and varied, often served al fresco with river views and the sound of birds or distant elephants in the background. The bar is well stocked, and the service is genuinely warm and attentive. There’s also Wi-Fi in the main areas - though most guests are quite happy to switch off and let the wildness of the setting do the talking.

Activities: Game drives are the main focus here, and Samburu is a fantastic safari destination with its own unique highlights. As well as the big cats and elephant, the region is home to the so-called ‘Samburu Five’ - Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx - all of which are endemic to northern Kenya. Drives are led by knowledgeable local guides who know the reserve inside-out, and there’s also the option for cultural visits to nearby Samburu communities. Between drives, it’s a joy to simply relax in camp and watch the wildlife come to you - especially when elephants wander between the tents.

Sustainability: Elephant Bedroom Camp is run by Atua Enkop Africa, a locally owned and managed company with a strong focus on responsible tourism. Their approach to sustainability is rooted in genuine community partnership and conservation-minded operations. The camp employs local Samburu staff, many of whom have worked here for years, and supports nearby communities through education initiatives and skills training. Conservation fees help fund wildlife protection within Samburu National Reserve, while the camp itself is designed to tread lightly - from solar-powered lighting to waste reduction efforts and water conservation practices. This isn’t sustainability for show; it’s a practical, ongoing commitment to safeguarding the environment and supporting the people who call it home.