If you’re dreaming of a safari where the line between camp and wilderness blurs in the most magical way, let me tell you about my recent stay at Elephant Bedroom Camp in Samburu National Reserve, Kenya. I spent three unforgettable nights there as part of my 7-day Kenya safari with Kambu Campers, and I’m sharing this guide to give you a full picture—from luxury and wildlife to little quirks you might not find in the brochures.
Location: Samburu National Reserve, Northern Kenya
Type: Luxury Tented Camp
Best For: Romantic safaris, wildlife photography, small group or family safaris, and guests seeking close-up elephant encounters.
From my research Elephant Bedroom Camp is owned by Atua Enkop that owns and operates other luxury camps such as Tilipikwani and Mara Ngenche in Masai Mara and Elephant Gorge Camp in Amboseli.
About the name Elephant Bedroom:
The name “Elephant Bedroom Camp” comes from a very literal and unforgettable feature of the camp: elephants regularly wander through the campgrounds, sometimes passing just outside—or even between—the tents, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons.
The area is part of an ancient elephant corridor along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, and elephants are known to rest, feed, and nap under the shade of the doum palms near the tents. It’s as if the camp is built in the elephants’ own bedroom—hence the name.
Guests often describe seeing elephants within arm’s reach of their decks or plunge pools, creating a safari experience that’s intimate, immersive, and truly wild.
🛏️ Overview & Accommodation
Nestled beneath a grove of doum palms on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Elephant Bedroom Camp offers an elegant blend of rustic luxury and raw wilderness. As the name suggests, elephants are frequent visitors—often wandering between the tents, offering up-close, unforgettable encounters.
Tent Details:
- Total Tents: 14 spacious, canvas tents (including 2 family tents)
- Style: Each tent is raised on a wooden platform with private decks overlooking the river.
- Amenities:
- King or twin beds with fine linen
- En-suite bathrooms with hot showers and double vanities
- Private plunge pools
- Solar-powered electricity with charging points
- Safari-style décor with African wood and textiles
- Fans, safe deposit boxes, and mosquito nets
⚠️ Children of all ages are welcome, but supervision is advised due to wildlife proximity.
📍 Location: A Hidden Gem by the River
Elephant Bedroom Camp is tucked along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, shaded by massive doum palm trees. The setting is serene, and you truly feel like you’re in a remote part of the world—but in the best way possible. The sounds of the river, birdsong, and the occasional elephant rumble create a soundtrack you won’t forget.
Getting there was relatively easy—I flew into Samburu’s Kalama airstrip from Nairobi (just under an hour), and the camp had a guide waiting for me. The short drive doubled as a mini game drive—we saw impalas, giraffes, and a Grevy’s zebra before even checking in!
🛏️ Accommodation: Rustic Charm Meets Riverfront Luxury
My tent was much more than I expected. Spacious and tastefully decorated, it came with a king-size bed, en-suite bathroom, and my favorite feature—a private plunge pool overlooking the river. It felt indulgent yet intimate. I could sit on the deck for hours just watching elephants wander past, sometimes right next to my tent.
A few things to note:
- Electricity is solar-powered and only available during certain hours, but there are charging points.
- There’s no air conditioning, but the ceiling fan and river breeze were enough in May.
- If you’re a light sleeper, remember you’re in the wild—hyenas and baboons are vocal at night!
Take a virtual tour of the accommodation here.
🐾 Wildlife: You Don’t Even Have to Leave Camp
This is where the camp truly lives up to its name. Elephants literally walk through the camp. One afternoon, I had to pause my lunch while a massive bull elephant calmly strolled past the dining deck. It’s surreal, but the staff handles these close encounters with impressive professionalism and calm.
On game drives, we had excellent sightings: a leopard lounging in a tree, lionesses stalking impala, and of course, the Samburu “Special Five”—gerenuk, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and Grevy’s zebra. Our guide, Simon, was incredibly knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor.
One thing to keep in mind: wildlife sightings can vary. One morning drive was quieter, but in the afternoon, it all kicked off again. That’s the nature of safari.
⭐ Unique Selling Points
- Elephants regularly roam through the unfenced camp
- Luxurious tents with private plunge pools and panoramic river views
- Highly personalized service with private butler and guides
- Unmatched intimacy with wildlife and low guest numbers
- Strong community-based tourism ethos
🍽️ Dining: Gourmet in the Bush
The food was one of the biggest surprises. Meals are served in the open-air dining area by the river or on your deck for a more private experience. The chef whipped up a mix of Kenyan-inspired and international dishes—delicious curries, grilled meats, fresh salads, and decadent desserts. Everything was plated beautifully, and they easily catered to dietary needs.
One night they even arranged a candlelit dinner under the stars, complete with lanterns and a Samburu warrior escorting us to the table. It felt like something out of a movie.
🐾 Wildlife & Safari Experience
Key Highlights:
- Elephants, leopards, lions, and buffalo often pass directly through camp.
- Samburu’s iconic “Special Five“:
- Grevy’s zebra
- Reticulated giraffe
- Beisa oryx
- Gerenuk
- Somali ostrich
Safari Activities:
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Drives | Two daily drives in open 4×4 vehicles with expert guides |
| Nature Walks | On request, guided by Samburu warriors (outside the reserve) |
| Cultural Visits | Tours to local Samburu villages |
| Bird Watching | Over 450 species, including kingfishers and hornbills |
| Sundowners | Scenic drinks in the bush with a sunset backdrop |
| Private Dinners | Candlelit meals along the river or on your veranda |
🤝 Service: Warm, Attentive, and Personal
Every guest is assigned a private butler, and mine, Daniel, was an absolute gem. He made sure my coffee was delivered hot every morning, set up drinks by the firepit in the evening, and even walked me to and from my tent after dark (because, yes, animals roam freely).
The guides, camp manager, and housekeeping staff were equally welcoming and professional. They made the camp feel like home—safe, relaxed, and cared for.
Pros & Cons – What You Really Should Know
✅ What I Loved:
- Elephants roaming freely through the unfenced camp—wildlife at your doorstep!
- Beautiful, well-appointed tents with real luxury touches
- Private plunge pools for a refreshing dip after dusty game drives
- Top-tier guiding and warm, personalized service
- Serene riverfront setting with views and sounds of nature
⚠️ What You Should Be Prepared For:
- Limited power hours – not a problem for me, but bring a power bank
- Patchy Wi-Fi – forget streaming; use this as an excuse to unplug
- Wildlife proximity – thrilling, but might feel intimidating for first-timers
- No evening entertainment – it’s all about relaxation and stargazing
- Occasional wear-and-tear in communal areas, but nothing major
💰 Rates and Value
I stayed in low season (May), and rates were around $450 per person per night, which included full board and two game drives per day. Park fees were extra (~$70/day). For the level of luxury and experience, I found it well worth the price—especially compared to other high-end lodges that felt more “lodge” than “bush.”
Comparing Elephant Bedroom Camp vs other Samburu Reserve Luxury Stays:
Here’s an expert comparison table of Elephant Bedroom Camp versus other top luxury accommodations in Samburu National Reserve, highlighting their key features, strengths, and ideal guest profiles:
🏕️ Luxury Lodges in Samburu – Expert Comparison Table
| Feature / Lodge | Elephant Bedroom Camp | Saruni Samburu | Sasaab Lodge | Larsens Camp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Riverside, inside Samburu Reserve | Kalama Conservancy (overlooks Samburu) | West of Samburu, on private Westgate Conservancy | Riverfront, Samburu Reserve |
| Setting | Shaded doum palms on Ewaso Nyiro River | Hilltop with panoramic views | Cliffside over Ewaso Nyiro River | Quiet, forested riverside setting |
| Wildlife Access | Exceptional—elephants walk through camp | Very good, 4×4 drive into reserve | Great, conservancy access + reserve game drives | Direct access into Samburu Reserve |
| Style & Design | Tented camp with plunge pools, rustic elegance | Sleek, modern eco-design with Samburu art | Moroccan-meets-safari luxury with large suites | Classic colonial-style luxury tents |
| No. of Rooms/Tents | 14 (incl. 2 family tents) | 6 luxury villas | 9 Moroccan-style suites | 20 luxury tents |
| Private Plunge Pools | Yes (all tents) | No (but huge villa bathrooms with views) | Yes (very large) | No |
| Game Drives Included | Yes (shared or private) | Yes (private vehicle often standard) | Yes (private vehicle per booking) | Yes (shared vehicles) |
| Cultural Experiences | Yes (optional Samburu village visits) | Yes (integrated with Samburu community) | Yes (strong community focus, camel safaris) | Yes, on request |
| Food & Dining | Full board, excellent cuisine | Gourmet meals with Italian influence | Haute cuisine with wellness options | Refined dining with riverfront views |
| Family Friendly | Yes, with family tents and child-friendly staff | Yes (kids over 5 ideal) | Yes, with child-minding services | Yes, but better for older children |
| Wi-Fi & Connectivity | Limited (lounge only) | Available in villas | Wi-Fi in rooms | Limited |
| Atmosphere | Intimate, close-to-nature, immersive | Secluded, serene, ultra-private | Romantic, remote, ultra-luxury | Elegant, classic safari feel |
| Price Range (Per Person, Approx.) | $450 – $750 | $700 – $1,000+ | $850 – $1,200+ | $500 – $700 |
| Best For… | Close-up elephant encounters, romantic stays | Privacy, panoramic views, exclusive escapes | High-end luxury, couples, wellness travellers | Classic safari lovers, birders, small groups |
🧐 Expert Summary:
- Elephant Bedroom Camp is ideal for travelers who want wildlife immersion, especially close elephant encounters, with comfort and charm at a mid-high luxury price point.
- Saruni Samburu appeals to those seeking seclusion, design-forward luxury, and a strong community and conservation ethos.
- Sasaab is the most luxurious of the group, perfect for honeymooners or wellness travelers wanting space, privacy, and spa-style amenities.
- Larsens Camp offers a classic luxury safari experience with riverfront charm and a more traditional camp atmosphere.
🐘 Elephant Bedroom Camp – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Elephant Bedroom Camp located?
Answer:
Elephant Bedroom Camp is located in Samburu National Reserve, northern Kenya. The camp sits on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, surrounded by doum palms and iconic semi-arid terrain known for its unique wildlife.
2. How do I get to the camp?
Answer:
You can reach the camp via:
- Scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu or Kalama Airstrips (approx. 1 hour), followed by a short 20–30 minute game drive to camp.
- By road, it’s a 6–7 hour drive from Nairobi via Isiolo. A 4×4 is recommended, especially in the rainy season.
3. What types of accommodation are available?
Answer:
The camp has 14 luxury tents, including:
- 12 standard tents (with king or twin beds)
- 2 family tents (sleeping up to 4 people)
All tents are spacious, en-suite, and have private plunge pools and river views.
4. Are children allowed at the camp?
Answer:
Yes, children of all ages are welcome. However, due to the unfenced nature of the camp and close wildlife encounters, young children must be supervised at all times.
5. Is the camp fenced? Is it safe?
Answer:
The camp is not fenced, allowing for a natural and immersive safari experience. Wildlife—including elephants—can and do walk through. Armed guards and staff escorts are provided after dark, and safety protocols are strictly followed.
6. What kind of wildlife will I see?
Answer:
Common sightings include:
- Elephants, leopards, lions, buffalo
- Samburu’s “Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk
- Crocodiles and monkeys near the river, and over 450 bird species
7. What activities are included in the stay?
Answer:
- Two game drives daily (sunrise and late afternoon)
- Sundowners and bush breakfasts (on request)
- Cultural village visits (at additional cost)
- Birdwatching, nature walks (outside the reserve), and relaxing by your plunge pool
8. What meals and drinks are included?
Answer:
All stays are on full-board basis:
- Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner included
- Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with notice
- Alcoholic and soft drinks are available at an extra cost unless part of a drinks package
9. Is there electricity and Wi-Fi?
Answer:
- Electricity is solar-powered and available during specific hours for lighting and charging.
- Wi-Fi is available in the main lounge but may be intermittent or slow due to the remote location.
10. What should I pack for my stay?
Answer:
- Light, breathable safari clothing in neutral colors
- Warm layers for early mornings and evenings
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent
- Binoculars and camera
- Closed shoes for walks
- A power bank for charging devices outside generator hours
11. What are the rates and what’s included?
Answer:
Rates range from $400 to $750 per person per night, depending on season and room type.
Included:
- Luxury accommodation
- All meals
- Game drives
- Airport transfers (if flying in)
Not included: - Samburu Park fees (~$70/day for non-residents)
- Beverages, tips, village visits, and optional excursions
12. Can I combine a stay at Elephant Bedroom with other destinations?
Answer:
Yes! Many travelers combine it with:
- Laikipia (Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa)
- Mount Kenya
- Masai Mara (via flight connection)
Your tour operator or the camp can assist with multi-stop safari planning.
13. Is the camp suitable for honeymooners or special occasions?
Answer:
Absolutely. With its private decks, plunge pools, intimate size, and incredible wildlife experiences, the camp is ideal for honeymoons and romantic getaways. They often arrange private dinners and special touches upon request.
14. Do I need travel insurance or vaccinations?
Answer:
Yes. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Yellow fever vaccination is required for some travelers, and malaria prophylaxis is advised. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before travel.
📝 Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a luxurious yet intimate safari experience, with up-close wildlife encounters, fantastic food, and personalized service, I would wholeheartedly recommend Elephant Bedroom Camp. It’s ideal for honeymooners, couples, or anyone wanting a quiet, immersive connection with nature—without sacrificing comfort.
Would I go back? Absolutely. But next time, I’m bringing a better camera—the elephants deserve it.
