Sasaab Lodge Review — Samburu's Premier Luxury Safari Experience in Kenya

Alain Kabura, African Safari Specialist20 August 2026 · 12 min

Audio EditionListen to this article

0:000:00

## Sasaab Lodge — Samburu's Crown Jewel Sasaab Lodge is the undisputed crown jewel of Kenya's Samburu region, perched on a dramatic ridge overlooking the Kalama Conservancy and the distant peaks of the Matthews Range. Owned and operated by Cheli & Peacock Safaris as part of the distinguished Safari Collection, Sasaab has redefined luxury safari accommodation in northern Kenya. The name "Sasaab" comes from the local Samburu word for "big sky," and from the moment you arrive, the scale of the landscape—and the design ambition—makes perfect sense. This is a property that marries Moroccan architectural grandeur with the raw, untamed beauty of northern Kenya's semi-arid wilderness. ### Setting & Location Sasaab sits on a 200,000-acre private conservancy—the Kalama Conservancy—home to some of Kenya's most endangered and endemic wildlife species. Unlike the well-trodden circuits of the Masai Mara or Serengeti, Samburu offers a wilder, less-crowded safari experience with species found nowhere else on Earth. The lodge's elevated position provides commanding 180-degree views: north to the Matthews Range, south across acacia-studded plains dotted with doum palms, and east toward the Ewaso Ng'iro River—the lifeline for Samburu's wildlife. ### Architecture & Design — Moroccan Opulence Meets African Wilderness Sasaab's design is a bold departure from traditional East African safari lodges. Inspired by the kasbah fortresses of Morocco's Atlas Mountains, the property features whitewashed walls, hand-carved Moroccan doors, latticed screens, arched doorways, and intricately tiled mosaics. The main pavilion—open-sided with soaring thatched roofs—flows seamlessly between lounge, bar, library, and dining areas. Rich textiles, hand-beaten copper lamps, and low-slung seating create an atmosphere more akin to Marrakech than the Kenyan bush. Yet the design never feels misplaced; instead, it provides a striking visual contrast to the wild, ochre-hued landscape beyond. ### Accommodation — Tented Suites with Private Plunge Pools Sasaab offers nine spacious tented suites and a private two-bedroom villa, each a self-contained sanctuary with its own plunge pool and sun deck. The tents are far from rustic: think four-poster beds draped in billowing mosquito nets, freestanding copper bathtubs, rain showers, and floor-to-ceiling glass panels that frame the wilderness beyond. Interiors blend Moroccan opulence with African warmth—richly embroidered cushions, carved wooden furniture, hand-woven rugs, and locally sourced artwork. Every suite faces north, ensuring uninterrupted views of the Matthews Range and the conservancy below. ### The Infinity Pool — Sasaab's Signature If there is one image that defines Sasaab, it is the infinity pool. Cantilevered off the ridge, the 25-meter pool appears to spill directly into the landscape below. Lounge on a daybed with a sundowner in hand as elephants amble across the plains below, or watch the sun dip behind the mountains while the water glows in shades of gold and copper. It is, without exaggeration, one of the most spectacular pools in Africa—and possibly the world. ### Wildlife & Safari Experiences — The Samburu Special Five Samburu is home to the "Special Five"—species adapted to the arid conditions of northern Kenya and found nowhere else: - **Grevy's zebra** — the world's largest and most endangered zebra species, with narrower stripes and rounded ears - **Reticulated giraffe** — taller and more boldly patterned than their southern cousins - **Gerenuk** — the "giraffe-necked antelope," standing on its hind legs to browse acacia - **Beisa oryx** — with rapier-like horns, perfectly adapted to desert survival - **Somali ostrich** — distinguished by its blue-grey neck and legs In addition to the Special Five, Sasaab's game drives reveal healthy populations of elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The Ewaso Ng'iro River attracts immense concentrations of wildlife during the dry season, creating dramatic predator-prey interactions. ### Unique Experiences #### Rooftop Star Beds Sasaab's most iconic offering is the rooftop star bed—a raised platform with a four-poster bed under the stars. Fall asleep to the sounds of the African night, watch shooting stars streak across the Milky Way, and wake to sunrise over the Matthews Range. It's one of the most romantic and memorable experiences in Kenya. #### Camel Safaris Explore the conservancy on camelback, led by Samburu guides. Camels are the traditional transport of the region, and riding them offers a slower, more intimate connection to the landscape and local culture. #### Samburu Cultural Visits Visit nearby Samburu villages to learn about the semi-nomadic pastoralist way of life, beadwork traditions, warrior culture, and the challenges of coexistence with wildlife. #### Fly Camping For the truly adventurous, Sasaab offers fly camping—lightweight mobile camps set up deep in the conservancy under canvas and stars, with a small crew and gourmet bush meals. ### Dining — Gourmet Under the Stars Sasaab's culinary team delivers exceptional bush dining. Meals are served in various settings: candlelit dinners on the pool deck, lantern-lit bush dinners beneath acacia trees, intimate breakfasts overlooking the conservancy, or sundowner picnics on remote hilltops. The cuisine is a blend of Italian-inspired dishes (a nod to Cheli & Peacock's Italian roots) and locally sourced ingredients, with herbs grown in the lodge garden. Expect fresh pastas, grilled meats, artisan breads, and decadent desserts—all paired with South African and European wines. ### Wellness & Relaxation Beyond game drives, Sasaab offers a full-service spa with massage therapies, a well-equipped gym, yoga decks overlooking the valley, and endless lounging opportunities by the pool. This is a lodge where doing nothing feels as rewarding as the safari itself. ### Conservation & Community Sasaab operates on the Kalama Conservancy, a community-owned conservation area that generates income for local Samburu families through tourism revenue-sharing and employment. The lodge supports anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, education programs, and livelihood projects, ensuring that conservation benefits both people and wildlife. ### Best Time to Visit Sasaab - **Dry Season (June–October, January–March):** Wildlife concentrates around permanent water sources, making sightings more predictable. This is peak season, with warm days and cool nights. - **Green Season (November–May):** The landscape transforms into lush green, birdlife explodes (over 450 species recorded), and Samburu's endemic species are still abundant. Fewer crowds and lower rates. ### What Makes Sasaab Exceptional - **Design Excellence:** The Moroccan-meets-Samburu aesthetic is bold, beautiful, and utterly unique - **Infinity Pool Views:** Among the world's most spectacular lodge pools - **Rooftop Star Beds:** An unforgettable, romantic under-the-stars experience - **Special Five Wildlife:** Species you won't see in southern Kenya or Tanzania - **Private Conservancy:** Exclusive access, no crowds, responsible tourism - **Cheli & Peacock Pedigree:** Decades of safari excellence and family-run hospitality ### Sasaab Lodge Comparison — At a Glance

Feature	Sasaab	Saruni Samburu	Elephant Bedroom Camp
Accommodation	9 suites + 1 villa	6 villas	12 tents
Pool	Infinity pool ★★★★★	Plunge pools (private)	No pool
Setting	Kalama Conservancy (private)	Kalama Conservancy (private)	Samburu National Reserve
Design Style	Moroccan opulence	Italian-Samburu fusion	Classic tented safari
Star Beds	Yes (rooftop platform)	No	No
Price Range	$$$$ (Ultra-luxury)	$$$ (Luxury)	$$ (Mid-luxury)

### Sasaab Suite Categories & Seasonal Rates (2026)

Suite Type	Low Season (Apr–May, Nov)	Shoulder Season (Jun, Dec–Mar)	Peak Season (Jul–Oct)
Standard Suite	$1,050 per person/night	$1,250 per person/night	$1,450 per person/night
Family Villa (2BR)	$3,800 per night (total)	$4,200 per night (total)	$4,800 per night (total)
Rates include: all meals, drinks, laundry, game drives, guided walks, conservancy fees. Excludes: flights, gratuities, rooftop star beds ($450/night extra)

### Sasaab vs. Other Samburu Lodges — Which to Choose?

Lodge	Best For	Standout Feature
Sasaab	Honeymooners, design lovers, luxury seekers	Infinity pool & rooftop star beds
Saruni Samburu	Intimate luxury, Italian hospitality	Private villas with plunge pools
Elephant Bedroom Camp	Classic tented safari, great value	Riverside location, elephant sightings
Samburu Intrepids	Families, mid-range comfort	Pool, family tents, national reserve access

## Final Verdict — Is Sasaab Worth It? **Yes—if you seek design excellence, unparalleled pool views, and a safari experience that feels like nowhere else in Africa.** Sasaab is not for purists seeking an "Out of Africa" canvas-and-khaki aesthetic. This is opulent, statement-making luxury that divides opinion. But for those who appreciate bold design, world-class hospitality, and the chance to sleep under the Milky Way on a rooftop star bed while elephants trumpet in the valley below, Sasaab is simply extraordinary. It is, without question, one of Kenya's finest lodges—and the undisputed king of Samburu. --- **Ready to experience Sasaab?** Contact Beyond Africa Safaris to design your private Samburu safari, combining Sasaab with Kenya's other iconic destinations—Masai Mara, Laikipia, Amboseli, or the Indian Ocean coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Sasaab from Nairobi?

Sasaab is approximately 350 km (220 miles) north of Nairobi—about a 6-hour drive by road or a 1-hour scenic flight to Kalama Airstrip. Most guests fly via Safarilink or private charter. The lodge arranges road transfers from the airstrip (15 minutes).

What is the best time to visit Sasaab and Samburu?

The dry season (June–October and January–March) offers the best wildlife sightings as animals concentrate around water sources. The green season (November–May) brings lush landscapes, incredible birdlife, and lower rates with fewer crowds. Samburu is a year-round destination.

Can I see the Big Five at Sasaab?

You can see four of the Big Five at Sasaab: lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. Rhinos are not present in Samburu. However, Samburu is famous for the 'Special Five'—Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich—found nowhere else in Kenya.

How much does the rooftop star bed experience cost?

The rooftop star bed experience costs $450 per night (in addition to accommodation rates). It includes a raised platform with a four-poster bed, bedding, lighting, and a dedicated attendant. Advance booking is essential as there is only one star bed platform.

Is Sasaab suitable for families with children?

Yes, Sasaab welcomes families and offers a two-bedroom Family Villa. Children of all ages are accepted. The lodge provides babysitting services, children's menus, junior ranger programs, and family-friendly game drives. The pool is a highlight for kids.

What is included in Sasaab's rates?

Rates include accommodation, all meals, soft drinks, house wines, beers, spirits, laundry, game drives, guided walks, cultural visits, conservancy fees, and Wi-Fi. Excluded: flights, premium wines/champagnes, spa treatments, rooftop star beds ($450 extra), and gratuities.

How does Sasaab compare to Saruni Samburu?

Both are luxury lodges in the Kalama Conservancy. Sasaab offers more suites (9 vs. 6), a dramatic infinity pool, and rooftop star beds. Saruni Samburu is smaller, more intimate, and Italian-run with a focus on personalized service and private villa plunge pools. Sasaab is more opulent and design-forward; Saruni is more understated and romantic.

Can I combine Sasaab with other Kenya safari destinations?

Absolutely. Popular combinations include Sasaab + Masai Mara (Mahali Mzuri, Cottar's, Angama Mara), Laikipia (Ol Pejeta, Lewa, Solio), Amboseli, or the Kenyan coast (Diani Beach, Watamu, Lamu). Beyond Africa Safaris designs multi-destination itineraries with seamless flight connections.

What conservation work does Sasaab support?

Sasaab operates on the community-owned Kalama Conservancy, which generates income for local Samburu families through tourism revenue-sharing. The lodge funds anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, education scholarships, water projects, and livelihood diversification programs, ensuring conservation benefits people and wildlife alike.

Safari Package

★5

Ultimate Big 5 Safari

Seven Days in Africa's Greatest Wildlife Sanctuary

Safari Package

★5

Ultimate Great Migration Safari

Seven Days at the Heart of the World's Greatest Wildlife Spectacle

Safari Package

★4.9

Madikwe Luxury Big Five Fly-In Safari

A Private, Malaria-Free Escape in South Africa's Finest Bushveld

Safari Package

★5

Kenya Giraffe: Samburu & Masai Mara Safari

Two Giraffe, Two Great Wildernesses — Kenya's Grand Giraffe Tour

Safari Package

★5

Leopard Capital Ultimate

Six Days in the Leopard Capital of the World

Safari Package

★4.9

Madikwe Malaria-Free Family Safari

Big Five in a Malaria-Free Wilderness — Made for Families

Ready to experience it yourself?

Let our local experts craft a private journey around the places you just read about.

Explore Tours Plan My Trip

Rothschild giraffes poking their heads through the breakfast window at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya

luxury-safari

Giraffe Manor Review — Breakfast with Rothschild Giraffes in Nairobi

Giraffe Manor is the world's most iconic giraffe hotel — a 1930s colonial manor in Nairobi's Karen suburb where resident Rothschild giraffes join you for breakfast, poking their long necks through the windows to share your table. Twelve exclusive suites, impeccable Safari Collection service, and the unforgettable thrill of eye-level encounters with endangered giraffes. This is bucket-list luxury with a conservation heart.

20 Aug 2026 · 17 min

Safari

Private Safari Tours Kenya — Masai Mara, Amboseli & Coastal Combos

Kenya is the birthplace of the luxury safari, where the Masai Mara's endless plains host the Great Migration and year-round Big Five encounters. Private safari tours combine the drama of the migration with Amboseli's elephant herds beneath Kilimanjaro, Samburu's arid beauty, and turquoise Indian Ocean beaches.

29 Jul 2026 · 25 min read

Luxury

Chief's Camp Review 2026 | Luxury on Chief's Island, Moremi

Chief's Camp is Sanctuary Retreats' flagship on Chief's Island — elegant pavilion suites in the heart of the Moremi, set in what is often called the delta's 'predator capital'. Here's our full review.

25 Aug 2026 · 13 min

Simple, Personal, Expert-Led

How It Works

From first message to the trip of a lifetime — planning your safari with us is effortless.

1
Share Your Dream
Tell us who is travelling, your dates and what you long to see. One quick message is all it takes to begin.
2
We Design It
Your specialist crafts a private, tailor-made itinerary — the right camps, the right season, every detail considered.
3
Refine Together
We fine-tune the journey with you until every day feels perfect, then handle flights, transfers and permits.
4
Travel With Confidence
Set off knowing every detail is handled and a dedicated specialist is on call from your first game drive to home.

Keep Exploring

Your Safari, Beautifully Planned

Digital Magazine

2026 Safari Collection

Our flagship digital magazine — the finest journeys of the year.

Plan Ahead

Safari Planning Guide

When to go, what to pack and how to plan the perfect trip.

All Safari Guides

Every expert guide and destination story in one place.

Watch

All Safari Videos

Cinematic films from the wildest corners of Africa.

Decide

Compare All Safaris

Weigh destinations side by side and find your perfect match.

Your Journey Starts Here

Let Our Experts Craft Your Perfect Safari

Every itinerary is handcrafted by our team of local specialists who have spent 18+ years exploring Southern and East Africa. From Big Five game drives to gorilla trekking — we create journeys that stay with you forever.

Start Planning Chat with Us

Sasaab Lodge Review — Samburu's Premier Luxury Safari Experience in Kenya

Frequently Asked Questions