Samburu Serena Lodge

Situated on the fertile banks of the Uaso Nyiro River, in the center of the Samburu Game Reserve in Kenya's rugged, semi-arid Northern Province, Samburu Serena Safari Lodge echoes the robust rhythms of riverfront life. This bucolic and serene lodge was inspired by the architecture of the indigenous Samburu tribe and blends into the verdant environment by making full use of native materials. Thatched cabins built using exotic African woods create an escapist atmosphere.

The undisturbed wilderness of the Samburu Game Reserve is an austere semi-desert of thornbush flats, dry grassland and open acacia woodland. This rugged landscape is the home of several rare species of birds and animals including the exotic reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, the gerenuk (a gazelle that stands up on its hind legs), Grevy's zebra, the blue-flushed Somali ostrich and the bristle-crowned starling. The Lodge's experienced safari leaders will also track the more common African animals like lesser kudus, elephants, lions, cheetahs and leopards.

The languid Uaso Nyiro River which stretches at a safe distance in front of the lodge is home to many Nile Crocodiles which can reach up to twelve feet long. No trip to the Samburu lodge would be complete without a visit to the hippo pools where large numbers of these enormous creatures wallow in the cooling muds of the River. Leopard can frequently be seen from the Lodge. The lodge has a spacious swimming pool for cooling down in the heat of the day and a special game-viewing verandah.

Overlooking the outdoor swimming pool and the meandering Uaso Nyiro River, the open air dining room serves guests sumptuous international menus, buffets and barbecues alongside authentic African dishes. The gracious dining and lounge areas are enhanced by Samburu details and murals depicting local nature.

The Kiboko Bar - located next to the dining room - serves fresh fruit juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee, cocktails, wines, spirits and liqueurs. The Pool Bar, with upper and lower terraces, offers the same drink selections.

Every afternoon, in a special native amphitheater, members of a local Samburu tribe perform traditional tribal dances.