Moonlight Tours Expedition – Sarara Camp: A Timeless Encounter with Samburu Culture & Pristine Wilderness

Imagine stepping into a world where traditions remain untouched by time, an experience as rare and extraordinary as the Great Migration, yet far less known and entirely forbidden to be photographed. Now, picture the Samburu singing wells, where semi-nomadic Samburu tribes gather each morning during the July-to-October dry season, bringing their livestock to ancient waterholes and digging for the life-giving water beneath.

At Sarara Camp, you have the privileged opportunity to witness this profound ritual. As each family sings ceremonially while digging, their livestock recognizes their unique song and waits patiently for their turn to drink. Amidst the dust, bells, vibrant attire, and rhythmic chants, Samburu families unite, exchanging stories and passing on messages in a centuries-old tradition. As dusk falls, a remarkable shift of life takes place—wild elephants, leopards, and other creatures arrive at the very same wells, a humbling display of human-wildlife coexistence.

Nestled in the heart of the Matthews Range, within the Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust, Sarara Camp offers a front-row seat to this untouched world. The region, spanning 850,000 acres (larger than the state of New Jersey), is one of Africa’s last true wildernesses, home to elephants, wild dogs, buffalo, reticulated giraffes, and the legendary Sarara leopard—many of which can be seen without leaving the camp as they gather at the waterhole.

Highlights:

• Witness the legendary Samburu Singing Wells – a rare cultural spectacle, exclusive to Sarara Camp.
• Wildlife-rich landscapes – Game drives and guided walks through one of Kenya’s most pristine conservation areas.
• Matthews Range hiking – Explore ancient forested hills, untouched for centuries.
• Fly-camping with camels – A truly immersive way to connect with nature along seasonal riverbanks.
• Samburu beading workshops – Engage with Samburu women and learn the intricate art of traditional beadwork.
• Waterhole wildlife encounters – Watch elephants, kudu, warthogs, and wild dogs drink just a stone’s throw from the camp’s infinity pool and dining area.

Activities:

✔ Game Drives – Discover Sarara’s diverse wildlife on morning and evening safaris.

✔ Guided Walks – Experience the magic of the bush on foot, led by expert guides.
✔ Hiking – Trek through the rugged beauty of the Matthews Range.
✔ Bird Watching – Spot an array of bird species in this remote paradise.
✔ Fly Camping – Sleep under the stars in a lightweight mobile camp along a dry riverbed.
✔ Scenic Flights – Soar over this breathtaking landscape for a bird’s-eye view.
✔ Bush Dining – Savor gourmet meals in stunning outdoor settings.

Rooms:

En-Suite Tents

Spacious tented suites are set on the hillside, offering uninterrupted views of the dramatic landscape. Each tent features an en-suite bathroom with solar-heated outdoor showers for a refreshing open-air experience. A butler box ensures discreet early-morning coffee or tea service, setting the tone for another extraordinary day in the wild.

Sarara House

Designed for families or small groups, Sarara House is a two-bedroom villa with a private plunge pool, dining area, and lounge, perfect for intimate moments over morning coffee or sunset cocktails.

Facilities:

• Main Lodge & Lounge – A warm, welcoming space with a dining area and a beautifully curated gift shop.
• Natural Rock Swimming Pool – Overlooks the resident waterhole, offering front-row wildlife encounters.
• Wi-Fi Access – Stay connected (if you choose) in the heart of the wilderness.
• Waterhole Viewing Deck – Enjoy unparalleled wildlife sightings without leaving camp.

Dining:

Indulge in a culinary journey that blends fresh, locally sourced ingredients with breathtaking dining settings:

Mornings – Wake up to tea, coffee, or juice delivered to your tent. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the main lodge or after an early morning game drive.

Lunch – A casual buffet-style feast under a shady tree or in the open-air dining area.
Afternoon Tea – Freshly baked cakes and biscuits before setting out for an evening safari.
Dinner – A candle-lit terrace dinner overlooking the waterhole, or a private, starlit meal in a dry riverbed with a roaring campfire.

Most of the fruits and vegetables are harvested from Sarara’s own organic garden, ensuring the freshest ingredients for every meal.

Pricing Range:

Sarara En-Suite Tents (per night): $1,200 - $1,500 per person

Sarara House (per night): $3,500 - $4,500 (ideal for families or small groups)
Fly-Camping Experience (per night): $700 per person
Exclusive Lodge Hire (per night): $12,000 - $15,000

(Rates vary based on seasonality and tailored experiences. Contact Moonlight Tours Expedition for a customized itinerary.)

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Safari with Moonlight Tours Expedition

At Moonlight Tours Expedition, we invite you to step into a world untouched by time. Sarara Camp is more than a safari destination—it’s an exclusive gateway to one of Africa’s last great wildernesses, where you’ll witness an ancient culture, unparalleled wildlife, and a true connection to nature.

Your bespoke journey awaits.