Kalama Conservancy
Nestled within the vast and rugged landscapes of northern Kenya, the private Kalama Conservancy stands as a testament to the power of community – driven conservation. This 49,000 hectare reserve was established in 2002 as a member of the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), an umbrella organization dedicated to safeguarding Kenya’s rangelands. Owned and managed by the indigenous Samburu People, Kalama Conservancy serves as a vital wildlife corridor, enabling the free movement of large herds of elephants and other wildlife migrating between Samburu and Marsabit.
This spectacular region is marked by its acacia – grassland mosaics and dramatic upland forests, it is not just a haven for wildlife but also a living, breathing cultural tapestry woven by the pastoral Samburu tribes.
Kalama Conservancy plays a pivotal role in preserving the rich biodiversity of the Samburu ecosystem, which includes the well-known Buffalo Springs and Samburu National Reserves. The conservancy features a unique landscape, ranging from arid lowlands to the cool, well – watered highlands of the Leroghi Plateau, offering diverse habitats that support a wide variety of species. The absence of fences allows wildlife to roam freely across the vast area, providing visitors with a rare and authentic African safari experience.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Kalama Conservancy embodies the resilience and innovation of the Samburu People. Once plagued by challenges like poaching, land degradation, and poverty, the conservancy has transformed into a beacon of hope and progress. Managed by a democratically elected board, it has spearheaded sustainable land management initiatives, fostered peace with neighboring communities, and launched numerous community development projects. From improving local school infrastructure and water access to offering business loans from local entrepreneurs, tourism plays a crucial role in funding these initiatives, directly benefiting the community.
What Makes Kalama Conservancy Special?
Exclusivity
With only two properties within its 49,000 hectares, Kalama Conservancy offers a truly exclusive safari experience, ensuring privacy and a deeper connection with nature.
Dramatic Landscapes
Kalama Conservancy is renowned for its breathtaking views featuring dramatic hills and iconic landmarks like Mount Ololokwe and Mathew Mountain Range. These majestic landscapes paint the horizon in mesmerizing hues, creating a tranquil and almost hypnotic effect.
Rich Wildlife
Kalama Conservancy is a crucial migratory corridor for elephants and is home to the Samburu Special Five: Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, Beisa orxy, Somali Ostrich and the long necked Gerenuk. With over 200 bird species and regular and excellent leopard sightings, Kamala Conservancy is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Cultural Immersion
The Samburu people also known as the butterfly people, are deeply connected to the land and their attractions. Visitors have the unique opportunity to engage with the Samburu people, learn about their conservation efforts, and experience their vibrant culture.
Proximity to Samburu National Reserve
Kalama Conservancy is located close to Samburu National Reserve, providing easy access to even more wildlife experiences, enhancing the overall safari adventure.
Things to Do at Kalama Conservancy
Game Drives
Enjoy incredible sightings of Kalama Conservancy’s growing wildlife populations on day and night game drives, or explore the nearby Samburu National Reserve for extended safari adventures. Expect to see several wildlife species including lions, reticulated giraffes, elephants, Beisa Orxy, wild dogs and gerenuks among others.
Guided Bush Walks
Enjoy incredible encounters with the wilderness up close with guided bush walks in Kalama Conservancy, offering a deeper connection to the natural surroundings.
Experience the wilderness up close with guided bush walks, offering a deeper connection to the natural surroundings.
Visit Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for orphaned elephant calves. Here, they are rehabilitated and released, making a positive impact on both wildlife and the local community.
Underground Photographic Hide
Capture intimate wildlife moments in Kalama Conservancy from a unique underground hide overlooking the waterhole.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
Engage with the fascinating Samburu traditions through activities like the Warriors Academy or visits to local villages, witnessing firsthand the vibrant cultural heritage of the semi-arid region.
Stargazing Safaris
Kalama Conservancy is famed for its clear night skies, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities. On your Kenya safari to this private conservancy, enjoy the romance and wonder of a stargazing safari, making the most of the pristine, unpolluted skies above Samburu.
Where to Stay in Kalama Conservancy
There are only two accommodation facilities in Kalama Conservancy that is Saruni Samburu and Basecamp Samburu.
Saruni Samburu
Saruni Samburu has achieved iconic status for its stunning setting and the way that elements of authentic Samburu culture and community conservation that has been seamlessly woven into the luxury safari experience. Saruni Samburu is a pioneer safari lodge in the communit – owned Kalama Wildlife Conservancy and it has paved the way for community – centered ecotourism in northern Kenya.
Consisting of just six guest villas, the lodge offers sweeping vistas over the unparalleled landscapes of northern Kenya. With access to both the Samburu National Reserve and the Kalama Conservancy, Saruni Samburu offers sample opportunities to encounter the legendary elephant herds that traverse this terrain, and spot endangered species including the “Samburu Special Five”
Basecamp Samburu
Nestled in the serene Kalama Conservancy, Basecamp Samburu invites on a journey to discover the untamed beautiful of one of the most captivating landscapes in Kenya. With breathtaking views of the scared Mt. Ololokwe, revered by the Samburu people, the camp offers a front – row seat to the dramatic vistas and endless skies that define this unique region.
Featuring star beds, Basecamp Samburu elevates the safari experience with the opportunity to sleep under the starlit skies, immersing guests in the romance and adventure of the African wilderness. This safari camp promises a dynamic and sustainable travel experience that captures the spirit of Kalama’s dramatic landscapes.
Visit Kalama Conservancy on these Safaris
Exclusively Samburu Safari
Discover the distinctiveness of northern Kenya’s rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich Samburu heritage, offering a unique sense of adventure far from the well-trodden paths.
Samburu & Mara Safari
Experience the contrasts and connections between two of Kenya’s most remarkable regions – Samburu and the Mara – in one extraordinary journey that showcases the best of both worlds.
Heavenly Honeymoon Safari
Celebrate love amidst the breathtaking wildlife of Kenya, where intimate moments and stunning landscape provides the perfect escape for newlyweds.
