Kalama warriors

Still semi-nomadic and very strongly connected to their traditions and culture, the Samburu are one of the most famous and interesting tribes in Kenya. Closely related to the Masai and speakers of a version of the Maa language (Maasai and Samburu understand each other perfectly well, even if they smile about each other’s accents and tuns pf phrases), they are believed to have reached Kenya between four and five centuries ago with other Nilotic groups walking South from the Horn of Africa.

The nearest town to Saruni Samburu is Archer’s Post, a dusty settlement still with the flavour of a remote frontier post. Within the group ranch where we are located, many clans still lead a simple life in lightly-built settlements, they are removed after a while to be transported to other areas, following the cycle of wet and dry seasons. In such a harsh environment, the Samburu have not developed agriculture, trade or industry. Their only wealth comes from cattle-herding: camels, goats, sheep and a few lean cows are all they possess.

Most of the men and all the women wear very colourful and traditional attires, often based on red and white. Tall, very intelligent and sensitive, the Samburu have learnt how to survive on a very difficult and today are among the pioneers of eco-tourism in Kenya. Like the Kalama community, many other communities believe that the large group ranches that they own can provide an income as wildlife sanctuaries. Our Samburu guides and trackers know this land inside-out and will take on a journey of discovery through it.