Kenya Safari Holidays: From Samburu National Park to the Masai Mara

Stretches of savannah for as far as the eye can see, big cats with their amber eyes scanning the horizon, and luxury tents that allow you to be immersed in nature while still benefiting from creature comforts – Kenya safari holidays offer a wilderness experience par excellence.

Discover Africa safari planner, Matthys van Aswegen, recently travelled to the East African nation to experience two different types of Kenya safaris with the Soroi Collection. From traversing the quiet, serene plains of Samburu National Park to exploring the Masai Mara, one of the sites of the Great Migration, Matthys came back with memorable moments to share and tips for travellers wanting to go on a safari in Kenya.

Soroi Larsens Camp: A Serene, Uncrowded Safari Experience

“One of the best sightings I experienced was a leopard sitting right on a massive rock. Then, on my way to the airstrip on my last day, I saw a lion feeding on a warthog,” explains Matthys about the wildlife he saw on the first leg of his safari with Soroi at Larsens Camp. He tells me that Samburu National Park, where the camp is located, is also home to the Special Five – reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk – and that he spotted every one.

“But this isn’t why I consider Larsens Camp to be a hidden gem in Kenya…”

For Matthys, what truly sets this camp apart is the remoteness. There isn’t much development in Samburu National Park, and the area only has a limited number of camps. As you drive across the plains, you feel totally isolated and as if you’re the only one exploring the wilderness.

“I recommend this destination to safari-goers who are looking for something unique. Travellers who perhaps have been on a safari before and are no longer chasing the Big Five. This is for the person who wants to truly immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a quieter setting.”

And what a beautiful destination to enjoy solitude. Set in the north of Kenya, Samburu’s wildlife (including four of the Big Five, with only rhinoceros missing) rely on the Ewaso Nyiro River, a lifeline in the reserve. Riverine forests line the banks; acacia scrub and grasslands also make up the landscape, all the way up to the mountains along the boundary.

It’s overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River where Larsens’ 12 luxurious tented suites lie. Well-appointed bathrooms, king-size beds, and soft touches like robes and plush sofas ensure that you’re comfortable in the bush.

“When I woke up in the morning, my room was filled with beautiful oranges as the sun rose over the river. The location of the camp in Samburu Game Reserve is what makes Larsens so special.”

Even though the traditional safari canvas tents are a dream to stay in, Matthys recommends the Larsens’ sleepout experience for a night of stargazing. Set on a secure platform and surrounded by a mosquito net, you’ll get into bed and gaze up at the magical celestial display. Perspex forms the roof of the bed, so you’re able to stargaze without worrying about anything falling on you.

Soroi Masai Mara Camps: For Great Migration Adventures

Imagine miles and miles of savannah all around you. Small outcrops of rocks dot the landscape along with touches of woodlands. “Total Lion King vibes,” explains Matthys. The Masai Mara is one of the most famous safari destinations in Africa thanks to its rolling grasslands, abundance of wildlife, and the annual Great Migration.

Every year, millions of wildebeest travel from the Serengeti in Tanzania across the Grumeti and Mara rivers to the Masai Mara for lush grazing grounds. This spectacle is one of the most popular events on the safari calendar, with hundreds of thousands of tourists visiting to see the wildebeest herds dodge predators as they traverse the land.

Matthys says that a trip to one of Soroi’s camps in the Masai Mara is perfect for first-time safari-goers. “If you want that Lion King experience and see a vast number of animals, this is the place to be.”

The Masai Mara is big cat country, as Matthys experienced for himself: “One morning, three lion brothers – the biggest lions I’ve seen – came strolling down the savannah and walked right past our vehicle during a game drive.” These boys had impressive thick dark manes – the Masai Mara is one of the homes of the distinctive black-maned lions.

Cheetahs and leopards are often seen during game drives, as the large herds of antelope species as well as zebras attract the predators. Elephants also roam the land, and hippos can be seen (and heard) in rivers.

The Soroi Luxury Migration Camp is situated along the riverbank, ensuring incredible views, including of the hippo pods in the water. “Hearing the breeze blowing through the trees and fish eagles calling created such a magical atmosphere,” adds Matthys.

Soroi boasts two other camps in the Masai Mara: Bush Camp and Private Wing. Both also enjoy placement near a river’s edge. The spacious tents, complete with luxurious soft furnishings, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandahs, provide travellers with a comfortable respite in the bush.

Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape with fewer crowds or a wildebeest migration safari is on your wishlist, Soroi’s safari camps will delight. With their sublime locations affording mesmerising views and their luxurious finishings and soft touches, your safari in Kenya will be the yardstick with which you measure all nature and safari holidays going forward.