Overview
A true wilderness experience
In the heart of Samburu land, in the heart of its own 150,000-hectare reserve straddling the majestic Mathews Mountains, Kalepo is an exclusive-use camp that will immerse you in the wildlife, culture and wild landscape of Kenya’s ‘Big North’.
The camp itself has up to four perfectly simple, but extremely comfortable, tents that are tastefully furnished and finished with high quality bedlinens, en-suite bathrooms, running water and open showers.
The main areas offer peace and calm with a small pool, lounge and dining area where homegrown food forms the backbone of each lovingly prepared meal.
Facts
-
Three double tents
-
Adjoining family tents sleeping four
-
Lounge, dining area and pool
-
Exclusive-use

Experiences
-
Warrior Games
It is an age-old right of passage for Samburu warriors to test their skills against each other. Join them to learn and compete at a range of traditional games.
-
Bush Walks
On foot you have the opportunity to take in the smaller details that get missed on a game drive. Leave the car behind and study tracks and spoor. Spot the infamous dung beetle, discover micro-ecosystems and really see the unique geology of the landscape.
-
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, is a perfect example of communities standing up united for wildlife in recognition of the value that it can create. Its purpose is to rescue, rehabilitate and release abandoned orphaned elephants, whilst also providing economic opportunity for the surrounding communities. Combine a visit to this special place on the flight in or out of camp.
-
Helicopter
Take to the skies and explore Kenya’s incredible and untamed “Big North”. From Lake Turkana to Cycad forests, from flamingos to the peaks of Mount Kenya, visit magical places only accessible by helicopter.
Community and culture
The local Samburu people are a huge part of Kalepo and are intimately involved with the running of the camp and the hosting of guests. The camps provide job opportunities and have been set up in collaboration with the local community. There very reason for being is to ensure that the people that live in this beautiful area experience the economic benefit of tourist based conservation.
Conservation
Anyone that stays in the property pays a fee to the Namunyak conservancy. Namunyak is home to the rare De Brazza colobus monkey and the IUCN red-listed sub species of the Cycad, Encephalartos tegulaneus. It is a critical wildlife refuge with important northern populations of giraffe, gerenuk, leopard, African wild dog, impala, lion, greater kudu and many bird species. The conservancy is particularly important for elephant as they move seasonally between the Mathews Range and the Mt. Kenya and Ngare Ndare Forest, a route they have been using for decades. Kalepo also works closely with organisations such as Ewaso Lions.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra


Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.