Sarova Shaba Game Lodge With Mara Triangle Safaris

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge – A Pioneering Eco‑Luxury Oasis in the Heart of the “Born Free” Reserve

Nestled within a natural oasis along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the ruggedly beautiful Shaba National Reserve, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is a true gem of northern Kenya. As the first game lodge in the Shaba, Samburu and Buffalo Springs ecosystem to be connected to the national electricity grid, this award‑winning property has long been a pioneer in sustainable luxury. Known as the “Land of Born Free”, Shaba was once the home of legendary conservationists Joy and George Adamson, who immortalised their story of Elsa the lioness in the iconic book and film Born Free. The lodge itself has welcomed notable guests, including Sir Richard Harris, who stayed here for weeks while filming To Walk with Lions, a movie based on the Adamsons’ story.

Set within a serene oasis of natural springs, indigenous trees, and lush gardens nourished by streams flowing into the river, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge offers an unparalleled blend of rustic authenticity and modern comfort. It is the perfect base for exploring the unique wildlife of Shaba, Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves, famous for the rare “Samburu Special Five” – the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Somali ostrich and beisa oryx – species found almost nowhere else on earth.

Prime Location – A Wildlife‑Rich Oasis on the Ewaso Nyiro River

The lodge is located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, within the Shaba National Reserve, approximately 314 km (5 hours’ drive) from Nairobi. It is also about 10 km from Buffalo Springs National Reserve and 21 km from Samburu National Reserve’s Uaso Gate, providing access to three of Kenya’s most spectacular northern wildlife areas. The nearest airstrip is a 30‑minute drive away, with scheduled flights from Wilson Airport.

The lodge is built around natural springs, creating a tranquil microclimate that attracts a constant parade of wildlife. From the lodge’s grounds and your private veranda, you can watch crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, baboons foraging in the trees, and elephants coming to drink at the water’s edge – all without leaving the property.

Accommodation – 85 Chalet‑Style Rooms with River and Garden Views

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge features 85 spacious chalet‑style rooms, designed to blend traditional African charm with modern comfort. The accommodation is spread across two‑storey thatched‑roof wooden structures, nestled among indigenous trees and gardens.

Room categories include:

• Standard Rooms (80 units): Spacious, attractively laid‑out chalets overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River or the lush gardens. Each room features a private balcony or terrace with views of the river or game park, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, bathtub and WC, running hot and cold water, a king‑size or double bed with mosquito net and duvet, an overhead fan (powered 6am to midnight), individually regulated air conditioning, a TV, tea/coffee making facilities, a safe, and a minibar.

• Deluxe Rooms (10 units): These offer enhanced space and premium positioning with the best river views.

• Executive Suites (4 units): More spacious suites with separate living areas.

• Presidential Suite (1 unit): The ultimate luxury accommodation with expansive living spaces and breathtaking views.

All rooms have been thoughtfully refurbished in phases, maintaining a fresh, inviting atmosphere while preserving their classic safari character.

Dining – Elevated Open‑Air Dining with Panoramic River Views

The Surpelei Restaurant is the culinary heart of the lodge. This elevated, open‑air dining space offers sweeping panoramic views of the Ewaso Nyiro River, where hippos and crocodiles lounge while you enjoy your meal. The menu features exceptional cuisine crafted from fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients, including produce from local farmers and the lodge’s own organic garden. Guests can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast daily, along with lunch and dinner buffets or à la carte options. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, halal) are accommodated with advance notice.

Additional dining experiences include:

• The Chemi Chemi Bar: A well‑stocked bar perfect for pre‑dinner sundowners.

• Bush Breakfasts & Picnic Lunches: Enjoy a meal in the heart of the wilderness during game drives.

• Bush Dinners & Boma Dining: A magical lantern‑lit dinner under the stars, often accompanied by traditional Samburu dance performances.

• The Crocodile‑Viewing Deck: A unique riverside deck where guests can feed and watch crocodiles in their natural habitat – an unforgettable experience.

Facilities & Amenities – Relaxation and Recreation in the Wild

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge offers an impressive range of facilities for a lodge of its size:

• Two Outdoor Swimming Pools: A large main pool with sun loungers overlooking the river, plus a separate children’s pool for families.

• Tulia Spa: A full‑service spa offering massages (including Swedish and aromatherapy), Ayurvedic treatments, and a unique fish foot therapy (fish pedicure) experience – where tiny fish gently exfoliate your feet.

• Gym & Fitness Centre: A well‑equipped gym for guests who wish to stay active.

• The Crocodile‑Viewing Deck: An exclusive riverside deck where guests can safely observe and feed crocodiles at designated times.

• Games Room & TV Lounge: Offering table tennis, billiards, board games, and satellite TV.

• Kids’ Club & Children’s Activities: Specially trained staff escort children for activities such as swimming, nature walks within the secure premises, birdwatching, sport fishing, board games, and visits to local villages. Babysitting or child‑minding services are available on request.

• Business Centre & Conference Facilities: Meeting rooms accommodating up to 150 guests, making the lodge suitable for corporate retreats and events.

• Gift Shop: Selling local handicrafts, beadwork, clothing, safari essentials, and souvenirs.

• 24‑Hour Front Desk, Currency Exchange & Laundry Services: For guest convenience.

• Complimentary Wi‑Fi: Available in all public areas and guest rooms.

• Secure On‑Site Parking: Free for self‑drive guests.

• 24‑Hour Double Electric Fence: Ensuring guest safety while allowing wildlife to roam freely outside.

Wildlife & Activities – The Samburu Special Five and Beyond

Shaba National Reserve holds a special place in Kenya’s conservation history. It was here that Joy Adamson released her first hand‑raised lions, and where she spent her final years working to rehabilitate leopards back into the wild. Today, the reserve is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including:

• The “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra (endangered, with one of the largest remaining populations), reticulated giraffe, gerenuk (the “giraffe‑necked antelope”), beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich.

• Large predators: Lion, leopard, cheetah, and African wild dog (painted wolf) – sightings of wild dogs are a common attraction.

• Elephants, buffalos, hippos, and crocodiles – elephants regularly come down to the river to drink, visible from the lodge.

• Over 450 bird species recorded, making it a birder’s paradise.

Activities available:

• Game Drives: The lodge has its own fleet of well‑equipped safari vehicles with excellent guides. Morning, afternoon, and full‑day game drives in Shaba, Samburu, and Buffalo Springs National Reserves.

• Night Game Drives: A thrilling opportunity to spot elusive nocturnal wildlife.

• Camel Safaris: A traditional and peaceful way to explore the landscape.

• Guided Bush & Nature Walks: Explore the smaller wonders of the bush with an armed guide, learning about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and insects.

• Crocodile Feeding & Viewing: A unique experience from the lodge’s dedicated riverside viewing deck.

• Birdwatching: With expert guides who know the area’s 450+ bird species.

• Sport Fishing: Available for guests seeking a quieter activity.

• Samburu Cultural Village Visits: Immerse yourself in the traditions, dance, and beadwork of the local Samburu people.

Pricing Information (Sample Rates – Confirm at Booking)

Note: All rates are per person per night and are subject to change based on season and booking package. Please verify directly with the lodge or your travel agent.

• Sample Rate: Prices start from approximately USD $220 per person per night sharing on a full‑board basis.

• Typical Package Inclusions: Accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), two game drives daily, airstrip transfers (where applicable), and access to all lodge facilities.

• Exclusions: Park and conservancy fees, premium drinks, hot air balloon safaris, and gratuities.

The lodge is generally family‑friendly, with children under 5 years staying free, children aged 6–12 years paying 50% of the adult rate, and children aged 13–17 years paying 75% of the adult rate.

Sustainability & Eco‑Certification

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is a recognised leader in sustainable tourism, having been awarded a Silver Eco‑Rating certification from Ecotourism Kenya. The lodge was the first in the Shaba, Samburu and Buffalo Springs ecosystem to be connected to the national electricity grid, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Key sustainability initiatives include:

• An Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) guiding all operations.

• Use of energy‑efficient lighting and water conservation systems.

• Sourcing fresh produce from local farmers and the lodge’s own organic garden.

• Comprehensive waste management, including composting and recycling programmes.

• Employment of local staff and support for community development projects, including local schools and conservation education.

• Annual environmental audits in compliance with EMCA 1999.

Why Choose Sarova Shaba Game Lodge?

• Legendary “Born Free” Location: Stay in the reserve made famous by Joy and George Adamson’s story of Elsa the lioness – a true piece of conservation history.

• Prime Ewaso Nyiro Riverfront: Built around natural springs on the riverbank, offering direct views of crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and baboons from your private veranda.

• 85 Spacious Chalet‑Style Rooms: Comfortable, well‑appointed rooms with private balconies, air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and river or garden views.

• Two Swimming Pools & Tulia Spa: Relax in two pools and enjoy massages, Ayurvedic treatments, and unique fish foot therapy.

• Elevated Open‑Air Dining: The Surpelei Restaurant offers panoramic river views, with crocodiles and hippos visible while you enjoy your meal.

• Outstanding Wildlife Access: Expertly guided game drives into Shaba, Samburu, and Buffalo Springs reserves to see the “Samburu Special Five” and African wild dogs.

• Silver Eco‑Rated Sustainability: A multi‑award‑winning leader in sustainable tourism, with a genuine commitment to conservation and community support.