We left Nairobi at 8 a.m., excited for our six-hour road trip to Soroi Samburu Lodge. The drive was smooth and scenic, with endless landscapes and that signature safari thrill building up with every kilometer. Cruising in our beautiful Safari Land Cruiser, we could already feel adventure calling.

A Warm Samburu Welcome

As soon as we entered Samburu Game Reserve, nature greeted us in style. I kid you not, within minutes, we spotted three of the Samburu Special Five — the graceful Grevy’s zebra, the reticulated giraffe, and the Somali ostrich. We also saw elephants, antelopes, elands, Grant’s Gazelle, impallas, dikdiks (we call them the lion’s snack) and so many more animals. What a welcome!

When we finally arrived at Soroi Samburu Lodge, we were welcomed with cool towels, a cold glass of juice and a Samburu dance. We had a briefing and we were in good time for lunch. The restaurant terrace overlooks the Ewaso Nyiro River, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal. The team served a three-course lunch, and I was blown away by how perfectly they catered to my dietary needs — down to the smallest detail. The service was warm, genuine and incredibly thoughtful. One of the staff members even stopped to tie my shoelaces TWICE that kept coming undone — that simple act of kindness truly melted my heart. Top-tier service, through and through.

Afternoon Bliss and a Sundowner to Remember

After lunch, we slipped into our swimsuits and headed straight for the pool. The water was refreshing and laughter filled the air as we bonded and unwound.

Later that afternoon, we set off for another game drive en route to our sundowner spot inside Samburu Reserve. Along the way, we struck gold — a huge pride of lions basking on a massive rock, their golden coats glowing in the soft evening sun. It was one of those rare, awe-inspiring safari moments that stop you right in your tracks. Watching them lounge so calmly against the fiery Samburu sunset was nothing short of majestic.

When we finally arrived at the sundowner site, the view took our breath away. Golden hues melted into the horizon as we sipped our drinks nd enjoyed some canapes, swapped stories and soaked in the wild beauty. Returning to the lodge later, dinner was another three-course culinary treat, followed by vibrant entertainment that had most on their feet. The night ended with music, laughter and that beautiful sense of togetherness that defines Soroi stays.

The Ultimate Safari Morning

Our second day began with a beautiful morning game drive. Just when we thought the previous day couldn’t be topped, Samburu surprised us again. Along the way, we came across a leopard enjoying its breakfast — perched gracefully beneath a tree with its catch, completely unbothered by our presence. It was an unforgettable moment that perfectly captured the raw beauty of the wild.

As if that wasn’t enough, we soon spotted the remaining members of the Samburu Special Five — the Beisa Oryx and the Gerenuk. Shortly after, we arrived at a surprise bush breakfast by the Ewaso Nyiro River. Picture this: fresh coffee, warm pastries, deli meats, and birdsong echoing across the savannah. It was peaceful, intimate and absolutely magical. We even squeezed in a mini photoshoot — because who can resist capturing a moment like that?

Exploring Soroi Larsens Camp

Yes, Soroi have two stunning properties in Samburu. At midday, we drove to Soroi Larsens Camp for a four-course lunch and a quick property tour. The camp was nothing short of stunning — from its photography hide and star beds to the unique room designs and breathtaking views. I remembered my last visit here when I had a relaxing massage overlooking the hills — mental note: that deserves its own blog post!

Oh, and did I mention? Soroi makes their own sugar-free ice cream — creamy, rich and guilt-free. Absolutely divine.

On our way back to the lodge, we stopped at the bridge over the Ewaso Nyiro River connecting Isiolo and Samburu. It’s one of those perfect photo-op spots that instantly makes you pause and appreciate Kenya’s beauty.

Starry Nights and Samburu Magic

Back at Soroi Samburu Lodge, we cooled off in the pool before an African-themed dinner. The spread included nyama choma, kuku choma, ugali, and more local favorites — hearty, flavorful and served with love.

After dinner, we gathered around the bonfire under a star-filled sky. It was pure magic — the flicker of flames, the sound of the wild, and the sight of a few wild animals just beyond the fence. I called it a night early, but some of my friends stayed up, chatting and sipping till 2 a.m. That’s the kind of energy Soroi brings — relaxed, happy, and alive.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

Our last morning came too soon. We enjoyed a fantastic breakfast before checking out, sharing laughs and stories with new friends from different countries. Everyone radiated the same calm, joyful vibe that seems to linger long after leaving a Soroi property.

We said our goodbyes reluctantly, but one thing’s for sure — Soroi Samburu Lodge isn’t a place you visit once. It’s a place you return to, again and again, for the warmth, the wilderness and the unforgettable moments that make you feel truly alive. A piece of my heart remained in Samburu 🙂