Under Samburu's acacia trees and ancient stars

On the darkest nights, guests gather for guided sessions where telescopes point skyward, and Samburu elders explain how stars guided movement, seasons, and survival long before maps existed.

In September, Samburu National Reserve launched one of East Africa's first dedicated astro-tourism offerings, timed to coincide with a total lunar eclipse. The initiative introduced guided night-sky tours, astrophotography sessions, educational workshops, and a custom-built planetarium that combines local cultural perspectives of the cosmos with scientific astronomy.

"The development is part of a broader growth in nighttime tourism experiences that extend beyond traditional wildlife safaris," says Walter Muriithi, manager of Samburu Sopa Lodge.

Several lodges have adapted to this interest with open-air viewing decks, night sky talks, and, in some cases, star beds that allow guests to sleep beneath the open sky. These experiences are quiet to align with the area's broader emphasis on low-impact tourism.

Accommodation within Samburu National Reserve remains intentionally limited. There are just seven camps inside the reserve, with fewer than 450 beds in total. This cap helps preserve the sense of space that defines the area.

Lodges range from larger properties designed for groups and conferences to smaller tented camps focused on intimacy and immersion. Many are set along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, where wildlife activity is constant and evenings bring cooling breezes.

Some camps emphasize cultural integration and traditional design by using local materials and layouts that blend into the landscape. Others offer flexible schedules and experienced guides familiar with animal behavior and light conditions to cater to photographers and filmmakers.

Prices vary depending on season, accommodation type, and included activities, with most camps offering full-board packages that include meals and guided game drives. Sundowners, often held at carefully chosen viewpoints, are a highlight for many visitors, marking the transition from day to night in a landscape that changes dramatically with the light.