Haven in the Samburu jungle

By Cathy Ochung

Anyone travelling towards the Northern Frontier expects dirt, dust and bare wilderness. Those who like to stereotype imagine a backward and hostile people who have refused to change their way of life towards modern lifestyles. Yet in the district capital of Samburu, an exceptional lodge awaits to give its visitor a grand experience of the jungle.

British style colonial housing.

Kenyatta House

The bathroom area is appealing with its modern bathtub enclosed with wooden finishing. A balcony adds that jungle magic to the room. From here, you can watch wild animals wander around the lodge. At times, the animals get close enough to be touched.

The feeling of being one with nature is enhanced by the natural wake-up call each morning from the mesmerising chirping of the birds, a great addition to the lodge, especially for bird lovers and watchers. There are over 250 species of birds at this lodge.

Maralal is home to the Samburu so take the time to visit the flourishing market in the town centre. There you will find authentic artefacts from the Samburu and Turkana communities. Take the time to also visit Kenyatta House, which is two kilometres away from the lodge. This is the place where the nation’s founding father, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, was detained during that tumultuous time when Kenyans were fighting for independence. Kenyatta House is now a museum.