Elephant Watch-Africa's unique Elephant Experience

Activity/Tour

The rationale behind ?Elephant Watch Safaris? is borrowed from whale watching; that there is more value in the live animal from people watching it, than there is from killing it for its products of meat, skin and ivory. Elephant Watch Safaris is a first in Africa and we are delighted to be able to offer visitors this new and wonderful experience in the Samburu National Reserve in Northern Kenya. While venturing into the secret world of elephants, our guests are looked after in great style. As guests of Oria Douglas Hamilton (wife of world-class expert, Iain Douglas Hamilton PhD, who has studied elephants for thirty years), you'll be given a once-in-lifetime opportunity to approach these enigmatic and intelligent creatures to "hot-breath-closeness" with complete safety. And Elephant Watch Safari is the only place in Africa and Asia where you can safely do this. This is made possible because your hosts know the elephants of Samburu individually. As Oria explains, "We know all the elephants, their family relationships, their social structure and we can approach them to hot-breath-closeness?We are not just a safari taking people to snap-shot big cats and elephants - we are specialised and firmly based in science." Described by Conde Nast as "the best tented safari in Africa", this luxurious tented camp, settled above the banks of the great Ewaso Nyiro River, accommodates a maximum of 10 guests, so you will receivepersonalized attention. Accompanied by real Samburu Warriors, you'll see more wildlife and learn much more about it than on any typical safari.

Typical Day

To start your day, rich Kenyan coffee or tea is delivered to your tent at the time you choose. Then, you are off an exciting game drive that will provide an up-close and personal view into the world of elephants. You will be introduced to the elephant families whose surnames are the Royals, the Clouds, the Spices, the First Ladies, and so on. Our knowledgeable Samburu Warrior guides provide detailed insights into elephant social structure, identification, and family history. You may also choose to take early morning or evening bush walks along well-travelled elephant paths always accompanied by our Samburu Warriors. Daytime visits to the Save the Elephants research center and the local Samburu village may also be arranged. A tradition at Elephant Watch Camp, our Sundowners are a great way to conclude your day. Our Sundowners are located at our "top of the world" spot, with a breathtaking vista to observe the sunset. Enjoy a refreshing drink while you watch the Samburu warriors sing and dance in the glow of a fire they created using their "firesticks."

Age range, type of group

Elephant Watch Safaris is perfect for all ages, families, couples, or single travelers.

Sleeping and meals

Everything about Elephant Watch Camp is a feast for the senses, with bright swathes of cotton fanning in the breeze, huge cushioned sofas, woven local mats and special beds and furniture made from fallen trees. The camp, which is eco-friendly, has been specially constructed for comfort and coolness, accommodating a maximum of ten guests with its wide and breezy desert tents, individually styled, draped with colourful cloth and unusual furniture. Each of the five tents have private bathrooms that are built around trees, giving our guests a novel washing experience with plenty of sun heated water and lights. Menus are a fusion of bush gourmet, fresh from our farm, with tropical fruit and drinks and a selection of good wine. Meals are served either on the river banks or under the canopy of the mess tent. Breakfast and lunch are at the time of your choosing, while dinner is a formal gathering of all guests, a perfect time to relive your adventures of the day!

Restrictions

For safety reasons, no pets are allowed.Children of all ages are welcome to elephant watch.

Rates

US$615 per person sharing for peak season & US$ 565 per person for high season. Children below 12yrs and sharing with 2 adults pay 50% of the adult rate. There is a apark entry fees of US$ 40 per person per day payable to the Reserve. The rates include:- Full board basis,airstrip transfers,elephant watching game drives,sundowners,guided walks and
Laundry.Drinks are also included(wines,spirits,beers, sodas, fresh juices and bottled water)

Other Information

Books, films and information on elephants are provided for guests. At night, flame torches and lanterns light up the camp along the river. The Samburu Warriors operate a small gift boutique featuring handmade, beaded bracelets, necklaces, and accessories. All proceeds go directly to the individual warriors who crafted the designs. Also, a variety of shawls, vests, and bags sewn by the Women?s Workshop are available for purchase, along with selected local merchandise.

Discounts Offered

We are closed in April and November of every year. Discounts are available to families, honeymooners and group bookings. contact us for further details.