The calm foundation at the heart of Sarara Wilderness

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF SAMBURU THROUGH SAMMY’S EYES

Asked about his favourite animal, Sammy Lemiruni – Manager of Sarara Wilderness – gives a surprising answer: giraffes. Yet once you hear his reasons, it makes perfect sense. They have a lot in common with his gentle spirit. “They glide through life, and I admire how they stretch above the noise. Giraffes don’t chase beauty – they are beauty.”

Grounding the wild beauty of Sarara’s exclusive mobile camp with his calm leadership, there are no bounds to Sammy’s passion for the landscapes and wildlife surrounding this exclusive tented retreat in the heart of the bush.

We caught up with him to learn more about his journey, his lifelong love for Samburu culture, and the magic of this one-of-a-kind wilderness escape.

*Sammy in his element – with guests as the sun sets near Sarara Wilderness.*

Two reserves tied by an abundance of beauty

Set on the cusp of Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserves, Sarara Wilderness – which opened less than a year ago – is already coveted for its thrilling wildlife encounters. “Exploring both is like seeing two sides of the same beautiful coin – the same ecosystem, but with very different expressions,” says Sammy. “Together, they offer a far richer experience than either could alone.”

He explains that Samburu National Reserve is excellent for big cat sightings, as well as a chance to spot the rare “Samburu Special” – Kenya’s Northern Five. This group of endangered species is only found in these parts, and includes reticulated giraffes, Grévy's zebras, Beisa oryx, gerenuks, and Somali ostriches.

“Buffalo Springs has great open spaces for game viewing, where it’s easier to spot wildlife in the open terrain. The Ewaso Nyiro River cuts through the two reserves, attracting animals from either side, and it’s very common to see elephants and big cats crossing back and forth. Game drives near the river often offer some of the best viewing opportunities.”

Bordering Nasulu Conservancy – part of the greater Laikipia Ecosystem – Sarara Wilderness is built on a vision to expand the successful model pioneered at Namunyak Community Conservancy. Acting as a springboard for replicating Namunyak’s programs, one of the camp’s goals is to support a brighter and sustainable future in the region through impactful education and healthcare, rangeland restoration, and the creation of sustainable economic enterprises.

“Sarara Wilderness is a gem, and my hope is that it will help more people discover Nasulu’s rare beauty and value, bringing like-minded guests who share our commitment to protecting its biodiversity,” says Sammy. He adds that the ripple effects could help strengthen the region’s natural legacy: “expanding areas where wildlife can roam freely, and opening up wildlife corridors that will become more habituated.”

Q Do you prefer sunrise or sunset?

A Sunrise – the silence is deeper, the light is golden, and the only sounds are birds and the movement of wildlife.

Q Most-loved meal?

A My all-time favourite is a goat meat barbecue with ugali (maize flour porridge), served with kachumbari (African salsa).

Q Favourite meals to enjoy with guests at Sarara Wilderness?

A I really like our chicken curry with chapatis – as well as the ravioli starters and sirloin steaks. Actually, any beef steaks! For bush breakfasts, I’ll go for fresh seasonal fruits and muesli.

Q The wisest Samburu proverb in your book?

A “A cow is a rope that ties the Samburu people together.” It means that cattle are not just a source of wealth, but also of identity, unity, and social cohesion.

Q Who has been your mentor?

A My late father. He played a critical role in my life and taught me that no matter what challenges you come across, one day you’ll overcome them.

Q Most profound thing you’ve learned from your parents or Elders that you hope to teach your children?

A Respect! This advice has really echoed throughout my life, and no matter what, it’s all about respecting people – whether they are above your position, or under your supervision.

Q How many children do you have?

A My lovely wife and I are blessed with three boys – aged five, three, and one.

Q When you were younger, what did you dream of becoming?

A A pilot. Growing up in the bush, one of the main things we noticed was planes flying overhead – so that became my dream. I didn’t realise how expensive the training would be! While I’d still love to learn how to fly one day, a current goal is to attain a Gold Level with the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association. The examination includes various submissions and field work, and it’s the most advanced certification one can achieve.

Q What do you hope guests will discover during their stay?

A Sarara is the one place in the entire country where visitors can get this close to the Samburu’s authentic way of life, and I’d love for every guest to experience that up close. I also hope they see how we practice truly sustainable tourism in partnership with our neighbouring communities – and how this positively impacts the lives of the Samburu people.