Samatian Island Lodge

Blended with the wild elements of nature, the Samatian Island Lodge is home on approximately 30 acres of isolated island, on the shores of Lake Baringo. This enormous fresh water lake brings life to the valley, and besides being home to a number of organisms, brings you to the island of Samatian.

Originally a private home, the lodge is now open to self-catering guests on an exclusive basis. This means you book the whole place and have it entirely to yourselves, we never mix groups. Accommodation comprises four airy, open-plan thatched rooms. Two rooms are family units with a partitioned bedroom, verandah, sitting room and bathroom. The other rooms are en-suite with sitting areas, meals can also be taken on the upstairs deck or in the garden. All bedding, mosquito nets, towels, loo paper, soap, firewood and charcoal are provided at the island.

Activities on the island include scenic boat trips in traditional Ssesse canoes to view the prolific birdlife of Baringo as well as the crocodile and hippo. You can also throw fish for fish eagles, offering spectacular photographic opportunities. Guests can take a rod and try their luck at fishing for catfish, barbell and tilapia. Or go on nature and bird walks over the top of Samatian to see the birds and extraordinary plant-life. Day trips to the local Njemps and Pokot tribes can be arranged. While beautiful walks around Giraffe Island are advised, as it is home to eight endangered Rothchild giraffes, and a number of ostrich, warthogs, impalas and hyrax; the rangers will be happy to guide you.

Baringo is a short one and a half hour drive north of Nakuru on a tarred road. For those flying in, there is an airstrip close to Roberts' Camp, on the shores of Lake Baringo. Transfers to the island can be arranged.