The eastern corner of the Samburu ecosystem, Shaba National Reserve is a secluded idyll, an arid landscape dotted with lush springs and rocky river gorges. Here you will find Joys Camp, the perfect choice for discerning guests interested in a glimpse of Kenyan history, as well as those looking for an authentic wildlife experience combined with the comfort of a luxury tented camp.
The 10 sumptuous tents are decorated with Boran or Somali cloth design, handmade glass and the vibrant fabrics of the local nomadic tribes.
Each tent is on a raised platform and has a large bedroom, en-suite bathroom with stone floors, flush loo, hot running water and shower, and its own private veranda with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Cuisine is traditional northern Italian food, prepared from the Cheli family cookbook. For a different dining experience, opt for a wonderful breakfast out in the bush. The camp – built on the original campsite of world-famous conservationist Joy Adamson, and where she released Penny the Leopard – overlooks a natural spring frequented by elephant, lion and buffalo as well as rare desert species of Beisa Oryx, reticulated giraffe and Grevys zebra.
Owned by professional guides, Joy’s Camp emphasises a complete safari experience that is fun, intellectually stimulating and encourages oneness with nature. Activities include game drives, guided bush walks, bush breakfasts along the Ewaso Nyiro River and Gorge, sundowners and cultural visits to a Boran village (these are seasonal owing to the nomadic nature of the local tribes) and the Joy Adamson Museum. A sparkling swimming pool offers respite from the heat of the African sun, and a professional masseuse is available to soothe any city-life-induced aches and pains that still linger.
Shaba National Reserve itself is rich with extraordinary wildlife; on game drives you will see varied wildlife including Grevys zebra, the Somali ostrich, generuk, reticulated giraffe, lesser kudu, leopard, plenty of lion and herds of elephant.
Joy’s Camp is ideal for game viewing and soaking up the truly wild environs offered by Shaba. Authentic, wild, luxurious, tranquil, it is the perfect Kenyan safari choice.
