The scenic Matthews and Ndoto Mountain Ranges of northern Kenya are part of the ruggedly beautiful and still unspoilt country of the Samburu and Rendille nomadic people. Proud, happy, friendly, they defy the modern world to go about their traditional business and still cherish the customs and colourful ceremonies of their ancestors. The northern mountains rise dramatically to heights of nearly 9000 feet, out of semi-arid country. They are capped in cool highland forest and drained by crystal-clear streams that end up in huge, 1km-wide luggas. The wildlife is exciting, often shy, sometimes cheeky! It is a bird-watcher's Paradise.

Every nomad and wild animal for 100’s of miles know they will find water under the brown sand of the famous Milgis and Seiya luggas, no matter how dry the season. Using camels to carry camping gear and supplies enables you to travel in style in this rugged and relatively unexplored country. These are walking safaris but one or two riding camels are always available, terrain permitting. Porters are called in when one of the striking peaks is the destination and it is too steep and cold for the ships of the desert.

The distance you cover each day is flexible, depending on you and suitable campsites but it is usually between 8-20kms. You don’t have to be super fit, just a little resilient. It takes time to tune in to nomadic life – once it grabs these will be days you won’t forget. Most travelling is done in the early hours in the morning, when it is cool and we are most likely to see wildlife. Riding camels accompany us, carrying light refreshments, your personal day packs and the breakfast - for which you will stop around mid-morning, often to the concert of Samburu warriors herding or watering their cattle.

Meanwhile, the camp is packed up and loaded on to the camels. They soon catch up with you and you continue walking with the whole camel train, generally finding a place to camp after mid-day. The camels are relieved of their burdens and are set free to browse for the rest of the day. After a good lunch, the afternoon is yours to do as you like – often a siesta is called for, lulled by the clunk of the wooden camel bells, or a game of rounders or football. When the heat of the day subsides, the sleeping arrangements are made, consisting of comfortable mosquito proof beds (mattresses on the floor) in tents or under the stars. The cool of the evening is perfect for an evening stroll or climbing a hill for a sundowner. Your hosts are Helen Douglas Dufresne, Pete Ilsley and their loyal Samburu crew who are committed to ensuring that you enjoy your safari in every possible comfort and safety.

Accommodation in Northern Frontier
Images of Northern Frontier