Matthews Range
The Matthews Range is an untouched wilderness that would stake its claim for being one of Kenya’s remotest areas. Buffering the Kenya’s baron Northern wastelands from Samburu and the busier Laikipia safari regions, the Range is a group of mountains that sticks out against the surrounding low lying savannah. With average peaks of approximately 2,500 metres, and offering some of East Africa’s finest walking, it is a unique region visited by few.
There are a healthy number of elephant here, buffalo and leopard are also common, but the region is primarily a wilderness area and not a big game destination; walking here is superb. A series of steep gullies and winding paths snake through the Matthews Range with the Ngeng River home to a couple of large rock pools that are perfect for swimming.
The higher altitude means the Range is a rain catchment area and the valleys here are thick with forests; meaning the vistas you might expect are often covered by the thick vegetation. The attraction is the remote location and the guarantee that you will not see anyone else whilst visiting here. Days are spent exploring the area on game walks, birdwatching and interacting with the local Samburu tribe. It's a destination for old safari hands or for people wanting to explore a region little visited by others. Matthews Range: Accommodation choices
Although it is possible to camp in the area, skilled guides are needed and the possibility of meeting big game on foot is very real. We therefore only use two camps in the area and do not recommend drive in trips; besides flying is much more dramatic! Kitich Camp, meaning "place of happiness" in Samburu is a six roomed bush camp with long drop toilets and canvas bag showers. It is a great little camp with good guides and a range of activities as well as a reputation for slight eccentricity but good food due to its Italian owners influence. Sarara on the other hand is one of Kenya’s greatest success stories as it is run entirely by the local Samburu with the help of the Lewa Conservancy in return for protection of the area's wildlife. It has been remarkably successful and with only five rooms is slightly more luxurious than Kitich.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Mathews Range
Sarara is the germination of the thoughts and beliefs of Ian Craig and Piers and Hilary Bastard, and is a superb example of how community projects can work in Africa to protect the wildlife. With a small and intimate feel to the camp and, as it is still managed by Piers and Hilary, it is a great spot to get a bit of relaxation, a bit of community interaction with the local Samburu, and a bit of game.
Laikipia
Since it has recently changed hands, Kitich Camp has moved away from the once very rustic experience it was with Guilio. There is still no compromising on the experience, but with electricity throughout the night it is has a slightly softer feel. The onus is still, however, very much on getting out into this stunning region with walking a particular recommendation. If you are looking for a touch of utter wilderness and a great place to relax….the only drawback is getting there!
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