Soroi Larsens Camp
Soroi Larsens Camp
Soroi Larsens Camp (formerly known simply as Larsens Camp) is one of Kenya's best-known luxury safari camps, located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve. The camp combines luxury accommodation with wildlife experiences and a strong emphasis on conservation.
History
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The camp is named after Erik Ole Larsen, who helped popularize luxury tented safaris in northern Kenya.
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The original camp was established in the early 1980s.
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In 2023, it was extensively renovated and reopened as Soroi Larsens Camp, managed by the Soroi Collection while preserving its safari heritage.
Location
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Situated approximately 350 km north of Nairobi.
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Accessible by:
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A 5–6 hour drive from Nairobi.
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A 1-hour scheduled flight from Wilson Airport followed by a short transfer.
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Accommodation
The camp offers luxury tented suites overlooking the river, including:
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Standard luxury tents
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Family tents
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Deluxe luxury suites with:
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Private viewing decks
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Outdoor showers
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Butler service
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"Star beds" for sleeping under the night sky (in selected suites)
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Rooms typically feature:
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En-suite bathrooms
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Hot showers
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King or twin beds
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Private verandas
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Comfortable safari-style furnishings.
Wildlife
The camp is famous for excellent wildlife viewing. Animals commonly seen include:
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African elephants
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Lions
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Leopards
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Cheetahs
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African wild dogs (occasionally)
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Crocodiles
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Hippos
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Giraffes
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Zebras
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Numerous antelope species
It is especially known for the "Samburu Special Five":
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Grevy's zebra
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Reticulated giraffe
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Beisa oryx
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Gerenuk
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Somali ostrich
Activities
Visitors can enjoy:
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Morning and evening game drives
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Bird watching (over 350 bird species in the reserve)
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Guided nature walks (where permitted)
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Sundowner experiences
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Bush breakfasts and dinners
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Photography
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Visits to local Samburu communities and cultural experiences.
Facilities
The camp offers:
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Swimming pool
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Restaurant and bar
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Lounge areas
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Wi-Fi in selected areas
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Laundry service
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Gift shop
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Family-friendly activities
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Safari vehicles with professional guides.
Sustainability
Soroi Larsens Camp is recognized for sustainable tourism:
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Gold-rated by Ecotourism Kenya.
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Operates under environmental management and sustainability policies.
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Supports wildlife conservation and local community projects.
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Focuses on responsible water, energy, and waste management.
Best time to visit
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June–October: Dry season, excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
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December–March: Warm, dry weather with good wildlife viewing and birdlife.
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April–May: Rainy season, with greener landscapes but sometimes more challenging road conditions.