Overview

The small and exclusive Samatian Island Lodge is set on a small private island on Lake Baringo in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. With its breath-taking views across the bronze waters of the lake to the imposing backdrop of the Laikipia Escarpment, the lodge offers the perfect mid-safari break. The beauty of Baringo is legendary, with its spectacular sunsets, dazzling array of bird life, and the Njemps fishermen continuing a lifestyle little changed for over 200 years. Lake Baringo is also a Ramsar site, having been recognised internationally as a vitally important wetland.

Caroline (nee Roberts), together with her husband Ross Withey, own and operate this 12-bed lodge. The Roberts’ family first settled at Baringo in the 1950’s, and Caroline’s grandmother still lives beside the lake, while the rest of the large and locally well-known Roberts family have all kept Kenya as their homes. Caroline and Ross are both Kenya citizens and traditional Kenyan hospitality is part of the Samatian experience.

Samatian Island offers guests the ultimate in relaxation in magical surroundings. Your hosts are always on hand to tailor your days to be as active or relaxed as you wish. For the active, there’s canoeing, jogging or walking along the lakeside to view the prolific bird life. You can also take advantage of boat rides to explore the lake and view the resident hippo, crocodile, giant monitor lizards, as well as over 450 species of birds: You can feed and photograph the fish eagles, explore this fascinating lake and visit Baringo’s hot springs.

We can also take you on day-trips to neighbouring Lake Bogoria, with its vast numbers of flamingo and the possibility of seeing rarer animals including the Greater Kudu; the forests and prehistoric site in the Tugen Hills, Kidepo springs with their extraordinary hot waterfalls; tours of the Rugus Wildlife conservancy, as well as visiting and learning about local tribes. Finally there’s the chance to enjoy fine food or drinks al fresco, if you venture out for our bush breakfast, or sundowner trips.

Samatian has mostly been considered to be a great “mid safari break” destination as it is the perfect place to wind down & relax in the middle or end of a trip. As your host and guide we consider Samatian to be a wonderful base if guests would like to spend a little longer to experience the large variety of excursions that can be undertaken from this exquisite Rift Valley Island. There is so much on offer & all activities will be tailor made to suit the guests desires, energies & also the number of days one stays at Samatian will determine if guests should participate in the full day excursions.

Boat Trips

We highly recommend boat rides in our well-built Sesse Canoes. It is rewarding and memorable to cruise around rugged islands dotted with acacia and fig trees, enhanced by the unexpected pink blooms of the Desert Rose.

Bird Watching

The Lake Baringo area boasts over 450 species of birds. Baringo is on the migratory route from Europe, so from October until May many migrant species can also be seen.

Interesting Excursions

A variety of excursions can be undertaken from Samatian. Explore the neighbouring Rift Valley lakes, or venture into the lush Tugen Hills. Please browse this section for more information.

Pokot and Njemp Cultural Visits

The local Pokot people are one of the last remaining tribes in Kenya who have been relatively unaffected by Western influence. A visit to a Pokot homestead will give guests the opportunity to learn about these colourful people, their traditions and lifestyle.

Cycling

Eight mountain bikes are available for our guests. A 2 hour early morning cycle through the conservancy or along the flamingo fringed waters of Lake Bogoria is a truly unique experience.

Walking & Jogging

For the active, hiking around the neighbouring, larger island, Ol Kokwa is spectacular with the promise of incredible views and meeting the friendly Njemps people.

Picnics & Bush Breakfasts

After a morning walk or boat ride, instead of going back to the lodge, you will be welcomed by a stylish alfresco display of fresh fruits, yogurts, cereals & a full English Breakfast whilst enjoying the scenery from a desert island.

Wake-boarding

Wake-boarding can be enjoyed from Samatian and although There are crocodiles although it is not in the nature of Lake Baringo crocodiles to attack people, guests can enjoy water sports having signed our indemnity form.

Fishing

Fishing for Tilapia and cat-fish on the shores around the island can be great fun especially for children who may have never fished before.