Activities
While staying at Samatian, guests are able to take part in a number of activities, making the most of the stunning scenic beauty of Lake Baringo, its birdlife, wildlife and culture.
What We
Offer
SCENIC BOAT RIDES
to view the prolific birdlife of Baringo as well as crocodile & hippo. You can also throw fish for the fish eagles, offering spectacular photographic opportunities.
​Birdwatching: Lake Baringo is h​ome to over 470 bird species, which makes it a major destination for birdwatchers. The lake is known as a birdwatcher's paradise due to its high diversity and easy access to many species. If you would like to take a morning walk to the cliffs with a bird guide, please ask Richard for more details.
Boat fees apply.
FISHING
Take a rod and try your luck at fishing for catfish, barbel & tilapia. Dough, bacon, termites or the local fruiting figs are the best bait & a fly rod or basic hand line or stick rod with hook & line will do you fine. Kindly use only barbless hooks as most fish you catch will be too small to keep. This gives the fish a chance to be released without major injury and gives it a greater chance to survive to adulthood. Chef will happily cook any fish you catch for you.
CULTURAL VISIT
Visit and learn from the local Njemps and Pokot Tribes, learn about their lives around Lake Baringo and how they interact with the Lake and the wildlife.
KAYAK
around the island. We have a couple of kayaks available for you to use. Please take a life jacket, water, hat & sun cream. If the wind gets up this can be harder to paddle back. Occasionally a hippo resides at the southern end of the island so look out & stay clear of him. Please look after our kayaks and equipment so it is there in good order for the next guests and for you to use next time you visit.
NATURE AND BIRD WALKING
over the top of Samatian or Olkokwa island to see the birds & extraordinary plant-life. You will be surrounded by stunning views so take a camera and binoculars. Be sure to wear good shoes and take a hiking stick as rock surfaces can be loose and rough. Take a torch if going in the evening in case you get delayed for any reason. Also available are walks to the cliffs on the mainland with professional bird guide. This is best early in the morning. Richard can give you more details and please note that boat transfer fees will apply.
A short 20–30 minute boat ride from Samatian brings you to the eastern shores and into the western edge of Ruko Community Conservancy — home to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe (formerly known as the Baringo giraffe). These extraordinary animals were originally rescued and relocated here by boat, and today their population has flourished to over 33 individuals. Accompanied by Ruko’s dedicated rangers, visitors can enjoy a close and memorable encounter with these gentle giants, along with sightings of zebra, impala, reedbuck, warthog, baboon, and ostrich. The conservancy also offers scenic walking areas ideal for early morning strolls, where curious wildlife and an impressive variety of birdlife make for a truly special experience. We recommend departing Samatian by​ 6:30 or 7:00 am and returning for a well-earned late breakfast.
Conservation fees are included in your prepaid rates. The boat transfer to Ruko costs Ksh 2,000 per boat (up to 6 passengers). Guests are welcome to tip the ranger directly if they wish.