Mathews Range

A remote mountain range offering rugged trekking through pristine wilderness with opportunities to encounter Samburu communities and diverse wildlife. The dramatic rocky peaks and hidden valleys provide an off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous travellers.

Things to do

• Ololokwe Peak Trek — A challenging day hike to the distinctive flat-topped mountain offering panoramic views of the Samburu landscape and opportunities to spot rock hyraxes and agama lizards.
• Wamba Valley Exploration — Trek through remote valleys where you can encounter Samburu pastoralists and observe traditional livestock herding practices amid dramatic escarpments.
• Kitich Cave Camp Trek — A multi-day trekking expedition to a naturally sheltered cave camp deep in the range, combining wilderness camping with guided nature walks and wildlife spotting.
• Buffalo Springs Wildlife Viewing — Day trips to nearby springs and water holes where you can observe elephants, buffalo, zebras, and reticulated giraffes in their natural habitat.
• Samburu Community Visits — Guided visits to Samburu manyattas (warrior settlements) where you can learn about traditional customs, cattle herding, and participate in cultural exchanges.
• Ngaremara Rock Art Sites — Explore ancient rock paintings and petroglyphs scattered throughout the range, many dating back centuries and depicting animals and hunting scenes.

Food to try

• Nyama Choma — Grilled meat—typically goat, beef, or camel—seasoned with salt and served with ugali and tomato relish, the staple protein of Samburu herding communities.
• Sour Milk and Blood Mixture — A traditional Samburu drink combining fresh blood drawn from cattle with sour milk, providing essential nutrients and traditionally consumed by warriors.
• Ugali with Greens — A maize meal staple served with locally gathered leafy greens (such as sukuma wiki) cooked with tomatoes and onions.
• Camel Meat Stews — Slow-cooked stews featuring camel meat with wild herbs and roots foraged from the arid landscape, reflecting the region's pastoral heritage.
• Honey and Wild Berry Gatherings — Local honey collected from beehives within the range and seasonal wild berries available during rainy periods, often shared by guides during treks.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Samburu Sacred Sites — Ask permission before photographing or entering sacred areas and ceremonies, as certain locations and times hold deep spiritual significance for Samburu warriors.
• Learn Basic Samburu Greetings — Using phrases like 'Sopa' (hello) and 'Asante' (thank you) shows respect and significantly enhances your interactions with local guides and community members.
• Dress Modestly in Communities — Wearing loose-fitting, covered clothing when visiting manyattas is considered respectful and appropriate, especially when meeting elders and women.
• Hire Local Guides — Always trek with certified Samburu guides who provide essential knowledge of terrain, wildlife safety, and cultural context while supporting the local economy directly.

Nearby

• Shaba National Reserve — 51 km
• Archer's Post (Northern Region) — 68 km
• Samburu National Reserve — 74 km
• Maralal (Northern Region) — 75 km