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+44 207 384 2332 Plan your trip

Northern Kenya

Matthews Mountain Range

Samburu people of the Matthews Mountain Range, Kenya

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Why visit the Matthews Mountain Range

The Matthews Mountain Range in northern Kenya is a hidden paradise for those seeking a remote and unique experience in an ancient, biodiverse wilderness. Known for its rugged mountains, sweeping valleys, and lush montane forests, the Matthews Range offers a strikingly different landscape within Kenya, with towering cedar and wild olive trees, some over a thousand years old. This unique environment supports rare wildlife, including elephants, Grevy’s zebras, leopards, and the elusive De Brazza’s monkey, as well as over 200 bird species like the rare Hartlaub’s turaco.

Visitors can also engage with the Samburu people, learning about their semi-nomadic lifestyle and rich cultural traditions, adding a meaningful human connection to the natural experience. Unlike more popular parks, the Matthews Range remains quiet and undisturbed, ideal for hiking, guided walks, and camping for those looking to escape the crowds. Conservation efforts, often community-led, work to protect this precious ecosystem, with eco-friendly lodges offering accommodation that supports sustainable tourism.

For travellers looking to explore Kenya’s wilder, less-travelled side, Matthews Range provides a compelling mix of natural beauty, rare wildlife, cultural depth, and adventure, making it an unforgettable destination.

Did you know?

The Matthews Range in Kenya is home to 1,000-year-old cedar trees and the rare De Brazza’s monkey, a shy primate rarely seen outside its dense forest habitat.

Singing wells

The Samburu Singing Wells are waterholes where Samburu herdsmen sing unique songs to their cattle as they draw water, each tune specific to its owner.

Highlights of Matthews Mountain Range

Ancient Montane Forests: The Matthews Range harbours some of Kenya’s oldest forests, filled with towering cedar and olive trees that are over 1,000 years old. These forests provide a lush, green landscape unusual for northern Kenya and support unique plant and animal life.
Rare Wildlife Sightings: The range is home to unique wildlife, including Grevy’s zebras, elephants, and the elusive De Brazza’s monkey. The dense forest habitat also supports leopards, wild dogs, and lesser-known species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
Birdwatching Haven: With over 200 bird species, including the colourful Hartlaub’s turaco and endangered African crowned eagle, Matthews Range is ideal for birdwatchers looking to spot both forest and savannah species.
Samburu Culture and the Singing Wells: Visitors can experience the Samburu culture up close, including visits to the Singing Wells, where herdsmen sing traditional songs to their cattle while drawing water—an ancient ritual unique to the region.
Scenic Hiking Trails: The Matthews Range offers scenic hiking trails through rugged terrain, valleys, and forests. Hikes are often led by Samburu guides who share local knowledge, making the experience both adventurous and insightful.
Conservation-Focused Tourism: Lodges in the Matthews Range prioritize conservation, supporting community-led initiatives to protect wildlife and natural habitats. Staying here helps sustain these efforts, benefiting local communities and preserving this rare ecosystem.

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Where to stay

Best hotels in the Matthews Mountain Range

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested luxury hotels.

Private Safari Camp

Kalepo, Matthews Mountain Range

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Luxury Safari Camp

Sarara, Matthews Mountain Range

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Good to know

Getting to the Matthews Mountains Range

There are four separate airstrips in the region. Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to airstrips near the Matthews Range typically take between 45 minutes to 1 hour on a charter flight.

Some lodges also have access to helicopters allowing you to fly directly to your destination.

Is the Matthews Mountain Range a good destination for families?

Yes, the Matthews Range can be a fantastic destination for families seeking an adventurous and immersive experience in Kenya’s wilderness. Here’s why it’s family-friendly:

Unique Wildlife Encounters
Families can enjoy spotting rare wildlife, like elephants, Grevy’s zebras, and the elusive De Brazza’s monkey. The diversity of species, combined with the peaceful environment, offers safe, accessible wildlife viewing.
Guided Nature Walks
Many lodges offer guided walks tailored for families, where children and adults alike can learn about local flora, animal tracking, and survival skills. These activities encourage active exploration, making the experience both educational and fun.
Cultural Experiences with the Samburu
The region offers enriching interactions with the Samburu people, allowing families to learn about their culture, visit villages, and witness unique traditions like the Samburu Singing Wells.
Safe and Exclusive Environment
The Matthews Range is a remote and less-travelled area, meaning fewer crowds and a safer, more intimate experience ideal for families looking for a private safari adventure.
Family-Friendly Lodges
Many lodges cater to families, offering larger rooms, flexible meal times, and activities tailored to younger guests.

Which destinations combine well with the Matthews Mountain Range

The Matthews Mountain Range combines beautifully with several destinations in Kenya, offering a diverse safari and cultural experience. Here are ideal combinations:

Samburu National Reserve
Located nearby, Samburu offers a contrasting landscape with dry plains and unique northern species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and beisa oryx. Combining Samburu with the Matthews Range provides a balanced experience of adventure, wildlife, and cultural encounters.
Laikipia Plateau
The Laikipia region, with its private conservancies and wildlife diversity, is a short flight or drive away. Laikipia’s conservancies offer intimate, luxury safaris with rare species such as the endangered black rhino and opportunities for horseback safaris and camel treks.
Meru National Park
Meru is a lesser-visited park with rich biodiversity, including large elephants, rhinos, and rivers teeming with hippos and crocodiles. It complements the Matthews Range well, especially for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Close to Nanyuki, Lewa offers a variety of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and rhino conservation efforts. Its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism pairs well with the Matthews Range’s eco-tourism focus.
Maasai Mara National Reserve
A classic safari destination, the Maasai Mara offers incredible big game viewing, especially during the Great Migration (July to October). Adding the Mara to a Matthews Range itinerary combines Kenya’s iconic wildlife spectacle with the quiet, rugged beauty of the northern mountains.
Lake Turkana
For a more adventurous route, Lake Turkana offers striking landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and a unique culture. Known as the “Jade Sea,” it provides a dramatic, remote experience that complements the rugged Matthews Range.