Kenya’s ‘Butterfly People’
Kenya
We are now offering guests another truly authentic cultural experience from Governors’ Mugie – a visit to a nearby Samburu homestead. Interested guests will learn first hand about this colourful and culturally rich tribe.
The Samburu are a Nilotic people of north-central Kenya that are related to, but distinct from, the Maasai. They are semi-nomadic pastoralists who herd mainly cattle but also keep sheep, goats and camels and are widely known for their beautiful attire.
You will be welcomed inside their home, which is made of wattle and plastered with a mixture of cow dung and earth. The houses are dark and smoke from their constantly mouldering fireplace fills the air inside.
Well-used gourds are prized possessions, used to make the traditional drink of cows blood and milk. The houses are divided into two small rooms, one for the women and children and the other for the man. The whole family sleeps on slightly raised beds which are covered by cow hides.
Outside you will enjoy a vibrant song and dance performance by the ladies, learn how to make a fire in the traditional way by rubbing two sticks together and will have an opportunity to appreciate all of the comings and goings of Samburu daily life.
Closely related to the Maasai, the Samburu are a semi-nomadic pastoralist community known for their deep connection to the land, vibrant traditions, and warm hospitality.
Life in Kenya’s Samburu region is shaped by age-old customs, from elaborate beadwork and traditional dress to community ceremonies that celebrate milestones and mark seasonal transitions. The Samburu have preserved their heritage for generations, maintaining a way of life that remains closely tied to cattle, family, and nature.
Visiting the Samburu tribe provides a rare opportunity to learn about their history, values, and daily routines. Guests can explore homesteads (manyattas), witness traditional dances, and gain insight into the social structures that guide Samburu society. These meaningful interactions offer a respectful, educational exchange that highlights the resilience and richness of Samburu culture.
For travellers seeking a deeper understanding of Kenya, meeting the Samburu people adds a powerful layer to any journey through the Samburu game reserve, revealing the human stories that define this remarkable landscape.
Other things to note:
The village is located roughly 30 minutes away from Governors’ Mugie.
A village guide will be on hand to share information about the Samburu culture and customs and will act as a translator to ensure guests get as much enjoyment as possible out of their visit.
There is no set time limit for the visit, but generally guests spend around an hour with the Samburu.
Guests are welcome to capture as many photos as they like.
This visit can be made either as an alternative or in addition to visiting the Pokot Village. Both visits should be booked in advance and have a set donation amount of KES 15,000 (approximately USD 100 exchange rate depending).
