For those willing to stray off the beaten track, Kitich Camp offers an invigorating forest wildlife experience unique in Africa. Overlooking a river glade within the lush indigenous forest, Kitich is the only camp situated in the Mathews Mountain Range, a spectacular 'sky island' that stretches back at least 10 millennia, formed by isolated mountain forests that rise up out tjhe surrounding vast desert plains to an altitude of 2,200 metres.
In this 900 square kilometres of untouched mountain wilderness you can swim in rock pools formed by cystal clear mountain streams and learn traditional ways of tracking wildlife while being guided by experienced Samburu warriors along the dense forest paths.
Dubbed a 'biological bonanza' by the BBC, this area is home to melanistic leopard, forest elephant, lion, buffalo, wild dog, the rare De Brazza monkey, Colobus monkey, greater kudu, giant forest hog as well as over 200 bird species, 15 species of butterflies, unique endemic cycads that dominated the landscape 280 million years ago and uncounted species of wild orchids.
Kitich Camp was bought by Cheli & Peacock in 2009. Since then the number of tents has increased from 4 to 6, all brand new with completely redesigned ensuite bathrooms. The main areas of the camp have been fully refurbished as well and a new deck has been built in front of the lounge, which is a lovely river viewing area.
The menu at Kitich has been redeisgned and the food is now outstanding.
The camp is eco-friendly and relies 100% on solar energy. Traditional bucket showers and a very 'smart' long drop toilet help conserve water.
Kitich Camp can be easily combined with other better known areas in Kenya, such as Samburu and the the Masai Mara. It is a great option for people who have been to Kenya before and are looking for something new and different. It's a great place for families as it offers parents the opportunity to bring their children back to nature and let them explore it up-close.
Accolades and Comments about Kitich Camp
Silver Eco-rating Certification - Ecotourism Kenya 2010-2011
'You may not have heard of Kenya's Mathews Range, but this sky island - isolated mountain forests surrounded by a vast desert plain - offers something special to those willing to take the time to stray off the beaten tourist track.' Concierge Magazine
Fair Trade / Responsible Tourism
Kitich Camp is the barrier between uncontrolled grazing and the pristine forest; its existence and participation within the Namunyak Wildlife Community Conservancy is the only survival insurance for the mountain forest. This organisation has a mandate to develop health support, administer education bursaries, develop water resources and preserve the ecosystem and wildlife. The camp relies entirely on solar energy and uses LED lighting. Rubbish is disposed of responsibly or recycled.
