Things To Do
in Kargi
Kargi is a remote settlement in Samburu County, northern Kenya, perched on arid savannah and characterized by red dust and wide-open skies. The town serves as a gateway to Samburu landscapes where wildlife, pastoral culture, and stunning riverine scenery intersect. Visitors commonly encounter Samburu communities, learn beadwork, and embark on simple adventures ranging from river walks to starlit nights around campfires.
The climate is hot and dry for much of the year, with cooler evenings and a pace of life that emphasizes connection with the land and its people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kargi and take in the scenic views of this remote yet beautiful region. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a traditional breakfast with local ingredients. Use this time to acclimatize and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Explore the village of Kargi, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the local communities. Visit local artisans and participate in crafts that reflect the rich heritage of the area. Engage with the community as they share their stories and traditions.
Enjoy a sunset picnic overlooking the stunning landscapes surrounding Kargi. Taste traditional dishes prepared by the locals while listening to captivating folk tales. Reflect on the day's experiences under a blanket of stars in the quiet of the Kenyan night.
Set off early for a guided trek through the mesmerizing desert landscapes. Witness the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this arid environment while learning about local ecology. Enjoy breakfast in nature, surrounded by the serene beauty of the desert.
Continue your trekking adventure, visiting ancient rock formations and possibly spotting wildlife. Stop for lunch at a scenic vantage point, absorbing the silence and vastness of the land. Capture stunning photographs of the changing scenery and the indigenous life that calls this region home.
Return to Kargi, where you can enjoy a warm meal at your accommodation. Participate in an evening storytelling session with locals who share their ancestral tales and legends. Spend the night stargazing and reflecting on the day's excitement around a warm bonfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🌮Street snack | $1-2 |
| 🛏 ️Basic lodging (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich wildlife and dramatic landscapes with few tourists
- Deep cultural interactions with Samburu communities
- Limited infrastructure and amenities in some areas
- Travel can be challenging during the rainy season and on unpaved roads
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Maji Tafadhali" - Water, please
Places to Visit in Kargi
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light along the river with acacia silhouettes and occasional wildlife silhouettes in the distance.
Panoramic savannah views spanning the arid plains toward distant hills and riverbed textures.
Cultural photography opportunities capturing Samburu artisans at work, with proper consent and respectful interaction.
Food in Kargi
Kargi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat, typically beef or goat, served with ugali or greens. A quintessential Kenyan meal often enjoyed with friends around a fire.
Must-Try!
A comforting combination of maize flour porridge (ugali) with sautéed kale (sukuma wiki); a staple accompaniment.
A traditional Samburu fermented milk drink that carries a distinct smoky, tangy flavor often shared within the community.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual spots offering fresh fruit, roasted maize, milk drinks, and simple snacks along the main routes.
A larger market where you can find vegetables, spices, snacks, and more elaborate street food options when travel allows a short excursion.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a simple 'habari' (how are you?) in Swahili. Use the right hand for handshakes and exchanges.
Ask before photographing people, especially in villages or private homesteads; respect if they decline.
Dress modestly in public spaces; remove shoes when entering some homes or places of worship; avoid loud behavior and public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kargi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest; 5-10% for guides or service staff is appreciated. Small tips for porters or drivers are common.
Cash in Kenyan shillings is widely used in rural areas. Some lodges accept cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for markets and local services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler nights; wildlife congregates around water sources. Pack light clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Rains bring lush, green scenery but can make some tracks muddy and slow travel. Expect afternoon showers; waterproof gear is useful.
Clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing; dusty conditions and reduced water availability mean plan water and vehicle readiness.
Relatively light rains; comfortable mornings with occasional showers; good birding opportunities.
Kargi at Night
Hiking in Kargi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged trails and river crossings near Archer's Post offering scenic wildlife viewing and solitude.
Gentle riverside pathways ideal for morning walks and birding along the seasonal channels.
Culturally oriented walks that include learning about beadwork and daily life from local hosts.
Airports
How to reach Kargi by plane.
Regional airport serving Samburu and Isiolo; access via domestic flights from Nairobi and other hubs; drives to Kargi take about 1-2 hours depending on routes.
Regional airport near Mount Kenya region; connects to Nairobi with longer drive times to Kargi but useful for broader itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant community in the area with distinctive beadwork, dress, and pastoralist traditions.
Nearby pastoralist communities whose cultures intersect with Samburu in this arid region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across communities; informal matches are common in towns and schools.
Occasional culturally themed events and games that reflect pastoralist traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kargi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on ugali with greens or irio, chapati, and vegetable stews. Communicate dietary needs in advance to hosts and cooks, and be prepared for meals that center on plant-based staples in this pastoral region.