Joy's Camp

Shaba Reserve, Kenya

Nomadic tribes & safari chic

Joy’s Camp is an elegant oasis in the arid Shaba Game Reserve – a tiny gem of a reserve in the north of Kenya. Shaba took its name from the massive cone of volcanic rock that dominates the region.

Shaba is well-known for its association with the world famous conservationists George and Joy Adamson and the film Born Free which was inspired by their work. The site was also home to Penny the leopard who was the heroine of Joy’s last book. The reserve was the setting of the film “To Walk with Lions” depicting the life of George Adamson and a monument has been erected in memory of Joy Adamson who died there in 1980.

Joy’s Camp is built on the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home. The 10 chic canvas bedrooms are set on raised platforms with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The camp overlooks a large natural spring where elephant and lion jostle for watering rights with herds of buffalo and the desert species of oryx, giraffe and zebra.

Each sumptuous 100 sq metre tent is uniquely decorated with the vibrant fabrics of the local nomadic Boran/Somali tribes and handmade glass creating a chic, sophisticated and stylish camp. Each tent has a private deck, ideal for private game viewing, relaxing, reading and soaking up the truly wild environs.

Joy’s Camp is the perfect choice for discerning guests interested in a glimpse of Kenyan history, as well as those looking for an authentic wildlife experience combined with the comfort of a luxury tented camp.

You will love

  • The arid North
  • The lions
  • Date palms & surreal landscapes
  • Luxurious & intimate camp
  • Varied wildlife

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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