Samburu National Reserve

Welcome to Samburu National Reserve, a captivating destination in the heart of northern Kenya, offering a truly unique and authentic safari experience. Unlike the more crowded parks, Samburu boasts a rugged, semi-arid landscape punctuated by dramatic rocky outcrops and the life-giving Ewaso Ngiro River, creating a stunning backdrop for exceptional wildlife encounters.

Why Choose Samburu?

• The “Special Five”: Samburu is the only place in Kenya where you can reliably spot the “Samburu Special Five”: the Grevy’s zebra with its elegant, narrow stripes, the long-necked gerenuk standing on its hind legs to feed, the striking reticulated giraffe with its liver-colored patches, the Somali ostrich with its blue neck and legs, and the majestic Beisa oryx.
• Abundant Elephant Herds: The Ewaso Ngiro River attracts large numbers of elephants, often seen bathing and drinking along its banks, providing incredible photographic opportunities.
• Big Cat Encounters: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam freely in Samburu, offering thrilling chances for sightings during game drives.
• Rich Birdlife: With over 450 recorded bird species, Samburu is a paradise for birdwatchers, from the vibrant vulturine guinea fowl to various raptors.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience the vibrant culture of the Samburu people, closely related to the Maasai, known for their colorful attire, intricate beadwork, and traditional way of life as semi-nomadic pastoralists. Visits to local villages offer a glimpse into their customs and traditions.
• Stunning Scenery: The dramatic landscape of Samburu, with its open plains, acacia woodlands, and the winding river fringed with doum palms, provides breathtaking views and photographic opportunities.
• Diverse Activities: Beyond traditional game drives, enjoy guided nature walks, bird watching excursions, and even camelback rides for a unique perspective of the reserve. Consider a visit to the nearby Reteti Elephant Sanctuary for a heartwarming experience with rescued elephant calves.

Wildlife Highlights:

• Mammals: Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, buffalo, hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, waterbuck, various antelope species.
• Birds: Vulturine guinea fowl, Kori bustard, Egyptian vulture, white-headed mousebird, secretary bird, various eagles, and numerous migratory species (especially during the wet season).

Best Time to Visit:

The dry seasons, from June to October and January to March, are generally considered the best times for wildlife viewing in Samburu. During these periods, animals congregate along the Ewaso Ngiro River, making them easier to spot as the vegetation is less dense.

• June to October: Long dry season, cooler temperatures, excellent for game viewing.
• January to March: Short dry season, warmer temperatures, also good for wildlife sightings.
• November, April, and May: Wet seasons, can make game viewing more challenging due to thicker vegetation, but offer excellent birdwatching opportunities with the arrival of migratory species.

Accommodation Options:

Samburu offers a range of accommodation to suit different preferences and budgets, including:

• Luxury Lodges: Offering premium amenities, exceptional service, and stunning locations (e.g., Saruni Samburu, Elephant Bedroom Camp).
• Tented Camps: Providing a more immersive safari experience with comfortable tents and excellent access to wildlife (e.g., Ashnil Samburu Camp, Samburu Intrepids).
• Mid-Range Lodges and Camps: Offering comfortable and well-equipped accommodations at a more accessible price point (e.g., Samburu Sopa Lodge, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge).
• Budget-Friendly Options: Including campsites and simpler guesthouses in nearby areas.

Getting There:

• By Air: The easiest way to reach Samburu is by a domestic flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to airstrips within or near the reserve (e.g., Samburu Airstrip, Buffalo Springs Airstrip).
• By Road: Samburu is approximately 315 km (195 miles) north of Nairobi, a drive of about 5-8 hours. The journey offers scenic views but can be long and sometimes on rough roads.

Cultural Experiences:

A visit to a local Samburu village (manyatta) provides a fascinating insight into their traditional way of life. You can witness their unique customs, including traditional dances and songs, learn about their social structure, and admire their intricate beadwork and colorful attire.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Samburu National Reserve, where dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant culture await!