Best Kenya safari for every budget
Discover Samburu National Reserve: Wildlife, Safari Experiences, and More
Samburu National Reserve, located in northern Kenya, is one of Africa’s hidden gems when it comes to wildlife, safaris, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its rugged terrain, arid environment, and unique wildlife species, Samburu offers a raw, untamed safari experience that’s far less crowded than the popular parks to the south. For travelers looking to experience Kenya’s wild side, Samburu National Reserve delivers incredible diversity, from rare animal species to vibrant cultural encounters with the local Samburu people.
General Overview
General Overview
Spanning over 165 square kilometers, Samburu National Reserve sits along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which serves as the lifeline for the animals that inhabit this semi-arid region. This reserve is part of a larger ecosystem that includes Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves, all of which together form a significant wildlife corridor.
Samburu’s landscape is characterized by vast savannah plains, dramatic hills, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops. The reserve is perhaps best known for its unique “Samburu Special Five,” which include the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx—animals that are adapted to the harsh conditions of northern Kenya. Unlike the more well-trodden parks like Masai Mara, Samburu offers a more exclusive safari experience, with fewer tourists and a more intimate connection to nature.
How to get to Samburu National Reserve
How to Get to Samburu National Reserve
Getting to Samburu National Reserve can be an adventure in itself, but with a bit of planning, it’s entirely accessible. The reserve is located approximately 350 kilometers north of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, and there are a couple of options for getting there.
For those who prefer flying, daily domestic flights are available from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu’s Oryx airstrip. The flight takes about 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by our safari guide who will take you into the heart of the reserve.
If you prefer to drive, it’s a journey of about 5 to 6 hours from Nairobi, with the route passing through stunning landscapes, including Mount Kenya and rural countryside. The roads can be rough as you approach the reserve, so a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended for self-driving or guided road trips. Whichever method you choose, the journey to Samburu is part of the adventure and offers glimpses into Kenya’s less-visited northern regions.
Best Time to Visit Samburu National Reserve
The best time to visit Samburu National Reserve depends on what you’re looking to experience. Generally, the most popular time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, wildlife congregates around the Ewaso Ng’iro River and waterholes, making it easier to spot animals in large numbers. The weather is typically hot and dry, ideal for game drives and photographic safaris.
Another great time to visit Samburu is between January and March, when the climate is still dry, and wildlife viewing remains excellent. During the wet seasons, from March to May and November to December, the reserve turns green, and while the wildlife is still abundant, it becomes more spread out. The rainy season also brings vibrant birdlife, with many migratory species arriving, making this a perfect time for birdwatchers.
No matter when you visit, the arid beauty of Samburu and its wildlife remains captivating year-round.
Samburu National Reserve the land of Many
Wildlife and Landscape of Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve’s wildlife is one of the major draws for visitors, offering a chance to see animals that are unique to northern Kenya. The “Samburu Special Five” are particularly sought after by safari-goers. Grevy’s zebra, with its distinct narrow stripes, is rarer than the common plains zebra, and the reticulated giraffe’s patchwork coat is striking against the dry landscape. Gerenuks, also known as the giraffe antelope, are famous for standing on their hind legs to feed on tall shrubs, while the Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich are equally fascinating.
Beyond these special animals, Samburu is also home to more commonly known species such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. The Ewaso Ng’iro River attracts large herds of elephants that frequently bathe in its waters, providing incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
The landscape in Samburu is equally mesmerizing, with a mix of wide-open plains, rocky cliffs, and acacia-dotted horizons. The contrasting environments make it a visual treat for those who enjoy nature in its rawest form. The riverbanks are lush and green, providing a stark contrast to the otherwise dry and rocky terrain that dominates the reserve.
The Magical Land
Safari Experiences at Samburu National Reserve
Safari experiences in Samburu National Reserve are as wild and untamed as the reserve itself. One of the most popular activities is game driving, where skilled guides take you through the rugged terrain in search of the “Big Five” and the “Samburu Special Five.” The reserve is less crowded than other Kenyan parks, giving you a more intimate and personal safari experience, where you can spend ample time observing the animals without feeling rushed.
Another exciting aspect of a Samburu safari is the opportunity to see elephants in abundance. Samburu has one of the highest densities of elephants in Kenya, and the sight of these gentle giants moving in herds along the riverbanks is truly unforgettable.
Cultural visits to the local Samburu villages offer a unique experience to learn about the Samburu people’s way of life, which is closely tied to their environment. These encounters often involve traditional dances, a look at the local customs, and opportunities to purchase handmade crafts, which support the community.
For those with an adventurous spirit, walking safaris along the river and bush walks in designated areas allow you to experience the landscape and smaller wildlife on foot, getting a closer look at plants, insects, and animal tracks.
Samburu National Reserve Lodges and Tented Camps
Lodges and Tented Camps - Accommodation in Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences, from luxury lodges to more rustic tented camps. Whether you’re looking for all the comforts of home or want to experience the wilderness with just the basics, Samburu has something for everyone.
Luxury Lodges
For those seeking a more upscale experience, lodges like Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp or Saruni Samburu Lodge offer high-end facilities and spectacular views of the reserve. These lodges combine luxury with authentic African design and provide amenities such as swimming pools, gourmet dining, and guided safaris.
Mid-Range and Tented Camps
Mid-range options such as ,Elephant Bedroom Camp or Ashnil Samburu Camp provide a more budget-friendly experience without sacrificing comfort. These tented camps are set in scenic locations along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, giving you the chance to wake up to the sounds of wildlife nearby.
For an even more immersive experience, there are more basic tented camps and mobile camps that cater to adventurous travelers. These offer comfortable beds and essential amenities but place you in closer proximity to nature, often with fewer guests around.
The Magical Land
Points of Interest Around Samburu National Reserve
While the wildlife and safari experiences are the main attractions, there are several other points of interest around Samburu National Reserve that should not be missed.
Ewaso Ng’iro River
The lifeblood of Samburu, the Ewaso Ng’iro River, provides a lush contrast to the dry savannah around it. Wildlife often gathers at its banks, offering excellent viewing opportunities, and the river itself provides a beautiful backdrop for a picnic or a sundowner safari.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Adjacent to Samburu, Buffalo Springs is known for its scenic beauty and clear, spring-fed pools. It’s home to much of the same wildlife as Samburu, making it a great addition to any itinerary.
Mount Ololokwe
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, a hike up Mount Ololokwe offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is sacred to the Samburu people and provides a rewarding challenge for those looking to explore more than just the game drives.
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
Located a short distance from Samburu, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary rescues orphaned elephants and is a must-visit for animal lovers. Here, you can learn about the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic animals and even participate in feeding sessions.
Samburu National Reserve FAQS
Samburu National Reserve is located in northern Kenya, about 350 kilometers from Nairobi, near the Ewaso Ng'iro River.
Samburu is famous for its "Samburu Special Five," including Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Elephants, lions, and leopards are also commonly seen.
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to March, when wildlife is most visible near water sources.
Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges like Samburu Intrepids and Saruni Samburu to more budget-friendly options like Ashnil Samburu Camp and Elephant Bedroom Camp.
You can fly to Samburu’s Oryx airstrip from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport or drive about 5-6 hours from Nairobi, ideally in a 4x4 vehicle.
Besides game drives, you can enjoy walking safaris, cultural visits to Samburu villages, and even hikes up Mount Ololokwe for stunning views.
