Located on the southern bank of the northern Ewaso Ngiro River, Samburu is home to a large population of Nile crocodiles and is the second most visited game reserve in Kenya. Visitors to Samburu have the opportunity to see some rare wildlife species. Samburu National Reserve is a rugged and semi-desert park located in Samburu district in the Rift Valley Province in central Kenya. The park neighbors the homes of the Samburu tribe of Kenya, a tribe known for their remote culture, pastoral and nomadic way of life.
Samburu National Reserve consists of a low lying, semi arid plain on the southern bank of the northern Ewaso Ngiro River. The reserve which lies 9km east of Buffalo Springs National Reserve was gazetted in 1974
WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Samburu National Reserve offers great wildlife viewing, and good densities mean that most safari animals can be seen within a couple of days. There are several habituated leopards, and sightings are not unusual. Elephants are plentiful, and there is a variety of antelope, including both the greater and lesser kudu, with their impressive horns. Only rhino is absent from the Big Five. Several dry-country adapted mammals that don’t occur in most Kenyan parks can be found here. The reticulated giraffe has a more striking pattern than the common Masai giraffe. Beisa Oryx is particularly well adapted to arid conditions. The gerenuk, with its elongated neck, is able to stand on its hind legs to reach sparse leaves. Both the common Burchell’s zebra and the bigger Grevy’s zebra are found alongside each other.
Samburu national reserve is a home to about 75 species of mammals including elephants, lions, African buffaloes, Maasai giraffes, plain zebras, hippos, cheetahs, reticulated giraffe, Aardvark, Aardwolf, Africa Hare, Antelope, Banded Mongoose, Bat eared Fox, Bushbaby, Bushbuck, Coke’s hartebeest, Common elands, Copper tailed monkey, crested porcupine, Dwarf Mongoose, Grant’s gazelles, Honey Badger among others.
Discover Samburu National Reserve: Kenya's Untamed Northern Gem
Located in the rugged landscapes of northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve offers a raw and authentic safari experience far from the crowds. Home to unique wildlife species and rich cultural heritage, this reserve is a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure, serenity, and connection with nature. Its arid beauty, framed by the Ewaso Ng'iro River and the dramatic hills beyond, creates a perfect backdrop for unforgettable game drives and cultural encounters with the Samburu people.
What Makes Samburu Special?
- Rare wildlife species known as the "Samburu Special Five": Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.
- The Ewaso Ng'iro River attracting diverse animal life including elephants and crocodiles.
- Less-crowded game drives with excellent chances of spotting leopards and lions.
- Close cultural interactions with the vibrant Samburu communities.
- Ideal for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes and wildlife behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Samburu is located in northern Kenya, approximately 350 km from Nairobi in Samburu County. It borders Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves.
The best time to visit is from June to October and December to March, during the dry season when animals gather near water sources and visibility is high.
You can spot the Samburu Special Five, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, crocodiles, and over 450 species of birds.
Yes, Samburu offers a range of accommodation options including luxury lodges like Saruni Samburu and mid-range tented camps such as Samburu Sopa Lodge and Elephant Bedroom Camp.
You can reach Samburu by road from Nairobi (approx. 6-7 hours) or fly to Samburu’s airstrip via chartered or scheduled flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
Yes, Samburu is safe for tourists and is patrolled by Kenya Wildlife Service. As with any safari destination, it’s important to follow park regulations and guide instructions.
Absolutely. Samburu is often combined with visits to Ol Pejeta, Laikipia, Mount Kenya, or Maasai Mara for a full-circle Kenyan safari experience.
Your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Kenya and throughout East Africa. Our passion is to curate exceptional travel experiences that showcase the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultures, and diverse wildlife that make this region truly unique.