Samburu National Reserve lies in Kenya’s semi-arid north, along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It feels completely different from the southern parks: red earth, doum palms along the river and species adapted to dry country.
Samburu, together with neighbouring Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves, is home to the “Samburu Special Five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.
Why visit Samburu National Reserve
For travellers who want a wilder, less-visited Kenya with species you won’t see in the Mara. The river draws elephants and big cats, especially in the dry months, and the Samburu people add a rich cultural dimension.
Animals you can see
- Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and gerenuk
- Elephant herds along the Ewaso Ng’iro River
- Leopard, lion and cheetah
- Nile crocodile
- Vulturine guineafowl and hundreds of dry-country birds
Best time to visit
June to October and December to March, when animals gather along the river.
How many days do you need?
We recommend 2–3 days in Samburu National Reserve.
Things to do
- Game drives along the Ewaso Ng’iro River
- Visit to a Samburu village
- Guided walks and camel experiences in community conservancies
- Photography of dry-country species
Where to stay
Riverside tented camps and lodges in Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba, plus luxury camps in nearby community conservancies.
Getting there
About 6 hours by road from Nairobi via Mount Kenya, or a short flight from Wilson Airport. Combines well with Ol Pejeta.
