Samburu National Reserve is a hidden gem in Northern Kenya, offering a truly wild safari experience. Spread across 165 square kilometres, this reserve is known for its rugged beauty and the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which brings life to the surrounding plains.
It’s home to unique species like the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, and gerenuk, making it one of the best places in Africa for wildlife viewing. With over 900 elephants and big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, Samburu offers a mesmerizing experience for those seeking adventure.
- Samburu is home to rare wildlife, including the endangered Grevy’s zebra.
- The Ewaso Ng’iro River supports a wide range of animals, including elephants.
- It’s one of the best places in Kenya to spot leopards.
- The park is home to over 450 bird species, perfect for birdwatchers.
Samburu National Reserve offers a perfect balance of wilderness, adventure, and unique wildlife, making it a must-visit for any safari lover.
Best Time To Visit
Samburu National Reserve is an off-the-beaten-path gem, perfect for adventure seekers looking to experience Kenya’s unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes without the usual crowds.
Samburu National Reserve can be visited year-round, but the dry months from June to September and January to February are ideal for wildlife viewing. During this time, animals gather near water sources, making it easier to spot them.
The Wet season from October to May offers lush, green scenery and is a great time for bird watchers, though wildlife sightings may be less frequent due to long grass. Road conditions can be tricky during the rains in April, May, and November.
Wildlife
Samburu National Reserve is a fantastic place for spotting unique wildlife. You’ll see plenty of elephants roaming the savannah and antelope species like the impressive kudu. Leopards are often found in the woodlands along the riverbanks, making Samburu one of Kenya’s best spots for these elusive cats.
The reserve also has its own version of the “Big Five,” called the “Samburu Five.” These include the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and the long-necked gerenuk, all well-adapted to the dry conditions of the reserve.
Samburu National Reserve is located in Northern Kenya, along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It covers about 165 square kilometres and borders Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves. It’s well-known for the “Samburu Special Five” animals, which include the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.
Samburu is a great year-round safari destination, thanks to its pleasant climate and resident wildlife. However, the best time to visit for optimal wildlife viewing is during the dry season, from late June to October.
You can also drive from Nairobi, which takes around four hours. A self-drive is possible, especially if you’re visiting Tsavo East or Tsavo West afterwards.
Yes, Samburu is a safe place to visit. Kenya, in general, is considered one of the safest countries in East Africa. The national parks and reserves are well-managed with security measures in place. Camps and lodges also have night guards, and guides are trained to keep visitors safe around wildlife.
For non-residents, the entry fee is $70 per adult and $40 per child for 24 hours. For Kenyan residents, it’s KES 1,000 for adults and KES 300 for children or students. Vehicle fees range from KES 400 for smaller cars to KES 1,000 for larger vehicles.
Yes, both Safaricom and Airtel provide mobile network coverage in Samburu. Many lodges and camps also offer complimentary Wi-Fi for guests.
Wildlife
Spot lions, elephants, and cheetahs in their natural habitat in Samburu.
Scenery
Enjoy breathtaking views of Kenya’s untouched landscapes.
Birdwatching
Observe rare birds like the African pygmy falcon.
Culture
Explore the vibrant heritage of the Samburu people.
Hiking
Trek through diverse landscapes on nature walks.
Camping
Experience camping under the stars amidst wildlife.
