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4.8/5

Based on 420+ reviews

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Samburu Game Reserve

Wild beauty and unique wildlife thrive in Kenya’s Samburu Reserve.

Samburu Game Reserve provides an exceptional safari experience with desert-adapted species and stunning surroundings. Nestled between steep highlands and the Ewaso Nyiro River, it mixes abundant biodiversity with Samburu cultural legacy, resulting in a unique Kenyan safari experience.

Area

165 sq km

Established

1962

Location

Northern

Altitude

800 – 1,230 m

Climate

Hot Dry

Terrain

Riverine Plains

Fauna

Samburu Special Five

Flora

Doum Palms

Experience the Untamed Wilderness and See the Rare Wildlife of Samburu.

Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and even African wild dogs are commonly seen as predators. Birdwatchers can enjoy over 450 documented species that thrive in this semi-arid area.

Surrounding conservancies, such as Kalama, West Gate, and Namunyak, expand the wildlife-rich terrain and offer cultural opportunities with the Samburu people. Together, they make Samburu one of Africa’s most alluring and unique safari destinations in Kenya.

Samburu Game Reserve in northern Kenya provides an authentic safari experience in a distant and pristine area. It spans 165 square kilometres and is located along the life-giving Ewaso Ng’iro River, which forms a natural boundary with Buffalo Springs National Reserve.

The reserve is known for its unusual “Samburu Special Five” – Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx – which are rarely found elsewhere in Kenya. Over 900 elephants roam freely, providing excellent viewing chances.

Best Time to Visit Samburu Game Reserve

Samburu offers rewarding wildlife viewing all year, with the dry months of June to September and January to February providing the most apparent sightings and most comfortable safari conditions.

Best Time

June to September

High Season

July to October

Low Season

April and June

Best Weather

June and December

Explore East Africa’s Top Safari Packages

Discover an incredible collection of East Africa’s best safari packages. From thrilling game drives and breathtaking landscapes to rich cultures and abundant wildlife, find the perfect journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

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Why Samburu Game Reserve is Worth Visiting?

The Ewaso Nyiro River runs through the park and attracts elephants, crocodiles, and many bird species. Visitors can often see animals gathering near the river, making it an excellent spot for game viewing.

Along with its wildlife, Samburu is also known for its people. The Samburu community shares their culture, traditions, and warm hospitality, which makes every visit meaningful and memorable.

Samburu Game Reserve is a beautiful safari destination in northern Kenya. It is well known for its wildlife, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural traditions.

The reserve is home to the famous “Samburu Special Five” – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. These rare animals make the reserve an exciting place for wildlife enthusiasts.

The reserve is also a sanctuary for elephants, which thrive in the semi-arid environment. Watching large herds move gracefully across the dusty plains toward the river is an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Samburu’s peaceful atmosphere allows for a slower, more intimate safari. It’s a place where you can truly pause, listen to nature, and feel deeply connected to the wild.”

Samburu’s striking scenery sets it apart from other parks in Kenya. The reserve’s rugged hills, red soils, and scattered acacia trees create a dramatic contrast against the bright blue sky, making every drive feel cinematic.

At sunrise and sunset, the golden light softens the arid landscape, revealing the quiet beauty of the northern wilderness. The stillness here has a rhythm of its own, where each sound of the wild feels amplified and alive.

Top 10 FAQs to help you plan your unforgettable safari in Kenya.

Kenya is a captivating destination, famous for thrilling safaris, diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. These FAQs answer the most common traveler questions to help you plan with confidence.

When is the best time for a safari in Kenya?

The Best time for a Safari in Kenya is from June to October, when the weather is dry and animals concentrate around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to see.

January and February are also great months to visit because the weather is mild and the parks aren’t as busy.

The months of March to May and November are the rainy months. The scenery is lush and gorgeous, but severe rains can make some trails muddy and make it tougher to see animals.

But birdwatchers might like the rainy months better because that’s when migratory species show up.

How much does a safari in Kenya cost?

Kenya offers safaris for every budget. A budget safari may start at around $150 per person per day, covering basic accommodations and game drives.

Mid-range options average $300–$500 per day, offering comfortable lodges or tented camps and more personalized service.

Luxury safaris can cost anywhere from $1,000–$2,000+ per day, featuring exclusive camps, gourmet dining, and private guides. Costs also depend on park fees, transport (road vs. flight), and the season of travel.

Is the Masai Mara worth visiting?

Yes, without question. The Masai Mara is Kenya’s crown jewel and one of the world’s most famous safari destinations. It is best known for the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October), where over a million animals cross from the Serengeti into Kenya.

Even outside migration season, the Mara offers year-round predator action with lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, alongside elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Its vast open plains make game viewing exceptional.

How many days are recommended for a safari in Kenya?

A safari can be enjoyed in 3–4 days if you’re short on time, focusing on one park like the Masai Mara.

However, for a deeper experience, 7–10 days allows you to combine several destinations, like Amboseli for elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro views, Lake Naivasha for birdlife, and Tsavo or Samburu for unique landscapes.

This way, you experience Kenya’s diverse ecosystems rather than just one.

Which is better: Kenya or Tanzania for safari?

Both are outstanding safari destinations. Kenya is more compact, making it easier to see multiple parks in a shorter time. It’s often considered more budget-friendly and is famous for the Masai Mara.

Tanzania, on the other hand, offers vast, less crowded wildernesses, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Many travelers choose to visit both countries, as the Serengeti and Masai Mara are part of the same ecosystem, providing a seamless safari adventure.

Do I need malaria tablets for a Kenya safari?

Yes, malaria is present in many regions of Kenya. It is strongly recommended that travelers take antimalarial medication, which a healthcare professional should prescribe before departure.

In addition, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings, and sleep under mosquito nets provided by lodges or camps. With the proper precautions, the risk is manageable.

What should I wear on safari in Kenya?

Bring clothes that are light, breathable, and in neutral colours like khaki, beige, or olive green. These colours help you blend in with your surroundings and don’t draw bugs.

Avoid bright colours, as well as dark colours (black and blue attract tsetse flies). Bring a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses, and a thick layer for early morning or evening journeys because the temperature might drop quickly. For game drives, you should wear comfortable, closed shoes. For walking safaris, you must wear the appropriate attire.

Why are safaris in Kenya expensive?

Safari costs include more than just accommodation. Park entry fees and conservation charges go directly into protecting wildlife and their habitats. Lodges and camps are often located in remote areas, meaning food, supplies, and staff must be brought in, raising operational costs.

Additionally, highly trained guides, trackers, and conservation staff ensure your experience is safe, ethical, and educational. In short, the price supports both your adventure and the preservation of Africa’s wildlife.

How far in advance should I book my safari?

For popular destinations like the Masai Mara during migration season, it’s best to book 6–12 months in advance. This ensures access to the best lodges, guides, and vehicles.

For shoulder or low seasons, you may find availability closer to your dates, but planning gives you more flexibility with itineraries, flight options, and package pricing.

Is Kenya safe for safari travelers?

Yes, Kenya is considered safe for safari tourists. National parks and reserves are secure, and lodges prioritize guest safety with professional guides and staff.

Nairobi and other cities have areas where extra caution is advisable, but once on safari, most visitors feel entirely safe. Following basic travel guidelines, such as avoiding displaying valuables and listening to your guide’s instructions, ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Explore East Africa’s Timeless Safari Destinations

Journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where landscapes shift from endless savannahs to misty mountains. Witness lions roaming the Serengeti, gorillas in Rwanda’s volcanoes, and elephants crossing Kenya’s plains. Each destination offers its own beauty, culture, and rhythm, creating a safari experience that defines East Africa’s untamed soul.

Tanzania

Kenya

Uganda

Rwanda

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

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