About the Reserve
Samburu National Reserve is a ruggedly beautiful and distinct wildlife sanctuary located in Kenya's hot, arid northern frontier, approximately 350km from Nairobi. Situated on the banks of the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River, the reserve spans 165km² of dramatic semi-desert landscape characterized by doum palm groves, acacia woodlands, and rocky kopjes against a backdrop of distant mountains. It forms part of the larger Samburu ecosystem along with the adjacent Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves.
Samburu offers a uniquely "northern" safari experience, famous for its specialized wildlife that has adapted to the harsh, dry conditions. This reserve is the traditional homeland of the semi-nomadic Samburu people, cousins to the Maasai, whose rich cultural heritage adds a fascinating layer to any visit. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is the ecological heart of the reserve, attracting dense wildlife concentrations, especially during the dry seasons. Unlike the savannahs of southern Kenya, Samburu provides a more remote, intimate, and scenically dramatic safari, with fewer visitors and a sense of untamed wilderness.
Samburu offers a uniquely "northern" safari experience, famous for its specialized wildlife that has adapted to the harsh, dry conditions. This reserve is the traditional homeland of the semi-nomadic Samburu people, cousins to the Maasai, whose rich cultural heritage adds a fascinating layer to any visit. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is the ecological heart of the reserve, attracting dense wildlife concentrations, especially during the dry seasons. Unlike the savannahs of southern Kenya, Samburu provides a more remote, intimate, and scenically dramatic safari, with fewer visitors and a sense of untamed wilderness.
Highlights
- Unique Wildlife: Home to the iconic "Samburu Special Five" not seen in southern parks.
- Uncrowded & Remote: Offers a more exclusive and peaceful safari experience.
- Stunning Scenery: Dramatic arid landscapes, riverine forests, and beautiful backdrops.
- Rich Cultural Interaction: Authentic access to the fascinating Samburu culture.
- Excellent Predator Viewing: Reliable sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, often with fewer vehicles.
- Birding Paradise: Superb for birdwatchers, with many regional specialties.
Good to Know
- Remote Location: A long (5-6 hour) drive from Nairobi; often requires a domestic flight for efficient access.
- Extreme Climate: Can be very hot and dry, especially from December to March.
- Limited Infrastructure: Fewer lodge choices and less development than major southern parks.
- Seasonal Wildlife Dispersal: During the wet season (Nov & April), wildlife can be more scattered as water is available away from the river.
- Tsetse Flies: Presence of tsetse flies in some wooded areas, which can be a nuisance.
Wildlife & Nature
Experiences
Morning & Afternoon Game Drives: Focus on finding the "Special Five" and big cats along the river and plains.
Cultural Visits: Authentic tours to nearby Samburu villages (manyattas) to learn about traditions, dance, and pastoral life.
Bird Watching: Excellent for spotting dry-country and riverine specialists.
Nature Walks: Guided bush walks outside the reserve (in conservancies) with Samburu guides.
Riverside Sundowners: Scenic drinks by the Ewaso Ng'iro River at sunset.
Photography: Stunning landscapes and unique wildlife offer exceptional photographic opportunities.
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