National Parks | Kenya

Samburu National Reserve in Kenya

Samburu National Reserve offers a unique, year-round safari experience with rare animal sightings in a pristine environment.

Community visits
Camel safari
Mobile camps
Game drives
Community visits
Carmel Safaris
Game drives
Mobile camps

Everything you need to know:

Samburu National Reserve offers unique safari experiences in an off-the-beaten-track location. It’s less crowded than Amboseli and Maasai Mara, yet offers excellent game viewing, including rare northern specialist species. Home to the Samburu people and Kenya’s biggest river, Ewaso Ng’iro.

Where is the reserve located?

The Samburu National Reserve is positioned in the serene northern region of Laikipia in the Samburu County, approximately 350 kilometers from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The reserve is nestled on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river and neighbors the Buffalo Springs National Reserve to the south.

What can you expect of the terrain?

The northern region of the country is distinct from the rest of the country, with its arid and semi-arid ecosystems, characterized by dry scrublands and rocky outcrops, along with riverine forests and large doum palms bordering the river. Despite its differences from other areas of the country, the region is home to a diverse array of exciting wildlife, making it an extraordinary landscape to explore.

About the park

What type of wildlife will we see?

Samburu National Reserve is a well-known wildlife habitat, which shelters some of Kenya’s most incredible and rarest creatures. Among the numerous animals that roam the reserve, a special mention belongs to the five rare and endemic species known as the ‘Samburu 5’: the Grevy zebra, the Somali ostrich, the reticulated giraffe, the Beisa oryx, and the gerenuk. 

It’s a remarkable destination for nature lovers seeking to explore the unique and rugged terrain of Kenya. Ornithologists, in particular, will relish the opportunity to observe and record the numerous bird species found here, including the incredibly rare Taita falcon and vulturine. Samburu National Reserve is the ultimate safari adventure that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Top experiences to enjoy in Samburu National Reserve

Like the Maasai, the Samburu tribe are nomadic pastoralists who move around following rainfall patterns in search of water for their livestock. Visiting the local tribes, and cultural villages, as well as the Samburu caves to witness the historical rock art that dates back centuries, is a truly enriching experience. 

Another highlight, and something truly unique to experience, is a camel safari. Ditch the game vehicle, and ride a camel through this pristine wilderness for an opportunity to get really close to the games plain, and, if you’re up for an even more thrilling adventure, stay overnight at a camel camp within the reserve for a truly authentic bushveld experience.

When to visit

Samburu, located in a dry region of Kenya, experiences less intense rainy seasons than other areas in the country. The peak safari season is from June to October, during the cooler and drier months, making it easier to spot animals since they tend to stay closer to water sources. For those interested in lush landscapes and birdwatching, 

visiting from November to April during the Green Season is ideal. This season brings gentle rain, resulting in a flourishing and beautiful environment. Samburu is a truly spectacular place to visit year-round, offering unique experiences throughout the different seasons.

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