Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is a rugged and semi-arid haven covering 165 square kilometers in northern Kenya, offering a distinctly different safari experience from the grassland parks of the south. The reserve is bisected by the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River, which attracts a remarkable concentration of wildlife to its banks, creating exceptional viewing opportunities especially during dry seasons.

Samburu is famous for its "Special Five" - unique species found almost exclusively in northern Kenya: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. The reserve also boasts healthy populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and over 450 bird species. Large elephant herds frequent the river, while crocodiles bask on sandbanks.

The dramatic landscape of thorny scrubland, rocky outcrops, and doum palms creates a striking backdrop distinct from typical safari scenery. The reserve offers rich cultural experiences with the Samburu people, a fascinating pastoralist community related to the Maasai. Whether tracking unique northern species, observing predators along the riverbanks, or learning about Samburu traditions, this reserve offers authentic wilderness encounters far from conventional tourist circuits.

Highlights

• Special Five northern species
• Ewaso Ng'iro River wildlife
• Samburu cultural experiences
• Unique arid landscape
• Excellent leopard sightings

Things to Do

• Game drives
• River wildlife viewing
• Samburu cultural visits
• Bird watching
• Photography
• Camel safaris

June to October and December to March for best wildlife viewing