Explore the Wild North of Samburu
Samburu National Reserve is a wild, sunbaked wilderness in Kenya's arid north, its dramatic landscapes defined by red earth, doum palms and the winding Ewaso Nyiro River that sustains an extraordinary concentration of wildlife.
Samburu is celebrated for the 'Special Five' - species rarely seen elsewhere in Kenya: the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and long-necked gerenuk. Elephants roam in large herds, and lions, leopards and cheetahs prowl the riverbanks.
Basic Information
The reserve is also named for the Samburu people, close cousins of the Maasai, whose colourful attire and enduring pastoral culture add a rich human dimension to any visit.
- Destination
- Country
- Best Time to Visit
- Park Area
- Main Wildlife
- River
- Nearest City
- Samburu National Reserve
- Kenya
- Jun-Oct & Jan-Mar
- 165 sq km
- Special Five & big cats
- Ewaso Nyiro
- Nairobi
On the sun-scorched plains of the north, the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra and gerenuk roam beneath doum palms - the rare Special Five rewarding those who venture beyond the beaten safari path.
The Gorge Tours Safari Guide
The best time to visit Samburu is during the dry season from June to October and January to March, when wildlife concentrates along the Ewaso Nyiro River and sightings of the Special Five are at their best.
From the rare Special Five and riverside elephant herds to the vibrant culture of the Samburu people, this northern reserve offers a wilder, more intimate safari experience than almost anywhere else in Kenya.
Sample 3-Day Samburu Itinerary
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive north to Samburu, arriving in time for lunch at your camp or lodge. Enjoy an afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Nyiro River in search of the Special Five, before dinner and overnight at your accommodation.
Spend a full day on game drives exploring the riverine forests and open plains. Enjoy a packed lunch in the bush. Opt for a Samburu village visit in the afternoon to experience local culture, then take an evening game drive before returning for dinner.
Take an early morning game drive for the best wildlife activity, then return for breakfast and check out. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
This is a sample itinerary and can be fully customized to suit your dates, budget and interests.
Highlights
- Spot the Special Five - Grevy's zebra, oryx & more
- Morning & afternoon game drives on the plains
- Visit a traditional Samburu village
- Picnic by the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River
- Bird watching - over 450 recorded species
- Stay in riverside camps where elephants drink
- Photograph lions, leopards & cheetahs
