Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve is located in the arid plains north of Laikipia in Northern Kenya, along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It covers about 165sqkm and is located 350km from Nairobi. Samburu National Reserve is also a traditional homeland for the Samburu people who were lured to this area due to the availability of the Ewaso Ng’iro River that provides water for their herds. The crocodile-infested river is also a thirst-quenching ground and attracts a number of wildlife from the surrounding savannah Plains.
Samburu National reserve’s magnificent landscape features palm groves and riverine forests growing amidst arid and semi-arid ecosystems hence creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
If you have previously been to Kenya or you are seeking a more off-the-beaten-path holiday with lots of unique wildlife, then Samburu National Reserve is the place to be. It is a rewarding Safari destination with unique experiences and great game viewing. Captivating Samburu elephant herds saunter over this game-rich reserve and big cats prowl through thick acacia forest.
The reserve is home to the rare Northern special five species which are Grevy zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe and the Beisa oryx, this craggy, rugged region unfolds a romantic, awe-inspiring safari experience.
Birdlife is also abundant with over 450 recorded species including the lesser kestrel, vulturine guinea fowl and also the Taita falcon among others.
Activities in Samburu National Reserve
Game Drives
Game drives allow you to explore the park and see a myriad of wildlife, most notably the rare Northern special 5 which are; the Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and the Beisa oryx. Other sightings in this dusty reserve include; large herds of buffalos, leopards, cheetahs and also lions.
Nature walk
Samburu National Reserve is a fascinating destination for nature treks with a semi-arid terrain traversed by the Ewaso Ng’iro River which is the area’s constant water supply. Nature walks are primarily done along the river’s banks with an experienced guide and an armed guide where you may witness wildlife like hippos, elephants, crocodiles and birds.
Cultural Encounter with the Samburu people
You will be delighted by cultural dances and music from the Samburu people, as well as witness the circumcision ritual and also their traditional marriage. Once a boy has been circumcised, he is regarded a Moran (warrior) in Samburu culture and tradition.
When to Visit
July to October and December to March are the driest months and the best for visiting though the reserve is also enjoyable in the wetter seasons.
How to Get to Samburu National Reserve
By Road
Samburu National Reserve is about 350km from Nairobi city and about 6 hours’ drive.
By Air
International flights can arrive in Nairobi through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Moi International Airport and from here, you can then take a charter flight to one of the airstrips within the reserve.
Samburu Entry Gates
It has a number of entry gates and they include;
Archer’s Gate
West Gate
Kalama Gate
Uaso Bridge Gate
Central Airstrip Gate
Accommodations in Samburu National Reserve
These Accommodations in Samburu range from Luxury and Mid-Range to Budget and they include;
Luxury Accommodations
Saruni Samburu
Saasab Camp
Larsens Tented Camp
Samburu Intrepids Camp
Elephant Bedroom Camp
Elephant Watch Camp
Samburu Simba Lodge
Sentrim Samburu Camp
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge
Mid-Range Accommodations
Samburu Game Lodge
Samburu Sopa Lodge
Ashnil Samburu Camp