Samburu National Reserve lies in Kenya’s arid north, along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. It is a dramatic landscape of red earth, doum palms and rocky hills, and it offers wildlife you will not easily see in the southern parks.
The Samburu Special Five
Several species are typical of northern Kenya and rare or absent in the Maasai Mara. Guides call them the Special Five:
- Grevy’s zebra: larger than the common zebra, with narrow stripes and big round ears.
- Reticulated giraffe: with bold, net-like patches.
- Somali ostrich: with a blue-grey neck.
- Beisa oryx: a desert antelope with long straight horns.
- Gerenuk: the long-necked “giraffe antelope” that stands on its hind legs to feed.
Other Wildlife
Elephants gather along the river, and lions, leopards and cheetahs are all regularly seen. Crocodiles bask on the riverbanks, and the birdlife is excellent.
Samburu Culture
The Samburu people are close relatives of the Maasai and have a rich cultural tradition of colourful beadwork and cattle herding. Community visits can be arranged and give a respectful insight into daily life.
Best Time to Visit
Samburu is dry for much of the year and can be visited at almost any time. June to October and December to March are the most comfortable. It can be very hot in the middle of the day, so early starts matter.
Getting There and Combining
Samburu is a full day’s drive from Nairobi, or a short flight to a nearby airstrip. Most itineraries combine it with Ol Pejeta, Mount Kenya, Lake Nakuru or Meru, forming a northern Kenya circuit that is quiet, rewarding and very different from the Mara.
Tips
- Choose a camp on the river for the best elephant views.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and a light scarf for dust.
- Plan three nights if you can, as distances are long.
Curious about a northern circuit? Talk to us on WhatsApp +254 794 588 242.
