Wildlife Reserve · Northern Kenya
Samburu National Reserve
A drier, more rugged reserve along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, home to species found nowhere else in Kenya's more famous southern parks.
How to get there
By road from Nairobi, roughly five to six hours north, or by scheduled flight.
What to find
The "Samburu Special Five": Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx.
Overview
Samburu National Reserve covers about 165 km² of arid bush along the Ewaso Ng'iro River in northern Kenya. The river is a lifeline that draws elephants and other wildlife through the dry season.
It's famous for the 'Samburu Special Five', northern species rarely seen in the south: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx. Leopards are also often seen here, and the Samburu people add a rich cultural dimension.
Highlights
- The Samburu Special Five
- Elephants along the Ewaso Ng'iro River
- Leopard sightings in the riverine forest
- Samburu cultural visits
Things to do
Game drives
Along the river, and in the neighbouring Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves.
Cultural visits
Samburu villages and community projects.
Walking safaris
Offered in the surrounding community conservancies.
Best time to visit
The dry seasons (June to October and January to March) concentrate wildlife along the river.
Getting there
About 5 to 6 hours by road north of Nairobi via Isiolo, or by scheduled flight.
Where to stay
Riverside lodges and tented camps inside the reserve and in the neighbouring conservancies.
Samburu & Buffalo Springs
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Kenya →
Good to know
- Pair with Nanyuki, Ol Pejeta or Mount Kenya for a northern circuit.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.