Samburu National Reserve Tops as one of Kenya's hidden gems which is not known by many who seek the ragged paths of adventure. It is the kind of place that is full of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the rich indigenous and exciting culture of the Samburu people. The Samburu, a group of people who belong to the Nilotic ethnic group of Kenya, still practice their culture and nomadic way of life.
Samburu National Reserve is in the Northern Part of Kenya along the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro River. It is located 350 kilometers from Nairobi, Kenya's capital (Samburu National Reserve, retrieved 2025). It is the best place to offer an unforgettable Safari experience like no other you will experience in Africa. In the light of the above introduction, let us dive into the Top reasons to love this great national reserve.
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Samburu Ecosystem
Samburu National Reserve is located in the larger Samburu Ecosystem which includes the neighboring Buffalo Springs and the Shaba National Parks. It covers an area of approximately 165 square kilometers and 64 square miles, Samburu National Reserve is Smaller than most other parks but not any less exciting. It's located far from most other National parks thus, providing a less crowded Safari experience, as well as a more peaceful experience. It is known for its abundance of the special five.
Samburu National Reserve Unique Wildlife.
One of the most attractive traits of Samburu is the presence of the Samburu Special Five. These species of animals are not normally found in other Southern parks like the Amboseli National Park or the Masai Mara National Reserve.
The Special five species include:
- Grevy's Zebra.
A special kind of zebra that is bigger than the other species and one that has narrow stripes compared to the other zebras.
- Gerenuk.
Also called the Giraffe gazelle, this is an antelope with an elongated neck and often stands on its hind legs to feed on the higher leaves of the shrubs.
- Beisa Oryx
An Antelope species that has long sharp horns and very distinct facial marks.
- Reticulated Giraffe.
Known for their stunning well well-patterned coats with sharp, polygonal spots. These giraffes are quite an unforgettable site. They are only found in Samburu.
- Somali Ostrich
These are a species of the Ostrich family. They are bigger and more blue than black, they are beautiful and one should make it a life goal to watch them.
Apart from these five special species there are other animals that are a site to behold. These are elephants, leopards, cheetahs, and lions. Others are the over 450 species of birds and wild dogs. With this kind of wildlife watching Samburu National Reserve should be on your bucket list.
Magnificent Landscapes of the Samburu National Reserve.
The striking landscapes of the Samburu are unforgettable scenery of the park's rugged terrain. Apart from the distinctly striking wildlife, other striking features include acacia woodlands, hills, open savannahs, and riverine forests along the Ewaso Ng'iro River. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is a lifeline for wildlife, especially during the dry seasons. The river is lined by palm trees.
Other magnificent features are the dramatic hills of the Koitogor Hills and the Ololokwe Mountains. This contrasting scenery from the green lush riverbanks to the arid plains creates an excellent photography field. It is also an excellent place for explorers looking for adventure.
The Cultural Experience
Samburu boasts as one of the very cultured people who still believe in their nomadic lifestyle, rearing their animals from one place to another looking for green pastures. They mainly rear goats, sheep, cattle, and camel. Their lifestyle revolves around their animals where they get most of their food from animals such as blood and dung to make their temporary shelters. They have a great culture of making beads and a connection to their land. The palace has a number of lodges and camps that allow visitors to interact with this culture. This way you learn more about their traditions and their livelihood and can even partake in their dances.
Other great activities at Samburu
Game Walks:
This is an exploration of the bush on foot with some of the experienced guides to watch the animals close by.
Bird Watching:
Watch the many bird species at the National Reserve.
Photographic Safaris:
Samburu has a great landscape making it ideal for photographers.
Sundowners:
Watch as the sun goes down the horizon in an amazing showdown.
Conservation action:
Samburu National Reserve is at the forefront of the conservation of some of the endangered species of wildlife in Kenya. Save the Elephant Conservation Foundation is located here in Samburu. When you visit this place you take a big role in the promotion of these conservation activities.
Samburu is a perfect safari haven like no other in Kenya. It has some of the most unique animals as well as breathtaking landscapes for all to enjoy. A safari at Samburu will offer you an experience that will remain arched in your mind forever.
When traveling to Kenya for a Safari to Samburu remember to book in advance to ensure your stay is well planned and hire an experienced guide to take you through the whole Safari.
How to get to Samburu
The fastest way is to take a flight from Nairobi to the airstrip in Samburu at Kalama or Samburu Oryx. The flight takes about 1.5 hours thus, saving a great deal of time as well as, a good airview of the great terrains in Kenya.
The other option is taking the road which will take you between six and seven hours. The journey is also scenic as you travel through the Kenyan highlands.
Best time to Visit Samburu National Reserve.
The dry season:
This is the best time to visit as animals are always around the water holes for a drink thus it is easy to see them.
Short Rain Season:
The landscape is full of green fresh feed for the animals, most will have young ones due to the available feed.
The long rain season:
This is the low season for the tourism sector as the roads are impassible and the rates are low.
It is recommended that safaris are best suited during the dry season period.
Lodges around Samburu
Saruni Samburu:
A luxury lodge with private villas and stunning views as well as offering a cultural experience.
Elephant Bedroom Camp:
A tented camp located by the Ewaso Nyiro River that is frequently visited by Elephants.
Samburu Intrepids:
A family-friendly safari camp that offers children-friendly activities.
Sasaab Lodge:
This Lodge is perfect for romantic getaways, especially honeymoons.