Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve introduces travellers to the dry landscapes of northern Kenya. The Ewaso Nyiro River supports riverine woodland and attracts wildlife through an otherwise arid environment of rocky hills, acacia and open scrub.

The region is especially valued for species associated with northern Kenya, including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich. Elephants, lion, leopard and many other species also occur.

Samburu combines naturally with Buffalo Springs National Reserve, Shaba National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

For destination information from the county, visit the County Government of Samburu tourism page.

Northern Kenya species are a major attraction, alongside elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and a wide variety of antelope.

Samburu is excellent for dry country birding, with many northern species that are less common on southern safari routes.

Drier months from June to October and January to February usually concentrate wildlife around the river and remaining water sources.

Samburu is generally hot and dry, with cooler nights and short rainy periods that rapidly change the landscape.

The reserve can be reached by road through Nanyuki and Isiolo or by scheduled and charter flights to the Samburu area.