Samburu National Reserve Safaris
Overview
Samburu: where Kenya's wildest edge begins Samburu feels like another country. Here, the land is dry and dramatic, framed by rugged hills and cut through by the Ewaso Nyiro River, a green lifeline that draws elephants, leopards and crocodiles to its banks. It's compact, intimate and blissfully uncrowded. The reserve is famous for the "Samburu Special Five", species you'll struggle to find in the southern parks: the graceful reticulated giraffe, the striking Grevy's zebra, the long-necked gerenuk, the Somali ostrich and the beisa oryx. Add lesser kudu, big elephant herds and some of the best leopard sightings in Kenya, and you understand why safari veterans keep coming back. This is also the home of the Samburu people, whose bright beadwork and pastoral traditions bring a rich cultural dimension to any visit. Whether you're chasing rare wildlife, adding depth to a Masai Mara trip or planning a full Kenya circuit, we'll build a Samburu safari that fits. Ready to go where the crowds don't? Let's plan your trip.
Top Destinations
Small park, huge rewards. Samburu's compact size means you're never far from the action. These are the moments guests remember longest.
Things to Do
The Samburu Special Five. Reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich and beisa oryx: five species shaped by the northern deserts. Ticking all five is one of Kenya's great safari challenges.. .Ewaso Nyiro River. The river is the park's beating heart. Elephants bathe, crocodiles bask on the banks and birds crowd the riverine forest. Sit quietly by the water and watch the whole cast arrive.. .Leopards & Big Cats. Samburu is one of Kenya's best places for leopard sightings, and lions and cheetahs roam the open scrub. Early morning and late afternoon drives are prime time.. .Elephant Herds. Big, relaxed family groups make daily journeys to the river. Samburu is also a long-time hub for elephant research and conservation.. .Buffalo Springs & Shaba. Next door, Buffalo Springs offers natural springs and pools, while Shaba, the area where Born Free author Joy Adamson lived, is wilder and quieter. Both add variety to your stay.. .Samburu Village Visit. Meet local Samburu families, see their beadwork and hear how they live alongside wildlife. Visits are guided and support the community directly.. .Lodges & Camps. Choose from riverside options such as Elephant Bedroom Camp, Samburu Game Lodge, Samburu Sopa Lodge or Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, with views of elephants at the water from your veranda..
Free Ask Question?
How do I get to Samburu?
Samburu is roughly 350 km north of Nairobi. Most guests travel by road with a stop at the Equator near Nanyuki, or fly into a nearby airstrip. We'll arrange the route that suits your schedule and budget.
How many days do I need?
Two nights is the minimum. Most guests combine Samburu with the Aberdares, Lake Nakuru or the Masai Mara in a 5 to 10-day circuit.
When is the best time to visit Samburu?
June to September and January to February are the driest and best for wildlife viewing. Samburu is a year-round destination, though, and the green season brings fewer visitors and lovely light for photographers.
What's included in your safaris?
Each itinerary lists exactly what's covered, but most include a private 4x4 and driver-guide, park fees, accommodation and meals as specified. Extras like drinks and tips are flagged upfront.
Can you customise a trip?
Always. Tell us your dates, interests and budget, and we'll shape a route around you, from photography trips to family holidays.
