Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari destinations, renowned for its dramatic semi-arid landscapes, the Ewaso Ng’iro River and rare northern Kenyan wildlife. The reserve offers a very different safari experience from the grasslands of the Masai Mara and the vast plains of Tsavo.

History of Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve was established as a protected wildlife area in the 1960s. The region takes its name from the Samburu people, pastoral communities who have lived in northern Kenya for generations and maintain strong cultural connections with the surrounding landscape.

The reserve has developed into an important conservation and tourism area, protecting wildlife habitats along the Ewaso Ng’iro River and forming part of a larger ecosystem that includes neighbouring protected areas.

Location of Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is situated in Samburu County in northern Kenya, approximately 350 kilometres north of Nairobi by road. It lies along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which provides a vital source of water for wildlife in this otherwise dry environment.

Across the river lies Buffalo Springs National Reserve, while Shaba National Reserve is located nearby. Together, these protected areas create an important wildlife conservation landscape.

Attractions in Samburu

Samburu Special Five: Samburu is particularly famous for five animals associated with northern Kenya: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich. Seeing these distinctive species is one of the major reasons to include Samburu in a Kenya safari.

Ewaso Ng’iro River: The river is the lifeline of the reserve. Its riverine forests and permanent or seasonal water attract elephants, predators and numerous other animals, especially during dry periods.

Elephants: Samburu is well known for excellent elephant viewing. Herds regularly move along the river and surrounding plains to feed, drink and bathe.

Big Cats: Visitors may encounter lions, leopards and cheetahs. Leopards are particularly sought after around the wooded riverine areas, although sightings are never guaranteed.

Gerenuk: Sometimes called the giraffe gazelle, the gerenuk is famous for its long neck and ability to stand on its hind legs while browsing vegetation. Samburu is one of Kenya’s best-known destinations for observing this unusual antelope.

Grevy’s Zebra: The endangered Grevy’s zebra is another highlight. It can be distinguished from the more widespread plains zebra by its narrow stripes, large ears and white belly.

Birdlife

Samburu provides excellent birdwatching opportunities. The combination of dry bushland, rocky terrain and riverine vegetation supports a remarkable variety of species, including raptors, kingfishers, hornbills, bee-eaters and the distinctive Somali ostrich.

Samburu Culture

A visit to the wider Samburu region can also introduce travellers to aspects of Samburu culture and traditions. Responsible community visits offer opportunities to learn about traditional pastoral life, livestock, crafts and the relationship between local communities and their environment.

Samburu Safari Experience

Samburu National Reserve is ideal for travellers looking for something different from Kenya’s classic southern safari circuit. Its rugged scenery, palm-fringed riverbanks, elephants and northern specialist wildlife create a distinctive safari experience.

Samburu can be combined with Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Mount Kenya, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara, creating a diverse Kenya safari itinerary covering several contrasting ecosystems.