Samburu National Reserve: Home of “Special Five” Species & Scenic Views

Samburu National Park is a unique and less crowded safari destination in Northern Kenya. The experience of exploring this reserve is completely different from that of visiting one of Kenya’s more popular parks, such as the Maasai Mara or Amboseli.

The reserve’s rugged landscape and diverse and rare wildlife provide visitors with an authentic and peaceful experience. It is an unforgettable place to get an ‘out-of-the-ordinary’ experience on safari, as this reserve is considered a hidden gem.

Where is Samburu National Reserve Located?

Samburu National Reserve is a semi-arid region in northern Kenya located approximately 350 km north of Nairobi.

The drive there is about 6–7 hours; you can also fly to airstrips close by, which can be faster and easier.

This reserve is located on the Ewaso Nyiro River, which provides water to the wildlife living in this arid part of the country.

What Makes Samburu Unique?

The animal life and natural environment of Samburu differentiate it from the surrounding regions.

While the southern portion of Kenya has many fertile grasslands, Samburu contains semi-arid plains, acacia woodlands, rocky outcrops, and riparian forests. The variety in this unique geography creates a dramatic and stunningly beautiful landscape that feels like an untouched wilderness area.

Also, as compared to more heavily visited and therefore more crowded areas of Kenya, Samburu has significantly lower visitation rates, creating an opportunity for individuals to enjoy quieter and more personal interactions with wildlife while on a safari excursion.

The Famous Samburu “Special Five”

One reason many people go to Samburu NP is that they want to see the “Special Five”, rare wildlife not found anywhere else in Kenya.

Grevy’s Zebra

Has thinner stripes and a white belly compared to the common/Plains Zebra.

Reticulated Giraffe

One of the most attractive among the Giraffe species in Africa is because of their unique and colourful patterns on their bodies.

Somali Ostrich

Males have blue legs and blue necks, whereas other species of ostriches have black.

Beisa Oryx

Antelope known for their long, perfectly straight horns and have adaptations to help them survive in arid areas.

Gerenuk

Commonly referred to as Giraffe Gazelle due to their ability to rear onto their hind legs to feed on vegetation high in trees.

For anyone on safari, seeing all five of the “Special Five” is something you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Wildlife Beyond the Special Five

Samburu is home to a plethora of additional animals, and although the Special Five animals will generally be the primary focus, Samburu also has plenty of other wildlife to offer!

Elephants – Enjoy large groups of elephants located along the rivers or in the dry areas of the reserve during the dry period.

Lions and Leopards – These predators can be found throughout the reserve and rest in trees along the walls of the river.

Cheetahs – Check out the open plains for cheetahs on early morning game drives; some of the most active times for cheetahs.

Buffaloes and Antelopes – Numerous buffalo and antelope sightings are possible.

Samburu’s unique blend of uncommonly seen and commonly seen wildlife creates an excellent safari destination!

 

Scenic Beauty and Landscapes

Wildlife isn’t the only thing that makes Samburu beautiful; the scenery can also take your breath away!

The landscape consists of flat, dry plains covered with clusters of acacia trees and outcrops of rocky hills with meandering river banks. The contrast between the parched land and the lush green vegetation that borders the rivers offers some of the most scenic views you will ever see.

The sunrises and sunsets over Samburu are particularly photo-worthy. The classic reddish-orange sky at dawn and twilight provides some of the most incredible photo opportunities you will ever see!

Top Things to Do in Samburu

Game Drive

The primary activity in Samburu is game driving, with the best times being early morning and late evening for maximum chances of seeing wildlife.

Ewaso Nyiro River

The Ewaso Nyiro River is the prime area where wildlife gathers to drink water; it is considered by many to be the best location for wildlife sightings.

Experience the Culture

Visitors can visit with the Samburu, who are a people closely related to the Maasai, to learn about their culture and traditions.

Birdwatching

Samburu offers birdwatching enthusiasts the opportunity to see a fairly large number of bird species.

 

Best Time to Visit Samburu

While all year is good to visit Samburu, some months offer a better experience than others.

Dry Season: June – October & January – February

Wildlife viewing is at its best during these months, as animals congregate around the river, making it easy for you to see more wildlife than during other months.

Green Season: March – May & November – December

Increased rainfall during this time and as a result, vegetation becomes lush and green, and bird activity increases. However, wildlife may be more dispersed across the landscape than during the dry season.

Accommodation Options

Accommodations range widely from Tented Camps on the River, to Scenic Views from your Safari Lodge, to Comfortable Camp Accommodations in the Mid-Range category. In most cases, accommodations were designed to fit into the Natural Environment around them, creating a calm and immersive experience for guests.

 

How to Get to Samburu

Traveling By Road

When traveling from Nairobi, it will take approximately 6 to 7 hours on your journey to experience the diversity of Kenya’s landscape.

Traveling By Air

There are domestic flights available from Nairobi to Samburu airstrips, which will give an aerial view of your destination and are faster than road travel.

 

Combining Samburu with Other Safari Destinations

When planning a trip to Samburu, combine it with other locations for a full safari experience.

Some combinations are more commonly done than others:

• Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where they are trying to save rhinos
• Lake Nakuru National Park is great for the birds + rhinos
• Maasai Mara National Reserve for the “Big 5”.

These combinations give you a chance to experience many different types of land and wildlife and create a varied itinerary.

 

Why Visit Samburu National Reserve?

Samburu is an alternative to your standard safari experience.

The area has less tourist activity than many destinations, providing an opportunity for a more tranquil experience while on safari.

Samburu is home to many rare game species that you cannot find in most other types of parks.

There are many beautiful landscapes and scenery in this area.

Cultural experiences that are true to the Samburu people are abundant in this area.

If you would like an alternative to a typical safari, you should consider a trip to Samburu.

Final Thoughts

One of the least-known parks for tourists in the Kenya safari circuit is the Samburu National Reserve. The combination of the park’s one-of-a-kind wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and quiet serenity creates a different travel experience for those who are seeking something beyond the ordinary.

You will find something different to see in Samburu, whether it’s spotting one of the rare five specials, seeing elephants drinking along the banks of the river, or witnessing stunningly vivid sunsets. There are so many special experiences that make you feel like you’re having a real adventure at Samburu with every passing minute that you are there.

Samburu National Reserve should be at the top of your list of parks to include in your plans for your vacation to Kenya.