Kenya Samburu County, Northern Kenya

Samburu National Reserve

A rugged, semi-arid wilderness in northern Kenya famous for rare species found nowhere else — the Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich.

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Destination Guide

About Samburu National Reserve

A rugged, semi-arid wilderness in northern Kenya famous for rare species found nowhere else — the Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich.

Why Visit Samburu National Reserve?

Samburu National Reserve offers incredible experiences. Home to the "Samburu Special Five" — unique species not found in southern parks. Ewaso Ng'iro River attracting elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. Dramatic landscapes of red earth, palm-fringed rivers, and rugged hills. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this destination will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Home to the "Samburu Special Five" — unique species not found in southern parks

Ewaso Ng'iro River attracting elephants, leopards, and crocodiles

Dramatic landscapes of red earth, palm-fringed rivers, and rugged hills

Authentic Samburu cultural encounters with semi-nomadic warriors

Excellent leopard sightings — one of Kenya's best parks for big cats

Less crowded than Masai Mara with an off-the-beaten-path feel

🦁 Wildlife Guide

Animals of Samburu National Reserve

Reticulated Giraffe

High

Samburu's iconic giraffe species with distinctive net-like coat pattern.

Grevy's Zebra

High

The world's rarest zebra species with narrow stripes and large ears.

Gerenuk

High

The "giraffe gazelle" that stands on hind legs to browse tall bushes.

African Elephant

High

Large herds gather along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, especially in dry season.

Leopard

High

Samburu is one of Kenya's best parks for leopard sightings along the riverbanks.

African Wild Dog

Rare

Occasionally sighted — one of Africa's most endangered predators.

Lion

High

Prides patrol the plains and riverine areas throughout the reserve.

Beisa Oryx

High

Beautiful antelope with striking facial markings and long straight horns.

🎯 Activities & Experiences

Things To Do at Samburu National Reserve

Nature

Game Drives Along Ewaso Ng'iro River

Morning and evening drives along the river where elephants, crocodiles, and big cats gather.

Culture

Samburu Cultural Visit

Visit an authentic Samburu manyatta and learn about warrior traditions, beadwork, and semi-nomadic life.

Nature

Leopard Tracking

Samburu is famous for leopard sightings — expert guides know their favourite haunts.

Adventure

Camel Safari

Unique camel-back safaris through the semi-arid landscape with Samburu guides.

Nature

Bird Watching

Over 450 bird species including vulturine guineafowl, martial eagle, and palm-nut vulture.

Adventure

Walking Safaris

Guided bush walks with armed rangers through the rugged northern terrain.

📅 When To Visit

Best Time to Visit Samburu National Reserve

Peak Season

Excellent

July to October

dry season with concentrated wildlife along the Ewaso Ng'iro River

Good Season

Good

January to March

dry, warm weather; good visibility

Green Season

Fair

April to June, November

lush landscapes, fewer visitors, lower rates

✈️ Getting There

How to Reach Samburu National Reserve

By Air

Fly from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Samburu airstrip (1 hour)

By Road

Drive from Nairobi via Nanyuki (5-6 hours on tarmac road)

By Charter

Charter flights available from Masai Mara

💰 Park Fees

Entry Fees for Samburu National Reserve

Category	Fee (per person/day)

* All park fees are included in C.A.T.S safari packages. Fees shown for reference only and may change without notice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Samburu National Reserve FAQs

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