Africa · Kenya
Samburu National Reserve
Northern Kenya's wild frontier — home to the Special Five found nowhere else in Kenya: reticulated giraffe, Grévy's zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx.
About Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve in Kenya's arid north is a world apart from the southern savannah. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is the lifeblood of the reserve, drawing extraordinary concentrations of wildlife to its palm-lined banks. Samburu is famous for its 'Special Five' — unique dry-country species found only in northern Kenya — and for intimate camps offering walking safaris and camel treks with Samburu warriors. The dramatic volcanic hills and acacia thornbush landscape is unlike anything else in Kenya.
Highlights
- The 'Special Five' northern endemic species
- Reticulated giraffe and Grévy's zebra
- Camel treks with Samburu warriors
- Ewaso Ng'iro River game drives
- Leopard sightings in riverine forest
Best Time to Visit
June–September and January–February are best. Samburu is drier than southern Kenya and accessible most of the year.
Weather & Seasons
Samburu has a hot, semi-arid climate. Its northern location means it receives less rainfall than southern Kenya and can be visited even during months when the Mara is wet. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is the year-round anchor.
Long Dry Season
Jun – Oct
Hot and dry with excellent wildlife concentrated along the river. Best game viewing of the year.
Short Dry Season
Jan – Feb
Very hot and dry. Outstanding big cat activity and Special Five sightings.
Short Rains
Nov – Dec
Brief rains cool the reserve. Migratory birds arrive and the landscape greens up beautifully.
Long Rains
Mar – May
Lighter rains than southern Kenya. Still accessible with reasonable game viewing.
Gallery
Tours and lodges for this destination are coming soon.