Samburu National Reserve
A rugged, semi-arid northern wilderness traversed by the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River, sheltering rare wildlife species found only north of the equator.
Ecosystem Highlights
The Samburu Special Five
Encounter five endemic northern species found almost nowhere else in southern Kenyan parks.
Ewaso Ng'iro River Corridors
Riverine doum palms and acacia tortilis forests provide prime territory for resident leopards and bathing elephant families.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Connect respectfully with the Samburu pastoralists whose conservation ethos preserves ancestral grazing routes.
Natural History & Conservation
Situated on the arid northern plateau of Kenya, Samburu National Reserve encompasses 165 square kilometres along the winding palm-fringed banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River.
The reserve is celebrated for the 'Samburu Special Five'—wildlife species uniquely adapted to semi-arid northern climates: the striking Reticulated Giraffe with its geometric liver-coloured coat, Grevy's Zebra with fine narrow stripes, the Beisa Oryx with spear-like horns, the blue-necked Somali Ostrich, and the extraordinary long-necked Gerenuk that browses standing entirely on its hind legs.
Field Guide & Travel Facts
county
Samburu County
altitude
800 – 1,230 m
bestSeason
December to March and July to October (dry season concentrates game along the river)
keyWildlife
Samburu Special Five, Leopard, Lion, African Wild Dog, Nile Crocodile
recommendedDuration
2 to 4 nights
Experience Samburu National Reserve in person
Let our safari directors incorporate this pristine wilderness into your bespoke itinerary.