Samburu National Reserve

The Rare ‘Special Five’ of Samburu National Reserve

Kenya’s Untamed Northern Gem, Samburu National Reserve, is a land of contrasts with its arid savannahs, riverine forests, dramatic hills, and an incredible array of wildlife, both iconic and rare species. The reserve is home to Africa’s Big Five Namely Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino and also home to the famous Samburu Special Five – five species that are extremely rare or absent elsewhere in Kenya make Samburu National Reserve a place to be. These include Grevy’s zebra – the world’s rarest zebra, the Reticulated Giraffe – with its geometric patchwork coat, the pale desert Beisa oryx, the elegant long-necked Gerenuk, and the distinct Somali ostrich – males with bright blue necks.

Why Visit Samburu National Reserve?

Samburu isn’t just another game park—it’s a sanctuary for the unusual, the rare, and the wild.

1. The Samburu Special Five: Forget the Big Five for a moment—Samburu has its own unique version. Spot the Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and generuk These species are endemic to Kenya’s north and are rarely found in the southern parks.
2. Home to Big Game: Samburu is also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and even wild dogs. It’s not uncommon to find large herds of elephants gathering along the Ewaso Nyiro River, the park’s lifeline and a major attraction in itself.
3. Birdwatcher’s Paradise: With over 450 species of birds, Samburu is a dream for bird lovers. From giant kingfishers to vulturine guineafowls, the skies and trees are alive with feathered beauty.
4. Stunning Landscapes: The scenery here is raw and dramatic—think red earth, doum palms, rocky outcrops, and vast open plains that stretch to infinity. It’s a photographer’s haven, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Must-Visit Places in and Around Samburu

• Ewaso Nyiro River: The heart of Samburu, this river attracts all manner of wildlife and offers opportunities for riverfront game viewing, especially during the dry season.
• Buffalo Springs National Reserve: Located just across the river, this sister reserve shares the same ecosystem and provides an extended safari experience.
• Samburu Villages: Interact with the semi-nomadic Samburu people, known for their colorful attire, rich traditions, and warrior culture.
• Mount Ololokwe: Rising dramatically from the plains, this sacred mountain offers hiking trails and breathtaking views of the northern wilderness.

How Far is Samburu from Nairobi?

Samburu is about 325 kilometers north of Nairobi. You can reach it via:
Road: A 6 to 7-hour scenic drive via the Thika–Nanyuki–Isiolo highway, with opportunities to stop and enjoy Kenya’s changing landscapes.

Air: Daily scheduled flights from Wilson Airport to Samburu’s airstrips (Buffalo Springs or Kalama) take about 1 hour—a fast, comfortable option for travelers short on time.

When to Go and Safari Tips

Best time

Samburu is good year-round, but the dry seasons are prime for game viewing. In the long rains (April–May) the bush flushes green and some roads may get muddy; by contrast June–October (and the short dry season in January–February) bring clear skies, cooler mornings, and animals concentrated around water. Bird lovers may enjoy March–April when migrants and breeding are on display.

Packing

Think safari gear. Lightweight, breathable neutral-colored clothing is ideal. Include a warm fleece or jacket for chilly dawn drives, and closed-toe walking shoes or boots.

Safety

Samburu is well-patrolled by trained rangers and most camps have 24/7 guards, so it is a safe safari destination. Always follow your guide’s instructions on game drives. Stay inside the vehicle except in designated areas as large animals and even predators can appear suddenly.

Samburu National Reserve offers a blend of adventure, luxury, and authenticity. From exclusive wildlife sightings (the Samburu Special Five) to unforgettable cultural encounters, every day here feels like a story waiting to happen