Samburu National Reserve (often called Samburu National Park) is a unique and less-crowded safari destination in northern Kenya. It offers dramatic landscapes and rare wildlife species that aren’t commonly seen in other Kenyan parks.
Location: Northern Kenya, in Samburu County (~310 km north of Nairobi).
Size: ~165 square kilometers.
Landscape: Arid savannah, rugged hills, the Ewaso Nyiro River (lifeline of the park), and scattered acacia trees.
Unique Wildlife – The “Samburu Special Five”
Samburu is famous for species that are adapted to dry conditions and rarely found elsewhere:
Grevy’s zebra – Larger and with narrower stripes than common zebras.
Reticulated giraffe – With striking, net-like patterns.
Beisa oryx – Antelope with long, straight horns.
Gerenuk – Long-necked antelope that stands on hind legs to browse.
Somali ostrich – With blue-gray legs and neck.
You’ll also find:
Lions, leopards, and cheetahs (including the famous “leopard rock” sightings).
Elephants – Often seen bathing in the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Crocodiles, buffalos, hyenas, and more.
Over 350 bird species – ideal for birdwatchers.
Elephant Bedroom Camp – Luxury tented camp by the river.
Samburu Intrepids – Well-known safari lodge with excellent guiding.
Saruni Samburu – Luxury lodge in a private conservancy with epic views.
Ashnil Samburu Camp – Mid-range camp with great amenities and game viewing.
Sopa Lodge Samburu – Affordable with beautiful hilltop views.
Basic campsites and budget lodges are available in Archer’s Post and nearby areas.
Morning and evening drives offer the best chances to see predators and unique species.
Night drives may be available through some lodges (within private conservancies).
Visit Samburu villages to learn about traditional customs, beadwork, dances, and pastoral life.
A more authentic and less touristy experience than the more frequented Maasai visits in the south.
Guided bush walks offered by some lodges or in adjacent private conservancies.
Best after rains; highlights include vulturine guineafowl, martial eagles, and kingfishers.
Enjoy drinks at sunset overlooking the river or hills—offered by most mid- to high-end lodges.
