Buffalo springs national Reserve

Overview

Buffalo Springs National Reserve, located in the rugged northern region of Kenya, offers a pristine wilderness experience in a landscape characterized by its semi-arid savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and the winding Ewaso Nyiro River. Spanning approximately 131 square kilometers, this reserve is an integral part of the greater Ewaso Nyiro Ecosystem, which also includes the renowned Samburu National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve.

The reserve's name is derived from the crystal-clear springs that emerge from the ground, providing a vital water source for the region's diverse wildlife, especially during the arid dry season. The landscape's striking features include expansive savannahs and lush riverine areas, creating a dynamic habitat that supports a wide array of animal species.

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can expect to encounter iconic African wildlife such as the African elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, and zebra. The reserve is also home to several species of antelope, including the gerenuk, oryx, and impala, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park’s avian diversity, with over 400 bird species recorded, ranging from majestic raptors to colorful songbirds.

The reserve offers a range of activities for a genuine safari experience. Visitors can embark on thrilling game drives, explore the landscape on guided nature walks, and engage with the local Samburu community through cultural interactions. The area's remote location and minimal tourist traffic ensure a serene and intimate adventure, allowing for a deeper connection with the natural environment.

Conservation efforts within Buffalo Springs National Reserve focus on safeguarding its delicate ecosystems and protecting its diverse wildlife. These initiatives emphasize sustainable tourism practices and community engagement, ensuring that the needs of local communities are balanced with the conservation goals for the reserve.

In essence, Buffalo Springs National Reserve provides an authentic and immersive safari experience in a remote and captivating wilderness. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, it offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of Kenya’s northern frontier.

Park access

The primary entrance to Buffalo Springs National Reserve is through the main gate, which is located near the town of Isiolo. This gate provides access to the reserve's headquarters, where visitors can pay entrance fees, obtain permits, and receive information about the park.

Park gates

Buffalo Spring Gate and Isiolo Gate

Park attractions

The reserve is characterized by breathtaking scenery, including acacia-dotted plains, rugged hills, and the Ewaso Nyiro River flowing through the landscape. The river serves as a vital water source for wildlife and provides stunning vistas for visitors.

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. Visitors have the opportunity to spot iconic African animals such as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The reserve is also known for its population of Somali ostriches and gerenuks, which are unique to this region.

The reserve boasts a diverse birdlife, with over 350 bird species recorded. Birdwatchers can spot a range of avian species, including raptors, waterbirds, and colorful smaller birds. The presence of the Ewaso Nyiro River adds to the diversity, attracting water-dependent bird species.

Buffalo Springs offers opportunities for cultural interactions with the local communities, particularly the Samburu people. Visitors can learn about their traditional way of life, including their customs, ceremonies, and crafts.

The Ewaso Nyiro River provides opportunities for various activities, including riverbank picnics, nature walks along its banks, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy guided boat safaris or canoeing excursions along the river, offering a unique perspective on the reserve's wildlife and landscapes.

Some lodges and camps within the reserve offer night game drives, providing a chance to encounter nocturnal wildlife species such as leopards, hyenas, and lesser-known small mammals.

Park wildlife

They include;Grant's zebra and the endangered Grévy's zebra. Other species of mammal include reticulated giraffe, the African bush elephant, oryx, gerenuk, African buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena. Over 365 species of bird have been recorded in the reserve.