Samburu National Park

Overview

Samburu National Reserve, located in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, is a hidden gem that offers a truly unique and exclusive safari experience. This wildlife haven is renowned for its striking landscape, where acacia trees, rugged mountains, and the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River create a dramatic backdrop for one of Africa's most diverse and abundant ecosystems. Part of a larger wildlife corridor that includes Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba National Reserve, Samburu is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The reserve is especially famous for its "Samburu Special Five," a group of species that are uniquely adapted to the arid environment. This includes the rare Grevy's zebra, the beautifully patterned reticulated giraffe, the striking Beisa oryx, the unusual Somali ostrich, and the graceful gerenuk, known for its ability to stand on its hind legs to browse on high branches. In addition to these unique species, Samburu is home to the iconic Big Cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—as well as large herds of elephants and various antelope species, making it a wildlife-rich paradise.

Visitors to Samburu National Reserve can immerse themselves in the wild through exhilarating game drives, guided nature walks, and enriching cultural experiences with the local Samburu people. These interactions offer insights into the traditional way of life and the deep connection between the Samburu community and their land.

The reserve’s remote location and lower visitor numbers provide a more intimate and tranquil safari experience compared to some of Kenya’s busier parks. This makes Samburu a favorite destination for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography and close encounters with some of Africa’s most fascinating species.

When planning your trip to Samburu, be sure to pack for the warm weather and bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife sightings. Whether you’re watching elephants cross the river at sunrise or spotting a leopard lounging in an acacia tree, Samburu National Reserve promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Kenya’s most beautiful and unspoiled wilderness areas.

Park access

Buffalo Springs Gate and Archer's Gate.

Park gates

Buffalo Springs Gate and Archer's Gate.

Park attractions

unique landscape, characterized by acacia trees, rugged mountains, and the Ewaso Ng'iro River that flows through it.
Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the gerenuk.

Park wildlife

Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the gerenuk. Of course, you can also find other iconic African animals such as elephants, lions, leopards, and various species of antelope.