...

(0)

Book Now
+4 Show all photos

Overview About

Samburu National Park

Samburu National Reserve is a rugged, semi-arid wilderness in northern Kenya, fed by the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River. This remote and beautiful reserve is renowned for its unique wildlife and rich Samburu culture, offering a safari experience far from the crowds.

Home to the famous “Samburu Special Five” – species rarely found elsewhere in Kenya – the reserve is a haven for elephants, lions, leopards, and exceptional birdlife. Its dramatic scenery and authentic atmosphere make it a favourite among seasoned safari travellers.

Quick Facts About

Samburu National Park

Aspects
Description
Location
Samburu County, Kenya
Famous For
The Samburu Special Five
Size
165 km²
Wildlife
Grevy’s Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe & Big Cats
Activities
Game Drives, Cultural Visits, Bird Watching

Why Visit

Samburu National Park

The Samburu Special Five

See rare species found mainly in the north: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx.

The Ewaso Nyiro River

Wildlife gathers along this vital river, offering superb game viewing and scenery.

Big Cats & Elephants

Spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and large herds of elephants.

Authentic Samburu Culture

Meet the Samburu people and experience their vibrant traditions and way of life.

Remote & Uncrowded

Enjoy an exclusive safari in one of Kenya's wildest and least crowded regions.

Exceptional Birdlife

Over 450 bird species recorded across the reserve.

Top Things To Do

Samburu National Park

Game Drives

Search for the Special Five, big cats, and elephants across the reserve.

River Wildlife Viewing

Watch animals and crocodiles along the Ewaso Nyiro River.

Samburu Cultural Visits

Visit local villages to learn about Samburu traditions and crafts.

Bird Watching

Spot hundreds of bird species, including many dryland specialists.

Photography

Capture rare wildlife against dramatic semi-arid landscapes.

Sundowners

Enjoy drinks at sunset overlooking the river and plains.

Photo Gallery

Travel Tips

What To Pack

  • Neutral-colored clothing
  • Camera with zoom lens
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Light jacket for mornings
  • Plenty of water

Getting There

  • Road transfer from Nairobi (approx. 5–6 hours)
  • Domestic flights to Samburu airstrips

Currency

Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Language

English and Swahili

June – October

Dry Season

✔ Best Wildlife Viewing

✔ Animals Gather at the River

✔ Sparse Vegetation

✔ Great Photography

December – March

Warm Dry Period

✔ Good Game Viewing

✔ Active Birdlife

✔ Fewer Visitors

April – May & November

Green Season

✔ Lush Scenery

✔ Newborn Wildlife

✔ Budget-Friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx – species found mainly in northern Kenya.
Two to three days is ideal to enjoy the wildlife and culture of the reserve.
Yes. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are regularly seen in the reserve.
Yes. Village visits offer an authentic insight into the traditions of the Samburu people.

Top Rated Tours

Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
  • Nairobi, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire & Amboseli
  • 14 Days 13 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 6,500
Private Tour
Tanzania Private Safaris
  • Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti & Zanzibar
  • 8 Days 7 Nights
Tanzania
Book Now
From $ 7,600
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
  • Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
  • 10 Days 9 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 5,400
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
  • Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
  • 11 Days 10 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 5,685
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
  • Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Serengeti, Ndutu, Ngorongoro & Tarangire
  • 12 Days 11 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 5,870
Day Tour
Day Trip, Kenya Private Safaris
  • Nairobi
  • 1 Day
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 150
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
  • Samburu National Reserve
  • 3 Days 2 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 1,320
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy & Samburu National Reserve
  • 5 Days 4 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 2,560
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
  • Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha & Maasai Mara
  • 8 Days 7 Nights
Kenya
Book Now
From $ 1,250
Scroll to Top
Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.