Photo: Samburu, Kenya
Samburu National Reserve, on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro river, is a rugged, semi-arid landscape home to species found nowhere else in Kenya's south.
Here you can see the 'Samburu Special Five' — Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx — alongside elephant, lion and leopard. The Samburu people, close cultural cousins of the Maasai, give the region a strong living-culture dimension.
Why visit Samburu
The Special Five
Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, oryx and Somali ostrich.
River-fed wildlife
Game gathers along the Ewaso Ng’iro.
Fewer crowds
Wild, remote and uncrowded.
Living Samburu culture
Visit communities across the region.
Getting there
Fly from Nairobi to a Samburu airstrip in about 1–1.5 hours, or drive roughly 5–6 hours north via Nanyuki.
Best time to visit
Jun – OctDry, wildlife concentrates at the river
Dec – MarDry and hot, excellent viewing
Apr – May & NovRains, greener and quieter
Local tips
- It is hotter than the highlands — stay hydrated
- Respect community protocols on village visits
- Combine with Laikipia for a longer northern circuit
Frequently asked
What makes Samburu different?
Arid-country species you won’t see in the southern parks.
Is it very remote?
Yes, which means wilder scenery and far fewer vehicles.
How do I get there?
A short flight from Nairobi, or a scenic drive via Nanyuki.
Can I meet the Samburu?
Many camps arrange respectful, community-led visits.
Plan your Samburu trip
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