Samburu National Reserve

Quick Facts

  • Country: Kenya
  • Size: 165 km² (16,500 hectares)
  • Established: 1985
  • Counties: Samburu
  • Wildlife: Home to the "Samburu Special Five" (Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and beisa oryx).
  • Malaria Zone: Low–moderate risk.
  • GPS Coordinates: ~0°37′N 37°35′E
  • Fence Status: Unfenced; borders Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserves.
  • Habitat: Arid semi-desert, riverine forest with doum palms along the Ewaso Ng'iro River.
  • Best Time to Visit: June–September and January–March when wildlife gathers at the river.

Overview

Samburu offers a rugged, arid beauty that contrasts sharply with the southern parks. It is the heart of Kenya’s "Northern Frontier." Because it is less crowded than the Mara, it provides a more intimate, wild experience. The lifeblood of the reserve is the Ewaso Ng'iro River, which attracts wildlife from across the dry landscape.

Wildlife Highlights

  • The Special Five: Rare species found north of the equator that are adapted to arid environments.
  • Leopards: Like Sabi Sand, Samburu is excellent for leopard sightings, particularly along the river.
  • Wild Dogs: The northern regions are a stronghold for these endangered predators.

Key Takeaway

Samburu is for the seasoned safari-goer seeking rare species and a "raw" African atmosphere. It is culturally rich and visually distinct due to its red sands and doum palms.