Founded in 1962 and named after the semi-nomadic Samburu tribe, this northern Kenya reserve offers a unique immersion into a rich cultural history and exceptional biodiversity. Attracting visitors from around the world, Samburu is renowned for its preserved environment and unique wildlife encounters.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Samburu experiences varied climates throughout the year, each offering unique experiences:

  • Dry Season (July to October): Ideal for wildlife viewing with sunny days and pleasant temperatures, perfect for 4×4 and minibus safaris and walking excursions.

  • Short Rains (November to December): Showers refresh the air and green the landscapes, providing photogenic conditions and lower tourist numbers.

  • Long Rains (March to May): Despite heavy rains, this period is excellent for observing newborn animals and migratory birds.

  • Dry Season (December to March): Hot days make for easy wildlife observation around water points, though temperatures can be high.

Wildlife and Flora of Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve, located in northern Kenya, is a biodiversity wonder, hosting a rich variety of fauna and flora, including threatened species.

Fauna of Samburu

  • The “Special Five” of Samburu:

    • Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata): Distinguished by its net-like pattern, emblematic of the Samburu region.

    • Grevy’s Zebra (Equus grevyi): The largest and rarest zebra, identifiable by its fine stripes and large ears, categorized as Endangered (EN) by the IUCN.

    • Beisa Oryx (Oryx beisa): A large antelope with long, straight horns, commonly seen in Samburu’s arid zones.

    • Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri): Known as the giraffe gazelle, stands on hind legs to reach high leaves.

    • Somali Ostrich (Struthio molybdophanes): Smaller than the common ostrich, with blue legs and a slimmer neck.

  • Predators: Lions (Panthera leo) are often seen near the Ewaso Ng’iro River hunting in groups. Leopards (Panthera pardus) are harder to spot, often in trees or rocky areas, while cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) are frequently observed in open plains, hunting mainly during the day.

  • Other Mammals: Elephants (Loxodonta africana) are numerous and river-dependent for survival; African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) move in herds near water; hippos (Hippopotamus amphibius) and crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) are permanent residents of the Ewaso Ng’iro River.

  • Birds: With over 450 bird species, Samburu is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include various kingfishers, like the pygmy kingfisher (Ispidina picta), colorful bee-eaters like the red-throated bee-eater (Merops bulocki), several eagle species including the martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus), and vultures like Rüppell’s vulture (Gyps rueppelli) and the Eurasian griffon (Gyps fulvus). The Somali ostrich, already mentioned among the “Special Five,” is also present.

Flora of Samburu

  • Dominant Vegetation: Typical of semi-arid zones, including various acacias like Vachellia tortilis, providing shade and food, resinous Commiphora shrubs that withstand arid conditions, and Boscia coriacea, known as “wild apple,” drought-resistant and a food source for animals.

  • Riverbank Plants: Along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, vegetation is greener with doum palms (Hyphaene thebaica) offering shade and fruit, and tamarind trees (Tamarindus indica), whose fruits are enjoyed by various species.

  • Ecosystems and Habitats: Samburu includes savannah and grasslands, home to many herbivores and predators, rocky hills and escarpments for leopards and rock hyraxes (Procavia capensis), and riverbanks vital for aquatic species and large mammals during the dry season.

Threatened Species

Samburu shelters several threatened species, including:

  • Grevy’s Zebra (EN)

  • Somali Ostrich (VU)

  • Cheetah (VU)

  • Rüppell’s Vulture (EN)

  • African Elephant (VU)

Conservation efforts here focus on anti-poaching, managing human-wildlife conflict, and community awareness.

Activities and Experiences in Samburu

Activities vary to enrich your experience, including:

  • Meeting the Samburu Community: To learn about their traditional lifestyle and unique cultural practices.

Accommodation in Samburu National Reserve

Samburu offers a range of accommodations for different tastes and budgets:

  • Luxury Lodges:

    • Samburu Intrepids Lodge: Luxurious tents with private bathrooms, pools, and outdoor dining.

    • Sasaab Lodge: Elegant suites with private pools, guided safaris, and cultural activities.

    • Larsens Camp: Environmentally respectful with luxury tents, gourmet dining, and customized safaris.

  • Tented Camps:

    • Elephant Bedroom Camp: Intimate with luxury tents by the river, direct wildlife views.

    • Samburu Riverside Camp: Comfortable with spacious tents, ideal for wildlife observation.

    • Ashnil Samburu Camp: Elegant tents with river views.

  • Eco-Camps:

    • Saruni Samburu: Luxury eco-camp with panoramic views, guided safaris, and conservation initiatives.

    • Larsens Camp: Also noted for its eco-friendly approach.

    • Kitich Camp: In the Mathews Forest, offering comfortable tents for trekking and walking safaris.

  • Camping:

    • Public Campsites: Equipped with basic amenities for self-sufficient travelers.

    • Private Campsites: Offered by some lodges for a more exclusive experience.

Conservation and Sustainability

Engaged in preserving its unique ecosystem, Samburu combats poaching and promotes sustainable tourism. Visitors can contribute to conservation by supporting these initiatives and learning more about the environmental challenges the reserve faces.