SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE

Samburu National Reserve is one of the famous travel destinations that you must not miss touring on your Kenya safari. This tourist attraction is located in northern Kenya near the banks of the famous Ewaso Ngiro River.

It boasts a good location at the southeastern corner of Samburu District in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya. This location makes it one of the most commonly visited game reserves when it comes to Kenya safaris.

It’s famous for its connection to the award winning movie and the best selling book “Born Free,” which tells the story of Elsa the lioness, raised by conservationists George and Joy Adamson.

This vast expanse of untouched wilderness spans an area of 165 square kilometers, bordering the Ngiro River to the south, separating it from the Buffalo Springs National Reserve, which is also home to diverse wildlife. The reserve is 350 km from Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

The presence of the Ngiro River, which flows through the palm groves, creates a favorable condition for diverse wildlife. Other desert creatures thrive because of the abundant water supply provided by the river.

The flowing river also favors the continued flourishing of the fringing riverine forest, which also acts as a home to different wildlife species in the game reserve.

History Of the Samburu National Reserve  

Samburu National Reserve is a unique protected area that was initially part of the large pastoral zone in Samburu County.

The land acted as a pastoral zone and a traditional homeland to the Samburu people, who are nomadic pastoralists and are closely related to the Maasai.

Samburu gained the status of a game reserve in 1985 as a result of endless efforts by various stakeholders, such as the Kenya Wildlife Service, the locals in the Samburu land, and many others.

The stakeholders recognized a need to preserve the diverse wildlife and environment for sustainable development.

Today, despite being remote, Samburu Game Reserve is one of the best tourist destinations, offering great wildlife experiences to wildlife enthusiasts.

Management of Samburu National Reserve

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) manages Samburu National Reserve, also known as Samburu National Park. The Kenya Wildlife Service is a government agency that is responsible for conserving and managing Kenya’s wildlife in the many protected areas.

Given the fact that the Samburu Game Reserve was a poaching hotspot, the Kenya Wildlife Service has enacted anti-poaching laws to protect wildlife in the game reserve.

There is increased range patrol to deter poachers, and there is the use of sniffer dogs that are trained to locate criminals and any illegal act in the wilderness.

The Geographical Location of The Samburu National Reserve 

Samburu National Reserve, in Samburu County, is situated north of the equator at an altitude ranging from 800 to 1230 meters above sea level.

It is part of the large ecosystem that includes the Shaba National Reserve and the Buffalo Springs. The two places cover an area of 239 sq km and 131 sq km, respectively.

The Ewaso Nyiro River marks the southern border, and it acts as a permanent source of water for the wildlife in the reserve.

Samburu Game Reserve is a semi desert environment characterized by dry conditions, rugged terrain, and sparse vegetation.

Kenya’s two rainy seasons loosely apply to Samburu Game Reserve. The expected amount of rainfall in the reserve annually is approximately 354 mm, and temperatures range from 16 °C to 32 °C.

Tourist Attractions in Samburu Game Reserve

There are many tourist attractions in the Samburu Game Reserve, which makes it a prime destination that everyone should consider when on a Kenya wildlife safari

1. Wild Animals

The reserve has a rich and diverse collection of wildlife. It has over 75 mammal species in Samburu. Among the most common mammals easily spotted on a Kenya wildlife safari is the the Samburu Special Five” animals: Grevy zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and the Beisa oryx.

Some of these rare species in this game reserve are not found in the typically visited reserves like the Masai Mara national Reserve and parks like Amboseli National Park.

Other animals in the Samburu Laikipia ecosystem include the three big cats, like the lions leopards, and cheetahs. Large numbers of elephants, about 900 individuals, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes like Grant gazelles, dik diks, impalas, and waterbucks can also be seen.

Kamunyak, an important attraction, is well known for the famous Lioness that adopted a baby Oryx, which is a resident in the reserve. The wild dog sightings are also a common attraction to his unique protected area. This makes Samburu one of the best travel destinations for a Kenya tour.

2. Bird Species

Birdlife is abundant in Samburu NR. This makes the Samburu one of the must-visit travel destinations when on a birding tour in Kenya, as there are over 450 bird species. These include Great Egret, White-headed Vulture, Martial Eagle, African Black Duck, White-faced Whistling-Duck, Knob-billed Duck, Blue-billed Teal, Somali ostrich, Eurasian Wigeon, Yellow-billed Duck, Cape Teal, Red-billed Duck, Northern Pintail, Garganey, vulturine guineafowl, Egyptian Goose, Elgon Francolin, Scaly Spurfowl, and Yellow-billed Oxpecker, among other bird species.

3. Plant Species

The reserve features a range of plant species. The common ones include common lantana, Mexican marigold, rattlesnake plant, arid scrubland, thorny olive, immense rocky outcrops, guava trees, Downy oak, floss silk tree, orange cestrum, English oak, sea hibiscus, cockspur coral tree, and nettle tree.

4. Doum Palm Groves.

There are unique tree species in the Samburu NR. They are also commonly found in semi arid areas of Africa and the Middle East. These trees are notable for their branching structure.

5. Ewaso Ngiro River

This epic river originates from the western slopes of Mount Kenya. It flows to the north, east, and then finally southeast, disappearing into the Lorian swamp. It is the main source of water for the wildlife in the Samburu NR. However, the river has brown water.

The river also creates a lush oasis for crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife in the reserve.

6. Mountains

The two outstanding mountains in Samburu NR are Mount Koitogor and Mount Ololokwe.

7. Rocky Outcrops and Kopjes

These are small, isolated hills amidst the plains of Samburu NR. These, together with the Ewaso Ngiro river, create a favorable environment for the stay of wildlife. The existence of the rocky outcrops and the Kopjes is due to the rockier conditions in the area.

8. Samburu People

Samburu Game Reserve offers insight into the Samburu culture, particularly their vibrant traditional finery and customs. Visitors have an opportunity to see cultural performances like the traditional dances and have interactions with the Samburu local people.

Things To Do in Samburu National Reserve 

There are many activities that visitors on a Kenya safari can engage in. These include

Game Drives in Samburu NR

Samburu Game Reserve is a fantastic place to find wildlife in different species. For this reason, game drives are organized for visitors to see most of these animals.

Day game drives are organized for visitors on a Kenya wildlife safari in Samburu NR, for them to see animals as they follow fresh grazing land.

Among the commonly spotted are reticulated giraffes, elephants, Cape buffalo, hippos, grant gazelles, olive baboons, various antelopes, wild dogs, and large predators like lions, gerenuk and the beisa oryx, among others.

The reserve also has packs of Wild Dogs, though sightings are infrequent because these dogs have a rather large distribution area, within which they are constantly moving.

Night drives offer an opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to spot nocturnal animals. Together with knowledgeable Samburu guides, visitors traverse the wilderness at night with the aid of spotlights.

During this night game drive, visitors can often spot animals such as bat-eared foxes, hyenas, leopards, and others. To have an opportunity to do night safari drives, visitors must have a permit.

Bird Watching in Samburu NR

Birdlife is abundant with over 450 avian species. This makes Samburu a birder’s paradise where they can go for their bird watching experience when on a Kenya birding safari/Kenya safari.

Birds to see include raptors, waterfowl, hornbills, weavers, African Black Duck, Somali ostrich, vulturine guinea fowl, White-faced Whistling-Duck, Knob-billed Duck, Blue-billed Teal, Eurasian Wigeon, taita falcon, and Yellow-billed Duck.

Samburu Cultural Tours 

Cultural visits in Samburu provide an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Samburu’s culture. The Samburu subcounty is one of the few places for visits on their Kenya cultural safaris.

Visitors have the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about the traditional dance and music of the Samburu people. The cultural experiences of a Samburu village give a deeper understanding of the Kenyan culture and the history of the Samburu region.

Booking a Samburu safari will allow you to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Samburu local people. It also gives a deeper understanding of the Kenyan culture.

Nature Walks in Samburu NR

Guided nature walks in Samburu NR offer an opportunity to visitors to traverse the reserve. Engaging in the guided nature walk gives a great insight into the reserve ecology, geology, and biodiversity, allowing visitors to connect with nature.

During a nature walk, visitors can participate in photography to capture memorable moments, the extraordinary landscape, the flat greenness, and more from their Kenyan safari.

Camel Trekking in Samburu 

A Camel trek is among the interesting things to do on a Kenya wildlife safari. Camel trekking safaris offer an opportunity for visitors to explore the Samburu Game Reserve on a camel.

When the trading Arabians arrived in the Samburu region, they introduced camels that are used for camel trekking safaris in Samburu.

It is a great time for spotting numerous wildlife, including zebra, giraffe, ostrich, and many more, from the comfort of a camel’s back.  Samburu tribesmen help in conducting these camel trekking safaris.

Discover the enchantment of a romantic, nature-filled adventure with camel trekking Safaris, offered by a select few operators within the vast Samburu ecosystem.

Visiting Reteti Elephant Sanctuary 

The visit to the sanctuary is aimed at learning about their work in rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured elephants.

Other activities include Fly camping, Bush meals and sundowners, and stargazing.

Where to stay in Samburu 

Although the reserve is a true definition of a wilderness, there are good accommodation options for an overnight on a wildlife safari in Samburu NR. These accommodation options range from budget options to mid-range and luxury tented camps, lodges, and hotels.

Budget Camps Near Samburu Game Reserve 

1. Umoja Campsite and Eco-Lodge

It is located near the Near Archer’s Gate, along the Ewaso Nyiro River, and it is just a short distance to Samburu Reserve, which is just a 5-minute drive.

Prices range from $25 to $50 per night (per person).

2. Lion King Bush Camp

It is located along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. It is just adjacent to the reserve boundary.  Its camp has stunning views of the river, making it easy to spot some animals like the crocodiles in the water and along the riverbanks.

Prices for accommodation at the camp range from $175 per night per person.

3. Samburu Riverside Tented Camp

This tented camp is located relatively close to Archer’s Post, along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It is just a 10-minute drive to the Samburu Reserve.

Prices for accommodations range from $30 to $55 per night per person.

 Mid-Range Lodges and Camps 

Mid-range lodges and camps in Samburu provide comfortable accommodations at a relatively fair price compared to the luxury lodges and camps.  These include

Ashnil Samburu Camp

It is located along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River, close to the heart of the Samburu Game Reserve. This camp has over 30 tents with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas towards the river.

Some of the amenities include a Swimming pool and a restaurant that serves local and international dishes. Safari drives and guided nature tours are available.

Prices range from $301 to $636.

 Luxury Lodges in Samburu 

The luxury lodges offer gourmet dining and spacious rooms. Most of these luxury lodges organize private safari drives and other activities, making them the best option for travelers interested in a premium safari experience. these include

Samburu Sopa Lodge

Samburu Sopa Lodge is situated on the high ground towards Samburu, offering sweeping views of the plains.

The different rooms have spacious cottages with private verandas. This makes it easy for visitors to spot the different wildlife and the immediate surroundings.

Prices range from $180 to $200.

Elephant Bedroom Camp                               

The elephant bedroom camp is located along the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro River. The doum palms and native vegetation surround the camp, giving it an exceptional beauty.

Elephant Bedroom Camp has about eleven spacious tents, and each tent features its own private plunge pool and spacious deck. Rooms are adorned with African-inspired decor.  Expect excellent personalized service.

Prices range from $445 to $655.

Other luxury camps include Saruni Samburu, Sasaab Camp, Larsen’s Tented Camp, etc.

Other Costs and Charges at Samburu Game Reserve 

There are different charges at Samburu Game Reserve; these charges are for park entrance and activities, and they vary depending on the activity and the time one spends at the game reserve.

Samburu Park Entrance Fees

Category	Non-Resident (USD)	EAC Resident (KES)	Kenyan Citizen (KES)
Adults	70	1000	500
Children	40	500	250

 

Tourist Activities Fees

• Cultural Visit: $20 per person.
• Camel trekking safari between $20 and $40
• Safari drives cost around $75.  However, prices vary depending on the type of safari vehicle used and the length of the drive.

Rules And Regulations at Samburu Game Reserve

1. Visitors should stay in vehicles at all times, except in the only gazetted walking areas and picnic areas.
2. Respect the privacy of the wildlife because this is their habitat.
3. Visitors must not feed reserve animals, as it may alter their diet and feeding time.
4. Do not crowd the animals or make unnecessary movements.”
5. Keep below the maximum speed of 40 kph/25 mph.
6. The game reserve hours must be followed, i.e., between 6:00 AM and 6:30 PM.
7. Self-driving visitors must follow designated safari routes.
8. Respect for Kenya’s cultural heritage. Visitors are not allowed to take photos of the locals without asking for permission.
9. Be quiet or speak in a low tone because animals do not want noise.

Best Time to Visit Samburu National Reserve 

The best time to visit Samburu on a Kenya wildlife safari is during the two dry seasons. It is from June to October and from December to February. The dry season is considered the best time for wildlife viewing because animals typically gather around the Ewaso Ng’iro River and other waterholes.

However, birders may prefer the wet season, which runs from March to May and October to mid-December.

Conservation Efforts Towards Samburu National Reserve 

• Community-managed conservancies like Kalama conservancy, Namunyak, and Westgate. These conservancies empower local communities to take action in protecting wildlife, managing tourism, and benefiting from the resources provided by the conservancies.
• The Grev’s Zebra Trust, an organization in the reserve, employs Samburu women as local scouts and ambassadors to monitor the zebra populations and educate the community, which has helped to protect Africa’s zebras from extinction.
• Lion conservation projects have also been introduced. Here, Samburu warriors, also known as Warrior watchmen, are trained to advocate for wildlife and protect lions in the Samburu community.

Packing List for Samburu National Reserve

• Guidebook and map
• Smartphone, portable charger, and Power bank
• Travel documents, e.g., passport, visa, vaccination certificates, etc.
• First-aid kit
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, among others)
• Personal medication as prescribed by the doctor
• Camera with telephoto lens and binoculars.
• Kenyan local currency, US dollar, and ATM card
• Guidebook and map
• Long trousers, long-sleeved shirt, Waterproof jacket, long socks, and hiking shoes.

How to Get to Samburu National Reserve 

Samburu Game Reserve is located about 310 km from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. It can be accessed both by air and by road.

By Air

Visitors from overseas can take a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, several airlines fly to different airstrips in Samburu.

Flights are considered the most convenient because they save one from traffic jams.

Two airlines can be used, that is, Air Kenya and Safarilink, and these operate at the different airstrips in Samburu. These airstrips include Kalama Airstrip and Samburu Oryx Airstrip.

A flight from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport takes around 1.5 hours to reach any of the airstrips. This makes flights a better option to reach the Samburu game reserve.

Traveling By Road

From the airport, visitors can be picked up by a tour operator representative and travel by road to any of the selected safari camps or lodges for breakfast and lodging.

The distance from Nairobi to Samburu ranges from 310 km to 325 km, depending on the gate you choose to use.

Traveling from Nairobi to Samburu via Archer’s Gate takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.

The route to use: Head out of Nairobi on the Thika superhighway, and stay on the Nyeri Karatina highway. Turn right at Marwa Town, 12 km from Karatina. Drive North from Nanyuki via Timau to Isiolo. Use the Eastern Bypass from JKIA to connect to the Thika Superhighway at Ruiru Road Junction. Then drive a small distance off the highway to Archer’s Gate.

Samburu National Reserve (FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Samburu National Game Reserve Safe for Tourists?

Samburu is considered safe to visit when on a Kenya safari. The reserve is professionally managed, and adequate security has been put in place to ensure that no rebels or poachers hide in the wilderness.

Where is Samburu National Reserve?   

Samburu National Reserve is in the semi arid region of Northern Kenya, along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in Kenya. It covers about 165 km and borders Buffalo Springs National Reserve and Shaba Game Reserve.

How Many Days Do You Need in Samburu? 

A minimum of 3 days and two nights is considered enough time for one to explore the entire game reserve to see its wildlife and the beautiful scenery.

What Activities Can I Expect to Do? 

There are various activities to do, which include safari Drives, Camel Trekking Safaris, picnics, Samburu Village Tours, and Nature tours, among others.

Don’t miss out on booking your Kenya wildlife safari to Samburu National Reserve, which is one of the many safaris considered interesting. Get ready to explore diverse wildlife and participate in thrilling activities for an unforgettable safari adventure.