Samburu National Reserve
National Park

Samburu National Reserve

Arid beauty and unique wildlife in Kenya's rugged north.

Kenya
Location
165 km²
Geographic Size

About Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve, nestled in the semi-arid region of northern Kenya, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscape of rugged hills, undulating plains, and the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River. This reserve is particularly noted for its unique wildlife, including species rarely found elsewhere in Kenya, such as the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's ...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

July - September
Best time to go
Optimal wildlife viewing opportunities in a dramatic landscape with comfortable weather conditions.
July - September
December - February
High Season
Dry conditions enhance wildlife viewing as animals congregate around the Ewaso Ng'iro River.
April - June
Low Season
The rainy season can make access challenging but rewards visitors with lush scenery and active wildlife.
October - November
March - March
Shoulder Season
Short rains bring fresh growth, making these months ideal for bird watching and enjoying the reserve's natural beauty.

What to do

Wildlife

Samburu National Reserve's arid environment supports a unique array of wildlife, making it a standout destination for those interested in seeing species not commonly found in the more southern parks.

Lion

Lion

Common
Elephant

Elephant

Common
Black Rhino

Black Rhino

Not Present
Cheetah

Cheetah

Occasional
Hippo

Hippo

Occasional
Hyena

Hyena

Common
Leopard

Leopard

Occasional
Giraffe

Giraffe

Common
Zebra

Zebra

Common
Gazelle

Gazelle

Common
Buffalo

Buffalo

Common
Wildebeest

Wildebeest

Common

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Samburu National Reserve is generally safe for visitors, with standard safari precautions advised. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, along with malaria prophylaxis, are recommended for travelers to Kenya.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
The reserve is located in a remote part of Kenya, offering a more secluded safari experience. It can be reached by road or air, with scheduled flights landing at the reserve's airstrip for those seeking a quicker route.
Getting Around
Inside the reserve, travel is predominantly by 4x4 vehicles on game drives. Walking safaris and cultural tours are also available, offering different perspectives of Samburu's landscape and heritage.
Visas
Following Kenya's recent visa policy update, most foreign visitors need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to arrival, facilitating easier access to Kenya's natural and cultural attractions.
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