
Samburu offers a safari experience that is dramatically different from the southern parks. Located in Kenya's arid north, its rugged, semi-desert landscape is nourished by the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River. This is the realm of the 'Special 5' – rare northern species that have adapted to this harsh, beautiful environment, and the proud, colorfully-adorned Samburu people.
Best time to go
June to October & December to March
Location
North-central Kenya
Size
165 km² (64 mi²)
Good for
Samburu 'Special 5', Rare Wildlife, Cultural Encounters
Wildlife
Home to the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich.
Culture
The ancestral lands of the Samburu people, close relatives of the Maasai.
About Samburu
The Samburu region is a place of breathtaking and magical beauty. The landscape is a dramatic mix of arid plains, rugged mountains, and the palm-fringed Ewaso Ng'iro River, which acts as a magnet for wildlife. The reserve lies on the lands of the Samburu people, pastoralists who are known for their many-colored necklaces, earrings and headresses.
A safari in Samburu is a journey into a less-visited part of Kenya, offering a sense of authentic wilderness and exclusivity. The game viewing is centered along the river, and the unique species found here make it a must-visit for seasoned safari-goers and first-timers looking for something different.
Wildlife in Samburu
Activities in Samburu
Track the Samburu Special 5 and other unique wildlife along the Ewaso Ng'iro river.
Visit a local Samburu village to learn about their semi-nomadic lifestyle and colorful culture.
Experience the landscape from a different perspective on a guided camel ride.
Discover over 450 bird species, including many dry-country specialists.
Samburu Accommodation

Elephant Bedroom Camp
An intimate tented camp on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro, with elephants often wandering through.

Saruni Samburu
A design-forward lodge with panoramic views over the Kalama Conservancy and Mount Kenya.

Sasaab Lodge
A stunningly beautiful and luxurious lodge that blends Moroccan and Swahili style.
Sample Itineraries Featuring Samburu
Map of Samburu

Let's Start Planning Your Samburu Safari
An African safari is a bucket list trip. We're here to help you plan it to perfection.
Get a Custom Quote