Private conservancyCentral Kenya (Laikipia)
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Big Five, chimpanzees and the last northern white rhinos.
National reserve
Samburu National Reserve
Dry-country wildlife along the Ewaso Ng'iro River.
- Northern Kenya
- Best: Jan–Feb, Jun–Oct
Overview
- Managed by
- Samburu County Government
- River
- Ewaso Ng'iro
- Neighbours
- Buffalo Springs, Shaba
- Special Five
- Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, gerenuk
Samburu National Reserve lies in the semi-arid north on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River, which draws wildlife from the surrounding dry country.
It is known for northern species rarely seen in the south, often called the Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and gerenuk. Elephants, lions, leopards and cheetahs are also seen.
The reserve is run by Samburu County and borders Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves. Samburu communities live around it.
- The Special Five
Northern species found in few other parks.
- Ewaso Ng'iro River
Elephants and crocodiles along a river lined with doum palms.
- Samburu culture
Visit villages through your camp.
Things to do
- Game drives
Along the river and in Buffalo Springs.
- Cultural visits
Arranged through camps.
Wildlife and nature to look for
When to go
Best in the dry months, when wildlife gathers at the river.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Wetter
- May: Wetter
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Best
- Nov: Wetter
- Dec: Good
Costs
Samburu County sets the entry fees, which are not part of the KWS schedule and are not published online. Confirm the current rate with your operator or at the gate.
Getting there
- By roadFrom NairobiAbout 5–6 hours
North via Nanyuki and Isiolo to Archer's Post.
- By airFrom Nairobi (Wilson Airport)About 1 hour
Scheduled flights to Samburu's airstrips.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
Photos
Know before you go
- It is hot and dry; carry water and sun protection.
- Combine with Ol Pejeta or Mount Kenya on a northern circuit.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Samburu Special Five?
Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and gerenuk, northern species rarely seen in southern Kenya.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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Places to pair with Samburu National Reserve
Private conservancy
National park