Samburu District, Rift Valley Province, Northern Kenya

Samburu National Reserve

Arid Beauty and Rare Species

Overview

Samburu is a rugged, semi-arid paradise on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It’s famous for hosting the “Samburu Special Five” – species rarely found elsewhere in Kenya – and for its stunning landscapes of doum palms and acacia trees against distant mountains.

Quick Facts

Location Samburu District

Known For Samburu Special Five

Best Time June to October and
December to March. The dry season forces wildlife to the river, making sightings exceptional.

Wildlife Highlights

Wildlife & Unique Features

Special Five

Reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich.

Predators

Healthy populations of lion, leopard and cheetah, plus rare wild dogs.

Crocodiles

Huge Nile crocodiles bask along the Ewaso Ng'iro river.

Somali Ostrich

Distinctive blue-legged ostrich species

Safari Activities

Game Drives

Morning and afternoon drives along the river and surrounding plain

Camel Treks

Explore the bush as the locals do, on the back of a camel.

Cultural Visits

Spend time with the proud Samburu people, cousins of the Maasai.

Bush Walks

Guided walks with armed Samburu rangers in conservancy areas.

When to Visit

Best Time for Amboseli

Jun – Oct

Wildlife concentrates along the river — outstanding sightings

Nov – Dec

Lush scenery and fewer vehicles.

Jan – Feb

Hot but excellent for predator action and birdlife.

Photo Gallery

A taste of Samburu

Ready to Explore Samburu?

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Amboseli

Wild northern Kenya, a land of red earth, doum palms, and the famous ‘Samburu Special Five.’