Samburu National Reserve

Kenya, Africa

Samburu National Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its unique landscapes and vibrant biodiversity. Home to the 'Samburu Special Five'—the gerenuk, Reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, and the beisa oryx—this reserve offers unparalleled safari experiences. The Ewaso Ng'iro River meanders through, attracting diverse wildlife, while cultural interactions with the Samburu people provide enriching insights into Kenya's indigenous communities. Perfect for adventure and connection with nature, Samburu is an unmissable gem for wildlife enthusiasts.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Nanyuki

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Samburu National Reserve

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Game drives

Explore wildlife on thrilling open-air safaris.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ewaso Nyiro River

Spot elephants and hippos by the riverbank.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cultural visits to Samburu villages

Engage with the vibrant Samburu community and traditions.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Bird watching

Discover diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Nature walks

Guided walks through stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

Learn about elephant conservation efforts in the region.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Night game drives

Experience the thrill of nocturnal wildlife viewing.

Booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Shaba National Reserve

Explore a lesser-known reserve rich in wildlife.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Kenyan Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali Nyama Choma Na Kachumbari

Maize porridge with grilled meat and salsa (National dish)

Pilau

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Githeri

VE

Mixed beans and maize stew, hearty and nutritious

Sukuma Wiki

VE

Sautéed collard greens, often served as a side

Mutura

Grilled sausage made from meat and spices

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)