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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

8 Best Things to Do in Samburu National Reserve

1. Game drives

Explore wildlife on thrilling open-air safaris.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

2. Visit the Ewaso Nyiro River

Spot elephants and hippos by the riverbank.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Cultural visits to Samburu villages

Engage with the vibrant Samburu community and traditions.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

4. Bird watching

Discover diverse bird species in their natural habitat.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Nature walks

Guided walks through stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

Learn about elephant conservation efforts in the region.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Night game drives

Experience the thrill of nocturnal wildlife viewing.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

2 hrs

8. Visit the Shaba National Reserve

Explore a lesser-known reserve rich in wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

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)