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Samburu

Rugged northern Kenya and wildlife you won’t see further south.

Location

Northern Kenya, about 6 hours from Nairobi or a short flight

Best time

June to October and December to March

Known for

The 'Samburu Special Five'

Ideal stay

2 to 3 nights

About Samburu

Discover Samburu

Samburu National Reserve is a dramatic, arid landscape of red earth, doum palms and rocky hills along the Ewaso Ng’iro river. It feels wilder and more remote than the southern parks, with far fewer vehicles.

Samburu is home to species adapted to dry country that you won’t find in the Mara: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx and the long-necked gerenuk. Elephants, lions and leopards gather along the river, especially in the dry season.

Samburu highlight photo
Highlights

Why visit Samburu

Samburu Special Five

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

Ewaso Ng'iro river

A lifeline that draws elephants and big cats.

Samburu culture

Meet the Samburu people, close cousins of the Maasai.

Fewer crowds

A quieter safari with a real sense of wilderness.

Experiences

Things to do

Seasons

When to visit

June to October

Dry season. Wildlife concentrates along the river.

December to March

Hot and dry with excellent game viewing.

April to May and November

Rains bring green landscapes and fewer visitors.

2 packages

Safari packages that include Samburu

Ready-made itineraries you can book as they are or tailor to your dates and budget.

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Ready to explore Samburu?

Tell us when you’d like to travel and what you’d love to see. A safari planner will reply within 24 hours with a tailored itinerary and a clear, all-inclusive quote.