Samburu National Reserve is situated on the northern safari circuit of Kenya alongside Shaba and Buffalo Springs. This circuit is less visited due to its remote location in the north of Laikipia.

However, visitors are rewarded by untouched wilderness, great wildlife densities and a safari experience away from some of Kenya’s busier parks.

Striking volcanic mountains backdrop the park, and scattered across Samburu’s semi-arid plains between the red dust and shrubbery are large granite rocky outcrops, tall acacias and deep craters.

Meandering through the heart of the park is the Ewaso Nyiro River. A green oasis of large doum palms and lush vegetation line the banks, breaking from the otherwise arid ecosystem and is a vital haven for wildlife.

Scenery

Samburu protects an area of semi-arid savannah extending from the lovely Ewaso Nyero River. The reserve is made up of riverine forest along the water and dry acacia scrub peppered with termite mounds. Koitogor Hill marks the middle of the reserve.

Weather & Climate

When it comes to temperature, hot is the best way to describe Samburu. That said, the average temperature more than halves at night – rug up if you’re heading out on safari when the sun isn’t high in the sky. The Dry season (June to September) lives up to its name, with almost no rain. Similarly, the Wet season (October to May) gives the landscape a regular wash.

Best Time to Visit

Dust hangs in the air in the Dry season (June to September), giving the landscape a hazy look. But this is definitely the best time to check out the local wildlife due to decent road conditions and little vegetation to obscure your view. An exception is the birdlife, which is at its most vibrant and spectacular in the wetter months.