A 3-day Samburu flying safari is the ultimate way to experience Kenya’s northern wilderness in unparalleled comfort, adventure, and style. Soar above Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and touch down in Samburu National Reserve, one of Africa’s most exclusive wildlife havens.
This carefully curated flying safari also includes Buffalo Springs and Shaba, ensuring you spend less time on the road and more time immersed in nature. From the moment your light aircraft glides over Mount Kenya’s snow-capped peaks to your first thrilling game drive across Samburu’s golden savannah, this safari is designed for those who crave intimate wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes, and seamless travel convenience.
With expert guides leading your adventure, you’ll track rare species like the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and long-necked gerenuk, all while staying in eco-conscious lodges that support local conservation efforts. Whether you’re after heart-pounding predator sightings, golden-hour photography, or a peaceful sundowner by the Ewaso Ng’iro River, this flying safari guarantees an unforgettable journey into Kenya’s wild heart.
Why Choose This Safari?
Imagine soaring above Kenya’s vast landscapes, touching down in one of Africa’s most breathtaking reserves, and diving straight into a wildlife-rich, conservation-driven safari. Samburu National Reserve, together with Buffalo Springs and Shaba, forms a spectacular ecosystem that boasts rare species, dramatic landscapes, and fewer crowds, ensuring an exclusive and immersive experience.
This 3-day luxury flying safari, with an optional 4th day, is designed for those who want to maximize game-viewing time while minimizing travel hassles. Perfect for photographers, wildlife lovers, and conservation-minded travelers, this safari supports local conservation initiatives and community-based tourism, ensuring that every trip contributes to the preservation of Samburu’s unique ecosystem.
Itinerary for 3-Day Samburu Flying Safari
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu – Aerial Views & First Safari Experience
Your journey begins with a scenic one-hour flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu. Flying over Mt. Kenya’s snow-capped peaks and Kenya’s rugged northern landscapes, the flight offers spectacular aerial views before landing at Buffalo Springs Airstrip. Upon arrival, your expert safari guide will be waiting with a custom 4×4 safari vehicle, ready to take you into the wild.
Morning:
- 6:45 AM: Check-in at Wilson Airport for your scheduled light aircraft flight to Samburu.
- 7:30 AM: Departure from Nairobi, enjoying aerial views of coffee farms, the Great Rift Valley, and Mount Kenya.
- 8:30 AM: Arrive at Buffalo Springs Airstrip, where your guide welcomes you with refreshing drinks before a short game drive en route to your lodge.
Afternoon:
- Check into your lodge or luxury tented camp overlooking the Ewaso Ng’iro River, where elephants and buffalo frequently gather.
- Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch with sweeping views of the Samburu wilderness.
- First Game Drive: Head out on an afternoon safari, searching for lions resting in the shade, herds of elephants dust-bathing, and the Samburu Special Five—the unique wildlife species only found in Northern Kenya.
- Sunset Safari: As the golden light bathes the landscape, spot leopards emerging from their rocky hideouts or cheetahs preparing for an evening hunt.
Evening:
- Return to your lodge for a starlit dinner and storytelling session, where you’ll learn about local conservation projects and Samburu culture.
🏕 Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Saruni Samburu (~$700–$1,200 per night)
- Mid-Range: Elephant Bedroom Camp (~$350–$600 per night)
- Budget: Samburu Riverside Tented Camp (~$150–$250 per night)
Day 2: Full-Day Safari – Exploring Samburu & Buffalo Springs
Today, immerse yourself in the beauty of Samburu and Buffalo Springs, home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife.
Morning:
- Sunrise game drive, the best time to spot big cats, African wild dogs, and elephants crossing the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
- Elephant tracking & predator spotting: Your guide will take you to prime wildlife locations, increasing your chances of seeing leopards, lions, and herds of Grevy’s zebras.
- Breakfast in the bush, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
Midday:
- Return to camp for lunch and a midday siesta or spa treatment at select luxury lodges.
- Visit a conservation center, such as Save the Elephants, where you’ll learn about ongoing efforts to protect Samburu’s wildlife.
Afternoon:
- Scenic drive into Buffalo Springs National Reserve, a lush, green area with natural springs that attract hippos, crocodiles, and large elephant herds.
- Golden-hour safari, capturing breathtaking shots of animals gathering at the riverbanks.
Evening:
- Return to your lodge for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, followed by a private candlelit dinner in the wild.
Day 3: Shaba National Reserve – A Dramatic Safari Finale
Shaba National Reserve—made famous by Joy Adamson’s Born Free—offers stunning volcanic landscapes, natural springs, and an even more secluded safari experience.
Morning:
- Sunrise departure for Shaba, crossing into this remote and dramatic wilderness.
- Game drive through lava fields and rolling hills, searching for leopards, cheetahs, and unique bird species.
- Stop at Joy’s Camp (if operational), where Joy Adamson lived and worked on her wildlife conservation projects.
- Visit the Ewaso Ng’iro River viewpoint, where hippos and crocodiles bask in the sun.
Midday & Afternoon:
- Lunch in the bush or at a luxury camp in Shaba, with a chance to cool off in a natural spring pool.
- Final game drive through Shaba’s dramatic rock formations before heading back to Buffalo Springs Airstrip.
Evening:
- 4:00 PM: Board your return flight to Nairobi, arriving at Wilson Airport by 5:30 PM.
- Transfer to your hotel or onward travel arrangements.
Optional Day 4: Guided River Walk & Samburu Cultural Experience
Extend your stay with a morning walking safari along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, where you’ll learn about animal tracking, medicinal plants, and birdwatching. End the morning with a visit to a traditional Samburu Manyatta, where you’ll experience warrior dances, beadwork demonstrations, and insights into the unique nomadic lifestyle of the Samburu people.
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions:
✔ Round-trip flights from Nairobi to Samburu (Buffalo Springs Airstrip)
✔ Private 4×4 safari vehicle with expert guide
✔ Park entry tickets for Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs
✔ Luxury or mid-range accommodations (based on selection)
✔ All meals, including bush breakfasts and sundowners
✔ Visit to conservation projects (optional)
Exclusions:
✖ Personal park entry fees ($70 per adult per day)
✖ Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
✖ Tips and personal expenses
✖ Optional activities (cultural visits, spa treatments, hot air balloon rides)
Safari Highlights: The Ultimate Samburu Flying Safari Experience
A Samburu flying safari is not just about convenience—it’s about maximizing your time in the wild, untouched landscapes of Northern Kenya, where rare wildlife, dramatic scenery, and conservation-driven tourism come together to create an unforgettable safari. This experience is perfect for luxury travelers, wildlife photographers, and conservation enthusiasts looking for an intimate and immersive safari with fewer crowds and incredible biodiversity.
Here’s what makes this Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba flying safari truly exceptional:
1. A Scenic Flight Over Kenya’s Iconic Landscapes
Instead of enduring a long 5-hour drive, you’ll board a light aircraft at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, soaring over some of Kenya’s most breathtaking landscapes:
✔ Mount Kenya’s snow-capped peaks—a majestic sight as you fly over Africa’s second-highest mountain.
✔ The Great Rift Valley escarpments—a geological marvel stretching across East Africa.
✔ Arid savannahs and winding riverbeds—as you descend into Samburu’s untamed wilderness.
Your flight lands directly at Buffalo Springs Airstrip, placing you just minutes away from the action, allowing you to begin your game drives almost immediately.
2. The Exclusive Samburu Special Five – A Rare Wildlife Spectacle
Samburu is home to some of the most unique and rarest species in Africa, collectively known as the Samburu Special Five, found only in Kenya’s northern reserves:
✔ Grevy’s zebra – Larger than common zebras, with thinner stripes and round ears.
✔ Reticulated giraffe – A strikingly beautiful giraffe with bold, geometric-patterned spots.
✔ Beisa oryx – Elegant antelope with long, straight horns adapted for desert survival.
✔ Somali ostrich – A distinct ostrich with blue legs and neck, unlike the common Masai ostrich.
✔ Gerenuk – The “giraffe gazelle” that stands on its hind legs to reach tree leaves.
In addition to these rare species, you’ll have the chance to spot big cats, large elephant herds, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
3. A Triple-Reserve Safari – Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba
Unlike a standard Samburu safari, this flying safari extends your adventure across three unique reserves:
🌿 Samburu National Reserve – The Crown Jewel of Northern Kenya
✔ Premier wildlife sightings, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs.
✔ Elephant herds congregate at the Ewaso Ng’iro River, one of Kenya’s best places for elephant photography.
✔ Stunning rocky outcrops where leopards hide during the day.
✔ Golden-hued savannahs dotted with acacia trees, creating the perfect African landscape.
🌊 Buffalo Springs National Reserve – Lush Greenery & Natural Springs
✔ A lush riverine ecosystem, contrasting with Samburu’s dry savannah.
✔ Crystal-clear natural springs, a major attraction for wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles.
✔ More shaded forests, making it a great place to spot rare bird species.
🌋 Shaba National Reserve – A Volcanic Wilderness & the Land of ‘Born Free’
✔ Dramatic volcanic landscapes, black lava flows, and rocky escarpments.
✔ Home to Joy Adamson’s conservation legacy, where she raised and released lions (Born Free).
✔ More secluded and untouched, offering a quieter safari experience with fewer vehicles.
These three reserves together provide an unparalleled diversity of landscapes and wildlife, making this safari one of the most complete and exclusive in Kenya.
4. Hassle-Free Travel & Maximum Game-Viewing Time
Unlike road safaris that require long transit times, a flying safari maximizes your game-viewing hours.
✔ More time in the wild, as flights take only one hour instead of a 5-hour road drive.
✔ Avoid road fatigue, enjoying a smooth and comfortable journey directly into the reserve.
✔ Private game drives in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, tailored to your interests with expert guides who know the region intimately.
5. Unforgettable Safari Experiences Beyond Game Drives
This flying safari is not just about game drives—it’s an immersive adventure that connects you with nature, culture, and conservation:
✔ Guided walking safaris – Learn about animal tracking and Samburu’s medicinal plants.
✔ Bush breakfasts & scenic sundowners – Enjoy a meal in the wild with breathtaking views.
✔ Samburu cultural visits – Meet traditional Samburu warriors, witness authentic dances, and learn about their semi-nomadic way of life.
✔ Conservation experiences – Visit Save the Elephants or a rhino sanctuary to see firsthand how conservation is shaping the future of wildlife protection.
6. Sustainable & Conservation-Focused Safari
By booking with SamburuReserve.org, your safari directly supports:
✔ Elephant conservation projects, ensuring the protection of Samburu’s largest residents.
✔ Community-driven eco-tourism, where local Samburu guides benefit from responsible travel.
✔ Anti-poaching initiatives, helping to preserve endangered species.
✔ Carbon-conscious lodges, using solar power, eco-friendly waste systems, and minimal-impact tourism.
This ensures that your safari experience positively contributes to both wildlife conservation and local communities.
Why This Flying Safari is a Must-Do?
✅ Fast, hassle-free travel – More safari, less transit.
✅ Rare & exclusive wildlife sightings – The Samburu Special Five, big cats, elephants, and more.
✅ Three incredible reserves in one trip – Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba.
✅ Luxury eco-lodges & unforgettable experiences – Private game drives, bush dining, and cultural immersion.
✅ Supports conservation & local communities – Travel with purpose.
This Samburu flying safari is tailor-made for travelers seeking an intimate, conservation-driven safari with spectacular wildlife, stunning landscapes, and luxurious comfort.
Safari Pricing
- Safari Vehicle Hire: $250 per day
- Luxury Accommodations: $700–$1,200 per night (e.g., Saruni Samburu)
- Mid-Range Accommodations: $350–$600 per night (e.g., Elephant Bedroom Camp)
- Budget Accommodations: $150–$250 per night (e.g., Samburu Riverside Tented Camp)
Why Book with SamburuReserve.org?
- Conservation-First Approach – Your safari directly supports wildlife protection & local communities.
- Exclusive Access to Hidden Gems – Shaba, Buffalo Springs, and remote areas of Samburu.
- Expert-Guided Safaris – Led by seasoned Samburu guides who know the land like no other.
- Seamless, Hassle-Free Travel – Flights, transfers, and accommodations arranged for you.
Most Common FAQs on a Samburu Flying Safari
1. What are the luggage restrictions for flights to Samburu?
Most domestic flights to Samburu (e.g., SafariLink, Air Kenya) have a strict luggage limit of 15kg (33 lbs) per person, including both checked and carry-on bags. Soft-sided duffel bags are recommended instead of hard-shell suitcases to ensure they fit in the aircraft’s cargo hold. Excess baggage may be accommodated at an additional cost, subject to space availability.
2. Do flights to Samburu operate daily?
Yes, flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu (Buffalo Springs Airstrip) operate daily, with morning and afternoon departures. Flights typically take one hour and may include short stops at other airstrips in Laikipia or Lewa depending on the route.
3. Will I have a private guide and vehicle on a flying safari?
Yes, when booking with SamburuReserve.org, you’ll have a private 4×4 safari vehicle with an expert guide dedicated to your group. This allows for flexible game drives tailored to your interests, unlike shared lodge-based safari drives.
4. What happens if my flight is delayed or canceled?
Flight delays due to weather or operational issues are rare but possible. In such cases, airlines will rebook you on the next available flight. Your safari operator will adjust your itinerary accordingly to ensure minimal disruption. If necessary, alternative travel arrangements (e.g., road transfers) can be organized.
5. Is a flying safari suitable for first-time safari-goers?
Absolutely! A flying safari is ideal for first-time travelers who want a seamless and time-efficient experience. Since the flight eliminates long road transfers, you arrive fresh and ready to start your game drives immediately.
6. Can I fly to Samburu and drive back to Nairobi?
Yes, many travelers opt to fly into Samburu and return by road, combining the efficiency of air travel with the scenic beauty of a road trip. The drive back to Nairobi takes around 5 hours, with optional stops at Ol Pejeta Conservancy or Mount Kenya.
7. Will I see different wildlife in Shaba and Buffalo Springs compared to Samburu?
While the three reserves are part of the same ecosystem, each offers unique landscapes and slightly varied wildlife sightings:
- Samburu National Reserve: Best for big cats, large elephant herds, and the Samburu Special Five.
- Buffalo Springs: Features lush riverine forests and natural springs, making it an excellent spot for hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
- Shaba National Reserve: Known for its volcanic terrain, lava flows, and remote wilderness, offering a more secluded safari experience with great leopard sightings.
8. What types of aircraft are used for flights to Samburu?
Flights to Samburu use small bush planes, such as:
- Cessna Caravans (9–12 passengers)
- Dash 8 (larger aircraft for high-demand routes)
- Twin Otters (commonly used for air safaris)
These aircraft are designed for short take-offs and landings, ensuring a smooth journey into remote airstrips.
9. Can I bring my own drinks for the sundowner experience?
Yes! While most lodges and guides provide sundowner drinks, you’re welcome to bring your own wine, whiskey, or other preferred beverages. Many lodges offer sundowner setups in scenic locations, complete with snacks and seating for a relaxed end to the day.
10. Are there restrooms available during game drives?
Since game drives in Samburu can last several hours, there are no permanent restrooms in the park itself. However, your guide can stop at designated lodge restrooms or safe bush locations if needed. Luxury lodges often include packed “bush bathroom” setups for added comfort during long drives.
11. Is Samburu a malaria-risk area?
Yes, Samburu is a low to moderate malaria-risk area, especially during the rainy season. Travelers are advised to take anti-malarial medication as prescribed by their doctor, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets (provided by most lodges).
12. Can I request a vegetarian or special diet meal on a flying safari?
Yes, all lodges and camps cater to dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-intolerant options. It’s best to inform your safari operator at least 48 hours in advance to ensure your dietary needs are met.
13. How long before my flight should I check in at Wilson Airport?
Check-in for flights to Samburu is at least 1 hour before departure. Wilson Airport is much smaller than Nairobi’s international airport (JKIA), so check-in and security procedures are quick and hassle-free.
14. Are drone cameras allowed in Samburu?
No, drones are strictly prohibited in all Kenyan national parks and reserves unless you have special government clearance, which requires extensive permits and fees. Professional wildlife filmmakers must obtain prior authorization from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
15. How can I ensure an eco-friendly safari experience?
At SamburuReserve.org, we promote responsible travel by partnering with eco-conscious lodges and supporting local conservation initiatives. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Stay at eco-lodges that use solar power and sustainable practices.
- Avoid single-use plastics by bringing a reusable water bottle.
- Support community-led conservation projects through donations or volunteering.
- Follow ethical wildlife viewing guidelines by keeping a safe distance from animals.
Book Your Samburu Flying Safari Today!
Fly into the wild and experience a luxurious, conservation-driven safari in Kenya’s most breathtaking wilderness. Contact SamburuReserve.org now to customize your dream safari adventure!