Imagine a safari where vast golden plains stretch endlessly under the African sun, where majestic elephants gather by a winding river, and where rare, strikingly beautiful wildlife roams free without the crowds of the more famous parks. Welcome to Samburu National Reserve, a hidden gem in Northern Kenya, offering an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path safari experience unlike any other.
Here, you’ll witness the Samburu Special Five—Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, Somali ostriches, Beisa oryx, and the long-necked gerenuk—animals found nowhere else in Kenya’s southern reserves. With breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a raw, untamed beauty, Samburu promises an unforgettable safari adventure where every game drive brings thrilling encounters and mesmerizing scenery. If you’re craving a wildlife experience that feels remote yet intimate, luxurious yet deeply connected to nature, this is the safari for you!
Why Samburu?
Samburu National Reserve is an untamed paradise, offering a more exclusive safari experience than the well-known Maasai Mara. With dramatic landscapes, winding rivers, and vast plains, this reserve is home to some of Africa’s rarest and most beautiful wildlife, including the Samburu Special Five—Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, Somali ostriches, Beisa oryx, and the long-necked gerenuk.
Unlike busier parks, Samburu’s remoteness ensures a more private safari, where sightings of lions, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs unfold in breathtaking solitude. The Ewaso Ng’iro River, the lifeblood of the reserve, attracts an abundance of animals, making for thrilling game-viewing throughout the day.
Suggested 3–4 Night Samburu Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to the Wild
Your adventure begins with a scenic five-hour drive from Nairobi to Samburu, passing through coffee farms, lush hills, and the arid landscapes of northern Kenya. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge or camp and enjoy lunch before embarking on your first afternoon game drive.
As the sun dips low, expect to see elephants gathered by the Ewaso Ng’iro River, reticulated giraffes browsing acacia trees, and perhaps even a pride of lions resting under the shade. The golden hues of sunset paint the reserve in stunning light—perfect for photography.
Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay under the vast African skies.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari & Iconic Wildlife Encounters
Wake up early for a sunrise game drive, when predators are most active. Your guide will lead you through prime wildlife areas, increasing your chances of spotting lions, leopards, and cheetahs on the prowl. Along the way, you’ll encounter herds of elephants, buffalo, and the striking Grevy’s zebras, which are much rarer than the common plains zebras found elsewhere in Kenya.
Around midday, enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild or return to camp for some relaxation. In the afternoon, continue your game drive, exploring the riverbanks and open plains. End the day with sundowners at a scenic viewpoint, sipping a cold drink as the sun sets over the horizon.
Return to camp for dinner and another peaceful night in the wild.
Day 3: Discovering Buffalo Springs & Shaba – A Scenic Safari Beyond Samburu
After two days of game drives in Samburu, take your adventure further by exploring Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves, just across the river. These lesser-visited reserves offer contrasting landscapes and new wildlife encounters.
- Morning: Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Drive into Buffalo Springs, where lush riverine forests and natural springs attract elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The area is also excellent for spotting the endangered African wild dogs. Stop at Buffalo Springs Natural Pools, a popular watering hole for wildlife. - Afternoon: Shaba National Reserve – The Land of Joy Adamson
Shaba’s volcanic landscapes and open wilderness provide a striking contrast to Samburu’s golden plains. If operational, stop at Joy’s Camp, once home to Joy Adamson, the famed conservationist of Born Free. Visit the Ewaso Ng’iro River viewpoint, where animals gather for a drink, and take in the lava flow formations, showcasing Shaba’s unique geological features.
Return to camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 4 (Optional): Guided River Walk & Samburu Cultural Visit Before Departure
If time allows before heading back to Nairobi, consider:
- A guided river walk, where you’ll learn about animal tracking, plants, and the region’s ecosystem.
- An optional cultural visit to a Samburu village, where you’ll meet the Samburu people, watch warrior dances, and gain insight into their semi-nomadic lifestyle and traditions.
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions:
✔ Experienced driver-guide specialized in Northern Kenya safaris
✔ 4×4 safari Land Cruiser for game drives and transfers
✔ Park entry tickets for the vehicle and driver
✔ Fuel costs
✔ Driver’s accommodation
✔ Up to 12 hours of game drives daily
Exclusions:
✖ Your park entry fees
✖ Accommodation costs (varies based on budget)
✖ Meals (unless included in the accommodation)
✖ Travel, health, or personal insurance
✖ Tips, personal expenses, and additional activities
Safari Pricing
The 4×4 Land Cruiser for game drives and transfers costs $250 per day. Accommodation costs vary depending on your preference:
- Budget lodges & camps: From $100 – $200 per night (e.g., Ashnil Samburu Camp, Samburu Riverside Tented Camp)
- Mid-range lodges: From $250 – $400 per night (e.g., Elephant Bedroom Camp, Samburu Sopa Lodge)
- Luxury lodges & tented camps: From $500 – $1,200 per night (e.g., Saruni Samburu, Sasaab Lodge)
What to Expect on a Samburu Safari
- A More Exclusive Safari – Compared to Maasai Mara, Samburu receives fewer visitors, making for quieter and more intimate wildlife encounters.
- Diverse Landscapes – From riverbanks teeming with life to open savannahs and volcanic hills, Samburu’s scenery is breathtaking.
- Unique Wildlife – The Samburu Special Five (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk) are found only in Northern Kenya.
- Predator Sightings – Lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam the reserve, offering great photography opportunities.
- Elephant Herds – Samburu is one of Kenya’s best places to see large elephant herds, often seen playing in the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
Why Choose This Safari?
We’ve partnered with an expert driver-guide who knows Samburu’s terrain, wildlife habits, and photography vantage points inside out. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll be in great hands for an unforgettable experience filled with wildlife sightings, dramatic landscapes, and the magic of Northern Kenya.
Ready to Experience Samburu?
Get in touch to book your Samburu safari today!
Most Common FAQs on a 4-Day Samburu Safari
1. How do I get to Samburu from Nairobi?
You can reach Samburu National Reserve either by road or air:
- By Road: A scenic 5-hour drive covering approximately 310 km via the A2 highway. The road is mostly paved except for the last stretch leading into the reserve.
- By Air: Daily domestic flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi take about 1 hour to Samburu’s airstrips (Buffalo Springs or Kalama).
2. What’s the best time of year to visit Samburu?
Samburu is a year-round safari destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons (June to October & December to March) when wildlife gathers near the Ewaso Ng’iro River for water, making game viewing exceptional. The green season (April-May & November) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds but can have sporadic rains.
3. What types of accommodation are available in Samburu?
Samburu offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:
- Budget Camps & Lodges ($100–$200 per night) – Examples: Ashnil Samburu Camp, Samburu Riverside Tented Camp.
- Mid-Range Lodges ($250–$400 per night) – Examples: Samburu Sopa Lodge, Elephant Bedroom Camp.
- Luxury Lodges & Tented Camps ($500–$1,200 per night) – Examples: Saruni Samburu, Sasaab Lodge.
4. Is Samburu a good destination for families with children?
Yes! Many lodges offer family-friendly accommodation and guided activities suitable for kids. However, some luxury camps have minimum age restrictions, so it’s best to check before booking. If traveling with young children, consider lodges that offer shorter game drives, cultural visits, and pool facilities to keep kids engaged.
5. What kind of safari vehicle is used?
You will be on a customized 4×4 Land Cruiser with an open-top or pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing and photography. These vehicles are designed to handle rough terrain and provide a comfortable ride.
6. What is the likelihood of seeing big cats like lions and leopards?
Samburu is one of Kenya’s best places to see leopards, especially along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, where they rest in the acacia trees. Lions are also common, and cheetahs are often spotted in open areas. The best chance to see these predators is during early morning or late afternoon game drives.
7. What should I pack for a Samburu safari?
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (khaki, beige, or green), along with:
- Comfortable walking shoes for lodge walks or cultural visits.
- A light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings.
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the strong sun.
- Binoculars and a camera for wildlife spotting and photography.
- Insect repellent and personal medication, including malaria prophylaxis.
8. Is WiFi available in Samburu lodges and camps?
Most mid-range and luxury lodges offer WiFi in common areas, but expect limited connectivity due to the remote location. Budget camps may have little to no internet access. If staying connected is essential, consider buying a local SIM card (Safaricom or Airtel) for mobile data.
9. Is Samburu safe for travelers?
Yes, Samburu is a safe safari destination with experienced guides and well-protected lodges. However, general safety guidelines apply:
- Always stay in your safari vehicle during game drives.
- Do not walk alone at night—lodge staff will escort you if needed.
- Respect wildlife viewing distances to avoid disturbances or danger.
10. Can I combine Samburu with another safari destination?
Absolutely! Samburu pairs well with Ol Pejeta Conservancy (for rhino tracking), Lake Nakuru (for flamingos), and the Maasai Mara (for the Great Migration). Many travelers opt for a 7–10 day itinerary combining multiple destinations for a more diverse safari experience.