Samburu National Reserve is a breathtaking safari destination, known for its unique wildlife, rugged landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to Maasai Mara. Many people assume that safaris are expensive, but with the right planning, you can visit Samburu on a budget.
This guide explores affordable travel options, budget-friendly accommodations, public transport, backpacking safaris, and tips for saving money while experiencing the best of Samburu.
1. How to Visit Samburu on a Budget
While luxury safaris dominate the travel scene in Samburu, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy an incredible safari without spending a fortune.
Top Budget-Friendly Travel Strategies
✔ Use Public Transport or Shared Rides – Avoid expensive private transfers.
✔ Stay in Budget Lodges or Campsites – Choose affordable accommodations instead of luxury lodges.
✔ Self-Catering or Camping – Bring your own food and cook to save money.
✔ Join a Group Safari – Shared tours lower the cost per person.
✔ Visit During Low Season (March-May, November) – Lodges and tours offer discounts.
Estimated Budget for a 3-Day Budget Safari to Samburu
💰 Transport (Public Bus + Shared Transfer): $30 – $50
💰 Park Fees (Non-Resident Adult): $70 per day ($210 for 3 days)
💰 Accommodation (Budget Lodge or Camping): $20 – $50 per night
💰 Food (Self-Catering or Budget Dining): $10 – $25 per day
💰 Game Drives (Shared Tour or Self-Drive): $50 – $100 per day
Total Budget Estimate: $300 – $600 per person for a 3-day budget safari.
2. Best Affordable Safari Lodges in Samburu
Samburu has affordable accommodations that still offer great comfort, game-viewing access, and an authentic safari experience.
Top Budget-Friendly Lodges in Samburu
🏡 Ashnil Samburu Camp – Offers mid-range pricing with full-board options ($100 – $150 per person).
🏡 Samburu Riverside Camp – A budget tented camp with basic amenities ($30 – $50 per person).
🏡 Lion King Budget Camp – Affordable tented safari experience near Buffalo Springs ($40 – $60 per person).
🏡 Samburu Trails Eco Camp – A community-run, eco-friendly camp offering budget stays ($20 – $40 per person).
🏡 Umoja Campsite – A basic camping option near Samburu’s gate ($10 – $20 per person).
🔹 Tip: Booking directly with the camp or through budget safari operators often gets better rates than third-party booking sites.
3. A Backpacker’s Guide to Samburu National Reserve
Backpacking in Samburu requires careful planning, but it’s one of the most rewarding and adventurous ways to explore the reserve.
Top Budget-Friendly Activities for Backpackers
🎒 Self-Guided Walks in Nearby Conservancies – Free or small entry fees ($10 – $20).
🎒 Shared Game Drives – Join other travelers to split costs ($50 – $100 per vehicle).
🎒 Visit Local Samburu Villages – Cultural tours are cheaper when booked directly with locals ($10 – $30).
🎒 Birdwatching & River Viewing – Free activities available near lodges and campsites.
🎒 Camping at Public Campsites – The cheapest accommodation option ($10 – $30 per night).
🔹 Tip: Bring a portable solar charger, as some budget camps lack constant electricity.
4. How to Get to Samburu Using Public Transport
If you’re traveling on a budget, public transport is the cheapest way to reach Samburu.
Budget Transport Options to Samburu
🚍 Step 1: Take a Bus from Nairobi to Isiolo
- Budget Option: Matatu or Public Bus – $10 – $15 (6-hour journey)
- Comfort Option: Luxury Shuttle (e.g., Northern Luxury Coach) – $20 – $30
🚕 Step 2: Take a Shared Taxi or Matatu from Isiolo to Archer’s Post (Samburu Gate)
- Matatu (Shared Van): $3 – $5 per person
- Boda Boda (Motorbike Taxi): $5 – $10 per ride
🚗 Step 3: Hire a Budget Safari Vehicle or Join a Shared Game Drive
- 4×4 Safari Rental (Self-Drive or Guide-Driven): $150 – $200 per day (can be split among travelers).
- Shared Game Drive with Other Travelers: $50 – $100 per person (8-hour drive).
🔹 Tip: If you’re staying at a budget lodge, ask if they offer transfers from Isiolo or Archer’s Post at discounted rates.
5. Camping vs Lodges in Samburu: Which is Right for You?
🏕️ Camping in Samburu (Best for Adventure & Budget Travel)
✔ Most affordable option ($10 – $30 per night).
✔ Closer to nature (sometimes wildlife walks through campsites!).
✔ Self-catering saves money on food.
❌ Limited facilities (shared bathrooms, no electricity in some sites).
🏡 Budget Lodges in Samburu (Best for Comfort & Convenience)
✔ Affordable yet comfortable ($30 – $100 per night).
✔ Private bathrooms & dining options.
✔ Guided game drives available.
❌ More expensive than camping.
🔹 Tip: If you camp for most of your stay, consider spending one night at a budget lodge to experience hot showers and proper meals.
6. Best Self-Catering Lodges in Samburu
If you want to cut down on food costs, self-catering lodges allow you to bring and prepare your own food while still enjoying the comfort of a proper stay.
Top Self-Catering Lodges in Samburu
🏡 Samburu Riverside Tented Camp – Budget-friendly self-catering option with shared kitchen facilities.
🏡 Umoja Campsite – Provides basic cooking facilities for travelers on a tight budget.
🏡 Samburu Trails Eco Camp – Offers shared self-catering kitchens and outdoor cooking areas.
🏡 Buffalo Springs Bandas – Government-run self-catering bandas within Buffalo Springs Reserve.
🔹 Tip: Buy groceries in Isiolo town before heading into Samburu, as food prices inside the park are higher.
Final Thoughts: How to Do Samburu on a Budget
A budget safari to Samburu is 100% possible if you plan wisely. By using public transport, staying in budget lodges or campsites, and joining shared game drives, you can enjoy an incredible safari without overspending.
Key Budget Travel Tips for Samburu:
✔ Use public transport to cut costs on travel.
✔ Choose budget lodges, self-catering stays, or campsites.
✔ Join shared game drives instead of hiring a private vehicle.
✔ Visit during the low season for discounts on accommodation.
✔ Bring your own food or buy groceries in Isiolo to save on meals.