Overview
Embark on an exciting 3-day budget camping safari to the stunning Samburu National Reserve, a gem in Kenya’s northern wilderness. Famous for its unique wildlife, Samburu is home to the rare “Samburu Special Five”—the Grevy’s Zebra, Gerenuk, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich, and Beisa Oryx—as well as large herds of elephants, elusive leopards, and the vibrant cultures of the Samburu people.
This safari is designed for budget-conscious adventurers who seek an authentic wilderness experience without compromising on comfort. You’ll stay at budget-friendly campsites close to nature, offering basic amenities and spectacular views of the African bush. The tour starts and ends in Nairobi, featuring scenic drives, exciting game drives, and cultural encounters.
- Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
- Accommodation: Budget Campsites in Samburu
- Activities: Game Drives, Optional Cultural Visits
- Start/End: Nairobi
🗓️ Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
- Departure: Pick-up from your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 7:30 AM.
- Drive: Journey north, passing through the lush highlands and crossing the Equator near Nanyuki for a quick photo stop.
- Arrival: Reach Samburu around 1:00 PM. Check into your budget campsite, enjoy lunch, and relax.
🦓 Afternoon Game Drive (3:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Head out for your first game drive, exploring Samburu’s rugged terrain dotted with acacia trees and dramatic landscapes. Spot elephants cooling off near the Ewaso Ng’iro River, observe graceful gerenuks standing on their hind legs to browse, and keep an eye out for lions lounging under shady bushes.
- Dinner & Overnight: Budget Campsite (e.g., Lion Cave Camp or Public Campsite inside the reserve).
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Samburu
- Morning Game Drive (6:30 AM – 9:30 AM):
Wake up early for a sunrise game drive when wildlife is most active. Look out for predators like cheetahs, leopards, and wild dogs on the hunt. The morning light also provides excellent photography opportunities. - Breakfast: Return to camp for a hearty breakfast.
- Optional Activities: Relax at the campsite or choose optional add-ons (at an extra cost):
- Cultural Visit to a Samburu Village to learn about traditional customs.
- Guided Nature Walk with a local ranger.
🍱 Packed Lunch & Afternoon Game Drive (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
After lunch, set out for another game drive. Visit popular spots like the Ewaso Ng’iro Riverbanks, where wildlife congregates to drink, or the rocky escarpments favored by leopards.
- Dinner & Overnight: Budget Campsite
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Samburu to Nairobi (Continued)
- Early Morning Game Drive (6:30 AM – 8:30 AM):
Enjoy one last game drive as the sun rises over the savannah. Spot any wildlife you may have missed, such as buffaloes, grant’s gazelles, or perhaps even a rare leopard lounging in the morning light. The early hours offer excellent chances to observe animals before the heat of the day sets in. - Breakfast: Return to the campsite for a relaxed breakfast and freshen up before departure.
- Departure: Check out from your camp around 10:00 AM and begin your journey back to Nairobi.
🚗 Scenic Drive Back:
- Enjoy the changing landscapes—from the arid plains of Samburu to the green highlands near Mount Kenya.
- Lunch Stop: Optional stop for lunch in Nanyuki or Isiolo (at own cost).
- Arrival in Nairobi: Typically around 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM, depending on traffic.
- Drop-off: At your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your onward flight.
- Meals: Breakfast
💰 Tour Price (Per Person in USD)
| Travel Dates | 2–3 Persons | 4–5 Persons | 6+ Persons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04 Jan – 31 Mar 2024 | $480 | $420 | $390 |
| 01 Apr – 30 Jun 2024 (Low Season) | $450 | $400 | $370 |
| 01 Jul – 31 Oct 2024 (Peak Season) | $550 | $490 | $460 |
| 01 Nov – 21 Dec 2024 | $470 | $420 | $390 |
| 22 Dec – 02 Jan 2025 (Festive Season) | $570 | $510 | $480 |
Note: Prices are per person sharing. Single supplements apply for solo travelers. Discounts available for larger groups.
✅ Inclusions & Exclusions
✔️ What’s Included:
- 2 Nights Accommodation at budget campsites in Samburu (basic tents with shared facilities)
- Meals: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Private Safari Vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Professional English-speaking Driver-Guide
- 4 Game Drives in Samburu National Reserve
- Park Entry Fees for Samburu National Reserve
- Bottled Drinking Water during game drives
- Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi
❌ What’s Not Included:
- International flights and visa fees
- Optional activities (e.g., cultural visits, nature walks)
- Personal expenses: drinks, tips, laundry, souvenirs
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips for driver-guide and camp staff (suggested $5–$10 per person per day)
🎯 Optional Add-Ons (At Extra Cost):
- Cultural Visit to Samburu Village: $20 per person
- Guided Nature Walk: $15 per person
- Balloon Safari (Available on Request): Starting from $450 per person
🏕️ Budget Campsite Options in Samburu:
- Lion Cave Camp: Basic tents with shared bathrooms, overlooking the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
- Public Campsite (Inside Samburu Reserve): Authentic wilderness experience with minimal facilities—perfect for adventurers.
- Samburu Riverside Camp: Affordable tents with private verandas and basic amenities.
🔑 Important Travel Information:
- Packing Essentials: Light clothing, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, reusable water bottle, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Weather: Samburu is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 28°C–35°C (82°F–95°F) during the day.
- Health: Malaria prophylaxis recommended. Carry personal medication and a basic first aid kit.
- Currency: Kenyan Shillings (KES) are used locally, though USD is widely accepted in tourist areas.
📢 Book Your Budget Safari Now!
Experience the wild beauty of Samburu without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this 3-day budget camping safari is designed to give you an unforgettable adventure with affordable comfort.
👉 Contact Us Today to Book or Customize Your Safari!