Discover the best ways to reach Samburu National Reserve, Kenya’s hidden gem of wild beauty and cultural richness.
🌍 Introduction: Where Is Samburu National Reserve Located?
Samburu National Reserve is situated in northern Kenya, within Samburu County, along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River. It covers an area of about 165 square kilometers (64 square miles) and is part of a larger ecosystem that includes Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves.
- Distance from Nairobi: Approximately 350 km (217 miles) north of Nairobi
- Coordinates: 0°37′N 37°31′E
- Nearest Town: Archer’s Post, about 13 km from the reserve’s main gate
Getting to Samburu is an adventure in itself, offering scenic views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes—from the Great Rift Valley to rugged savannahs and remote arid regions.
✈️ Option 1: Flying to Samburu National Reserve (Fastest Option)
🛩️ 1. Domestic Flights from Nairobi to Samburu
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Samburu is by flying. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) to airstrips near Samburu National Reserve.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Wilson Airport (WIL), Nairobi
- Arrival Airstrips:
- Samburu Oryx Airstrip (closest to most lodges)
- Buffalo Springs Airstrip
- Kalama Airstrip (for community conservancies nearby)
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Major Airlines Flying to Samburu:
- Safarilink Aviation
- Air Kenya Express
- Fly SAX (Silverstone Air)
Flight Schedule & Pricing:
| Airline | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safarilink | 8:00 AM | 9:30 AM | $250–$350 (one way) |
| Air Kenya | 9:15 AM | 10:45 AM | $200–$300 (one way) |
| Fly SAX | 10:00 AM | 11:30 AM | $180–$250 (one way) |
(Prices vary depending on the season and availability.)
Benefits of Flying:
- Saves time—perfect for short safaris
- Spectacular aerial views of Kenya’s landscapes
- Convenient for luxury safaris
Things to Consider:
- Luggage restrictions (usually 15 kg in soft bags)
- Limited flight schedules
- Higher cost compared to road travel
🚙 Option 2: Driving to Samburu National Reserve (Scenic Adventure)
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or love road trips, driving to Samburu offers an adventurous journey through diverse terrains, including rolling hills, savannahs, and the Great Rift Valley.
1. Route from Nairobi to Samburu (Via Nanyuki)
- Distance: ~350 km (217 miles)
- Driving Time: 6 to 8 hours (depending on road conditions and stops)
- Recommended Vehicle: 4×4 vehicle (especially during the rainy season)
🚗 Step-by-Step Driving Directions:
- Start in Nairobi – Take the Thika Superhighway (A2) heading north.
- Drive through Thika and Karatina – Enjoy scenic views of coffee plantations.
- Pass through Nanyuki – A great stop for refreshments and views of Mount Kenya.
- Proceed to Isiolo Town – The last major town before Samburu.
- Turn towards Archer’s Post – Follow signs to Samburu National Reserve.
- Enter the Reserve: Through Archer’s Gate (main entrance).
Road Conditions:
- Nairobi to Isiolo: Paved, smooth tarmac roads (great condition)
- Isiolo to Samburu Gate: Rough, dusty, and sometimes bumpy—4WD recommended
- Rainy Season: Roads can be slippery and muddy; drive cautiously
Fuel & Rest Stops:
- Fuel Stations: Available in Nairobi, Thika, Nanyuki, and Isiolo
- Rest Stops: Recommended stops include Nanyuki (great for views of Mount Kenya) and Isiolo (last major town for supplies)
🚐 2. Private Transfers or Safari Packages
If you prefer not to drive yourself:
- Book a private safari vehicle with a driver-guide
- Ideal for families, small groups, or those wanting a hassle-free trip
- Many safari operators offer all-inclusive packages with transport, accommodation, and game drives
🚍 Option 3: Public Transport (Budget Option)
For the adventurous traveler or those on a strict budget, public transport is an option—but it’s less comfortable and requires flexibility.
How to Use Public Transport to Samburu:
- Matatu or Bus from Nairobi to Isiolo:
- Departure: From Eastleigh or Machakos Bus Station in Nairobi
- Duration: ~6–7 hours
- Fare: ~$10–$15 per person
- Buses/Matatus: Kenya Mpya, Meru Shuttle, Moyale Liner
- Isiolo to Archer’s Post (Near Samburu Gate):
- Take a local matatu or hire a motorbike taxi (boda boda)
- Distance: ~45 km (~1 hour)
- Cost: $5–$10
- Final Stretch:
- Hire a local taxi or safari vehicle at Archer’s Post to enter the reserve
- Some lodges offer pick-up services from Archer’s Post (arrange in advance)
Pros & Cons of Public Transport:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheap and budget-friendly | Long travel time |
| Experience local culture | Unpredictable schedules |
| Flexible stop options | Less comfort, crowded conditions |
🗺️ Map Overview of the Route to Samburu
Key Locations:
- Starting Point: Nairobi
- Towns on the Way: Thika → Karatina → Nanyuki → Isiolo → Archer’s Post
- Final Destination: Samburu National Reserve (Archer’s Gate)
(You can use Google Maps with the pin “Samburu National Reserve” for live directions.)
🏕️ Main Gates to Samburu National Reserve
| Gate Name | Access From | Proximity to Lodges |
|---|---|---|
| Archer’s Gate | From Isiolo/Archer’s Post | Closest to most lodges and camps |
| West Gate | From Buffalo Springs | Great for travelers coming via Buffalo Springs |
| Ngare Mare Gate | From Isiolo | Good access for community conservancies |
✨ Best Option Based on Your Travel Style
| Travel Style | Recommended Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Traveler | Flying from Wilson Airport | Fast, comfortable, scenic views |
| Budget Traveler | Public Transport + Local Transfers | Affordable but less convenient |
| Family/Group Traveler | Private Safari Vehicle (Road Trip) | Comfortable, flexible, great for bonding |
| Adventure Enthusiast | Self-Drive Road Trip | Freedom to explore at your own pace |
| Short Trip | Flying | Saves time if you have limited days |
🧳 Travel Tips for Getting to Samburu National Reserve
- Book Flights Early: Limited seats, especially during peak safari seasons (July–October, December).
- 4WD Recommended: Roads can get rough, especially after Isiolo.
- Carry Cash: ATMs are available in Isiolo but may not be reliable in remote areas.
- Fuel Up: Isiolo is the last major fuel stop.
- Check Weather: Rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) may affect road conditions.
- Security: The route is generally safe, but avoid traveling at night.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Your Samburu Adventure Awaits!
Whether you choose to fly for speed and comfort, drive for the adventure, or even embrace local public transport for an authentic Kenyan experience, the journey to Samburu National Reserve is part of the adventure itself.
With its untamed wilderness, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Samburu promises an unforgettable safari.
Plan your journey today and discover the heart of wild Kenya!