Kenya

Samburu National Reserve The Special Five of the north

3 days recommended From $920 Best: June–October, January–February
Highlights
  • Grevy's zebra
  • reticulated giraffe
  • gerenuk
  • Beisa oryx
  • Somali ostrich
  • Ewaso Nyiro River lion prides
  • Samburu culture

Samburu sits in Kenya’s arid Northern Frontier District, a landscape of ancient doum palm forests, red earth, and the Ewaso Nyiro River — a permanent water source that draws extraordinary wildlife concentrations. The park is famous for its five endemic species found nowhere else in southern Kenya: the Grevy’s zebra (the world’s most endangered zebra), reticulated giraffe (the largest and most strikingly patterned), gerenuk (the long-necked antelope that stands upright to browse), Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich. Large lion prides are frequently sighted along the river. Leopard are common and often seen in daytime. The Samburu people and their warrior culture add a unique cultural dimension.

The Plan · Signature Journeys

Safaris through
Samburu National Reserve

Hand-picked expeditions — tell us your dates and we'll route Samburu National Reserve into your trip.

All Itineraries
Where to Stay

Camps & lodges
in the region

All Lodges

Angama Mara

The camp that inspired Out of Africa. Suspended above the Great Rift Valley on a clifftop escarpment with…

From $1,900/night View

Mahali Mzuri

Richard Branson's Kenyan home. A private conservancy camp with 12 tented suites, no shared game drives, and African…

From $1,700/night View

Mara Nyika Camp

The Mara at mid-range done right. Eight tents, excellent food, knowledgeable guides, and full access to the Ol…

From $480/night View
Good to Know

Planning Samburu National Reserve

When is the best time to visit Samburu National Reserve?
The best time is June–October, January–February. We plan around the wildlife and conditions you care about, so we'll match your dates to what's happening on the ground.
How many days do I need for Samburu National Reserve?
We recommend around 3 days here, and we can fold it into a longer Northern Circuit or beach-and-bush itinerary.
How much does a Samburu National Reserve safari cost?
A guided safari to Samburu National Reserve starts from about $920 per person, depending on season, lodge tier and group size. We send a transparent, all-in quote before you commit.
How do I get to Samburu National Reserve?
Most travellers fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO) and start from Arusha. We arrange every transfer, vehicle and internal flight so you never have to work out the logistics yourself.
Is it suitable for first-timers and families?
Yes. Every trip is private and guided, so the pace, drive times and activities are built around you — including families with children and first-time safari-goers.
Begin Your Journey

Ready to explore
Samburu National Reserve?

Tell us your dates and interests — Shaiya replies personally within 24 hours.