Destination Details
Samburu Tourism – Everything You Need to Know
Discover the Magic
Samburu National Reserve, located in the semi-arid northern region of Kenya, offers a unique and uncrowded safari experience in a breathtaking natural landscape. Known for its rich wildlife and home to the rare "Samburu Special Five"—Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx—the reserve is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Set along the life-giving Ewaso Ng’iro River and surrounded by rugged hills and open savannah, Samburu blends raw beauty with cultural richness, offering visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Kenya’s wild north.
Must-Visit Attractions
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Samburu National Reserve
One of the famous Safari destinations in East Africa, Samburu National Reserve is located in Northern Kenya and is a premier game reserve situated on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro river. This vast expanse of remote pristine wilderness measures 165 square kilometers in area and borders the Ewaso Ng'iro River to the south, which separates it from the Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Samburu Reserve is a unique wildlife conservation haven famous for an abundance of rare species of animals such as the Grevy Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx. The reserve is also home to a population of close to 900 Elephants. Large predators such as the Lion, Leopard and Cheetah are an important attraction (Kamunyak the famous Lioness that adapted a baby Oryx is a resident in the reserve). Samburu is infact one of the better locations in Kenya to spot Leopard. Wild dog sightings are also a common attraction to this unique protected area and Birdlife is abundant with over 450 recorded species.
Available Tours & Experiences
Choose from our carefully curated selection of Samburu adventures
2 Nights 3 Days Samburu Low Season and School Holiday Package
Fullboard getways for the holiday
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6 days SAMBURU GAME RESERVE-OLPEJETA
Journey into Kenya’s wild north with this 6-day safari exploring two of...
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Samburu to Olpejeta Tour – Discover Kenya’s Wild Beauty
Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure from the rugged landscapes of Samburu...
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5-Day Ol-Pejeta Conservancy and Samburu National Reserve
Discover Kenya’s rare wildlife in Ol Pejeta and Samburu. Spot rhinos, chimpanzees,...
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Interactive map with key attractions and tour meeting points
Essential Travel Information
Everything you need to know for your Samburu adventure
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Samburu National Reserve is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to March, when wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around the Ewaso Ng’iro River and other water sources. These months offer clear skies, warm temperatures, and better road conditions, making them ideal for game drives and photography. While the reserve can be visited year-round, the rainy seasons in April–May and November may bring muddy trails and scattered wildlife, making travel and viewing less predictable.
Weather & Climate
Samburu National Reserve experiences a hot and dry climate typical of Kenya’s northern semi-arid regions. Daytime temperatures range between 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), while nights are cooler, averaging around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The region has two rainy seasons: the long rains from April to May and the short rains in November, although rainfall is usually brief and scattered. Most of the year remains sunny and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing. Due to its lowland location, Samburu is generally warmer than Kenya’s highland parks and requires light clothing, sun protection, and plenty of hydration.
Currency & Language
The official currency used in Samburu and throughout Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Most transactions in the region are done in cash, especially in rural areas like Samburu, so it's advisable to carry some local currency. However, larger lodges and tour operators may accept credit cards or mobile money (like M-Pesa). The official languages are Swahili and English, both widely spoken and used in tourism and business. In Samburu, you’ll also hear local indigenous languages such as Samburu (a Maa language), reflecting the area’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can comfortably communicate in English at lodges, parks, and with guides.
Visa Requirements
As of January 2024, Kenya no longer requires a visa for most travelers; however, all foreign visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before arrival. The eTA allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit and must be applied for at least 72 hours before travel. To apply, visitors need a valid passport (with at least six months of validity), travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and, in some cases, a yellow fever vaccination certificate. The process is simple and done entirely online through the official eTA portal, making travel to Kenya more accessible and streamlined.
Local Tips & Cultural Insights
- Be mindful of your environmental impact, especially in sensitive ecosystems.
- Wi-Fi is available in most urban areas but may be limited in remote locations.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot climates; layers for cooler regions (like highlands).
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Support local businesses, artisans, and eco-lodges
- Choose ethical wildlife experiences—avoid attractions that exploit animals
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Immerse yourself in the beauty of Samburu
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