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Samburu National Park lies in the northern part of Kenya. This park keeps wildlife and offers nature lovers and photographers possibilities that few places can rival. The park, along the Ewaso Nyiro River, covers approximately 165 square kilometres and is famous for its distinctive wildlife species and spectacular scenery. Because of its quietness compared to the hived-up other Kenyan parks, visitors to Samburu have a more personal safari experience. It is home to the rare “Special Five” of the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk.
Quick Facts
Location: Samburu County, Northern Kenya
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Adults $70, Children- $40 (non-resident); 1,000 Ksh for residents
How to Reach: Accessible by air, rail, and road
Nearest Airport: Samburu Airport, 12 Km
Nearest Railway Station: Nanyuki Railway Station, 130 km
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Where To Stay: Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp, Saruni Samburu, Soroi Larsens Camp, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Elephant Bedroom Camp and more.
Where To Eat: Trout Tree Restaurant, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Saruni Samburu, Samburu Sopa Lodge, Iman Restaurant and more.
Location
Photo: Langat Robert Cheruiyot / Wikimedia Commons
The park is in northern Kenya’s Samburu County, roughly 300 kilometres north of Nairobi. The Ewaso Nyiro River flows through the park, providing an important part of its wildlife environment. It borders Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves to help create an even larger conservation area. There is an Isiolo-Marsabit Highway that gets you right to the main entrance of the park, so any traveller can access it. East of the park are Archer’s Post and Wamba Town, which are other towns near the park.
How To Reach
Photo: Björn Strey / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport is Samburu Airport, which lies 12 kilometres from the park. Charter flights are available daily from Wilson Airport in Nairobi, providing an interesting aerial sight of the northern parts of Kenya.
By Rail: The adjacent railway station is Nanyuki, and it takes approximately 130 kilometres to get there. From Nanyuki, you should take a ride on the tour vehicles or public means to get to the park.
By Road: Samburu National Park has good road connectivity, with an approximately six-hour drive from Nairobi. The Isiolo-Marsabit Highway passes directly in front of the main entrance to the park. The best way to get inside is through private cars and tour operators.
Things To Do
1. Spot Samburu Special Five
Photo: Panegyrics of Granovetter / Wikimedia Commons
One of the main attractions of the park is its unique wildlife, which falls under the “Samburu Special Five.” These are the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and Gerenuk. Unlike any other park, Samburu gives an extraordinary opportunity to see these species in their natural environment. Game drives during early mornings or late afternoons are best for spotting them. A guided safari enhances the experience since expert guides can pinpoint habitat locations for the animals and provide interesting information regarding their behaviour and conservation efforts.
2. Experience The Ewaso Nyiro River
Photo: Julian Mason / Wikimedia Commons
The Ewaso Nyiro River flows through the national park and provides an excellent ecosystem full of life. Along the river are scenic picnic areas that you can enjoy or take a guided river walk to see crocodiles lounging around and elephants drinking water. Bird watchers can enjoy the numerous bird species that congregate in the water, including kingfishers and storks. Additionally, the river reflects some of the stunning landscape, making it the ideal location for photography in a peaceful environment.
3. Visit A Samburu Cultural Village
Photo: Dr. Ondřej Havelka / Wikimedia Commons
Getting involved in Samburu culture can make you feel more connected with the area. Meet the people who stay in the park who have traditional carriages and also charming clothes that make them different from others. Visit a Samburu village where you have a unique opportunity to discover how they create their handicrafts, dances, and customs. The village welcomes you to carry forward African culture by dancing with them and purchasing exceptional beadwork as a token of your identity. This, together with the cultural experience of the wild safari, offers a glimpse of the natural heritage from a historical perspective.
Places To Visit Near Samburu National Park
1. Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Photo: Gzen92 / Wikimedia Commons
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is adjacent to the park, and the reserve is a natural continuation of the Samburu Ecosystem. The reserve consists of rolling plains with scattered acacia trees and riverine vegetation along the watercourses. In the Reserved Area, Wildlife Includes Grevy’s Zebras, Reticulated Giraffes, Lions, and Cheetahs. Game viewing in this reserve is more peaceful than in the adjacent Samburu Park due to fewer visitors. The reserve has springs that attract various bird species, and Buffalo Springs also has numerous small mammals like jackals and hyenas.
Distance From National Park: 20 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
2. Shaba National Reserve
Photo: Ninara / Wikimedia Commons
Shaba National Reserve lies east of Samburu in a trio of protected areas with Samburu and Buffalo Springs. The reserve is renowned for its picturesque volcanic scenery, dramatic rocky outcrops, and riverine forests. Shaba came into the limelight as the location for the movie Born Free but continues to epitomize wildlife conservation. Large herds of elephants, leopards, and Grevy’s zebras can be found in the reserve. It is also home to numerous bird species, including kori bustards and Somali ostriches. Other activities carried out in the reserve include guided nature walks and photography safaris.
Distance From National Park: 45 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Reteti Elephant Sanctuary
Photo: Athuman Komora Garisse/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is a community-owned sanctuary for orphaned elephants and rhinos rescued, rehabilitated, and reintroduced into the wild. Reteti lies in Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy and embodies an excellent success story of local community dynamics working together with conservationists. Visitors get to see baby elephants or rhinos during feeding sessions and hear rescue stories. The sanctuary practices sustainable tourism while empowering locals. Reteti offers much more than just elephants while giving insight into the entire ecosystem and the challenges facing wildlife in that area.
Distance From National Park: 50 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Mount Ololokwe
Photo: David Clode / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mount Ololokwe is a flat-topped mountain with cliffs surrounding it, and Samburu people hold it as a holy place. Hiking through distinct ecosystems is challenging but rewarding, with the dry savannah at the base giving way to lush forests higher up. There are guided hikes, which is advisable since local guides are better placed to explain cultural and spiritual significance. The views from the summit are panoramic toward the austere vistas of Samburu and dawn, making this a prime photographing spot. Wildlife observers may see klipspringers, baboons, and many species of birds during the climb.
Distance From National Park: 50 km
Timings: 24*7
5. Kalama Community Conservancy
Photo: phgaillard2001 / Wikimedia Commons
Kalama Community Wildlife Conservancy is a locally managed reserve along the main road toward Samburu National Reserve. It supports authentic experiences of the wilderness by promoting responsible tourism. Within the area live elephants, lions, and leopards, as well as others such as Grevy’s zebra. Site visitors enjoy activities such as guided game drives and birdwatching and experience the way of life of local Samburu communities. The scenery in Kalama features rugged terrains, dry riverbeds, and vast savannahs ideal for photography and exploration.
Distance From The National Park: 40 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Pat_Photographies / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours to avoid standing out in the environment and attracting insects.
- Carry good binoculars along with sunscreen and a hat to shield yourself from the sun. Hydration is very important, so carry enough water with you while trekking.
- Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and keep following your guide’s directions.
- Travel insurance covers emergencies, so it is advisable to have one.
Samburu National Park provides a unique and immersive safari experience, especially for those who love wildlife and nature. You can see the rare Samburu Special Five, visit beautiful landscapes, and have cultural experiences. So whether you’re an experienced traveller or new to it, Samburu offers unforgettable moments right in the middle of Kenya’s wilderness. Step wisely into an adventure that leaves you with cherished memories, and plan a trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Photos By Beks / Unsplash
