Samburu National Reserve: Reticulated Giraffes, Grevy's Zebras and Fees
Samburu National Reserve, in northern Kenya, lies along the Ewaso Ng'iro river. The landscape is dry and open, with riverside vegetation that draws elephants, crocodiles and lions. It is above all the place to see species rarer further south: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx and the gerenuk, the "giraffe-necked gazelle" that stands on its hind legs to browse. The reserve is run by the local Samburu County authorities and adjoins the Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves.
Highlights
The reticulated giraffe
Recognisable by its coat of white lines on a reddish-brown background; it is very present along the river.
Grevy's zebra
Larger than the common zebra, with fine stripes and big round ears; the species is endangered and Samburu shelters part of its population.
The Ewaso Ng'iro river
Along its banks, elephants and crocodiles cross paths in the hot hours; it is the best spot for lions and leopards late in the day.
The Samburu communities
Lodges offer visits to Samburu villages; ask the price in advance and make sure the community benefits.
Practical info
Tips
- We found no reliable official entry fee for non-residents (the reserve is run by the county, not by KWS): ask your lodge or safari operator before booking. The road is long, around 6 to 7 hours from Nairobi; many travellers take a domestic flight to the Samburu airstrip. See flying or driving for a safari, Mount Kenya on the way and the 10-day itinerary.
How to get there
About 345 km from Nairobi by road, 6 to 7 hours (via Nanyuki and Isiolo); domestic flight from Nairobi (Wilson) to an airstrip in the reserve. An organised safari simplifies the logistics.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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