Samburu National Reserve
Samburu National Reserve
From
Duration
10 days
Tour Type
Overview
Samburu National Reserve, located in northern Kenya, is an untouched wilderness that offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Bordered by the Ewaso Nyiro River, this semi-arid region is known for its distinct landscape, which is a mix of rugged hills, open savannahs, and riverine forests. The reserve is renowned for its rare and endemic wildlife species, often referred to as the Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk (a long-necked antelope that feeds while standing on its hind legs).
Samburu’s remote location means fewer crowds, making it ideal for intimate game drives and encounters with wildlife. In addition to its wildlife, Samburu is home to the nomadic Samburu people, a culturally rich community related to the Maasai, known for their distinctive clothing, customs, and traditions.
Key Highlights of Samburu National Reserve
- The Samburu Special Five:
- Samburu is famous for hosting a variety of unique and endangered species not found in other parts of Kenya. These include the Grevy’s zebra, which has thinner stripes compared to the plains zebra, and the striking reticulated giraffe with its geometric coat pattern.
- Ewaso Nyiro River:
- The Ewaso Nyiro River is a lifeline for wildlife in this dry region. Elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birds can be spotted along the riverbanks, especially during the dry season when animals congregate to drink.
- Predator Hotspot:
- Samburu is a great location for spotting predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and wild dogs. The rugged terrain and fewer tourists make predator sightings especially rewarding.
- Cultural Interaction:
- Visitors have the opportunity to interact with the Samburu people, known for their vibrant beaded jewelry, colorful shukas (robes), and traditional customs. A visit to a Samburu village allows you to learn about their way of life, which revolves around livestock and nomadic traditions.
- Birdwatching:
- Samburu is a birdwatcher’s haven, with over 450 bird species recorded. Notable species include the Somali ostrich, vulturine guineafowl, and many raptors such as martial eagles and bateleur eagles.
- Scenic Landscapes:
- The reserve’s landscape is defined by rocky outcrops like Koitogor Hill, wide open plains, and lush riverine forests along the Ewaso Nyiro. The contrasts between the arid regions and the green riverbanks provide stunning photography opportunities.
Included/Exclude
- Pick and Drop Services
- 1 Meal Per Day
- Cruise Dinner & Music Event
- Visit 7 Best Places in the City With Group
- Additional Services
- Insurance
- Food & Drinks
- Tickets
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival and First Taste of Samburu
- Morning:
- Fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu Airstrip. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your Premium Adventures guide and transferred to your luxury tented camp or lodge.
- On the drive to your camp, enjoy an introductory game drive where you might spot some of the Samburu Special Five and herds of elephants.
- Afternoon:
- After lunch and some relaxation at your camp, take in the sights and sounds of the reserve from your private veranda or head to the pool with views of the Ewaso Nyiro River.
- Evening:
- Head out on your first afternoon game drive in the scenic surroundings. Your guide will focus on finding the Samburu Special Five, as well as lions and leopards.
- Return to your camp in time for a sundowner (sunset cocktail) as you watch the sun set over the rugged hills.
- Enjoy a bush dinner at your lodge, complete with a backdrop of the starry Samburu sky.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari and Cultural Encounters
- Early Morning:
- Start the day with a sunrise game drive. Early mornings are the best time to spot predators like lions and leopards as they hunt before the heat sets in.
- Return to the camp for a hearty breakfast.
- Late Morning:
- After breakfast, enjoy a walking safari with a Samburu guide. This is a great opportunity to learn about the smaller aspects of the ecosystem, such as animal tracks, plants, and insects that sustain the wildlife.
- Afternoon:
- After lunch, visit a Samburu village to learn about the local culture. Participate in traditional dances, explore their homes, and learn about the Samburu people’s close relationship with their livestock and land.
- Evening:
- Embark on another evening game drive, focusing on areas near the Ewaso Nyiro River, where elephants and crocodiles are commonly seen. Keep an eye out for leopards lounging in trees or wild dogs hunting in packs.
- Return to camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Scenic Exploration and River Safari
- Morning:
- Early morning game drive to explore new areas of the reserve, where you may encounter giraffes, oryx, and large elephant herds.
- Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the wild, surrounded by the serene Samburu landscape.
- Late Morning:
- Continue your exploration with a visit to Koitingor Hill, a scenic spot offering panoramic views of the reserve. Learn about the unique flora that grows in the arid environment and the animals that thrive here.
- Afternoon:
- Return to camp for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at your lodge. Alternatively, take an optional river safari along the Ewaso Nyiro River. Paddle gently as you observe hippos, crocodiles, and birds in their natural habitat.
- Evening:
- Go on a night game drive, a rare opportunity to witness the reserve’s nocturnal life. Spot hyenas, leopards, and other creatures that are active after dark.
- Return to camp for dinner and rest under the stunning Samburu sky.
Day 4: Final Safari and Departure
- Early Morning:
- Take one last early morning game drive, focusing on areas you haven’t explored yet. This is your last chance to spot any elusive wildlife, like the Grevy’s zebra or cheetahs, as they move across the plains.
- Mid-Morning:
- Return to camp for breakfast and a leisurely morning. You can relax by the pool, visit a nearby viewpoint, or pack at a relaxed pace.
- Afternoon:
- After lunch, bid farewell to Samburu and be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may choose to do some shopping in Nairobi or enjoy a meal at one of the city's renowned restaurants before your international departure.
This 4-day itinerary offers an immersive exploration of Samburu National Reserve, combining wildlife safaris, cultural experiences with the Samburu people, and relaxation along the Ewaso Nyiro River. Premium Adventures provides an unforgettable and personalized safari experience, ensuring you witness the unique beauty and wildlife of Samburu in comfort and style.
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Review Scores
3 thoughts on “Samburu National Reserve”
Booking Tour
Max Guests
50
Min Age
12+
Tour Location
Languages Support
Last Minute Deals
3.8
This is the best tour on the east coast! It was amazing how many places we visited and what great memories we made!
3.2
We always stay at here when in town. The location is great, staff is wonderful and we love the overall feel. Beautiful view from the here.
3.8
It is a great place to shop not too far from New York. We took the bus from Port Authority and traveled through the countryside to get there.