Northern Kenya · KE · game reserve

Samburu NationalReserve

Samburu is a semi-arid reserve in Kenya's wild north, bisected by the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River. It is famous for the 'Samburu Special Five' — five species found nowhere else …

Best Time to VisitJune to October (dry season); January to February (short dry)

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Species of Wildlife

Safari Activities

Park Highlights

Safari Tours

Last updated: August 4, 2026

Overview

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu is a semi-arid reserve in Kenya's wild north, bisected by the life-giving Ewaso Ng'iro River. It is famous for the 'Samburu Special Five' — five species found nowhere else on a typical East African safari route.

Park Highlights

01Samburu Special Five — unique northern species

02Ewaso Ng'iro River — desert oasis for wildlife

03Samburu warrior cultural experiences

04One of Kenya's best leopard-viewing areas

05Dramatic semi-desert landscape with palm-lined rivers

06Fewer tourists than the Mara ecosystem

Best Time to Visit

June to October (dry season); January to February (short dry)

Climate

Hot and semi-arid, 30-38°C, cooled along the river

Location