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Samburu National Park

Samburu National Park

Location

Samburu National Reserve is located in northern Kenya, along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. The park is 220 miles or a six and a half hour drive from Nairobi. A flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport will take approximately 90 minutes, with guests flying into either Buffalo Springs, Samburu Oryx Airstrip and Kalama Airstrip.

Size

The size of Samburu National Reserve is around 64 square miles. 

History

Samburu National Reserve is the setting for the well-known book “Born Free”, Joy and George Adamson’s interactions and journey with Elsa the Lioness. In 1948 the reserve became a wildlife protected area and in 1963, was given to the African District of Samburu to administer. Today, the reserve is managed by local Samburu communities and stands as one of Kenya’s key safari destinations due to its size and great sightings of animals and birdlife.

Entrance Fees & Permits

The entrance fee to get into Samburu National Reserve is USD70 per adult and USD40 per child under 12yrs old.

Hours of Operation

The gates of Samburu National Reserve are open from 6am to 6pm daily.

By Road

Travelling from Nairobi, the six and a half hour journey north takes visitors along the Thika and the Nyeri Katerina highway. There are five gates into the reserve, namely Archer’s Gate (the most popular), West Gate, Kalama Gate, Uaso Bridge Gate and Central Airstrip Gate.

By Air

Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport take 90 minutes, with flights landing in Buffalo Springs, Samburu Oryx Airstrip and Kalama Airstrip.

Weather & Climate

Located in a partly arid and partly semi-arid climate, temperatures in Samburu National Reserve average between 65F and 85F throughout the year. Rainfall in general is low in the reserve, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in April and shorter rains in November. The dry, winter months of June, July and August provide the ideal time for optimal game viewing with low grass and crisp, clear days…

Avoiding Crowds

Winter is peak safari season in Samburu National Reserve so planning a safari around the months of June, July and August should be considered. This will ensure fewer vehicles out in the reserve and more availability in lodges and camps. Bird watchers will delight in visiting in January and February as a focus will be on birdlife and newborns versus an intense wildlife experience out in the reserve.

Value for Money

Accommodation in Samburu National Park ranges from budget camps to mid-range camps, right up to safari lodges and luxury accommodation in either tented or chalet-style. Pricing will fluctuate from around USD200 per person sharing per night, right up to USD1000 per person sharing per night, rates averaging at approximately USD700-USD800 per person sharing per night. With such a large rate-scale, a value-for-money safari at Samburu National Park is definitely possible.

Read more on the Best time to visit Kenya.

Popular Wildlife Sightings in Amboseli National Park

Samburu National Reserve is known to offer some of the best sightings of leopards in Kenya and is home to unique wildlife such as the articulated giraffe, somali ostrich and beisa oryx. The reserve is home to four of the “Big Five” with the rhino absent from the list. Bird life is prevalent in Samburu National Reserve, with over 450 species recorded, including the endemic vulturine guineafowl and Hunter’s sunbird.

The Terrain

The vast landscape of the Samburu National Reserve comprises arid and semi-arid terrain, with the Ewaso Nyiro River running through the reserve, a permanent source of water throughout the year. Valleys dotted with shrubs and acacia trees, with palm trees scattered along the Ewaso Nyiro Riverbank.

Game Drives

Game drives in Samburu National Reserve usually take place early in the morning or late afternoon, lasting around three hours. 4×4 game vehicles are either closed with a pop-up roof or open on all sides, a roof covering included on some open vehicles. Qualified guides traverse the vast landscape in search of predators and prey, keeping an eye out for any of the incredible birdlife in the area.

Guided Walking Safaris

Guests to Samburu National Reserve can enjoy a guided bush walk over the arid landscape and over rock formations, captivating views all around. Wandering along the riverbank will bring walkers up close and personal with birdlife all the while keeping an eye out for elephants, buffalo, zebra and other plains game. Walks usually take place around sunrise and in the late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and average two and a half hours with the option to stop for a packed breakfast or brunch.

Samburu National Reserve Lodging – Distance from park entrance

Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp

Lodge or HotelDistance to park entrance (in miles)
Samburu Simba LodgeLocated just across the Ewaso Nyiro River, distance approximately from the Uaso Bridge Gate.
Samburu Sopa LodgeLocated within the reserve. 11 miles from Archer’s Gate, driving west from the gate to the lodge
Sarova Shaba Game LodgeLocated outside the reserve 9 miles from Archer’s Gate, driving east from the lodge to the gate
Ashnil Samburu LodgeLocated just across Ewasonyiro River outside the reserve 12 km from Ngare Mara Gate
Elephant Bedroom CampLocated in the reserve. 8 miles from Archer’s Gate driving west from the gate to the lodge
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Samburu Intrepids Tented CampLocated 12.4 miles from the center of Archers Gate
Larsens CampLocated 3.1 miles from the center of Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Samburu Game LodgeLocated 15.5 km from Archers Gate
Saruni Samburu LodgeLocated 12 km between Kalama Gate and Saruni

Camel Trekking Safari

Experience the beauty of Samburu on a camel trekking safari, a unique mobile tented adventure for guests looking to extend their time in Samburu. View ostrich, zebra, giraffe and more as you meander slowly across the landscape. 

Cultural Visits

Visit a Samburu village and learn about the rich heritage of the Samburu tribe, nomadic shepherds representing the third largest Maa community in East Africa. Visitors will be able to experience a day in the life of the Samburu tribe.

Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

Spend time understanding the conservation efforts taking place at Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, home to orphaned elephants with the intention of releasing them back into the wild.

  • When is the best time to visit Samburu National Reserve?

Visiting Samburu National Reserve during the dry, winter months of June, July and August will offer mild days with low grass creating an ideal setting for spotting animals on the plains of the Samburu. If looking to avoid crowds, consider travelling in September or October, and bird lovers will delight in visiting Samburu National Park in January or February.

  • How much does a safari in Samburu National Reserve cost?

With options ranging from basic camping to luxury lodges and tented experiences, pricing for a safari in the Samburu National Reserve can cost between USD250 to, USD1000 per person sharing per night. The higher-end pricing will usually include all meals plus at least two game experiences per day.

  • How to get to Samburu National Reserve?

The drive from Nairobi will take a six and a half hour drive from Nairobi along the Thika and the Nyeri Katerina highway. The fly-in option takes 90 minutes, flights originating from Wilson Airport in the country’s capital.

  • What makes a Samburu National Reserve safari so special?

The Samburu National Reserve offers a vast expanse of wilderness, a mix of arid and semi-arid terrain. It’s home to the famous story and journey of Elsa the Lioness and Joy and George Adamson and has a vast landscape. The region of Samburu is home to East Africa’s third largest Maa community, and cultural visits are truly rewarding. 

  • What animals can I see in Samburu National Reserve?

Four of the “Big Five” can be seen in the Samburu National Reserve, and sightings of leopards are quite common. Several species of birds endemic to the area such as the Hunter’s sunbird can be found in Samburu National Reserve, as well as unique animals such as the Somali ostrich and Grevy’s zebra.

  • When is Samburu National Reserve open?

The gates of the Samburu National Reserve open at 6am and close at 6pm daily.

  • Do you need to book in advance to visit Samburu National Reserve

It is necessary to pre-book a safari at any of the camps and lodges near and inside the Samburu National Reserve to avoid disappointment regarding availability. Safari packages are usually confirmed inclusive of transfers to and from the reserve.

  • What’s the best way to see Samburu National Reserve?

4×4 game drives in the Samburu National Reserve will be conducted in either open safari vehicles or enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles with pop up roofs. Enjoying a bush walk is also a wonderful way to experience the reserve, constantly on the lookout for magnificent birdlife, plains game and distant predators.

  • What hotels, lodges, and camps are near Samburu National Reserve?

Popular hotel chains Sopa and Sarova have wonderful lodges located just outside the Samburu National Reserve, operating game drives within the reserve. Elephant Bedroom Camp is an intimate experience within the reserve and Ashnil Samburu and Samburu Simba lodges, four-star options, located just across the Ewaso Nyiro River which divides the Samburu County and Isiolo County.

  • What restaurants are near Samburu National Reserve?

All meals are enjoyed in the lodges and tented camps or out on mobile safaris. There are no cities or towns where dining would be an option, near the Samburu National Reserve. 

  • What attractions are near Samburu National Reserve? 

The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants, with the goal to set them free in the wilderness when they are healed. Visitors can enjoy a camel trek safari, admiring the landscape and wildlife of the Samburu National Park and spending time with a Samburu tribe and Maa community is a treat for guests looking for something other than a safari.

SAMBURU GAME RESERVE LODGES & CAMPS

  • COMFORT
  • LUXURY

Samburu Sopa Lodge

Samburu Sopa lodge is located inside the Samburu game reserve in the Northern Kenya.

Sarova Shaba

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is located in a natural oasis in the heart of the Shaba Game Reserve or “Born Free Country” that Joy and George Adamson called home for many years.

Samburu Game Lodge

Samburu game Lodge is set in 10 acres of pristine riverine forest on the western bank of the Uaso Nyiro River within the Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya at an altitude of 857 meters above sea level.

Samburu Simba Lodge

Watch the fiery sunset as you enjoy a cockatil by the pool and watch when nature plays the evening trumpets or close your eyes and drift off into the african dreamland.

NAIROBI SAFARI TOURS RANGING FROM 2-12 DAYS
SHORT 2-4 DAY SAFARIS FROM NAIROBI/RETURN IN OFF-ROAD 4X4 JEEPS

  • 2 Days
  • 3 Days
  • 4 Days

Amboseli National Park, 2 Days 1 Night Safari

From Nairobi to Nairobi

It’s a short 4 hour drive from the big city lights of Nairobi to the big country sites of Amboseli National Park – think mighty Mt. Kilimanjaro and majestic herds of elephants in an Off-Road 4×4 Jeep &  a professional safari guide.

So, join us on safari to Kenya’s second most popular park with this quick, easy 2-day adventure. We’re happy to arrange last-minute bookings – just tell us you’re ready and we’ll make it happen!

Masai Mara Game Reserve, 2 Days 1 Night Safari

From Nairobi to Nairobi

2-day Masai Mara game reserve tour on a road safari with intensive game viewing drives in search of the Big five in an Off-Road 4×4 Jeep &  a professional safari guide.

Masai Mara is perhaps the most famous wildlife park in the world. Masai Mara National Reserve is known for its incredible density and variety of wildlife. Here you’ll find all of Africa’s Big Five – including an outstanding population of lion.

Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Area Attractions-2 Days 1 Night

From Nairobi to Nairobi

Lakes Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and Rift valley tour with game & bird viewing drives, boat ride and maybe walking safari.

In just two days you’ll get to explore all the color, wildlife, and diversity of these two attractive Rift Valley lakes.

Freshwater Lake Naivasha hosts hippo and other aquatic life attracted to its shores.

Lake Nakuru is alkaline, drawing in bright, pink flamingoes, pelicans, kingfishers and ostriches. Also present are all the Big 5 except elephants.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary Tour-2 Days, 1 Night

A scenery & wildlife safari tour stopping at the Ol Pejeta Wildlife Game Sanctuary in 2 days, 1 night.

Ol Pejeta hosts the highest number of black rhinos in East Africa. The only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This is the legacy and fascination of Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary.

But there’s so much more to see in this private reserve. All of Africa’s Big Five are here, just a short drive from Nairobi.

In just 2 days you’ll have opportunities to experience large and small wildlife – the common animals, the unusual and even the endangered.

Masai Mara Game Reserve Private Tour-3 Days, 2 Nights

From Nairobi to Nairobi

Immerse yourself in this wildlife habitat for 3 days and 2 nights on your own personalized private tour of Masai Mara  in an Off-Road 4×4 Jeep &  a professional safari guide.

You’ll discover a land famous for its striking vistas, diverse wildlife, Big 5, the Big Cats plus, many other flora & fauna and above all experience the world famous Great Wildebeest Migration (8th Wonder of the World).

Amboseli National Park Safari-3 Days, 2 Nights

Amboseli National Park Safari-3 Days, 2 Nights

Amboseli National Park  is the best place in Africa and indeed, the world to view wild, magnificent herds of elephants.

Join us on this 3-day, 2-night tour through the park viewing elephants, Cape buffalo, impala, lion, cheetah and much more in an Off-Road 4×4 Jeep &  a professional safari guide.

Even better – your safari adventure is set against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. Indeed, this park offers Africa’s finest views of the continent’s highest peak.

This is a photographer’s paradise with striking sunrises and sunsets.

Tsavo East, Tsavo West National Parks Safari 3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi – Tsavo East – Tsavo West - Nairobi

Safari to  Tsavo East National & Tsavo west national parks departing  daily from Nairobi.

The Tsavo sister parks are Kenya’s largest, oldest, and certainly amongst the finest of the great wildlife reserves to explore on your African Safari.

This private tour will keep you busy with unlimited game drives on the great expanse of Tsavo East and the scenic hills and savannah of Tsavo West

Samburu Game Reserve Safari-3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi including Shaba & Buffalo Springs Reserves

There’s something about Samburu National Reserve that our guests find calming, even in the midst of all the wildlife. Perhaps it’s the fact that Samburu is somewhat off the beaten path, so you’ll enjoy a wild game park with fewer tourists. And you’ll be treated to the sight of such Special 5 unique creatures as Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk and the Somali Ostrich.

Your safari also includes visits to neighboring reserves – Buffalo Springs & Shaba National Reserve.

Tsavo East & Amboseli National Parks Safari-3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

Discover two of Kenya’s finest national parks on this private 3-days safari tour combining Tsavo East & Amboseli national parks.

Tsavo East is our biggest game reserve and Amboseli Park features all the famous Big Five. Plus, it lies at the foot of the continent’s grandest summit, legendary Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Tsavo West & Amboseli National Parks Safari-3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

A fun 3 days/ 2 Nights kenya safari tour visiting Tsavo West National park combined with the legendary Amboseli National park.

Tsavo West and Amboseli will capture your heart with their scenic vistas and Africa’s Big Five – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.

Both parks are a visual treat that promises you a busy 3-day African safari you’ll be talking about for years

Lakes Nakuru, Baringo, Bogoria & Naivasha Area Attrations-3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

This  3-Days kenya safari  tour is themed on great rift valley lakes,  scenery, birdlife, wildlife, activities e.t.c.

Visit Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park and also set your sights on more dazzling flamingoes, plus hot springs and dramatic geysers at Lake Bogoria National Reserve.

Aberdare National Park & Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary tour-3 Days, 2 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

Ever spend a night in a tree? Gazing down upon the wildlife? You will at one of Aberdare National Park’s unique tree hotels.

This northern 3-day safari will also visit the very special Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary – home to endangered chimpanzees and rhinos. The landscapes and wildlife at these two reserves are rich and unique from most national parks.

Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari in 4x4 Jeep - 4 Days, 3 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

The 4 day/3 night Masai Mara safari is designed for those with sufficient safari days and may be even more appetite for game viewing drives…!

Immerse yourself in this wildlife habitat on your own personalized private tour of Masai Mara  in an Off-Road 4×4 Jeep &  a professional safari guide.

You’ll discover a land famous for its striking vistas, diverse wildlife, Big 5, the Big Cats plus, many other flora & fauna and above all experience the world famous Great Wildebeest Migration (8th Wonder of the World).

Tsavo East, Tsavo West & Amboseli National Parks Safari in 4x4 Jeep- 4 Days, 3 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

On this 4 Days safari, tour the Amboseli, Tsavo East & Tsavo West National parks from Nairobi.

Tsavo East National Park is a historic reserve with a storied past of ferocious lions and great natural features. Its distinctive red-dust soil attracts lively herds of elephants who enjoy rolling around in the rosy-coloured earth.

Tsavo West contrasts with its green hills and springs filled with hippos and crocodiles. All the big game are here but you’ll also find baboon, monkey, and the smaller bushbaby and dik-dik.

At Amboseli National Park, the families of elephants are so populous here the park has been called, ‘The Land of the Giants’. And another giant dominating the landscape is Africa’s tallest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro which stands like a giant, iconic monument at the park’s southern boundary.

Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha Area Activities, Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari in 4x4 Jeep for 4 Days, 3 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi with Wildlife viewing drives, bird watching, boat ride & guided walking safari

Lake Nakuru National Park and exciting Masai Mara Game Reserve on a 4 day Kenya safari tour.

Lake Naivasha Area Activities & Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari in 4x4 Jeep

Nairobi to Nairobi with game viewing drives, bird watching, boat ride, hiking & guided walking safari

4 day wildlife & activity safari touring the Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley and Masai Mara game reserve to view the Big 5, awesome Kenya landscapes and local cultures.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary & Samburu Game Reserve Tour in 4x4 Jeep- 4 Days, 3 Nights

Nairobi to Nairobi

A scenery & wildlife safari tour stopping at the Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary and the Samburu Game Reserve in 4 days, 3 nights.

NAIROBI SAFARI TRIPS 5-7 DAYS
MEDIUM LENGTH 5-7 DAY NAIROBI TO NAIROBI SAFARIS IN OFF-ROAD 4X4 JEEPS

  • 5 Days
  • 6 Days

Masai Mara Game Reserve & Amboseli National Park Safari

2 National Parks, From Nairobi To Nairobi (By 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep)

Journey to Kenya’s two most popular parks, spending several days at each on this medium-length African safari. This is an exciting combination of scenic parks and bountiful wildlife. World-famous Masai Mara is home to the Great Migration and a rich concentration of big cats. Amboseli is a photographer’s dream with its postcard views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and grand, majestic herds of elephants. These five days will be filled with sightings and timeless memories.

Tsavo East, Tsavo West & Amboseli National Parks Tour-5 Days, 4 Nights

3 National Parks, From Nairobi to Nairobi

We start our 5 day Tsavo & Amboseli Kenya safari  by heading  to the open plains of the Tsavo East for relaxed game viewing drives.

This shall be followed by a one night/ day discovery tour of  the Tsavo West with its hilly scenic landscapes and shall include a visit to the Mzima springs to view hippos and crocodiles

We shall finish by spending two nights exploring the Amboseli national park at the floor of the Mount Kilimanjaro on game viewing drives and possible mountain peak views.

Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha Area Attractions & Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari

From Nairobi to Nairobi, 3 National Parks with wildlife viewing drives, boat ride & guided walking safari

The 5-day tour leaves from Nairobi and stays a night at the Amboseli national park with game viewing drives to spot wildlife and maybe if weather permits, views of the Mount Kilimanjaro snow-capped peaks.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary, Lake Naivasha Area Attractions & Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari

From Nairobi to Nairobi with wildlife viewing drives, bird watching, boat ride & guided walking safari

5 day safari touring the Ol Pejeta game conservancy in Laikipia – near Mount Kenya, the rift valley Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara game reserve to view the Big 5, awesome Kenya landscapes and local cultures.

Aberdares, Lake Nakuru National Parks & Masai Mara Game Reserve Tour-5 Days, 4 Nights

3 National Parks, From Nairobi to Nairobi

Kenya safari in 5 days with visit to the Aberdares national park including a night stay at a tree hotel / lodge.

Lakes Nakuru, Bogoria, Naivasha Area Attrations & Masai Mara Game Reserve Tour for 6 Days, 5 Nights

4 National Parks, From Nairobi to Nairobi

Kenya safari tour focusing on great rift valley landscape, bird life, activities & big game viewing.

Tsavo West, Amboseli National Parks, Lake Naivasha Area Attractions & Masai Mara Game Reserve Safari for 6 Days, 5 Nights

5 National Parks, From Nairobi to Nairobi

Popular Kenya safari package on a 6 day tour visiting Great Masai Mara Game Reserve, Lake Naivasha in the rift valley, Amboseli & Tsavo West National Parks

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