Samburu National Reserve

A tranquil and serene park in northern Kenya

Although relatively small (covering an area of just 40 miles2) Samburu National Reserve is a real oasis and well worth a visit for anyone heading into the northern region of Kenya. It lies on the northern bank of the Ewaso Nyiro and is surrounded by wonderful landscapes of vast plains and rugged hills.

The park itself is characterised by narrow, riverine woodland of palm and acacia with bush, grass and scrubland. It also forms part of a lava plain with distinctive red dirt, broken volcanic clinker and rocky outcrops. It is a very peaceful, naturally serene reserve far removed from the hustle and bustle of major towns and commercial activity.

Prolific game comes to the river to drink

The gently flowing river attracts a wealth of game to its verdant channels and banks. In the Samburu National Reserve, you will find the reticulated giraffe and the elegant gerenuk, a long-necked antelope that reaches high up the trees when it stands on its hind legs. Other herbivores include elephant, Beisa oryx, buffalo, Grant’s gazelle, dik dik, waterbuck, lesser kudu and Grevy’s zebra. Predators include lion, cheetah and leopard. The river is well known for its enormous crocodiles, which can often be seen basking on the banks of the river. These prehistoric behemoths can exceed a staggering 20 feet in length.

There are over 350 recorded bird species including a variety of eagles, kingfishers, humming birds and vultures along with the famous blue-flushed Somali ostrich (distinguished by their unique bluey purple legs during the mating season).