Kenya
Samburu
Where the rare and remarkable roam
Samburu National Reserve sits along the Ewaso Nyiro River in northern Kenya — a riverine oasis cutting through arid scrubland. The landscape feels different from the Mara: red earth, doum palms, sparse acacia, and a sense of vastness.
The Samburu Special Five
Five species are easier to see here than anywhere else in Kenya: reticulated giraffe (with their distinctive net-like patterns), Grevy's zebra (the rarest zebra species), gerenuk (the long-necked 'giraffe gazelle'), beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich.
Culture and conservation
The Samburu people are pastoralists closely related to the Maasai, with their own distinct dress, jewelry, and traditions. Visiting a manyatta is encouraged through community-led conservancies that channel tourism revenue directly back to villagers.
Best Time to Visit
June - September, January - February
Location
Northern Kenya, along the Ewaso Nyiro River
Wildlife
Grevy's Zebra
The rarest zebra species, with narrow stripes.
Reticulated Giraffe
Distinctive net-like pattern unique to northern Kenya.
Gerenuk
The "giraffe gazelle" that stands on hind legs to browse.
Somali Ostrich
Blue-necked variant found only in this region.
Begin your Samburu journey
Speak to a safari specialist about a custom itinerary or browse our crafted experiences.