Samburu Safaris from Nairobi
While the Masai Mara is often the star of the show, Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya provides a unique and equally thrilling safari experience.
Nestled in the semi-arid region of northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve is a hidden gem that offers an authentic and less crowded safari experience. Unlike the lush savannahs of the Maasai Mara, Samburu is characterized by rugged terrain, dry riverbeds, and a stark, yet stunning landscape dotted with acacia trees. This reserve is home to unique wildlife species, often referred to as the "Samburu Special Five," which include the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx.
Samburu’s distinct environment, coupled with its rich wildlife, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Kenya’s wild side. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer, a Samburu safari promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Starting Your Journey: Arriving in Nairobi
Welcome to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)
Your Samburu adventure begins the moment you land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital. As the primary gateway for international travelers, JKIA offers a smooth transition from your flight to the start of your safari. Whether you’re arriving from Europe, Asia, the Americas, or another part of Africa, you’ll find that Nairobi is well-connected and easy to navigate.
Airport Pickup and Transfer to Your Hotel
Upon your arrival at JKIA, our friendly and professional driver-guide will meet you at the arrivals terminal. They’ll assist with your luggage and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore a bit of Nairobi or simply unwind after your flight.
If you arrive late in the evening or at night, we’ll take you directly to your hotel so you can get some rest before your adventure begins. Nairobi offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy boutique lodges. Whether you’re staying at the iconic Fairmont The Norfolk, the elegant Villa Rosa Kempinski, or the serene Hemingways Nairobi, you’re sure to find a place that suits your preferences.
The Journey Begins: Traveling from Nairobi to Samburu
Early Morning Departure
Your Samburu safari officially kicks off the next morning. After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, our driver-guide will pick you up around 9:00 AM. This allows you to avoid the rush hour traffic and embark on your journey north in good time. You have two main travel options to reach Samburu: by road or by air. Each option offers a different experience, depending on your preferences and the kind of adventure you’re seeking.
Option 1: Traveling by Road
Traveling by road from Nairobi to Samburu is a scenic adventure in itself. The drive typically takes about 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles). This route takes you through diverse landscapes, from the lush highlands of central Kenya to the drier, more rugged terrains of the north.
The Route
You’ll begin your journey by heading north out of Nairobi, passing through the agricultural town of Thika and onto the fertile slopes of Mount Kenya. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see the impressive Karatina Market, one of the largest open-air markets in East Africa. As you continue, the landscape gradually changes, becoming drier and more rugged as you approach the northern frontier.
Stopover at the Equator
One of the highlights of the drive is a stop at the Equator, near Nanyuki town. Here, you can participate in a fun demonstration that shows the Coriolis effect, which causes water to spin in different directions depending on which hemisphere you’re in. It’s also a great spot for photos and a quick snack or refreshment before continuing your journey.
Arriving in Samburu
As you approach Samburu, you’ll start to notice the dramatic change in scenery. The landscape becomes more arid, with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation. You might even catch a glimpse of wildlife along the way, heightening your anticipation for the adventure ahead. Upon arrival at your lodge or camp in Samburu, you’ll have some time to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings before your first game drive.
Option 2: Traveling by Air
For those who prefer to maximize their time in the reserve, flying from Nairobi to Samburu is an excellent option. Flights from Wilson Airport, Nairobi’s domestic airport, to Samburu’s airstrip take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The Flight Experience
Flying to Samburu offers a unique perspective of Kenya’s diverse landscapes. As you soar over the central highlands and into the northern plains, you’ll get breathtaking aerial views of the country’s varied topography. It’s a quick and convenient way to reach the reserve, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
Arrival at Samburu Airstrip
Upon landing at Samburu’s airstrip, you’ll be met by your safari guide who will take you on a short drive to your lodge or camp. Since you’ll arrive much earlier than those traveling by road, you’ll have more time to settle in and even enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading out for your first game drive in the afternoon.
Exploring Samburu National Reserve
The Samburu Special Five
Samburu is renowned for its unique wildlife, and a primary focus of your safari will be spotting the Samburu Special Five. These species are adapted to the region’s arid conditions and are rarely found in other parts of Kenya:
- Reticulated Giraffe: Distinguished by their striking, geometric coat patterns, these giraffes are a beautiful sight against Samburu’s rugged backdrop.
- Grevy’s Zebra: Larger and rarer than the common plains zebra, Grevy’s zebras have thinner stripes and a more majestic appearance.
- Somali Ostrich: This species of ostrich has blue skin on its neck and legs, distinguishing it from the more common Masai ostrich.
- Gerenuk: Known as the "giraffe-necked antelope," gerenuks are often seen standing on their hind legs to reach high branches.
- Beisa Oryx: With their long, straight horns and sleek bodies, these antelopes are perfectly adapted to the dry conditions of Samburu.
Game Drives
Game drives in Samburu are typically conducted in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are most active. Your experienced guide will take you through various habitats within the reserve, from the dry riverbeds of the Ewaso Ng'iro River to the rocky outcrops and acacia woodlands.
In addition to the Samburu Special Five, you’ll have the chance to see elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a variety of bird species. The reserve’s sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot wildlife, and the lack of large crowds allows for a more intimate safari experience.
Cultural Experiences
A Samburu safari isn’t just about wildlife; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Samburu people, who are closely related to the Maasai, have a rich cultural heritage that they are proud to share with visitors. Many lodges and camps offer visits to nearby Samburu villages, where you can learn about their traditional way of life, including their customs, attire, and livestock-rearing practices.
Sundowners and Bush Dinners
One of the highlights of any safari is the chance to enjoy a sundowner—a drink enjoyed as the sun sets over the African landscape. In Samburu, your guide will take you to a scenic spot where you can watch the sunset while sipping on your favorite beverage. This is often followed by a bush dinner, where you can dine under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Extending Your Safari: Combining Samburu with Other Parks
The Masai Mara
While Samburu offers a unique safari experience, many travelers choose to combine it with a visit to the Masai Mara, Kenya’s most famous game reserve. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), and its role in the annual Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands.
Travel Options
You can easily travel from Samburu to the Maasai Mara by air, with flights connecting the two reserves. This allows you to seamlessly transition from the arid landscapes of Samburu to the lush plains of the Maasai Mara, maximizing your safari experience.
Safari Experience
In the Maasai Mara, you’ll have the chance to witness incredible wildlife spectacles, such as a pride of lions on the hunt or a herd of elephants crossing the plains. The Maasai Mara also offers a range of activities, including hot air balloon rides, guided bush walks, and cultural visits to Maasai villages.
Other Parks and Reserves
Amboseli National Park
Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is another popular destination that can be combined with a Samburu safari. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants and the iconic backdrop of Africa’s highest peak.
Mount Kenya National Park
For those interested in combining wildlife with adventure, a visit to Mount Kenya National Park offers the chance to explore Kenya’s highest mountain. Whether you’re an experienced climber or prefer a more leisurely hike, Mount Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru is famous for its flamingo-filled shores and rhino conservation efforts. A stop at Lake Nakuru offers a different kind of safari experience, focusing on birdlife and the chance to see both black and white rhinos up close.
Customized Safari Itineraries
We understand that every traveler is different, which is why we offer customized safari itineraries that can be tailored to your specific interests and time constraints. Whether you want to focus on photography, birdwatching, or cultural experiences, we can create a safari that’s perfect for you.
Accommodations in Samburu
Luxury Lodges and Camps
Samburu offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. For those seeking luxury, there are several high-end lodges and camps that offer exceptional comfort and service.
- Saruni Samburu: Set on a hillside with stunning views over the reserve, Saruni Samburu offers luxury villas, an infinity pool, and a spa.
- Sasaab Lodge: Located on the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River, Sasaab Lodge features Moroccan-inspired architecture, spacious tents, and a range of activities including camel trekking.
- Elephant Bedroom Camp: Situated on the riverbank, this camp offers luxury tents with private plunge pools, perfect for cooling off after a game drive.
Mid-Range and Budget Options
For those on a tighter budget, Samburu also has several mid-range lodges and camps that provide a comfortable and authentic safari experience.
- Samburu Sopa Lodge: This lodge offers traditional-style accommodations with modern amenities, including a swimming pool and stunning views over the reserve.
- Ashnil Samburu Camp: Located along the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River, this camp offers comfortable tents and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities right from your tent’s deck.
Mobile Camps
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at a mobile camp. These camps move with the wildlife and offer a more rustic, yet comfortable, way to experience the African wilderness.
Planning Your Samburu Safari
Best Time to Visit
Samburu can be visited year-round, but the best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these periods, animals are more easily spotted around water sources, and the weather is generally more pleasant.
What to Pack
When packing for your Samburu safari, consider the following essentials:
- Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors
- A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking safaris
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- A good camera with extra memory cards and batteries
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
Travel Tips
- Health and Safety: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and carry any prescription medications you may need. It’s also advisable to bring a basic first aid kit.
- Visa and Entry Requirements: Check Kenya’s visa requirements before your trip and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
- Currency: The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). While credit cards are widely accepted in major hotels and lodges, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for tips and smaller purchases.
A Samburu safari from Nairobi is a journey into one of Kenya’s most unique and captivating landscapes. Whether you choose to travel by road or air, the adventure begins as soon as you leave the bustling city behind and head into the wild. From the moment you arrive in Samburu, you’ll be immersed in a world of extraordinary wildlife, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences.
Combining your Samburu safari with visits to other iconic parks like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Lake Nakuru only enhances the experience, offering a diverse and comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s natural wonders. With the right planning and preparation, your Samburu safari will be an unforgettable adventure that leaves you with memories to last a lifetime.
