Samburu is a national reserve in Kenya's semi-arid north, bordered by the Ewaso Nyiro River and neighbouring Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves. It is known for dry-country species rarely seen in the south.
- Country
- Kenya
- Type
- Reserve
- Approx. area
- 165 km²
- Best time
- July to September
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
- Main gateway airport
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
- Big Five
- Not all five
- Malaria
- Malaria area: see a travel doctor
Why go to Samburu
- Northern dry-country species: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, beisa oryx and Somali ostrich
- The Ewaso Nyiro River with elephants and crocodiles
- Semi-arid scenery unlike southern Kenya
- Samburu cultural visits
- Walking in neighbouring community conservancies
Best time to visit Samburu
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Samburu is July to September.
Dry season; wildlife gathers along the Ewaso Nyiro River, with hot sunny days.
The two rainfall peaks, although annual rainfall is low overall.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 17–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| February | 17–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| March | 18–31 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| April | 18–30 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| May | 18–30 | some rain | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| June | 17–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| July | 16–29 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| August | 16–30 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| September | 17–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| October | 18–30 | some rain | ★★★★★ | quiet |
| November | 18–29 | rainy season | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| December | 17–29 | some rain | ★★★★★ | moderate |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Samburu includes lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, crocodiles, hyenas, oryx, gazelles, ostriches and birdlife.
Things to do
Getting there
The drive from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours via the Mount Kenya region; light-aircraft flights serve airstrips near the reserve.
Trips to Samburu
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Samburu for families
- Samburu for a honeymoon
- Samburu for photographers
- Samburu for a first safari
- Samburu on a budget
- Samburu for luxury travel
Compare with
- Samburu vs Masai Mara
- Samburu vs Amboseli
- Samburu vs Ol Pejeta
- Samburu vs Lake Nakuru
- Samburu vs Tsavo East
- Samburu vs Tsavo West
Travelling to Samburu from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Samburu?
Generally July to September. Dry season; wildlife gathers along the Ewaso Nyiro River, with hot sunny days.
How many days do I need in Samburu?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Samburu?
The drive from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours via the Mount Kenya region; light-aircraft flights serve airstrips near the reserve.
Is there malaria in Samburu?
Yes, it is in a malaria-risk area. See a doctor or travel clinic well before your trip.
Sources: Magical Kenya - Samburu itinerary listing · SafariBookings - Samburu climate · Weather Spark - Isiolo (nearest station)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.