Samburu is where repeat safari-goers go. North of Mount Kenya the country turns dry and rocky, and the wildlife changes completely — five species here occur nowhere in the southern parks.
Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich make up the 'special five', and the doum-palm forest along the Ewaso Ng'iro gives some of Kenya's best leopard viewing.
It is also the most culturally rich of our safaris. The community conservancies around Samburu are among the most successful conservation models in Africa.
Day 1
Depart Nairobi early, skirting Mount Kenya through Nanyuki and Isiolo. Arrive at the lodge for lunch, with an afternoon game drive along the river.
Day 2
A sunrise drive for the special five, back for brunch and a rest, then an afternoon drive working the riverine forest for leopard, finishing with sundowners on the riverbank.
Day 3
A morning drive followed by a Samburu village visit, then breakfast, checkout and the drive back to Nairobi, arriving evening.
Riverside safari lodge with en-suite rooms, pool and a deck overlooking the Ewaso Ng'iro.
Departure pattern: On request · Private departures only. Private dates available on request for any group size.
Yes. The reserve and its surrounding conservancies are well established tourism areas with a permanent ranger presence. We travel the main Isiolo road and follow current government advice.
Fewer vehicles, more distinctive wildlife, more dramatic landscape — but lower overall game density and no migration. Most people who have done the Mara rate Samburu higher.
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