Duration: 3 days / 2 nights · Destination: Samburu National Reserve · Best months: June–October, December–March
Overview
North of Mount Kenya the land turns wilder — red earth, doum palms, the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro river — and the animals change too. Samburu is home to the “Special Five,” found almost nowhere else on a standard safari circuit: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk (the antelope that stands on its hind legs to feed) and beisa oryx. Fewer crowds, striking Samburu culture, and superb leopard and elephant viewing complete the picture.
Day 1 — Nairobi to Samburu
Depart early for the drive north (about 5–6 hours) past Mount Kenya, arriving for a late lunch. Afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Nyiro river, where elephants come to drink and leopards patrol the banks. Overnight: [camp/lodge], dinner included.
Day 2 — Hunting the Special Five
A full day dedicated to ticking off all five northern specials, with your guide reading tracks and calling in sightings from the guide network. Optional visit to a Samburu village — cousins of the Maasai with their own spectacular dress, dance and traditions. All meals included.
Day 3 — Dawn drive & return to Nairobi
Final river-bank game drive at first light, then the journey back to Nairobi, arriving by evening. Pairs beautifully with Ol Pejeta (en route) for a 5-day northern circuit.
Cost includes: park fees, 4×4 and driver-guide, 2 nights accommodation, meals as listed, bottled water, Nairobi transfers, 24/7 support. Cost excludes: flights, eTA/visa, required travel insurance, Samburu village fee [$XX], tips, drinks.
FAQs
- What are Samburu’s Special Five? Five rare northern species — reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx — that you will not see in the Mara or Amboseli.
- Is Samburu crowded? No — it receives a fraction of the Mara’s visitors, so sightings are often yours alone.
- How does Samburu differ from the Masai Mara? Different landscape (semi-arid river country vs. grassland), different species, and a strong leopard reputation; many guests do both for the full Kenyan contrast.