Overview
Discover the extraordinary wildlife and rugged beauty of northern Kenya on this 5-day, 4-night Samburu National Reserve safari.
Samburu is one of Kenya's most distinctive wildlife destinations, famous for its beautiful semi-arid landscapes, ancient acacia trees and the Ewaso Ng’iro River, which attracts elephants and other wildlife throughout the year.
The reserve is especially renowned for the Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich. These remarkable species make Samburu a unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Your safari begins with a scenic journey from Nairobi through the central highlands and northern Kenya before arriving in the beautiful Samburu region. Spend four nights enjoying comfortable safari accommodation and exciting morning and afternoon game drives.
Explore the riverbanks, open plains and dry bushland while searching for elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and other wildlife. Enjoy beautiful views of the Ewaso Ng’iro River, visit scenic viewpoints and experience the fascinating landscapes of northern Kenya.
You will also have the opportunity to learn about the Samburu community and their rich cultural heritage through an optional community visit.
This extended safari is ideal for couples, families, wildlife photographers and travellers seeking a different and memorable Kenyan safari experience.
Trip Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Depart Nairobi in the morning and travel north towards Samburu through the beautiful landscapes of central Kenya. Enjoy scenic views of Mount Kenya and the changing countryside as you journey towards northern Kenya.
Arrive in the Samburu region around lunchtime and proceed to your selected safari lodge or camp. Check in, enjoy lunch and take some time to relax.
In the afternoon, head into Samburu National Reserve for your first game drive. Explore the open plains and riverine habitats in search of elephants, Grevy's zebras, reticulated giraffes, Beisa oryx and other wildlife.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Selected Samburu safari lodge or camp
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Enjoy an early breakfast before heading out for a morning game drive across the beautiful landscapes of Samburu National Reserve.
Today focuses on discovering the famous Samburu Special Five. Look for the endangered Grevy's zebra with its distinctive narrow stripes, the beautifully patterned reticulated giraffe, the long-necked gerenuk, the elegant Beisa oryx and the Somali ostrich.
Explore the reserve's open grasslands and acacia woodlands while your professional guide shares fascinating information about the wildlife and ecosystem.
Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation before heading out for an afternoon game drive.
Return to camp in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Selected Samburu safari lodge or camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, depart for an exciting morning game drive around the Ewaso Ng’iro River ecosystem.
The river is an important water source for wildlife in this semi-arid region. Explore the riverbanks and surrounding vegetation, where elephants are frequently seen drinking, bathing and moving through the landscape.
Look out for crocodiles, hippos, monkeys and colourful bird species around the water. You may also encounter lions, leopards, buffaloes and other wildlife.
Enjoy lunch at your lodge before an afternoon game drive through different sections of the reserve. Take advantage of the beautiful afternoon light for wildlife photography.
Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Selected Samburu safari lodge or camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Begin the day with an early morning game drive to explore more of Samburu's unique wildlife habitats.
Search for any of the Samburu Special Five that you may not have encountered on previous drives. Enjoy more opportunities to photograph elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and the many bird species found in the reserve.
Return to camp for lunch and relaxation.
In the afternoon, enjoy another wildlife excursion or choose an optional visit to a Samburu community village. Learn about local traditions, traditional homes, beadwork, clothing and the community's relationship with the surrounding environment. Cultural visits should be arranged respectfully with the community and agreed fees.
Return to your lodge for dinner and your final night in Samburu.
Accommodation: Selected Samburu safari lodge or camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Wake up early and enjoy a final morning game drive across Samburu National Reserve. Take in the peaceful atmosphere of the northern wilderness and enjoy one last opportunity to photograph its unique wildlife.
Return to the lodge for breakfast, check out and begin your journey back to Nairobi.
Travel through the beautiful landscapes of northern and central Kenya, enjoying scenic views along the way. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable Samburu Special Five Safari.
Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
Included
- 4 nights' accommodation at a selected Samburu safari lodge or camp
- Transport from Nairobi and return in a 4x4 safari Land Cruiser
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Meals on full-board basis during the safari
- Morning and afternoon game drives as outlined in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi
- Vehicle fuel and driver-guide costs
- Assistance with safari arrangements and local activities
Not Included
- Samburu National Reserve entry fees
- Buffalo Springs or Shaba Reserve entry fees, if visited
- Samburu cultural village visit fees
- Alcoholic and additional beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
- International flights and visa costs
Photo Gallery