Park Overview

Explore Buffalo Springs, Shaba, and Samburu National Reserves

Nestled in Kenya’s remote and arid northern region, Buffalo Springs, Shaba, and Samburu National Reserves form a contiguous wildlife haven that is rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. Although managed separately, these three reserves share similar ecological features and landscapes—semi-arid savannahs dotted with acacia, doum palm groves, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops.

This unique terrain is home to some of Kenya’s most exceptional and endemic wildlife species, earning the area recognition as a must-visit for seasoned wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and bird watchers. The life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River flows through this ecosystem, attracting large concentrations of animals and offering scenic contrast to the dry land.

Visitors to these reserves are not only treated to phenomenal wildlife viewing but also to meaningful cultural encounters with the Samburu people, semi-nomadic pastoralists known for their rich traditions, vibrant dress, and captivating dances. Witnessing the high-jump dances of the warriors or listening to traditional songs sung by Samburu women adds an unforgettable cultural dimension to your safari experience.

Among the wildlife, you’ll encounter some of the rare and striking species that thrive in these drylands—such as the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, beisa oryx, Gerenuk (the long-necked antelope that stands upright to feed), and Somali ostrich. The landscape also hosts large herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, dik-diks, and more elusive creatures like leopards that are occasionally spotted resting in acacia trees.

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS DESTINATION

+256 779 252 533

info@wildcompassafrica.com

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Safari Activities in the Reserves

Game Drives (Morning & Evening):

Explore the reserves on daily game drives with professional guides who know where to spot elusive predators and unique species. The open savannah and proximity to the Ewaso Nyiro River make game viewing especially rewarding.

Bird Watching:

With over 390 bird species recorded across these three reserves, this region is a paradise for birders. From soaring raptors like the Secretary Bird and Lanner Falcon to vividly colored species like the Golden-breasted Starling and Vulturine Guineafowl, the diversity is staggering.

Cultural Encounters:

Visit nearby Samburu villages for guided cultural tours. Learn about traditional livelihoods, local crafts, storytelling, and dances that offer a deep connection to the communities that share this land with wildlife.

Guided Nature Walks:

Accompanied by local trackers and rangers, explore the terrain on foot for a close-up look at smaller fauna, unique plant species, and the signs left behind by animals.

Photography Safaris:

The dramatic scenery and variety of wildlife—combined with golden light and wide horizons—make this a dream destination for landscape and wildlife photographers.

River Viewing & Bush Meals:

Enjoy picnic lunches, bush breakfasts, or sundowners by the riverbank as elephants, buffalo, and antelope drink nearby—a quintessential African experience.

Bird Species Highlights

  • Bird lovers will be thrilled with the sheer variety, including:
  • Chestnut Weaver
  • Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
  • African Palm Swift
  • Black-faced Sandgrouse
  • Donaldson-Smith’s Sparrow-Weaver
  • Egyptian Vulture
  • Golden Pipit
  • Pink-breasted Lark
  • Somali Bee-eater
  • Von der Decken’s Hornbill
  • Vulturine Guineafowl
  • Secretary Bird
  • Yellow-vented Eremomela
  • And many more...

Best Time to Visit

The dry seasons—from June to October and December to March—are ideal for wildlife viewing. During these months, animals gather around water sources, and the sparse vegetation makes sightings easier.

The wet seasons, especially in April, May, and November, bring heavier rains that can make some roads difficult to navigate and wildlife harder to spot, though the landscape becomes lush and bird activity increases during this time.

More of Kenya Destinations


Meru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park

Aberdare National Park

Amboseli National Park

How to get there

By Air (International Travel):

The main international gateway is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, located about 15 km southeast of the city center. It handles the majority of international flights into Kenya.

Alternatively, Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa serves the coastal region and is a viable entry point for travelers combining beach holidays with safari adventures.

By Air (Domestic Flights):

Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi—just 6 km from the city center—is the hub for domestic and chartered flights to all major safari destinations, including Samburu airstrips.

Many tour operators, including us, arrange private or scheduled flights from Nairobi to airstrips near Buffalo Springs and Samburu.

By Road:

The reserves are approximately 300 km (6–7 hours) by road from Nairobi. While the journey offers scenic views of rural Kenya and the central highlands, road conditions can vary, so 4×4 vehicles are recommended.

Follow us

facebook

instagram

twitter

Get Intouch

info@Wildcompassafrica.com

+256779252533

Contact your Travel Advisor


©2025 Wild Compass Africa | Brand by Robylinks Solutions

TERMS & CONDITIONS TRAVEL BLOG