Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Adjacent to Samburu and Shaba, this reserve shares similar wildlife, including the 'Samburu Special Five', and is characterized by its springs and doum...

Buffalo Springs National Reserve at a Glance

Location
Samburu & Northern Rangelands, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
0.570998, 37.600300
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
July to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).

Getting to Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Nearest airport: Samburu Airport (UAS), 9 km away.

Nearest international airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), 223 km away.

Big Five in Buffalo Springs National Reserve

5 of the Big Five can be found here: Lion, Leopard, African Buffalo, White Rhinoceros, Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Buffalo Springs National Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Buffalo Springs National Reserve occur in March, averaging 26.8°C (up to 33.2°C). The coolest conditions are in November at 24.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 3.0mm. Average humidity: 47.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.9°C (rainfall: 32.8mm)
  • February: 26.4°C (rainfall: 14.1mm)
  • March: 26.8°C (rainfall: 59.4mm)
  • April: 25.3°C (rainfall: 112.5mm)
  • May: 25.5°C (rainfall: 33.5mm)
  • June: 25.4°C (rainfall: 3.0mm)
  • July: 24.7°C (rainfall: 9.1mm)
  • August: 25.0°C (rainfall: 10.3mm)
  • September: 26.2°C (rainfall: 10.8mm)
  • October: 26.6°C (rainfall: 24.8mm)
  • November: 24.2°C (rainfall: 115.4mm)
  • December: 24.3°C (rainfall: 36.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve

The best months to visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve are January, February, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.89°C, rainfall 32.8mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 54.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.4°C, rainfall 14.1mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 47.7%
  • March: Great, temperature 26.8°C, rainfall 59.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 49.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 25.25°C, rainfall 112.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 64.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 25.46°C, rainfall 33.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 57.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.4°C, rainfall 3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 47.5%
  • July: Great, temperature 24.73°C, rainfall 9.1mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 48.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 25°C, rainfall 10.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 47.8%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.17°C, rainfall 10.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 45.5%
  • October: Great, temperature 26.61°C, rainfall 24.8mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 47.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 24.19°C, rainfall 115.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 65.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.34°C, rainfall 36mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 60.4%

Wildlife in Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Home to 107 recorded species including 40 iconic birds, 25 birds of prey, 17 waterbirds, 6 tropical birds, 5 big five, 5 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Based on average temperature of 25.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 53%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 25°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Buffalo Springs National Reserve

19 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Samburu & Northern Rangelands

Visitor Tips - Buffalo Springs National Reserve

We love Buffalo Springs for its rugged, untamed beauty and the unique opportunity to spot the 'Samburu Special Five' - Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk - often with far fewer vehicles than its more famous neighbour. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is a vital artery here, drawing an incredible array of wildlife, and the sunsets are truly sensational, painting the sky in fiery hues.

Gate Times

The gates to Buffalo Springs National Reserve typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM daily. We always recommend arriving as early as possible to maximize your game viewing opportunities, especially during the cooler morning hours when wildlife is most active. Park permits are mandatory and are usually arranged in advance by your safari operator or can be purchased at the main gate. There are no significant seasonal variations to these times, but always confirm with your lodge or guide.

Tipping

Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service on safari. For your safari guide, we recommend budgeting around $10-20 per person per day, given directly to them at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a communal tip of $5-10 per person per day, placed in a central tip box, is appropriate. If you engage in specific activities with a dedicated ranger, such as a guided walk, a separate tip of $5-10 per person is appreciated. We find it's best to tip in Kenyan Shillings or US Dollars.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya

Buffalo Springs National Reserve FAQs

Considering Buffalo Springs' unique springs and the Ewaso Ng'iro River, when is the optimal time to visit for wildlife viewing and comfortable conditions?

The best time to visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve for prime wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these months, animals congregate around the permanent springs and the Ewaso Ng'iro River, making them easier to spot as vegetation is sparser and water sources are limited elsewhere.

How does Buffalo Springs National Reserve compare to its famous neighbor, Samburu, specifically for spotting the 'Samburu Special Five'?

Buffalo Springs offers excellent opportunities to see the 'Samburu Special Five' (Gerenuk, Grevy's Zebra, Beisa Oryx, Somali Ostrich, and Reticulated Giraffe), often with fewer crowds than Samburu. Its distinct springs and doum palm habitats provide unique viewing backdrops and are crucial attractions for these specialized species, ensuring a high chance of sightings.

Beyond traditional game drives, what unique experiences or features can visitors expect from Buffalo Springs, given its namesake springs and river?

Visitors can enjoy game drives along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, offering chances to see crocodiles and hippos, and observe diverse wildlife congregating at the natural springs. The reserve's unique landscape, characterized by doum palm trees and permanent water sources, provides a distinct photographic backdrop and a sense of tranquility compared to busier parks.

Given its adjacency to Samburu and Shaba, what are the typical entry fees for Buffalo Springs National Reserve, and how is access usually managed when visiting the neighboring reserves?

Entry fees for Buffalo Springs National Reserve are typically around $70-80 USD per adult per 24 hours for non-residents, similar to Samburu. Many safari itineraries combine Buffalo Springs with Samburu and Shaba, often allowing seamless game drives between them as they are part of the same ecosystem, though separate entry fees usually apply for each reserve.

What specific precautions should travelers take regarding the moderate malaria risk in Buffalo Springs, and how does its 3/5 crowding level impact the safari experience?

While Buffalo Springs has a moderate malaria risk, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication and use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk. The reserve's moderate crowding level (3/5) means you can expect a more intimate safari experience compared to busier parks, with good chances of unhurried wildlife sightings and less competition at viewing spots.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Kenya by Lonely Planet - In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson - The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann - International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) - The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.
  • I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann - Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.
  • West with the Night by Beryl Markham - Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.