Safari in Samburu National Reserve

    Safari in Samburu National Reserve

    14 safari lodges
    Samburu & Northern Rangelands, Kenya
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Known for its unique 'Samburu Special Five' (Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk) found only in northern Kenya. The Ewaso Ng'iro River attracts a high concentration of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards.

    Best timeJuly to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).
    Species
    109
    Big Five
    5/5
    Lodges
    14
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Samburu National Reserve Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    Samburu National Reserve is home to all of Africa's Big Five

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Samburu National Reserve

    Sign in to report

    109 species recorded in Samburu National Reserve16 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Samburu National Reserve

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Samburu National Reserve

    Kenya is a safari powerhouse, and we believe there's never a bad time to visit, but timing can enhance your experience. For the iconic Great Migration river crossings, we love June through September,...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with cooler evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for exploring.

    Predator activity is high as they take advantage of the dry conditions. Birding is good, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies and excellent game viewing this month, perfect for photographers.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and warm, with temperatures often peaking. Water sources are scarce, concentrating wildlife.

    Calving season begins in the southern Masai Mara, attracting predators. It's a fantastic time for lion and cheetah sightings.

    We recommend heading south in the Masai Mara to witness the dramatic start of the calving season.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    March

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry spell continues, though the first short rains might begin towards the end of the month.

    The migration is usually still in the southern Mara plains, with excellent predator action. Birding is improving.

    We find March offers a great balance of wildlife viewing and fewer crowds before the rains arrive.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Shaba National Reserve

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy, often afternoon, downpours. Landscapes turn lush and green.

    Wildlife disperses as water is plentiful. Game viewing can be challenging due to wet conditions, but birding is excellent.

    We enjoy the dramatic skies and the vibrant green scenery, though game drives require flexibility.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall usually decreases but can still be significant. The landscape is at its most verdant.

    The migration is typically in the western or central Mara. Birding remains superb, with resident and migratory species.

    We love the quiet tranquility and the photographic opportunities presented by the lush, green environment.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Meru National Park

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    The rains taper off, leading to cooler temperatures and clear skies. The landscape is still very green.

    The Great Migration begins its dramatic river crossings in the Mara. Predator sightings are excellent.

    We consider June one of the best months for witnessing the iconic Mara River crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    July

    peak

    Green Season

    Cooler temperatures and dry conditions prevail. The landscape is drying out but still retains some green.

    The Great Migration is in full swing, with daily river crossings a highlight. Predator action is intense.

    We find July offers unparalleled wildlife drama with the peak of the migration and its river crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    August

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and cool, with sunny days. This is peak safari season for many.

    The migration continues its northern journey, with river crossings still possible. Excellent general game viewing.

    We recommend August for its reliable game viewing and the chance to see the migration in its full glory.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park

    September

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and pleasant, with temperatures warming slightly. The landscape starts to show signs of the coming dry season.

    The migration begins to move south, but river crossings can still occur. Predator-prey interactions remain high.

    We love September for the continued excellent game viewing and the chance to catch the tail end of the migration.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Meru National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains usually begin this month, bringing brief, localized showers. Temperatures are warm.

    Wildlife begins to spread out again. Birding is excellent as migratory species arrive. Predator activity is still good.

    We find October offers a great opportunity for birdwatching and often fewer crowds than the peak months.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains can be unpredictable, with showers often occurring in the afternoon. Landscapes become greener.

    Wildlife is dispersed but accessible. The arrival of resident birds and the start of breeding plumage make for great birding.

    We appreciate the fresh green landscapes and the excellent birding opportunities this month.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end, leading to warmer, dry conditions. Expect sunny days and pleasant evenings.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources, making for good viewing. The migration is usually back in the southern Mara.

    We recommend December for its classic dry season game viewing and the festive atmosphere.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with cooler evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for exploring.

    Predator activity is high as they take advantage of the dry conditions. Birding is good, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies and excellent game viewing this month, perfect for photographers.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and warm, with temperatures often peaking. Water sources are scarce, concentrating wildlife.

    Calving season begins in the southern Masai Mara, attracting predators. It's a fantastic time for lion and cheetah sightings.

    We recommend heading south in the Masai Mara to witness the dramatic start of the calving season.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    March

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry spell continues, though the first short rains might begin towards the end of the month.

    The migration is usually still in the southern Mara plains, with excellent predator action. Birding is improving.

    We find March offers a great balance of wildlife viewing and fewer crowds before the rains arrive.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Shaba National Reserve

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy, often afternoon, downpours. Landscapes turn lush and green.

    Wildlife disperses as water is plentiful. Game viewing can be challenging due to wet conditions, but birding is excellent.

    We enjoy the dramatic skies and the vibrant green scenery, though game drives require flexibility.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall usually decreases but can still be significant. The landscape is at its most verdant.

    The migration is typically in the western or central Mara. Birding remains superb, with resident and migratory species.

    We love the quiet tranquility and the photographic opportunities presented by the lush, green environment.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Meru National Park

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    The rains taper off, leading to cooler temperatures and clear skies. The landscape is still very green.

    The Great Migration begins its dramatic river crossings in the Mara. Predator sightings are excellent.

    We consider June one of the best months for witnessing the iconic Mara River crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    July

    peak

    Green Season

    Cooler temperatures and dry conditions prevail. The landscape is drying out but still retains some green.

    The Great Migration is in full swing, with daily river crossings a highlight. Predator action is intense.

    We find July offers unparalleled wildlife drama with the peak of the migration and its river crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    August

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and cool, with sunny days. This is peak safari season for many.

    The migration continues its northern journey, with river crossings still possible. Excellent general game viewing.

    We recommend August for its reliable game viewing and the chance to see the migration in its full glory.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park

    September

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and pleasant, with temperatures warming slightly. The landscape starts to show signs of the coming dry season.

    The migration begins to move south, but river crossings can still occur. Predator-prey interactions remain high.

    We love September for the continued excellent game viewing and the chance to catch the tail end of the migration.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Meru National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains usually begin this month, bringing brief, localized showers. Temperatures are warm.

    Wildlife begins to spread out again. Birding is excellent as migratory species arrive. Predator activity is still good.

    We find October offers a great opportunity for birdwatching and often fewer crowds than the peak months.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains can be unpredictable, with showers often occurring in the afternoon. Landscapes become greener.

    Wildlife is dispersed but accessible. The arrival of resident birds and the start of breeding plumage make for great birding.

    We appreciate the fresh green landscapes and the excellent birding opportunities this month.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end, leading to warmer, dry conditions. Expect sunny days and pleasant evenings.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources, making for good viewing. The migration is usually back in the southern Mara.

    We recommend December for its classic dry season game viewing and the festive atmosphere.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with cooler evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for exploring.

    Predator activity is high as they take advantage of the dry conditions. Birding is good, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies and excellent game viewing this month, perfect for photographers.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and warm, with temperatures often peaking. Water sources are scarce, concentrating wildlife.

    Calving season begins in the southern Masai Mara, attracting predators. It's a fantastic time for lion and cheetah sightings.

    We recommend heading south in the Masai Mara to witness the dramatic start of the calving season.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    March

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry spell continues, though the first short rains might begin towards the end of the month.

    The migration is usually still in the southern Mara plains, with excellent predator action. Birding is improving.

    We find March offers a great balance of wildlife viewing and fewer crowds before the rains arrive.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Shaba National Reserve

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy, often afternoon, downpours. Landscapes turn lush and green.

    Wildlife disperses as water is plentiful. Game viewing can be challenging due to wet conditions, but birding is excellent.

    We enjoy the dramatic skies and the vibrant green scenery, though game drives require flexibility.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall usually decreases but can still be significant. The landscape is at its most verdant.

    The migration is typically in the western or central Mara. Birding remains superb, with resident and migratory species.

    We love the quiet tranquility and the photographic opportunities presented by the lush, green environment.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Meru National Park

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    The rains taper off, leading to cooler temperatures and clear skies. The landscape is still very green.

    The Great Migration begins its dramatic river crossings in the Mara. Predator sightings are excellent.

    We consider June one of the best months for witnessing the iconic Mara River crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve

    July

    peak

    Green Season

    Cooler temperatures and dry conditions prevail. The landscape is drying out but still retains some green.

    The Great Migration is in full swing, with daily river crossings a highlight. Predator action is intense.

    We find July offers unparalleled wildlife drama with the peak of the migration and its river crossings.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    August

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and cool, with sunny days. This is peak safari season for many.

    The migration continues its northern journey, with river crossings still possible. Excellent general game viewing.

    We recommend August for its reliable game viewing and the chance to see the migration in its full glory.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Tsavo West National Park

    September

    peak

    Green Season

    Dry and pleasant, with temperatures warming slightly. The landscape starts to show signs of the coming dry season.

    The migration begins to move south, but river crossings can still occur. Predator-prey interactions remain high.

    We love September for the continued excellent game viewing and the chance to catch the tail end of the migration.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Meru National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains usually begin this month, bringing brief, localized showers. Temperatures are warm.

    Wildlife begins to spread out again. Birding is excellent as migratory species arrive. Predator activity is still good.

    We find October offers a great opportunity for birdwatching and often fewer crowds than the peak months.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Samburu National Reserve
    Lake Nakuru National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains can be unpredictable, with showers often occurring in the afternoon. Landscapes become greener.

    Wildlife is dispersed but accessible. The arrival of resident birds and the start of breeding plumage make for great birding.

    We appreciate the fresh green landscapes and the excellent birding opportunities this month.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Tsavo East National Park
    Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    December

    high

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end, leading to warmer, dry conditions. Expect sunny days and pleasant evenings.

    Wildlife congregates around water sources, making for good viewing. The migration is usually back in the southern Mara.

    We recommend December for its classic dry season game viewing and the festive atmosphere.

    Masai Mara National Reserve
    Amboseli National Park
    Samburu National Reserve
    Planning & reference

    We love Samburu for its rugged, untamed beauty and the distinct 'Samburu Five' species you won't easily find elsewhere. The Ewaso Ng'iro River, a lifeline in this arid landscape, creates a vibrant ecosystem, and the sunsets here are truly sensational, painting the sky in fiery hues. Visiting Samburu feels wild and timeless, offering an authentic, less crowded safari experience that we find incredibly rewarding.

    Gate Times

    Samburu National Reserve gates typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM daily. We recommend arriving early for the best morning game viewing. Park entry requires a KWS smart card or M-Pesa payment; cash is not accepted at the gates. It is always wise to pre-book your accommodation and confirm any specific lodge-related entry procedures, as some camps have private access points. There are no significant seasonal variations in gate times, but always check for public holiday adjustments.

    Tipping

    Tipping is an important part of the safari economy. For your safari guide, we recommend $10-20 per person per day, given directly at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a communal tip box is often available, and we suggest $5-10 per person per day. This is usually distributed among housekeepers, waiters, and other support staff. If you receive exceptional service from a specific individual, a direct tip is also appreciated. Tipping rangers is not customary unless they provide a specific, extra service, such as an armed escort for a bush walk.

    Dress Code

    We recommend dressing in layers, as mornings can be quite cool and midday temperatures in Samburu are often hot and dry. Neutral colours like khaki, olive green, brown, and grey are best for game drives, helping you blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are practical for sun protection and mosquito prevention, especially in the evenings. For walking safaris, sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential. In camp, comfortable, relaxed clothing is perfect; evenings can be surprisingly chilly, so a fleece or light jacket is a must-pack item.

    Photography

    Samburu offers sensational photographic opportunities, particularly with its unique 'Samburu Five' species. We recommend a camera with a good zoom lens (300mm or more) and a beanbag for stability on game drives. Early mornings and late afternoons provide that magical golden hour light. Drones are strictly prohibited within the reserve without prior, specific KWS permits, which are rarely granted for recreational use. Always respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and never using flash photography at night, as it can disturb nocturnal animals.

    Etiquette

    Safari etiquette is crucial for a respectful and enjoyable experience. On game drives, we insist on keeping noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. Always remain inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly instructs you otherwise for safety reasons. Never feed animals or attempt to interact with them; they are wild and unpredictable. In camp, be mindful of other guests' privacy and quiet enjoyment, especially during early mornings and late evenings. We believe in leaving no trace, so all litter must be carried out of the reserve.

    What to Bring

    High-quality binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
    Camera with a long lens and extra batteries
    Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
    High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
    A warm fleece or jacket for cool mornings and evenings
    Small backpack for day trips
    Personal first-aid kit, including anti-malarials (moderate risk area)
    Power bank or portable charger
    Small denominations of US dollars or Kenyan Shillings for tips and local purchases

    Temperature

    24.81°C

    77°F · Range: 18.74–30.96°C

    Rainfall

    30.2 mm

    Light rain · 5.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    54.6%

    Sunshine

    11.1 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.81 m/s

    17.3 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Samburu National Reserve Reviews