Safari in Shaba National Reserve

    Safari in Shaba National Reserve

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

    Part of the larger Samburu ecosystem, Shaba is a rugged and dramatic landscape of volcanic cones, riverine forests, and the Ewaso Ng'iro River. It's famous as the setting for Joy Adamson's 'Born Free' sequel and offers sightings of the 'Samburu Special Five'.

    Best timeJuly to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).
    Species
    108
    Big Five
    4/5
    Lodges
    8
    Area
    239.1 km²
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1974

    Shaba National Reserve Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Shaba National Reserve

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Shaba National Reserve

    Sign in to report

    108 species recorded in Shaba National Reserve15 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Shaba National Reserve

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Shaba 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 Shaba for its rugged, untamed beauty and the sense of genuine wilderness it offers, far from the crowds of more famous parks. The Ewaso Ng'iro River is its lifeblood, attracting a unique array of wildlife to its volcanic landscapes, making for truly distinctive sightings. It feels like stepping into a truly wild corner of Kenya, offering a deeply personal safari experience.

    Gate Times

    We find that most reserves in Kenya, including Shaba, operate from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Entry permits are essential and can often be arranged by your lodge or tour operator in advance, which we highly recommend for a smooth entry. There are no significant seasonal variations in gate times, but always confirm with your accommodation.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a valued part of the safari economy. We suggest budgeting around $15-20 per guest per day for your safari guide, given directly at the end of your stay. For general camp staff, a pooled tip of $10-15 per guest per day, placed in a central box, ensures everyone is recognized. Rangers, if they accompany you on specific activities, might receive $5-10 per person per activity.

    Dress Code

    We always advise packing neutral, earthy tones like khaki, olive, and brown to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects. Layers are crucial; mornings and evenings are cool, while midday can be hot. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking are non-negotiable. In camp, smart casual is perfect, but always prioritize comfort.

    Photography

    Shaba offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially with its unique riverine landscapes and the dramatic volcanic backdrop. We recommend a telephoto lens (300mm or more) for wildlife and a wider lens for landscapes. Always respect the animals' space; never use flash photography at night. Drone usage is strictly regulated and generally requires special permits, which we find are rarely granted for casual visitors.

    Etiquette

    Safari etiquette ensures everyone enjoys the wilderness responsibly. We urge guests to keep voices low on game drives and in camp, respecting both wildlife and fellow visitors. Always remain inside your vehicle unless your guide explicitly says it is safe to disembark. Never attempt to feed or approach animals, and follow your guide's instructions at all times. We find that a respectful, quiet approach yields the best wildlife sightings.

    What to Bring

    High-quality binoculars
    Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
    Insect repellent with DEET
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Sunglasses
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
    Small daypack
    Personal first-aid kit (including anti-malarials if prescribed)
    Power bank for charging devices
    Copies of passport and travel documents

    Temperature

    25.16°C

    77°F · Range: 19.11–31.2°C

    Rainfall

    40.6 mm

    Light rain · 5.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    55.1%

    Sunshine

    11.2 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    4.4 m/s

    15.8 km/h

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

    Shaba National Reserve Reviews