The Best Samburu National Reserve Tour in Kenya You Should Visit with Cost/Price in 2025-2026 | Kenya Safari Tour

Embark on an exclusive adventure to Samburu National Reserve, a remote 165 km² wilderness in northern Kenya, famous for its unique species like Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Ideal for off-the-beaten-path safaris, this reserve, 350 km from Nairobi, offers an intimate wildlife experience along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. Our 2025-2026 tours, starting at $250 per person per day, provide expert-guided game drives and cultural encounters, perfect for travelers seeking a less-crowded safari.

Samburu National Reserve Tour Highlights

Samburu National Reserve Overview

Samburu National Reserve, located in Samburu County, Kenya, spans 165 square kilometers along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. Established in 1985, it attracts around 20,000 visitors annually, per *Kenya Wildlife Service*. Renowned for its unique “Samburu Special Five”—Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and reticulated giraffe—the reserve offers a distinct safari experience. Its semi-arid landscape, 350 km north of Nairobi (5-6 hour drive or 1-hour flight), hosts 70 mammal species, including elephants and leopards, and over 450 bird species. The reserve’s remoteness and proximity to Buffalo Springs and Shaba Reserves make it ideal for off-the-beaten-path safaris, with cultural interactions among the Samburu people adding depth.

The Price/Cost for Samburu National Reserve Tour

For 2025-2026, Samburu National Reserve tour prices range from $250 to $900 per person per day, depending on accommodation, season, and itinerary. Budget safaris with campsites or basic lodges start at $250-$400 per day, while mid-range lodges like Samburu Simba Lodge cost $400-$600. Luxury options, such as Saruni Samburu, range from $600-$900 per day. Prices include game drives, park fees ($70/day), meals, and guides, with group tours offering cost savings.

Booking Details

Book "The Best Samburu National Reserve Tour in Kenya" via email at jaynevytours@gmail.com or WhatsApp at +255 678 992 599.

Samburu National Reserve Map

Explore the layout of Samburu National Reserve with the map below, highlighting key areas like the Ewaso Ng’iro River and prime wildlife viewing spots.

Samburu National Reserve Map

Accommodation in Samburu National Reserve

Samburu offers a range of accommodations for all budgets. Luxury lodges like Saruni Samburu and Elephant Bedroom Camp, starting at $600 per night, provide exclusive amenities and river views. Mid-range options, such as Samburu Simba Lodge and Ashnil Samburu Camp, cost $200-$400 per night, offering comfort and proximity to game drives. Budget travelers can choose public campsites like Riverside Camp or KWS bandas, priced at $30-$100 per night. Most lodges are within the reserve, ensuring easy access to wildlife areas.

Activities/Places/Things to Do in Samburu National Reserve

Game Drives

Morning and evening game drives in 4x4 vehicles, included in tour packages starting at $250 per day, last 3-4 hours. Spot the Samburu Special Five, lions, and elephants along the river, with expert guides enhancing sightings.

Bird Watching

With over 450 bird species, including vulturine guineafowl and palm-nut vulture, Samburu is a birding paradise. Guided bird watching tours, costing $40-$80 for 2-3 hours, focus on riverine and acacia habitats.

Cultural Visits

Visit Samburu villages to learn about their traditions and beadwork. Guided cultural tours, priced at $30-$60 per person for 1-2 hours, offer authentic interactions, often combined with game drives.

Walking Safaris

Guided walking safaris, led by armed rangers, explore riverbanks and savannahs. Lasting 2-3 hours and costing $50-$100 per person, these walks provide close encounters with smaller wildlife and tracks.

Photography Safaris

Specialized photography safaris, costing $300-$500 per day, provide vehicles and guides for capturing unique species and dramatic landscapes, ideal for professionals and enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Samburu National Reserve

What is Samburu National Reserve famous for?

Samburu National Reserve is famous for its unique species, including Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and reticulated giraffe.

What are the Samburu National Reserve entrance fees?

Entrance fees for 2025-2026 are approximately $70 per person per day for non-residents, payable via eCitizen.

Where is Samburu National Reserve located?

The reserve is in Samburu County, about 350 km north of Nairobi, a 5-6 hour drive or 1-hour flight.

What are the best accommodations in Samburu National Reserve?

Top options include Saruni Samburu, Samburu Simba Lodge, Ashnil Samburu Camp, and budget campsites like Riverside Camp.

What animals can I see in Samburu National Reserve?

You can see the Samburu Special Five, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and over 450 bird species.

What is the cost of a Samburu National Reserve safari tour?

Costs range from $250-$900 per person per day, depending on accommodation, season, and itinerary length.

Is Samburu National Reserve good for off-the-beaten-path safaris?

Yes, its remote location and unique wildlife make it perfect for exclusive, less-crowded safari experiences.

What is the best time to visit Samburu National Reserve?

The dry seasons, July to October and January to February, offer the best wildlife viewing conditions.

How far is Samburu National Reserve from Nairobi?

It’s approximately 350 km from Nairobi, accessible by a 5-6 hour drive or a 1-hour flight to Samburu Airstrip.

Can I visit Samburu villages during a safari?

Yes, guided cultural visits to Samburu villages are available, offering insights into local traditions.

What should I pack for a Samburu safari?

Pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, and comfortable shoes.

Are there flights to Samburu National Reserve?

Yes, daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Samburu Airstrip take about 1 hour, often included in tour packages.

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