The Samburu Game Reserve is one of the more underrated national reserves of Kenya. It is a shame when you consider the idyllic nature of the Ewaso Ng’iro River that passes through. It is precisely because of the river’s presence that lush vegetation and rare wildlife can feel right at home here.
Getting to Samburu
There are two options of starting your Samburu Game Reserve holidays. For one, you can fly straight from Nairobi airport to Oryx Samburu Airstrip – reaching your destination in less than an hour. That also means you might miss the natural Kenyan beauty found on the way here.
Otherwise, if you book a tour or a simple minibus, there’s a breathtaking (if a bit long) five-hour drive from Nairobi straight to the park. You will most likely get there through Isiolo in the south, or through the east, at Archers’ Post.
Accommodation
Samburu Game Reserve accommodation consists of tented lodges with king-sized beds, camps which offer deluxe tents with king-sized down to simple beds for even the most modest of travelers. Samburu cottages are built perfectly in line with nature but also fit for the modern person’s tastes.
One can spend the day in personally guided walks through the reserve, bird-watching and absorbing the natural wonders. Then, after admiring the gorgeous sun set down over the Ewaso Ng’iro River, grab some refreshments at the built-in bars and restaurants.
Otherwise, you are free to have breakfast and dinner in the Samburu bush. All the while observing traditional cultural activities of the Samburu people or shopping at the well-stocked boutiques and souvenir shops. Air-conditioning and Internet access is provided as well. The best part is going on adventurous safaris through the Samburu landscapes.
Samburu Game Reserve Safari Options
We’ve mentioned before that the Ewaso Ng’iro River breathes life into a savannah that would otherwise be much plainer in appearance. Samburu Game Reserve safaris will take you through characteristic acacia forests where reticulated giraffes browse at the leaves.
If you’re lucky – flora enthusiasts have the opportunity to see the famous “desert rose,” Adenium obesum. It can only be found in sub-Saharan Africa and it is a sight to behold. Animal lovers will enjoy seeing lions, leopards, and hyenas looking for prey. Be wary of the crocodiles that lurk through the rivers doing the same!
The other side of the coin includes the waterbuck, Cape buffalo, zebras, gazelles, dik-diks, gerenuks, and the especially rare beisa oryx. Colossal elephants and hippos also enjoy cooling off in the Ewaso River or having mud baths nearby.
Ultimately, Samburu Game Reserve offers plenty of opportunities to relax, fill your phone or camera with spectacular photos, and your mind with pleasant memories of Africa.