Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful and remote safari destinations in Kenya, perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Located to the north of Mount Kenya, this 165km² reserve is a semi-arid wilderness, with vast acacia-dotted plains, rocky outcrops, and distinctive sacred mountains.

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More About the Samburu National Reserve

Here, visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and rarer species not found elsewhere in Africa. The Ewaso Nyiro river, which flows through the park, is the life source of Samburu National Reserve, sustaining the wildlife and people who live here. The river is a focal landmark of the reserve, and its banks are lined with riverine forest and palm trees. Spotting wildlife is easier during the dry season, when animals gather near the riverbanks to be close to water. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options, including excellent safari lodges and tented camps suitable for all budgets. A tailor-made safari holiday in Samburu National Reserve is a unique experience that promises exceptional game viewing and the chance to immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of northern Kenya.

Wildlife in the Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the heart of Kenya's northern frontier. Known for its unique landscape and diverse wildlife, Samburu is a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast. Visitors can expect to see an incredible array of mammal and bird species while on safari.

One of the most iconic mammals found in Samburu is the African elephant. These majestic animals can be spotted in large numbers, wandering through the savannah grasslands and acacia forests. In addition to the elephants, Samburu is also home to several other species of mammals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and buffalo.

Samburu National Reserve is also known for its impressive bird species. With over 450 species of birds, Samburu is a bird watcher's paradise. Visitors can expect to see a variety of raptors, including the African Fish Eagle, the Martial Eagle, and the Bateleur Eagle. Other notable bird species found in Samburu include the Kori Bustard, the Somali Ostrich, and the Vulturine Guinea Fowl.

The reserve's stunning landscapes provide a habitat for several other mammal species, including giraffes, zebras, oryx, and gazelles. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives, nature walks, and cultural visits to nearby Samburu villages to learn more about the local culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit

Samburu National Reserve is a popular destination for safari enthusiasts who want to experience Kenya's incredible wildlife. To make the most of your safari adventure, it's important to consider the best time of year to visit.

The best time to visit Samburu National Reserve is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. The dry season is also a great time to see animals gathering around water sources, making it an ideal time for game viewing.

Additionally, the weather during the dry season is usually pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. However, it's worth noting that the dry season is also the peak season for tourism, which means that the park can be crowded, and the rates for accommodations may be higher.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the months of January to March and November to December can be a good time to visit Samburu National Reserve. These periods are during the shoulder seasons when the crowds are fewer, and the rates for accommodations may be lower. However, it's important to note that the weather during these periods can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers.

It's also worth considering that different wildlife species may be more active during different seasons. For instance, the dry season is a great time to see elephants, lions, and leopards, while the wet season from November to May is the best time to see migratory birds.

A Month-by-Month Guide to Weather

January:

This is a dry and hot month with an average high temperature of 33°C (91°F) and a low of 21°C (70°F). Average rainfall is 9mm with only 1-2 rainy days.

February:

Similar to January, February is also dry and hot with an average high temperature of 34°C (93°F) and a low of 21°C (70°F). Average rainfall is 10mm with only 1-2 rainy days.

March:

This month is still hot but temperatures begin to decrease towards the end of the month. The average high temperature is 33°C (91°F) and the low is 21°C (70°F). Average rainfall is 35mm with around 4-5 rainy days.

April:

This is the start of the long rainy season with the average high temperature of 32°C (90°F) and a low of 20°C (68°F). Average rainfall is 80mm with around 10-11 rainy days.

May:

This month is still part of the long rainy season and the temperatures begin to decrease further with the average high temperature of 30°C (86°F) and a low of 19°C (66°F). Average rainfall is 90mm with around 10-11 rainy days.

June:

This is the start of the dry season and temperatures continue to decrease with the average high temperature of 29°C (84°F) and a low of 17°C (63°F). Average rainfall is 50mm with around 7-8 rainy days.

July:

This month is the coolest month of the year with an average high temperature of 28°C (82°F) and a low of 16°C (61°F). Average rainfall is 20mm with around 3-4 rainy days.

August:

This is still a cool month with the average high temperature of 29°C (84°F) and a low of 16°C (61°F). Average rainfall is 20mm with around 3-4 rainy days.

September:

This month is the start of the short rainy season with an average high temperature of 31°C (88°F) and a low of 18°C (64°F). Average rainfall is 40mm with around 5-6 rainy days.

October:

This is still part of the short rainy season with the average high temperature of 32°C (90°F) and a low of 19°C (66°F). Average rainfall is 40mm with around 5-6 rainy days.

November:

This month marks the end of the short rainy season with an average high temperature of 33°C (91°F) and a low of 21°C (70°F). Average rainfall is 25mm with around 3-4 rainy days.

December:

This is the start of the hot and dry season with the average high temperature of 33°C (91°F) and a low of 21°C (70°F). Average rainfall is 10mm with only 1-2 rainy days.

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