3-Day Samburu National Reserve safari | see the Samburu special five

Trip Overview

This safari takes you to northern Kenya to visit Samburu National Reserve and the neighboring Buffalo Springs National Reserve – two destinations within the same ecosystem, separated only by the Ewaso Nyiro River. The two reserves share similar wildlife, and many animals move freely between them, so visiting both ensures a more rewarding and diverse safari experience.

Wildlife lovers can look forward to encountering species rarely found in Kenya’s southern reserves. Top of the agenda are the Samburu Special Five: the reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, and Somali ostrich. The big cats — lion, leopard, and cheetah — are also common sightings across both reserves.

The 3-Day trip trip itinerary

Day 1 – Drive to Samburu and afternoon game drive in Buffalo Springs National Reserve

You will be picked from your hotel in Nairobi at 6am and set off toward northern Kenya on a scenic drive through the Aberdare Ranges and Laikipia Plateau, crossing the equator along the way. As you travel north, Mount Kenya will come into view on the horizon.

The drive takes about 5 – 6 hours. On arrival, you will check into your lodge for lunch and some time to relax and freshen up.

In the late afternoon, you will head out for your first game drive in Buffalo Springs National Reserve. The open plains here are one of the best places to spot Grévy’s zebra, and a resident pride of lions is frequently seen in this area. After the game drive, cool off with a swim at the natural Buffalo Springs pools — a perfect way to unwind under the warm northern sun.

Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 2 – Morning Game Drive in Samburu National Reserve & Samburu Cultural Visit

After breakfast at 6am, you will set off for a half-day game drive in Samburu National Reserve, exploring its open plains, rocky gorges, and acacia woodlands in search of the Special Five and other wildlife. You will return to the lodge in time for lunch.

In the afternoon, you will visit a traditional Samburu village to experience the culture of the Samburu people, who have called this semi-arid region home for generations. The visit includes a look at traditional artifacts, beadwork, and homestead life, and a chance to watch — and join in — their vibrant ceremonial dances.

Day 3 – Mt. Ololokwe Viewpoint & Drive Back to Nairobi

After breakfast and checking out, you shall drive north to the Mt. Ololokwe viewpoint — a dramatic flat-topped sacred mountain that rises above the surrounding plains and offers sweeping panoramic views across Samburu. It is a spectacular spot for photographs and a memorable final moment before heading south.

You will then begin the drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the early evening.