Samburu National Park
Reflecting on my Kenyan adventure, I realize that sometimes it’s essential to go with the flow and let things unfold naturally. My spontaneous trip to Kenya in August exceeded all expectations, thanks to a well-crafted itinerary by a local Kenyan expert.
Among the many breathtaking experiences, Samburu National Game Reserve stands out as the highlight of my trip. Located approximately 350 km from Nairobi, the reserve is a hidden gem that surpassed my expectations.
The five-hour drive from Nairobi flew by, with the scenic Kenyan countryside unfolding outside my window.
A Heaven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Located 350 km from Nairobi, Samburu National Park is etched in my heart and memory forever. As I entered the reserve, the gate adorned with majestic heads and horns of its inhabitants set the tone for an unforgettable experience.
Five compelling reasons drew me to Samburu National Park:
- Unique Wildlife Encounters
- Breathtaking Landscapes
- Rich Cultural Heritage
- Expert Guides and Local Insights
- Unspoiled Natural Beauty
As far as l can see, my eyes meet stunning blue skies, copper-colored land dotted with scrubby acacia trees, and dried river beds dotted with boulders and doum palms.
The four-wheel, drive us along the Ewaso Ngir’o River. We scan 360 degrees to take in the stunning landscape eager to gulp it all.
The Big Five of Samburu National Park
Excited about the big five of Samburu National Park? These endemic animals of this stunning and self-sustaining ecosystem made us stay longer in the game drive than we should have. We lost track of time, as we immersed ourselves in the surroundings.
Our first sighting of a leopard cub on a dry river bed was just the beginning. The next few days were a plethora of moments, each better than the other.
SAMBURU is full of unique and endangered species rarely found elsewhere in Kenya.
Encounters with Rare Species
- Reticulated Giraffe: Not one, two, or three, but in a group, each giving a pose.
- Somali Ostrich: A direct glimpse of its tussle with a leopard.
- Gerenuk: Photogenic and a sheer delight to capture.
- Oryx: Handsome with the most velvety skin.
- Beisa: A tick on our list.
- Grevy’s Zebra: Hordes of them Grazing peacefully.
ORYNX
A Bird-Watcher’s Paradise
The picturesque landscape, the equatorial weather, and the Ewaso Ngir’o flowing through the park, against the dry soil shining in between the scrubby golden grass, with freely moving godly creatures is heartwarming.
With over 350 species of birds, Samburu National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. We spotted and clicked pictures of the Bastad, Black Heron, and many more.
The color of each is so eye-catching and out of your dreams. The fantastic variety of birds that the SAMBARU National Reserve holds is one of my reasons to visit.
The beautiful feathered creature. A Vacation in the True Sense
Samburu National Park is rarely chosen over other Kenyan attractions, making it relatively crowd-free. This allowed us to spend exclusive time with the animals and connect with ourselves.
As the sun goes down on the vast horizon of the Samburu National Reserve expanse the hidden camps in the arid wilderness twinkle with tiny lights, the only sign of habitat.
A Vacation in True Sense
The parks are too isolated to have an internet connection, and you can connect with the world only once back in the camp, making the experience serenely quiet. Dive into the surroundings, appreciate the landscape, be grateful for a close tete-a-tete with the unseen, and primarily be with yourself, though being amidst all. It’s a time to connect with yourself.
Reticulated Giraffe
Luxury in the Wild, Eco-Friendly Style
Hidden in the wilderness with the local tribes as workmen, these lodges are the epitome of sustainability and preservation of the resources yet offer the latest luxury. Samburu hosts the most eco-friendly lodges, hidden with camouflaged structures and colors. With utmost hospitality and luxury
Community building with the local tribes
The Tribe
The SAMBARU tribe wears bright-colored outfits with colorful beaded jewelry. They are nomadic, pastor-friendly tribes that follow the region’s rain pattern. Deeply interwoven with the natural surroundings they believe and live with a belief that all that they get from nature must go back to nature.
Conclusion
Visiting the Samburu National Reserve was and will always be a must-visit place on my list every time I visit Kenya. This is perfect for those seeking quiet vacations and still wanting to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Samburu National Park has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible destination.
Somalian Ostrich