WHERE IS SAMBURU?
Samburu National Reserve in Kenya is a game reserve on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river. On the other side of the river is the Buffalo Springs National Reserve. The park is 165 km² in size and is situated 350 kilometers from Nairobi.
How to get to Samburu?
The flight from Nairobi was approximately 1,5 hour and was priced at $250 return per person. You can book flights with The Safari Link which is the main flight operator and connects various safari spots from Wilson airport in Nairobi. The route is incredibly scenic and as you land, you will see herds of elephants and zebras!
WHY CHOOSING SAMBURU FOR A SAFARI?
I’ve seen many people visiting Masai Mara, as it’s more developed, touristic, there are more accommodation options and for the same reason as Samburu- it’s very diverse in terms of wildlife. As I always seek less popular roads, I decided to take a bit longer domestic flight and fly to Samburu. I was intrigued by its rich culture, local traditions and the beauty of the vast landscapes.
To me the Samburu National Reserve seemed a more authentic experience than you can have in the most touristy spots, like Masai Mara. If you’re dreaming of exploring untouched plains while spotting rarest animals and avoiding tourist traps, Samburu is a place for you.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAMBURU?
Although a Samburu safari takes you into pristine wilderness away from the city life, you can still enjoy the many qualities of a luxurious accommodation in such a remote location. Samburu has many incredible tented camps and lodges, located in distinct areas of the reserve.
During my trip to Samburu, I chose to stay in the Sasaab Lodge. Click HERE to read more about this incredible high-end safari camp.
Depending on your trip budget, here is a list of other incredible lodges that you can book in Samburu:
- Saruni Samburu – six luxury eco-chic villas that are open and spacious, each heralding spectacular views over the Kalama Conservancy and Mount Kenya
- Larsens Tented Camp – A collection of exclusive and private tents located on the brink of the Ewaso Nyiro River
- Elephant Bedroom Camp – This rustic, yet stylish lodge provides extraordinary encounters with wildlife before you even head off on safari!
- Elephant Watch Camp – An ultimate eco-luxury lodge that guarantees an unrivalled wildlife experience. The lodge is a pioneer in elephant conservation in Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve.
- Samburu Simba Lodge – A mid-budget lodge overlooking the Buffalo springs and the Uaso Nyiro River.
- Sarara Camp – An unique conservation & ecotourism hotel, driven by the indigenous Samburu people of Northern Kenya.
SAFARI EXPERIENCE IN SAMBURU
During our stay we went on several game drives and visited the local village. Although we only came here for 2 nights/3 days, we felt like we had enough time to experience the best of this part of Kenya. The entire safari felt very private as we encountered only a few other tourists on our way. It would probably be slightly different if we decided to visit Masai Mara instead. Jacob, who was our designated driver and guide, was well-informed about the area. He could hear the animals in the distance and take us in the right direction so we could see them. Spotting lions is not usually easy, but he gave us plenty opportunities to see them in groups. Such a beautiful and scary experience!
When we first encountered lions I was terrified as we were traveling in an open car and the animals were coming very close. Although the babies looked really cute and innocent, mama lion seemed incredibly scary! I trusted our guide and I knew what he was doing, so that made me feel calm and relaxed. He could easily tell that the animals are fed and that we aren’t in danger while approaching them.
It only took us a few hours to spot the Big Five of Samburu – the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich and beisa oryx. The best thing about our safari here was that we didn’t have to drive for hours to see the best of local wildlife. The moment we touched down, we saw the zebras, giraffes and elephants crossing the airstrip!
THE PEOPLE OF SAMBURU
The Samburu, just like the Maasai, are semi-nomadic. Considering that the Samburu area is mostly a dry barren land, the locals have to relocate to fresh grazing grounds to maintain the food supplies. They live in the huts made of mud, sticks and grass. The fence which boarders the settlement protects the tribe from wild animals. The Samburu people feel strong bound between the family members and they live in groups of 5-10 people per small hut. Traditionally Samburu men look after their cattle and they are also responsible for the overall safety of the tribe. Samburu women are responsible for gathering vegetables and roots, caring for their children and collecting water.
TRADITIONS AND CUSTOMS OF SAMBURU TRIBE
Although your first impression may be that The Samburu are just a colourfully-dressed tribe (which is nothing but true!) they value old customs and traditions, among which are circumcision and sharing prey’s meat with lions. Once a Samburu boy has been circumcised he is now considered a Moran ( warrior). The men are placed into age sets and as a group move from one social position to another- from child to Moran, to junior elder and finally to elder.
The traditional dress of the Samburu tribe is a bright red cloth. Tribe members wrap it like a skirt and a pair it with a white cloth which serves as an off-the-shoulder top. The colourful beaded earrings, bracelets, anklets and necklaces complete the traditional look. Each piece of jewellery worn represents the status of the person wearing it.
Dancing is the big part of Samburu tradition. Men, alike Masai, stand in a circle and jump high while singing.
