Frequently Asked Questions about Samburu national reserve : Samburu national reserve is one of the most spectacular Kenya wildlife destinations visited by many tourists a year, while planning a safari to Samburu national reserve there are many questions asked by tourists and below are some of the frequently asked questions.
Samburu national reserve is a renowned safari destination for its Samburu Special Five that are Grevy’s zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk and the Beisa Oryx, these unique wildlife species are only found in Samburu national reserve and can be encountered during game viewing experiences.
Samburu national reserve is also the best locations in Kenya to spot leopards, wild dogs and is a home to about 900 Elephants and large predators such as lions, leopards and cheetahs. One of the famous attractions of the reserve is Kamunyak the famous Lioness that adapted a baby Oryx who is a resident in the reserve.
Samburu as a wildlife eco system comprises of a number of conservancies and group ranches bordering the main reserve susch as the Kalama Conservancy, West Gate Community Conservancy and Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy.
Where is Samburu National Reserve?
The rewarding Samburu national reserve is located in the Northern region of Kenya along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in Kenya, the reserve is situated in the South Eastern corner of Samburu District in the Rift Valley Province.
Size of Samburu National Reserve
Samburu national Reserve stretches over an area of 165 square kilometers bordering the Buffalo Springs and Shaba National reserve, the reserve lies in the semi – desert region with Ewaso Ng’iro River as the permanent source of water feeding the whole ecosystem.
What is the best time to visit Samburu?
Samburu National Reserve is a year round destination that it can be visited anytime of the year and this is due to the ideal climate and abundant resident wildlife which make game viewing excellent, however the best time of the year for game viewing is during the dry season from Late June to October.
In dry season, the vegetation is thinner making spotting of animals easier and they are normally seen congregating at the banks of the Ewaso Ny’iro River – the permanent water source in the region.
Do I need a Visa to enter Kenya?
To visit Samburu national reserve and enter Kenya as a country, you need to have a visa. You are required to present your visa at the main entry points of Kenya such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or along the borders.
Currently, tourists have to obtain the visas via online on the Kenya Visa Official Website – https://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html
Is it safe to visit Samburu?
Samburu national reserve is one of the safest Kenya wildlife destination, generally Kenya as a country is one of the safest nations in East and Central Africa and this is attributed to the country being a host to many global UN bodies, regional Embassies and international companies that have opened their headquarters for the regional in Nairobi.
Most of wildlife safari destination (national parks and reserves) including Samburu national reserve are professionally managed with adequate security in place, also safety in the parks in bolstered and this because they are situated away from urban areas.
In terms of safety from animals and incidents of wildlife attacks on visitors it is very rare, accommodation facilities that is camps and lodges in Samburu national reserve have night guards who patrol the property and keep the vicinity safe.
During the game viewing experience and walking safari adventures in Samburu national reserve, visitors are accompanied and lead by safari driver – guide who will guide on how to approach to the wildlife in the safest way to explore the reserve.
How much is it to enter the Samburu?
Samburu national reserve park fees are currently USD 70 per adult and USD 40 per child for 24 hours, for residents, entry fees are KES 300 per child and students for 24 hours.
Vehicle entry fees
Vehicles with 6 seats and under – KES 400 per 24 hours
Vehicles for 6-12 seats – KES 1000 per 24 hours
Can a child come on a safari?
Yes, a child can come on a safari to Samburu national reserve since there is no age limit, Frequently Asked Questions about Samburu national reserve
What equipment should I bring?
While traveling to Samburu national reserve for a safari, the most important items that you must remember to include in your packing list include
Camera
Binocular
spare memory cards
spare camera battery as
A flash light or a torch.
Is there mobile network coverage at Samburu?
Mobile Network coverage in Samburu national park, SAFARICOM and AIRTEL clearly operate in the reserve. Also some safari lodges and camps have complimentary WI-FI and computer for guests to use.
How many days do you need in Samburu?
To full enjoy a safari to Samburu national reserve, the ideal maximum days for a Samburu safari is 3 days and 2 nights , this gives enough time to explore the reserve and enjoy viewing a variety of wildlife and spectacular sceneries in the reserve.
What activities can I expect to do?
There is a number of activities to do in Samburu national reserve during your Kenya safari and these include
Game Drives
Camel Trekking Safaris
Samburu Village Tours
Nature & Bush Walk
Picnics in the wild
Bush meals and sundowners
