Northern Kenya offers much to see in the way of rugged landscapes, rolling hills, valleys and unique wildlife. Samburu is located approximately 220 kilometers from the capital, Nairobi, a 6-hour journey that offers a breathtaking road trip.
After the magnificent Thika Superhighway, the trip is then accentuated by flawless tea plantations with a backdrop of the snow-peaked Mount Kenya in the distance. It then transitions seamlessly into the acacia woodlands and thorny shrubs and anthills typical of Samburu.
While the Kenyan north is often characterized by arid and semi-rapid lands, the people of Samburu have found a delicate balance between the hot climate and the natural gifts the region offers. The Ewaso Ng’iro River, for instance, a vital water source, flows through the county, attracting wildlife and supporting bountiful vegetation.
In this blog post, we will share more incredible places to see and things to do while in Samburu.
Birds of Samburu
Samburu is a paradise for bird lovers with over 350 bird species recorded in the region. The diverse habitats, including riverine forests, acacia woodlands, and open grasslands, attract a wide variety of birdlife.
Birdwatchers can spot species such as the secretary bird, Somali ostrich, vulturine guineafowl, martial eagle, and many more.
Mornings and evenings, in particular, offer the best opportunity for photography when the birds are most active. Some of the best images of birds captured on camera in Africa have a link to Samburu.
The region also serves as a stopover for many migratory bird species. During the months of November to April, you can witness the arrival of these birds from Europe and Asia. They include species like the European roller, pallid harrier, steppe eagle, and various waders.
The presence of migratory birds adds to the diversity and excitement of the birdwatching experience in Samburu.
Cultural Heritage
The Samburu people, the main ethnic group in the region, have maintained their traditional way of life, including their dress, music, dance, and ceremonies. What stands out immediately when you meet them is their colorful beadwork which holds great significance in Samburu culture.
Both men and women wear intricately crafted bead jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The colors and patterns of the beads often carry symbolic meanings, representing aspects such as age, marital status, and social status. Beadwork is also used for ceremonial purposes and as a form of artistic expression.
Visitors to Samburu County have the incredible opportunity to engage with the Samburu people, learn about their customs, and experience their unique traditions. A fascinating display of such culture is evident among the morans, the young men of Samburu. They often wear their hair in long braids usually colored with red ochre. It is then customary to shave the locks off, as a rite of passage, once they become elders.
Game Drives and Safaris
Samburu is a prime location for thrilling game drives and safaris. The Samburu National Reserve and Buffalo Springs are two of the most exciting safari experiences in semi-arid Kenya.
The Ewaso Ng’iro River which passes through both the reserves attracts a wide array of animals, most of which stay on. Our experienced guides and tour operators at Kendirita Tours have taken our visitors on numerous exciting safari adventures to Samburu. We also leverage of wealth of experience to provide insights into the behavior and habitats of the wildlife found here.
Buffalo Springs is particularly famous for its large herds of elephants. It’s quite possible to spot a matriarch drinking in solitude early at dawn. Similarly, during the day, visitors can enjoy boat rides along the Ewaso Ng’iro River or relax on its banks, observing the animals as they come to drink.
Samburu is a testament that arid lands can foster a thriving ecosystem. This region has sustained wildlife and food crops for the people of Samburu for generations. It is also a lovely, calm atmosphere ideal for anyone looking to decompress from the usual demands of everyday life.
We organize safari adventures to Samburu and the entire northern circuit conveniently for all our guests. We look forward to having you on our next safari.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa