3-Day Samburu Safari in Kenya with the Special Five

3 Days Round trip from Nairobi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Discover northern Kenya's unique Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk.
  • 02 Track large elephant herds and big cats along the palm-fringed Ewaso Nyiro River.
  • 03 Relish a scenic full-day game drive with a bush picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve.
  • 04 Experience a thrilling sunrise game drive to view active predators in the cool morning air.
  • 05 Capture stunning photographs of wildlife against dramatic, sun-drenched mountain backdrops.
  • 06 Enjoy rich birdwatching opportunities with over 350 species recorded in the area.
  • 07 Learn about traditional customs, beadwork, and lifestyle on an optional Samburu cultural tour.

Trade the traditional savannahs for the dramatic, sun-drenched landscapes of Samburu National Reserve on this 3-day safari centered along the palm-fringed Ewaso Nyiro River. Come face-to-face with large elephant herds, elusive big cats, and the legendary Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Enjoy thrilling game drives, breathtaking photos against rugged mountain backdrops, and an unforgettable bush picnic in the heart of the wild. It is the ultimate short safari for travelers seeking rich biodiversity, striking scenery, and authentic African wilderness.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Nairobi, Mount Kenya, Samburu
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Nairobi to Samburu via Kenya's Central Highlands

  • Morning: Depart early from Nairobi for a scenic 5- to 6-hour drive north through Kenya's central highlands, passing pineapple plantations and views of Mount Kenya before descending into the arid northern plains of Samburu National Reserve. Alternatively, you may take a 45-minute flight to the local airstrip.

  • Midday: Arrive at your camp or lodge for check-in, enjoy lunch, and relax during the hottest part of the day.

  • Afternoon: Head out on your first game drive along the lifeline Ewaso Nyiro River. Spot wildlife gathering at the water as temperatures cool, including reticulated giraffes, Beisa oryx, and herds of elephants crossing the riverbed.

2
Day 02

Full-Day Safari in Search of the Special Five

  • Morning: Set out on an early morning game drive when predators are most active. Track leopards resting in riverine trees and lions patrolling the open plains while searching for Samburu's

3
Day 03

Final Sunrise Game Drive and Return to Nairobi

  • Morning: Enjoy a final sunrise game drive to spot any remaining wildlife on your checklist, followed by a hearty breakfast back at camp.

  • Afternoon: Check out and begin your return journey south to Nairobi with a lunch stop en route, arriving by late afternoon or early evening.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Nairobi 3 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing

  • Professional, English-speaking driver/safari guide

  • 2 nights' accommodation at your selected lodge or tented camp

  • All meals (breakfast, lunch/picnic lunch, and dinner) as specified in the itinerary

  • Unlimited bottled drinking water during game drives

  • All scheduled game drives and the bush picnic experience

  • Hotel or airport pickup and drop-off in Nairobi

What's Not Included

  • Optional activities (e.g. Samburu cultural village visit, hot air balloon safari)

  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks at the lodge

  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, telephone calls)

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Gratuities/tips for the safari guide and lodge staff

What to bring

  • Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral tones (khaki, tan, green; avoid blue and black, which attract tsetse flies), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a warm fleece or jacket for cool early morning game drives, and comfortable walking shoes.

  • Gear: Binoculars for distant wildlife viewing, a camera with extra batteries and memory cards, and a dust-proof bag to protect electronics on dusty safari roads.

  • Personal Care: High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, personal toiletries, and any personal medications.

  • Travel Documents & Essentials: Passport, yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required), cash (USD printed after 2009 or Kenyan Shillings) for tips and local crafts, and a reusable water bottle.

Know before you go

  • Road Travel Time: The drive from Nairobi takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic. Roads near the reserve can be dusty and bumpy, so a 4x4 safari vehicle is highly recommended.

  • Cash for Extras: Bring cash (Kenyan Shillings or US Dollars printed after 2009) for tipping your guide and camp staff, purchasing local souvenirs, or paying for optional activities, as card readers in remote camps can be unreliable.

  • Arid & Warm Climate: Samburu is hotter and drier than southern Kenya parks like the Maasai Mara. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunblock, and high-SPF sunscreen.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Meet at the hotel lobby
Tour start
Nairobi
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 3 days finish where they began, in Nairobi.

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USD 890 /person
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