Samburu, Buffalo Springs, Shaba
Samburu National Reserve is located 325 km north of Nairobi on the edge of the hot and arid northern region of Kenya. In addition to the rugged splendour of the landscape, it is a region where nomadic tribes such as the colourful Samburu people have changed little over the centuries. Covering an area of 104 km2, the reserve is home to a number of northern species such as the Grevy’s zebra with their characteristic close stripes and large bunny-like ears, reticulated giraffe and the Beisa oryx, all species which are only found north of the equator and are rarely seen in other parts of Africa. Another of the northern species is the gerenuk, a graceful antelope with a characteristic long-neck and normally seen standing on it’s hind feet feeding on bushes and small trees. Predators include lion, cheetah and the elusive leopard, which can sometimes be sighted on rocky outcrops. The Ewaso Ngiro River runs through the reserve and supports sleepy crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbanks, their jaws wide open ready to strike with lightning speed at unsuspecting prey. As the sun gets hotter large herds of elephant slowly and silently make their way down to the river to drink and bathe. The river is lined with giant acacias, figs and doum palms, all of which not only lead to stunning scenery but also provide welcome shade and a food source for the wildlife population. Bird life is both prolific and colourful, with perhaps the most impressive sight being immense flocks of Helmeted and Vulturine guinea-fowl, with their white-streaked necks and brilliant blue under parts.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is situated across the river from the Samburu Reserve and takes it’s name from an oasis of crystal clear water at the eastern end of the reserve. In addition to the wildlife seen in Samburu, the common zebra is also seen grazing alongside its cousin the Grevy zebra, although they do not interbreed. Birdlife is also prolific here. Of particular interest is the Somali ostrich, larger than its southern relative the Maasai ostrich and more easily distinguished by its indigo legs and neck. The kori bustard is commonly seen and a particularly impressive sight is the male with his remarkable display, inflating his neck feathers until the head seems to disappear and then raising his tail until it lies along his back.
Shaba National Reserve is a 220 km2 reserve which lies east of the road between Isiolo and Marsabit and takes its name from a massive cone of volcanic rock which dominates the region. The Ewaso Ngiro river forms the northern boundary of the reserve and the rugged landscape is dotted with small hills, rocky outcrops and doum palms which mark the course of the river. Although there is a chance of seeing many of the mammals and birdlife frequently seen in Samburu and Buffalo Springs, the real attraction of Shaba is the breath-taking scenery and the opportunity to truly experience the wilderness of this area in peace and tranquility.
Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves can be reached by road (approximately 6 hours) or air (1 hour). There are scheduled flights twice daily from Wilson Airport Nairobi to Samburu, or private charter planes.
