Best TimeJune to September and January to February
Highly RecommendedNational ReserveNorthern Kenya
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
A quieter northern reserve adjoining Samburu, known for elephants, leopards, arid scenery and northern Kenya’s specialist wildlife.
High SeasonDecember to March and July to October
Size131 km² / 51 mi²
Altitude835-994 m / 2,740-3,261 ft
Why visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve?
Buffalo Springs lies south of the Ewaso Nyiro River opposite Samburu National Reserve and shares the same northern ecosystem. It delivers strong wildlife viewing with fewer vehicles, making it a rewarding choice for travellers who want Samburu-style wildlife in a quieter setting.
A quick, practical view
Why travellers choose it
Highlights
- ✓Excellent dry-country wildlife viewing
- ✓Strong elephant and leopard potential
- ✓Northern specialty species
- ✓Generally quieter than neighbouring Samburu
Good to know
Considerations
- •Accommodation choice is more limited than Samburu
- •The climate is very hot and dry
- •Some visitors stay in Samburu and only cross for game drives
01
Wildlife
What you can see
Elephant, leopard and four of the Big Five are key attractions, along with northern specialties such as reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, beisa oryx and Somali ostrich.
02
Scenery & Habitat
The landscape
Dry plains, lava-strewn ground, scrub and riverine vegetation create a dramatic arid landscape. Permanent water points and the river concentrate wildlife during dry periods.
03
Experiences
Things to do
Daytime game drives dominate, often combining Buffalo Springs with Samburu across the river. Cultural visits with Samburu communities can be arranged through safari operators and lodges.
Plan Around The Seasons
When to visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Best Time To Visit
When to go
June to September and January to February are typically the easiest months for wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water and vegetation is thinner.
Weather & Climate
What conditions feel like
This is one of Kenya’s hottest safari regions, with intense daytime heat and low rainfall. Short rainy periods can transform the landscape quickly.
How Buffalo Springs National Reserve fits into your route
Buffalo Springs is reached on the northern safari circuit by road from Nairobi or via flights serving the Samburu area. It is commonly combined with Samburu and Shaba.
Gallery
1 photoBuffalo Springs National Reserve in pictures
A visual feel for the landscapes, wildlife and experiences you can expect.
Safari Ideas
All safaris →Tours featuring Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Use these as a starting point or ask us to build something completely custom.
4 days
4-Day Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Ol Pejeta Private Safari
A private Northern Kenya safari combining Samburu and Buffalo Springs wildlife with Ol Pejeta’s rhino and conservation…
View safari →Your Safari, Your Way
Plan My SafariReady to include Buffalo Springs National Reserve?
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