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Samburu

Luxury Samburu Safaris made for you

Stunning landscapes, wildlife and culture

Incredible wildlife and rich cultural heritage

North of the Laikipia Plateau is the scrubby open bushland of the Samburu National Reserve. This is the homeland of the Samburu people who were drawn here by the Ewaso Nyiro River which provided a reliable water source for their cattle.

The Reserve sits to the north of the river, which separates it from Buffalo Springs National Reserve. As well as providing an invaluable water source for the Samburu herds, northern Kenya‘s least seasonal river also attracts a wealth of wildlife. The area is teeming with plains game as well as lions, leopards, cheetahs and elephants. Samburu is also home to species you won’t find elsewhere in Kenya, including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich and the gerenuk antelope.

Samburu is an arid region, its dry plains dotted with acacia trees and rocky ridges, and the banks of the river lined with fig and palm trees. Sharing this landscape with the wildlife is the Samburu tribe. Closely linked to the Maasai – both speakers of the Maa language – these pastoralists traditionally wear bright red, orange, yellow and blue wraps and beaded jewellery.  Jacada’s favourite luxury lodges work with the Samburu and staying here gives you the opportunity to support communities and gain a deeper insight and understanding of their culture.

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From our experts

Experiences picked by our Samburu specialists

See Samburu's wildlife

Marvel at the Samburu’s incredible wildlife on daily games drives in 4×4 vehicles and on peaceful bush walks.

Learn ancient survival skills

Learn from Samburu as they teach you ancient survival skills, still used today.

Admire prehistoric rock art

Pay a visit to intriguing caves where you’ll find prehistoric rock art, which will be brought to life by your knowledgeable guide.

Fly-camp deep in the bush

Spend a night under the stars on fly-camping expeditions that will take you deep into the bush.

A word from one of our experts

There’s something special about the Samburu, the Special Five species are captivating and it’s a privilege to spend time with the Samburu people, learning about their culture and way of life. Some of my favourite lodges in Kenya can be found in Samburu, luxurious accommodations in remote spots with stunning views and countless special touches.

Emily Wallington Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Samburu

There are some incredible places to stay in the Samburu. Here are some of our favourite camps and lodges, handpicked by our experts:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Safari expertise

    Our experts bring decades of first-hand expertise. They’ve lived and travelled across Africa and are regularly on the ground reviewing the most exclusive camps and experiences. You’ll also have the support of a personal concierge, based in region.

  • Unforgettable guides

    We handpick the most knowledgeable guides, who bring each destination to life with care and passion. They’re chosen for their ability to provide unrivalled insight into the region’s wildlife and landscapes as well as a genuine, memorable experience.

  • Positive impact

    By travelling with us, you directly support a range of initiatives spanning wildlife conservation to community engagement. Our luxury trips are designed to prioritise experiences that are positive for you and the places you visit.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Samburu example trips and then get in touch to plan your own safari adventure

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Samburu trip, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Discover more of Kenya

Meet your safari experts

When to visit

The best time to visit the Samburu National Reserve is during the dry season months of June to October and December to March. At this time of year it can be easier to spot wildlife as the foliage is sparse and trails are easier to navigate.

Dry Season

June – October, December – March.

Wet Season

October – May

When Is the Best Time to Visit Kenya?

Kenya Travel Guides

Plan your trip to Samburu

Whatever you want from your adventure in Samburu, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Don't take our word for it

“We enjoyed our first trip with Jacada…”

We enjoyed our first trip with Jacada and it surely won't be our last! Every detail and moment of our trip was perfectly planned. We were met every step of the way with courteous and knowledgeable drivers and guides. We really appreciated the local guides and the commitment they had to make every day special. Thank you Jacada for the…

Amy Schulz Trustpilot ★★★★★

“heavenly honeymoon”

My wife and I used Jacada to plan our honeymoon to French Polynesia. Working with the Jacada team was fantastic and effortless. Every question was quickly answered. Every hiccup was quickly addressed. We felt like we were in the hands of experts who are equally passionate about travel, and who were committed to helping us have the trip of a…

MJ Trustpilot ★★★★★

“Jacada Travel has been outstanding”

We enjoy traveling and we have used Jacada Travel for some wonderful trips over several years. We have never been disappointed. In 2024 we took a Safari in Botswana Africa and walked with the gorillas in Rwanda planned by Jacada and the itinerary was amazing. In 2025 we had planned a trip to Antartica ( with another company ) but…

Lisa Schrage Trustpilot ★★★★★

“Communication and organization were…”

Communication and organization were excellent. The Jacada team was helpful and genuinely interested in our experience. The guides were personable, knowledgeable, and clearly enjoy their work. Vehicles were spotless, timely, and coordinators managed our every need brilliantly. I will recommend Jacada to friends and family. The only way to travel!

Andrew Woodcock Trustpilot ★★★★★

“Iceland 8 Days”

We had a wonderful trip planned through Jacada. We enjoyed the venues and the excursions. This is a beautiful place we'd recommend to anyone who wants to go on a new adventure.

The Reynolds Trustpilot ★★★★★

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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