Buffalo Springs National Reserve

This article expounds more on Buffalo Springs National Reserve.

Buffalo Springs Samburu is one of three National reserves that border the Ewaso Ny’iro River and harbors some of the endangered species in the world like the famous Samburu Five. These are some of the unique wildlife Kenya has to offer. We will discuss the scenic beauty in Northern Kenya, bush breakfast experiences and luxury safari lodges that are convenient for you.

Without further ado, let us proceed to discuss Buffalo Springs National Reserve.

Where is Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is conveniently located along the Ewaso Ny’iro River and borders Samburu National Park to the south, in Isiolo County. However, they are, divided by the famous Ewaso Ny’iro River, which is known as the largest river of the Rift Valley Basin.

Though it is approximately 300 km from Nairobi, there are several ways to get there. If you want a more expansive trip and more sightseeing, you could go by road, and if you are looking for an adventure that is not time-consuming, there are flight packages that are tailor-made for their guests.

Activities to do at Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Photography

Since Buffalo Springs National Reserve is full of unique, rare species of animals and flora, which you will not find in most places and it makes it unique for taking photos. The stunning, spectacular views of the river Ewaso Ny’iro and the water oasis bring more life to your photos for an unforgettable experience.

Buffalo Springs Samburu is one of the Instagrammable places in Samburu. If you are looking for adventure as well as some impressive photos in a semi-arid area with the presence of wildlife in the background, then you should visit Buffalo Springs. The best part is that the tour guides will advise you on which side to go and face, and even help you take amazing photos.

Game Drives

Apart from accommodations and dining in the wild, the best thing you can experience in Buffalo Spring National Reserve is the amazing park drives and the riverside game drives, because it is your perfect opportunity to experience more adventure and have an up-close look at the wildlife while in their 4×4 safari adventure vehicles.

During your drive, you will notice there are a lot of elephants and will spot several cat species like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The best part is that they have several drives during the day, and in case you miss one, you can always join the next.

We highly recommend the morning game drive, because you will spot animals easily before the scorching sun pushes them into hiding. It is also a spectacular view watching the giraffes through the sunrise rays.

Picnics

Are you planning that out-of-town safari with the girls or a group of friends that are as adventurous as you are? A holiday vacation at Buffalo Springs might just be what you need to tick it off the bucket list. With spectacular picnic spots for you and your friends, with a view of the park and the rare Samburu five, this place is ideal for a lunch picnic or a hangout session with friends.

Sundowners/Bush Meals

Bush Meals and sundowners are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Buffalo Springs and are one of the best ways to spend that romantic getaway in Samburu. Whether you want to spend the evening watching the sunset over the savannahs or have a candlelit dinner after dark, they will ensure your time is memorable. Whether it is food or just a romantic cocktail evening, they have you covered.

Try a bush meal at Buffalo Springs to experience a magical experience encompassing several cuisines, drinks, and a lovely blend of nature.

Bird Watching

Bird watching is a common activity and is loved by tourists who love watching and listening to birds chirping. Buffalo Springs has recorded over 450 bird species therefore, it is an exciting and adventurous bird watching spot in Samburu.

Some of the birds you will spot here include:

• Banded Parisoma
• White-headed Buffalo Weaver
• Lappet-faced Vulture
• Pygmy Falcon
• Somali Bee-eater
• Fawn-colored Lark
• Orange-bellied Parrot
• Pink-breasted Lark
• Black-cheeked Waxbill

Fun Fact: Most bird species in the Samburu are commonly seen during the bird migration, which happens between November and April.

Leisure Nature Strolls at Buffalo Springs

This is not only a walking adventure but also a hiking experience you should try. With the help of skilled tour guides, you will have the chance to walk through different nature trails where you will experience a variety of wildlife, including lions, hippos, zebras, and crocodiles.

Though it is more like a hike, you are allowed to walk leisurely at your own pace and explore different areas of the park. Bonus part is that you will also get to test your hiking limits and even advance your trekking experience in one of the best hiking experiences in Samburu.

Observe the Samburu Five

If you plan a visit to Buffalo Springs, you will be surprised by the number of species found there and especially the renowned Samburu Five, which is a group of five species, found in the Samburu area and have adapted to the semi-arid area of Samburu. These animals are rare and not found in other parts of the country. They include:

• Beisa Oryx
• Grevy’s Zebra
• Gerenuk
• Somali Ostrich
• Reticulated Giraffe

Fun Fact: Did you know Kenya has over 25,000 animal species around the country?

Buffalo Springs National Reserve Animals

Apart from the Samburu five, you will be able to spot other wildlife at Buffalo Springs. Though the number of species is not specified, we can say with certainty that the park harbors four out of the big five animals, with the rhino being the only big five animal that is absent, as you will spot on your drives and walks. These animals include

• The African Bush Elephant
• African Buffalo
• Cheetahs
• Leopards
• Hyena
• Nile Crocodiles
• Waterbucks
• Eland
• Giraffes
• Lions

Buffalo Springs National Reserve Accommodation

Buffalo Springs Lodges are located conveniently inside and around the park to ensure you have a memorable stay while seeing the tranquil safari setting. The lodges range from luxurious safari lodges to budget-friendly stays.

If you are looking for a luxurious safari lodge, you could opt for Surana Buffalo Springs or Soloi Larsen Camp, which offer the opportunity to view closely the Northern Kenya wildlife and also enjoy an authentic African safari experience.

Lodges like Shaba Game Lodge and Samburu Sopa Lodge are more affordable and showcase comfort at a budget-friendly price.

Check Out:

1. Surana Buffalo Springs Packages & Rates
2. Samburu Sopa Lodge
3. 3 Days & 2 Nights in Samburu

Best Time to Visit Samburu Buffalo Springs

Samburu Buffalo Springs is open all year round, but if you want to maximize your trip and see the most animals, it is recommended you visit during the dry season that spans between January and February and June through October. During this time, the animals often congregate at the river and around the water sources, making them easier to spot them.

Buffalo Springs National Reserve Entrance Fee

Check Out

1. Impala Park Kisumu