Samburu National Reserve Park entry fees ( Samburu , Shaba & Buffalo Springs)
The Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs National Reserve, and Shaba National Reserve form one of Kenya’s most spectacular safari ecosystems in the country’s northern frontier. Separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River, these three reserves are renowned for the Samburu Special Five, excellent predator sightings, large elephant herds, and dramatic semi-arid landscapes.
Although managed by different county governments, Samburu National Reserve and Buffalo Springs National Reserve currently use the same conservation fee structure, while Shaba may have different rates depending on the county authority and travel operator. Always confirm current rates before travel.
The Park Rules & Policies at a Glance
- Separate Tickets Required: Each of the three reserves charges its own independent daily park fees. If you stay inside Sarova Shaba Game Lodge but plan to do game drives across the river into Samburu National Reserve, you must pay the Samburu entry fee.
- 24-Hour Validity: Your entry ticket is valid for 24 hours from the exact time of entry.
- Vehicle Fees: You must pay a separate vehicle fee depending on the size and seating capacity of your car.
- Payment Method: Most park authorities prefer cashless payments via credit/debit card or mobile money (M-PESA) rather than cash at the gate.
Discover the latest entry fees for Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs National Reserve, and Shaba National Reserve. Compare conservation fees, vehicle charges, wildlife highlights, best time to visit, and expert safari tips from Adeli Kenya Safaris.
| Visitor Category | Adult | Child / Student* |
|---|---|---|
| Kenyan Citizen | KES 800 | KES 500 |
| East African Resident | KES 1,600 | KES 800 |
| Non-Resident | USD 85 | USD 50 |
*Children are generally classified according to reserve regulations (typically under 18 years), while students must present valid identification.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve Entry Fees
| Visitor Category | Adult | Child / Student |
|---|---|---|
| Kenyan Citizen | KES 800 | KES 500 |
| East African Resident | KES 1,600 | KES 800 |
| Non-Resident | USD 85 | USD 50 |
These are the commonly published 2026 rates used by the reserve and most safari operators.
Shaba National Reserve Entry Fees
Shaba National Reserve has historically operated under a different fee schedule because it is administered separately.
| Visitor Category | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| Kenyan Citizen | KES 500 | KES 250 |
| East African Resident | KES 1,000 | KES 500 |
| Non-Resident | USD 70 | USD 40 |
Because Shaba’s fees may occasionally be revised independently, it’s advisable to reconfirm the applicable rates before your visit.
Vehicle Entry Fees (Samburu National Reserve)
| Vehicle Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Saloon Car | KES 800 |
| Minibus | KES 1,600 |
| Bus / Lorry | KES 3,000 |
Other charges such as aircraft landing fees, annual vehicle permits, camping fees, and commercial filming permits are available upon request.
What Does the Entry Fee Include?
Your conservation fee allows access to:
- Unlimited game drives during your valid entry period
- Wildlife viewing
- Scenic viewpoints
- Birdwatching
- Photography
- Public picnic sites
Accommodation, guided walks, cultural visits, camping, and special activities are charged separately.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Safari Experience |
|---|---|
| January–March | Excellent wildlife viewing and photography |
| June–October | Peak safari season with abundant wildlife |
| April–May | Green landscapes and fewer visitors |
| November–December | Excellent birdwatching and beautiful scenery |
Samburu is a year-round destination because wildlife remains concentrated around the Ewaso Nyiro River, even during the drier months.
Wildlife You Can Expect to See
The reserves are famous for the Samburu Special Five:
- Grevy’s Zebra
- Reticulated Giraffe
- Gerenuk
- Beisa Oryx
- Somali Ostrich
Other wildlife includes:
- African elephants
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Buffaloes
- Hippos
- Nile crocodiles
- Greater kudu
- Over 450 bird species
Safari Tips
- Start your game drive around 6:30 AM for the best wildlife activity.
- Spend 2–3 nights to explore all three reserves.
- Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens for wildlife photography.
- Combine Samburu with Ol Pejeta Conservancy or Aberdare National Park for a rewarding northern Kenya safari.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I pay one fee for all three reserves?
No. Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba are managed separately, and each reserve charges its own conservation fee.
2. Which reserve is best for the Samburu Special Five?
All three reserves offer excellent opportunities, but Samburu National Reserve is generally regarded as the best for overall wildlife viewing.
3. Can I visit Buffalo Springs from Samburu?
Yes. The two reserves are separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River and are often visited on the same safari, subject to paying the applicable entry fees.
4. How many days should I spend in the Samburu ecosystem?
A stay of 2–3 nights is ideal for exploring Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba while enjoying multiple game drives.
5. Are these reserves worth visiting?
Absolutely. They are among Kenya’s finest safari destinations, offering unique northern wildlife, fewer crowds than the Masai Mara, and spectacular scenery.