6 Days Samburu And Ol’ Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy Safari

A safari to Samburu National Reserve, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, and a Samburu village offers a perfect combination of thrilling wildlife encounters, conservation efforts, and immersive cultural experiences. From rare species in the wild to up-close interactions with local communities, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s untamed beauty.

Samburu National Reserve: Unique Wildlife & Stunning Landscapes

Samburu is known for its semi-arid landscapes, dotted with acacia trees and crisscrossed by the Ewaso Ng’iro River, a vital water source attracting diverse wildlife. Here, you’ll encounter the “Samburu Special Five”—Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk—species rarely found in other parts of Kenya. Elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs also roam the plains, offering spectacular game-viewing opportunities.

Samburu Village Visit: A Cultural Encounter

A visit to a traditional Samburu village provides a deeper connection to the region’s people and heritage. The Samburu, closely related to the Maasai, are semi-nomadic pastoralists known for their vibrant attire, intricate beadwork, and deep-rooted traditions. Visitors can learn about their daily lives, witness traditional dances, and even participate in activities like milking livestock or fire-making demonstrations. This experience offers an authentic glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Reteti Elephant Sanctuary: A Conservation Success Story

Tucked away in the Mathews Range, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is East Africa’s first community-owned elephant orphanage. It rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and injured elephants, providing them with expert care before reintroducing them into the wild. Here, you’ll have the heartwarming experience of watching the elephants being bottle-fed and playing in the mud, all while learning about the conservation efforts led by the local Samburu community.

Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy: Big Five & Rhino Conservation

Ol Pejeta is one of Kenya’s most significant wildlife conservancies, renowned for its black and southern white rhinos, including the last two northern white rhinos on Earth. It’s also home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—alongside other species like cheetahs, giraffes, and wild dogs.

Ol Pejeta also features the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a rescue centre for chimpanzees orphaned by illegal wildlife trade. Visitors can enjoy night game drives, rhino tracking, and guided bush walks, offering deeper insight into wildlife conservation and Kenya’s remarkable biodiversity.

Safari Experience & Practical Tips

• The best time to visit is June to October and December to March, when wildlife viewing is at its peak.
• Expect early morning and late afternoon game drives when animals are most active.
• Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a camera, and binoculars for the best experience.

This safari is more than just a wildlife journey—it’s a rich, immersive experience that blends thrilling game drives, hands-on conservation, and cultural encounters, creating memories to last a lifetime.