Get to experience a less crowded and more intimate safari experience at the Buffalo Springs National Reserve Kenya, with Naicef.
Named after an oasis of clean water at its western end, the Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve is home to unique wildlife and stunning scenery.
Furthermore, it is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers who can visit the Buffalo Springs trail.
For the best Buffalo Springs Reserve experience, contact [email protected] or call: +254799922277.
Interesting Facts About Buffalo Springs National Reserve
The reserve is home to a biodiversity of wildlife, including the special 5, which can be spotted along the Buffalo Springs trail.
Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve is a popular birdwatching destination with over 350 recorded bird species.
It is characterized by gentle rolling plains and the Ewaso Ngiro River, a crucial water source. Ewaso is a Samburu word meaning muddy water or a river of brown.
History Of Buffalo Springs National Reserve
It was established in 1948 as part of the Samburu-Isiolo game reserve and later set boundaries in 1985.
The reserve was created to protect the ecological system and was managed by the Isiolo County Council.
A famous, though unlikely incident between Italian fighter planes during World War II is said to have occurred in the area, mistakenly bombing a herd of buffalo.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve Location
Located in northern Kenya, Isiolo County borders the Samburu National Reserve to the north. It covers an area of 131 km2 and is approximately 355km from Nairobi.
The Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve can be accessed via road and air.
By road, it takes 6-7 hours from Nairobi, and by air, approximately 1 hour, where you’ll land at the Samburu airstrip.
Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve Fees
Here are the Buffalo Springs National Reserve fees,
Entrance Fees For Residents
- Adult – Ksh 1200
- Child – Ksh 600
Entrance Fees For Non-Residents
- Adult – USD 80
- Child – USD 45
Attractions and What to See at Buffalo Springs National Reserve
1. Wildlife
The reserve is home to a biodiversity of animal species, including the Samburu special five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and the Beisa oryx.
Other animals include lions, buffalo, elephants, hyenas, and crocodiles.
You can also check out our 3-day Samburu wildlife package.
2. Birdlife
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is inhabited by over 350 bird species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
These bird species include the tawny eagle, secretary bird, martial eagle, vulturine guineafowl, and the Somali ostrich.
The Buffalo Springs trail gives you a platform for birdwatching, just remember to carry your binoculars for a spectacular experience.
Check also our guide to birdwatching in Kenya, a home to over 1100 different bird species.
3. Ewaso Ngiro River
A vital river source that attracts an abundance of wildlife that use it as a watering source for drinking and cooling their bodies.
It also supplies water to the surrounding local communities, who use it in their day-to-day activities.
4. Culture
Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve is situated in a region rich in indigenous culture.
The Samburu people, neighbouring the reserve, give you a chance to take a look at their culture through interaction with the locals and their lifestyle.
Here are some of the cultural packages that you may check out;
- 3 Days Samburu Cultural Tour
- 3 Days 2 Nights Aberdare Cultural Package
- 5 Days Aberdare Samburu Cultural Experience Tour
5. Buffalo Springs Oasis
These are the clear water springs after which the reserve is named, forming a unique attraction.
It is a permanent water source for the wildlife and the nearby community; hence, swimming is prohibited.
Activities & Things to Do at Buffalo Springs National Reserve
1. Game Drives
Best done in the early morning or late afternoon, game drives are a key activity to do at the Buffalo Springs National Reserve.
They are an easy way to explore the reserve as you cover more ground.
The Ewaso Ngiro River is a good wildlife viewing spot, especially during the dry season.
2. Walking Safaris
This is a more intimate way to experience the Buffalo Springs Reserve as you have interactions with the animals along the Buffalo Springs trail, being led by a guide.
3. Birdwatching
With over 350 recorded bird species, it is a haven for birdwatching, so make sure to have your binoculars ready for a fantastic experience.
4. Cultural Visits
Get to immerse yourself in the beautiful culture of the Samburu community, who offer insights into their traditions and customs.
Witness their singing and dancing and get homestead tours.
You have to be mindful of culture and show respect during these cultural visits at the Samburu Buffalo Springs Reserve.
5. Photography
Nothing beats witnessing and photographing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Get to capture those fleeting moments of pure bliss behind a lens.
6. Camel Ride Safari
Get to encounter wildlife safaris like never before on the hump of a camel. It is a unique way to experience landscapes and wildlife.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve?
The best time to visit the Buffalo Springs Reserve in Kenya is during the dry seasons for wildlife viewing from June to October, as they are easier to spot, often congregating around water sources.
January to March also offers good opportunities for wildlife sightings as it has a dry spell between the rains.
For a great birdwatching experience at the Samburu Buffalo Springs National Reserve, the wet season around November is ideal as migratory birds arrive.
This is also the best time for scenery viewing.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve Accommodation
Buffalo Springs Reserve and its surrounding areas offer a range of accommodation options to suit different needs.
They include lodges and camps such as the Ashnil Samburu Camp, which offers luxury tents, Surana Buffalo Springs providing modern amenities, and Soroi Larsen’s camp.
Other options include the Samburu Simba lodge and the Samburu Sopa lodge.
Buffalo Springs has a few campsites with limited facilities. These are suitable for self-driving and mobile safari travellers.
Key considerations while choosing your accommodation at the Buffalo Springs Reserve include the location, amenities, activities, and access.
When choosing accommodation, consider your budget, desired level of comfort, and the activities you plan to undertake. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samburu Buffalo springs national reserve is known for the Samburu special five, the abundant elephants, and the clear water springs that are a scenic landmark and a crucial water source.
Its unique blend of arid landscapes and the Ewaso Ngiro river offers a distinct safari experience.
The reserve’s reputation for reliable leopard sightings and its status as a haven for birdwatchers further solidify its appeal to wildlife enthusiasts.
As conservation efforts continue, Buffalo Springs National Reserve remains a vital sanctuary for wildlife, safeguarding its unique species and cultural richness it proudly holds.
For this experience and many more of such African safari tours, get in touch with Naicef at [email protected] or simply call: +254799922277.
You can also opt for our Naicef savings plan for sensational wildlife tour packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Buffalo Springs National Reserve known for?
Buffalo springs is known for harboring the Samburu special five animals and a diversity of bird species.
2. What is the best time to visit Buffalo Springs Reserve?
June to October and January to March, which are dry seasons, and you can easily spot animal life
3. How do I get to Buffalo Springs Reserve?
The reserve is accessible by both road and air
4. What types of animals can I see in Buffalo Springs Reserve?
You can see animals such as elephants, leopards, lions, crocodiles, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, and bird species, including the Somali ostrich
5. What are the park rules and regulations?
Some of the park rules visitors should observe include respecting wildlife’s privacy and avoiding disturbing them
