Samburu + Shaba Northern Luxury Safari
A private Northern Kenya safari for the rare ‘Special Five’, rugged landscapes, and luxury riverfront stays.
Explore Kenya’s wild north in comfort. Samburu and Shaba deliver dramatic scenery along the Ewaso Nyiro River, fewer crowds, and unique wildlife you won’t easily see in the southern parks. This private safari is built for photographers, couples, and travelers who want something different from the classic Mara route.
Samburu + Shaba Northern Luxury Safari
Samburu + Shaba
Highlights
Why you’ll love this trip
The standout moments and comfort details.
- Search for the Samburu ‘Special Five’ (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, beisa oryx, Somali ostrich)
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with an expert guide
- Riverfront wildlife action along the Ewaso Nyiro
- Rugged Shaba landscapes and quiet luxury lodges
- Flexible pacing: split drives or extended sessions
- Optional cultural experiences with local communities
Itinerary
Day-by-day plan
Your guide adjusts the pace based on wildlife movement and your preferences.
Day 1
Nairobi → Samburu | Arrival + sunset game drive
Early pickup in Nairobi and drive north through changing landscapes into Samburu. Check in to your lodge/camp, lunch, and a relaxed break. Head out for a sunset game drive along the river—excellent for elephants, big cats, and unique northern species.
Day 2
Full Samburu safari | Special Five tracking + river action
Start early for peak wildlife activity. Your guide focuses on the Special Five and predator sightings, using the best tracks and river corridors. Optional midday rest, then return for a golden-hour drive—often the best light for photography.
Day 3
Shaba National Reserve | Rugged beauty + scenic viewpoints
After breakfast, explore Shaba—famous for volcanic rock formations, open plains, and a remote, cinematic feel. Expect fewer vehicles and a more exclusive atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxed pace with viewpoints, wildlife tracking, and optional sundowners.
Day 4
Final sightings → Nairobi | Departure
Optional short morning drive (time permitting), breakfast, checkout, then return to Nairobi for hotel or airport drop-off.
Inclusions
What’s included
Transparent line items, no hidden surprises.
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle and professional guide
- 3 nights accommodation (Samburu/Shaba region)
- Meals on full-board basis (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Daily game drives as per itinerary
- Bottled water during game drives
- Nairobi pickup and drop-off
Exclusions
Not included
Optional extras and personal expenses.
- Park/reserve entry fees (unless explicitly included)
- International flights
- Visa fees (where applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Tips/gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Premium drinks (varies by lodge)
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs)
Add-ons
Optional upgrades
Elevate the experience with these extras.
- Fly-in upgrade (reduce driving time)
- Cultural experience visit (optional)
- Sundowner experience
- Extra night in Samburu
- Extend to Laikipia or Mount Kenya
Packing
What to pack
A simple list to stay comfortable on safari and at the coast.
- Neutral-colored clothing for safari
- Warm layer for early morning drives
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Camera + extra batteries/memory cards
- Binoculars (recommended)
- Comfortable closed shoes
Notes
Good to know
Small details that make the trip smoother.
- Samburu/Shaba is excellent year-round and less crowded than southern parks.
- The ‘Special Five’ are unique to Northern Kenya and a major highlight for wildlife lovers.
- Fly-in options can be arranged for comfort and time savings (great for luxury clients).
FAQs
Travel questions
Quick answers before you lock in your dates.
Can I customize this tour?
Yes. Our team can adjust lodges, dates, and add-ons within 24 hours.
What is the deposit amount?
We hold seats with a 30% deposit. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior.
Do you support resident rates?
Yes, resident and citizen pricing can be selected during checkout.
Guides
Plan with local insight
Related guides to help with timing and packing.
From $1,180