NORTHERN CIRCUIT
Located in Kenya’s northern frontier, Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs are semi-arid reserves with unique wildlife and captivating landscapes. This region, part of the Samburu Ecosystem, is home to rare species like the Samburu Special Five—the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk—which thrive in the harsh environment. The Ewaso Nyiro River, a vital water source, runs through all three reserves, supporting diverse wildlife and attracting predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Day 1: Nairobi to Maralal
Our adventure begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi, heading north through the scenic Kenyan highlands. We travel via Nyahururu, where we may opt to pause for a visit to the magnificent Thomson’s Falls—a dramatic 74-meter waterfall nestled amidst lush surroundings (entry payable directly).
Continuing our journey, we enjoy lunch en route before arriving in the charming frontier town of Maralal in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, we pitch our tents and settle in for our first night under the stars, followed by a hearty dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Maralal is a bustling market town, predominantly inhabited by the Samburu, a semi-nomadic people renowned for their rich culture and warm hospitality. A sub-tribe of the Maasai, the Samburu have preserved many of their traditional ways. The town is also home to the famed Maralal International Camel Derby, held annually between July and October, attracting riders and spectators from across the globe.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Journey to Lake Turkana
After breakfast, we set off on a long but rewarding drive to Lake Turkana, the shimmering “Jade Sea” of Kenya’s north. Our route takes us through the remote and rugged landscapes of Baragoi and South Horr, eventually arriving in Loiyangalani, a windswept town on the southeastern shores of the lake.
Upon arrival in the late afternoon, we establish our camp and unwind in the stark beauty of this desert oasis. Lake Turkana, the world’s largest desert and alkaline lake, spans over 7,000 km² and forms part of the dramatic Great Rift Valley. Its ethereal blue-green waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding arid terrain and the nearby Chalbi Desert.
Optional Upgrade: For added comfort, guests may upgrade to traditional bandas (cabins) equipped with beds and offering cooler accommodations (additional cost applies).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Exploring Lake Turkana
Today is dedicated to exploring the lake and its fascinating cultural and natural surroundings. You may enjoy a refreshing swim at a nearby lodge or partake in optional activities such as a boat excursion across the lake, offering opportunities to view Nile crocodiles, diverse birdlife, and the dramatic lakeside scenery (activities payable directly).
Explore the local villages of Loiyangalani, Molo, or others nearby to witness daily life in this remote region. A visit to the Desert Museum provides a deeper understanding of the area’s rich indigenous cultures and unique ecology.
In the evening, we return to camp for dinner and share stories under the stars.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Into the Chalbi Desert – Kalacha
After an early breakfast, we break camp and continue our journey eastward, traversing the Chalbi Desert—conditions permitting. If the desert roads are impassable due to weather, we will reroute around the perimeter.
Our destination is Kalacha, a small desert village built around a natural oasis. Here, we meet the Gabbra, an Eastern Cushitic group of semi-nomadic pastoralists. Camels, integral to Gabbra life, are commonly seen throughout the village.
As the sun sets over the desolate yet captivating desert, we gather for dinner at camp. Guests may opt to attend a traditional Gabbra dance performance (at extra cost), an enriching cultural highlight.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Kalacha to Marsabit
Today’s journey takes us south to the oasis town of Marsabit, nestled within the cool, forested highlands of Marsabit National Park. Along the way, we stop to admire Gof Redo, a striking volcanic crater rising from the desert floor.
This region is home to the Samburu and Rendille peoples, both known for their elaborate traditional attire and intricate beadwork. On arrival, we set up camp and venture into the lush Marsabit National Park to explore.
If conditions allow, we visit Lake Paradise and Little Lake, both nestled within the crater-strewn landscape of Mount Marsabit. These seasonal lakes, surrounded by dense forest, support a remarkable range of wildlife, including large-tusked elephants, greater kudu, and a variety of bird species.
As night falls, we return to camp for dinner, the cooler temperatures offering a refreshing contrast to the desert heat.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Marsabit to Samburu National Reserve
After breakfast, we continue our descent southward, joining the trans-African highway en route to Samburu National Reserve. After lunch along the way, we arrive in time for an afternoon game drive in this extraordinary wilderness.
Samburu’s rugged beauty is defined by the Ewaso Nyiro River, which sustains a surprising diversity of wildlife. Tonight, we stay in a semi-permanent campsite tucked beneath shady trees or near the river. The site includes refreshing cold showers—welcome after a day on the road.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Full-Day Safari in Samburu National Reserve
Today is dedicated to exploring Samburu National Reserve, a landscape of stark beauty and exceptional biodiversity. Between morning and afternoon game drives, guests may opt to visit a traditional Samburu village (payable directly) or relax at a nearby lodge, perhaps taking a swim or enjoying a cold drink.
This 165 km² reserve hosts a range of rare species, including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich, alongside predators such as cheetahs, lions, and leopards. The Ewaso Nyiro River is also home to hippos, crocodiles, and over 350 bird species.
We gather in the evening for a final celebratory dinner, reminiscing about the incredible journey across Kenya’s untamed north.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Return to Nairobi via Nanyuki
On our final morning, we depart Samburu after breakfast, enjoying wildlife sightings as we exit the reserve. Our journey takes us past Mount Kenya, offering scenic views of its snow-capped peaks, before returning to Nairobi in the late afternoon—bringing our unforgettable Northern Frontier Safari to a close.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
….MUST SEE SITES…
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Samburu is known for its large elephant population and its association with research on carnivores. The reserve sits in the shadow of Ol Doinyo Sabachae Mountain and is home to the Nilotic Samburu people, who maintain a traditional pastoral lifestyle. Famous wildlife here includes rare species such as the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
SHABA NATIONAL RESERVE
Shaba is famous for its breathtaking scenery and the heritage of Joy and George Adamson, who raised Elsa the lioness here before releasing her into the wild. The reserve, with its stunning kopjes, palm-fringed rivers, and wildlife like the Somali ostrich, offers a rich wildlife experience and is famous for its appearances in films like Born Free.
BUFFALO SPRINGS NATIONAL RESERVE
Buffalo Springs, named after its oasis, is known for its scenic landscapes, which include volcanic plains, riverine forests, and savannah grasslands. It is home to elephants, buffalo, gazelles, and predators. Visitors can also enjoy cultural experiences with the Samburu people, learning about their traditional way of life.
LAIKIPIA CONSERVANCY
The Laikipia Conservancies—Borana, Loisaba, and Lewa—are private wildlife reserves dedicated to conservation and community support.
LAKE TURKANA JADE SEA
The world’s largest desert lake, is an ecological marvel, home to unique wildlife like Nile crocodiles and a variety of migratory birds. The surrounding wilderness and indigenous communities, such as the Samburu, Turkana, and Gabra people, showcase the resilience of life in this harsh environment.
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