In
the arid North of Kenya, water means life. The waters of the great Ewaso
Nyiro river draw wildlife in great numbers to its banks, creating an
oasis of green.
This river flows through three great northern reserves, Samburu, Buffalo
Springs and Shaba. This is spectacular country, set against a backdrop
of the mighty Mountain Ol Olokwe.
The verdant riverine forest is a stark contrast to the arid thorn
studded plains. Samburu is visited by large herds of Elephants, drawn by
the promise of water. In the dry season, the elephants use their tusks
to dig deep into the dry river beds, unearthing precious water. These
waterholes then become a focal point for other game.
The
Samburu region is the best place to find several endemic Northern
species, including Gerenuk, the Reticulated Giraffe, and Grevy's Zebra.
The forests along the river banks are home to many birds, including
local species such as the Palm Nut Vulture and the Vinaceous Dove. These
forests are also home to many Leopards, often seen at dusk. The sight of
one of these beautiful and elusive creatures is always a rare treat.
Lions are also frequently seen on the riverbanks, and Cheetah can be
found on the open plains. On rare occasion, packs of African Hunting
Dogs are sighted passing through the reserve.
Shaba
was where Joy Adamson, author of Born Free spent her final years,
returning a leopard to the wild. This was the subject of her final book,
Queen of Shaba.
More recently, Shaba served as the location for the hit series
Survivor Africa, which pitted its contestants against the challenges
of this wild remote country.
The Ewaso Nyiro is also an important water source for the Samburu
villages surrounding the reserves. The Samburu culture is a truly
fascinating one, sharing a great deal of ancestral and linguistic ties
to the Maasai.
The Samburu are herders of Camels and Goats, and are often seen on the
reserve boundaries bringing their animals to water.
In areas around the reserves, there are several private sanctuaries
working closely with the Samburu to protect both their tribal lands and
the local wildlife. These sanctuaries are open to guests, and are well
worth visiting for those interested in Samburu culture.
The entire Samburu region is a place of breathtaking and magical beauty,
a place where the vision of a deep red sunset silhouetting the doum
palms along the river as a leopard emerges to hunt brings the perfect
end to a day on safari.....Getting there:Samburu, Buffalo
Springs and Shaba are all accessible by road via Isiolo and Archers
Post. Driving time from Nairobi is approximately 6 hours. There are
airstrips in both Samburu and Buffalo Springs, with daily scheduled
flights from Nairobi. Private charters can also use these strips.

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