1. Overview
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is one of northern Kenya’s most beautiful and underrated safari destinations. Located just south of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in Isiolo County, it forms one-third of the larger Samburu–Buffalo Springs–Shaba ecosystem, a protected wilderness stretching over 300 km².
Covering approximately 131 km², the reserve is named after a series of natural springs that bubble up from underground streams, feeding palm-lined pools that attract wildlife year-round. The area’s striking landscapes — volcanic rock formations, open lava plains, acacia woodland, and lush riverine vegetation — make it an unforgettable camping destination.
Buffalo Springs offers both public and special (private) campsites, catering to self-drive adventurers, mobile safari operators, and guided groups seeking an authentic, close-to-nature experience.
2. Why Camp in Buffalo Springs?
Camping in Buffalo Springs provides a level of tranquility and connection to nature that’s hard to find in more crowded parks. Unlike the Maasai Mara or Amboseli, this reserve rarely feels busy — giving you the chance to enjoy wildlife encounters in silence, under vast northern skies.
Some of the best reasons to camp here include:
- Unique Wildlife: Home to the “Samburu Special Five” — reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich — alongside elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
- Scenic Campsites: Most camps are positioned along the Ewaso Ng’iro River or near the natural springs, shaded by acacia and doum palm trees.
- Privacy and Exclusivity: With only a handful of designated sites, it’s easy to secure a quiet area with minimal disturbance.
- Accessibility: The reserve is easy to reach from Nairobi (5–6 hours by road) or by air via Buffalo Springs Airstrip.
3. Types of Campsites
Buffalo Springs has two main categories of campsites:
- Public Campsites – Open to all visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. These are simpler but scenic, suitable for independent travelers or small guided groups.
- Special Campsites – Reserved for groups, tour operators, or mobile safari outfits. They provide exclusive use and a more private wilderness experience.
Both are unfenced and located within the reserve, allowing wildlife to move freely around the camps.
5. Main Campsites in Buffalo Springs
1. Buffalo Springs Riverside Campsite (Main Public Site)
Location: Near the reserve headquarters, along the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
Description: This is the most commonly used campsite in Buffalo Springs. It sits under the shade of doum palms and acacias, offering stunning views of the river and Samburu National Reserve across the water.
Facilities: Pit latrine, fire pit, and limited access to water (ask the rangers before using river water). No showers or electricity.
Highlights:
- Ideal location for early morning or evening game drives.
- Frequent visits by elephants, vervet monkeys, and occasionally lions and leopards that come to drink at the river.
- Spectacular sunsets over the riverbank.
Experience Level: Intermediate. Suitable for self-drivers or small guided groups.
2. Natural Springs Campsite (Special Campsite)
Location: Close to the crystal-clear spring pool that gives the reserve its name.
Description: A private campsite surrounded by lush palm groves and volcanic boulders. The springs are a favorite watering point for buffalo, zebra, and elephants, which you can often watch from your tent.
Facilities: None provided — this is a pure wilderness experience. Campers must bring everything, including water, food, and fuel.
Highlights:
- Excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities.
- Peaceful, secluded setting ideal for small private groups.
- Access to scenic walking trails (with ranger escort).
Experience Level: Advanced. Suitable for guests with bush-camping experience or mobile safari support.
3. Airstrip Campsite (Mobile Safari Site)
Location: Near Buffalo Springs Airstrip, on the southeastern side of the reserve.
Description: Commonly used by mobile safari operators or groups flying in from Nairobi. Offers easy access to the main game-viewing circuit and to connecting air transfers.
Facilities: None permanent; operators typically bring their own setups.
Highlights:
- Great for mobile safaris that combine Buffalo Springs with Samburu or Shaba.
- Convenient for early morning departures or late arrivals by air.
Experience Level: Ideal for guided or organized safaris.
4. Ewaso Viewpoint Campsite
Location: Elevated bluff overlooking a bend in the Ewaso Ng’iro River.
Description: A scenic, rarely used special campsite with panoramic views of the valley below.
Facilities: None. Pure wilderness site; rangers may need to be notified in advance to clear the area.
Highlights:
- Perfect for landscape photographers and travelers seeking solitude.
- Elevated position offers safety from river wildlife and stunning sunset photography.
Experience Level: Advanced — suitable for guests with their own gear and vehicles.
5. Bridge Point Campsite (Near Ewaso Bridge)
Location: Just south of the old Ewaso Ng’iro bridge linking Buffalo Springs and Samburu reserves.
Description: Historically used as a ranger and research base, this area now serves as a convenient camping location for visitors who want access to both reserves.
Facilities: Limited — long-drop toilet, cleared flat ground, and easy road access.
Highlights:
- Great location for travelers planning to cross into Samburu for game drives.
- Excellent wildlife viewing early in the morning, especially elephants and giraffes.
Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate.
5. Access and Logistics
By Road:
Buffalo Springs is about 320 km from Nairobi, taking roughly 5–6 hours via the Nanyuki–Isiolo–Archers Post route. Roads are paved up to Isiolo, after which a graded gravel road leads to the reserve gates.
By Air:
Scheduled flights from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) land at Buffalo Springs Airstrip, a few minutes from the main gate. Flights take about 1 hour and can be booked with Safarilink, Air Kenya, or other domestic carriers.
Vehicle Requirements:
A 4×4 vehicle is essential, especially during the rainy seasons (April–May and November). Tracks can become muddy or impassable after heavy rain.
6. Park Fees and Camping Charges
Entry and camping fees are paid at the main gate or through your tour operator.
- Non-Resident Adults: $80 per person per day
- Non-Resident Children: $45 per day
- Vehicle Fee (4×4): KES 400 per day
- Camping Fee: Ranges from $30–40 per adult per night depending on whether it’s a public or special campsite.
Always confirm the latest rates with reserve authorities before travel.
7. Practical Tips for Campers
- Booking: Reserve special campsites in advance through the Isiolo County Council offices or rangers at the main gate.
- Security: All campsites are unfenced — wildlife roams freely. Request a ranger to stay nearby if camping overnight.
- Water: The springs and river water are not safe for drinking. Carry sufficient clean water.
- Lighting: Bring headlamps or solar lanterns; there’s no electricity at any site.
- Cooking: Open-fire cooking is permitted but must be supervised and contained. Use existing fire pits to avoid damaging the ground.
- Rubbish: Carry all waste out with you. The reserve enforces a strict no-litter policy.
- Health: Carry insect repellent; malaria risk is moderate. Evenings can be warm but nights cool quickly.
- Safety: Never walk outside your tent at night without checking surroundings. Always keep food securely stored to avoid attracting baboons or hyenas.
8. Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June–October and December–March): Ideal for camping and wildlife viewing. Roads are easier to navigate, and animals gather at the river.
- Green Season (April–May and November): Beautiful scenery and fewer tourists, but expect muddy tracks and some areas to be inaccessible.
9. Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive from Nairobi, set up camp at Buffalo Springs Riverside site, and take an afternoon game drive.
Day 2: Full-day safari exploring the natural springs, lava plains, and the Ewaso riverbanks; picnic lunch near the springs.
Day 3: Optional morning walk with ranger, then break camp and depart for Samburu or Shaba.
10. Final Thoughts
Camping in Buffalo Springs National Reserve is one of Kenya’s most rewarding safari experiences — raw, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature. Whether you choose the public riverside campsite or a remote special site under acacias and palms, you’ll wake to birdsong, sleep beneath a canopy of stars, and witness wildlife as it truly is: wild and unfiltered.