How to Get to Buffalo Springs National Reserve: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is one of northern Kenya’s most rewarding wildlife destinations—rich in biodiversity, culture, and stunning landscapes. Nestled on the southern banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and facing the more famous Samburu National Reserve, Buffalo Springs offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience.

Getting to this remote gem requires a bit of planning—but with the right information, it’s a journey that’s as thrilling as the destination itself.

📍 Where Is Buffalo Springs National Reserve Located?

Buffalo Springs is located in Isiolo County, approximately 325 kilometers (202 miles) north of Nairobi. It lies just south of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and directly opposite Samburu National Reserve. The nearby town of Isiolo serves as the main urban hub and access point to the greater Samburu ecosystem.

🚗 Option 1: Getting There by Road (Self-Drive or Private Vehicle)

✅ Route Summary

Total Distance: ~325 km (from Nairobi)
Total Drive Time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours (weather and traffic dependent)
Recommended Vehicle: 4WD SUV or Safari Land Cruiser/Van

🚙 Step-by-Step Directions from Nairobi

Start in Nairobi, heading north on Thika Superhighway (A2).
Pass through Thika, Makuyu, and Sagana, then continue past Karatina and Nanyuki.
Near Timau, start descending into the dry northern region and continue through Isiolo town.
From Isiolo, take the road toward Archers Post (~20–25 km).
At Archer’s Post, turn right across the bridge into Buffalo Springs or continue across the bridge to access Samburu and cross into Buffalo Springs from the Uaso Bridge Gate.

🚘 Recommended Vehicles for the Journey

For this terrain, especially in the final stretch after Isiolo, a 4WD vehicle is essential. Depending on your budget and comfort level, consider the following options:

🛻 Option 1: Safari Land Cruiser

Pop-up roof for game viewing
Excellent ground clearance
Ideal for groups (4–7 people)
Best for guided safaris
Price range (with driver-guide): $200–$250/day including fuel

🚐 Option 2: Toyota Noah or Toyota Hiace (4WD)

Budget-friendly option for small groups
Not suitable in rainy conditions without 4WD
Price range: $150–$180/day with driver

🚙 Option 3: Self-drive 4×4 SUV (Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser TX)

Great for experienced drivers
Can be rented in Nairobi with cross-country insurance
Price range: $90–$130/day (self-drive)
Fuel not included

⛽ Important Notes for Driving

Fuel up in Isiolo — it’s the last major town with reliable fuel stations.
Carry cash for park fees if not booked in advance.
Avoid night driving — animal crossings and poor road visibility can be dangerous.
Roads can become impassable in the rainy season (March–May, Oct–Nov) — check conditions before departure.

🛩️ Option 2: Getting There by Air (Scheduled Flights or Private Charters)

For a quicker and more comfortable trip, flights are available from Nairobi to airstrips serving Buffalo Springs and the greater Samburu area.

✈️ Flight Summary

Departure Airport: Wilson Airport, Nairobi
Flight Duration: ~1 hour
Airstrips:
- Buffalo Springs Airstrip
- Samburu Oryx Airstrip (just across the river, used for both Samburu and Buffalo Springs)
- Kalama Airstrip (serves lodges in nearby conservancies)

🛬 Airlines Operating This Route

SafariLink
AirKenya
Fly ALS (occasionally)
Charter companies (for private groups)

Flights typically operate in the morning (8:00–10:30 am departures) and may return by mid-morning or early afternoon.

🚐 Transfer from Airstrip to Camp

Most lodges and tented camps offer complimentary or pre-booked transfers from the airstrip. Transfer times range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on your accommodation.

🚪 Buffalo Springs Entry Gates

There are three main entry points:

Ngaremara Gate – On the Isiolo-Marsabit road (A2), suitable for road arrivals.
Chokaa Gate – A secondary gate also accessed via A2.
Uaso Bridge Gate – Used when entering from Samburu National Reserve across the Ewaso Ng’iro River.

📝 Pro Tip: If you plan to visit both Samburu and Buffalo Springs, you can cross the river using the bridge and pay a combined fee or get a dual-reserve permit (check at the gate or with your guide).

🗓️ Sample Travel Itineraries

Option 1: Road-Based Safari (Self-Drive or Driver-Guide)

Day 1

06:30 AM: Depart Nairobi after an early breakfast
10:30 AM: Stopover in Nanyuki for fuel/snacks and enjoy Mt. Kenya views
01:30 PM: Arrive in Isiolo for lunch/refuel
03:00 PM: Enter Buffalo Springs via Ngaremara Gate
04:00 PM: Afternoon game drive
06:30 PM: Check into your lodge or camp

Day 2 & 3

Full-day or morning/evening game drives
Visit Ewaso Ng’iro River, natural springs, and cross to Samburu Reserve if desired
Optional: cultural visit to Samburu homesteads

Day 4

Morning drive and breakfast
Begin drive back to Nairobi by 9:00 AM
Arrive Nairobi around 3:00–4:00 PM

Option 2: Fly-In Safari (Luxury or Time-Saving Trip)