Buffalo Springs National Reserve gets its name from the natural springs found within the reserve and the presence of buffalo herds that historically frequented the area.
- The name reflects both ecological and geographical significance:
- “Buffalo”: Refers to the African buffalo that have long roamed the region, especially around water sources. Early colonial-era explorers and settlers observed large numbers of buffalo here, particularly during the dry seasons when they gathered at the springs and riverbanks.
- “Springs”: Refers to the crystal-clear natural springs located in the western part of the reserve. These are permanent water sources that emerge from underground and have sustained wildlife—even during extreme droughts.
Together, these features highlight the reserve’s role as a critical water and grazing refuge in an otherwise semi-arid ecosystem.
💧 Where Are the Springs Located in the Reserve?
The Buffalo Springs themselves are located near the main reserve entrance (Ngaremara Gate) and the park headquarters area on the western edge of the reserve.
- The springs are shallow pools of clean, naturally filtered water bubbling from underground aquifers.
- Surrounded by palm groves, reeds, and acacia woodland, these springs form a unique microhabitat that attracts birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger game like elephants and buffalo.
- Some springs flow into seasonal riverbeds or form small oases in the lava plains nearby.
This area is often a stopover during game drives, offering a peaceful setting and excellent chances to observe birds, monitor lizards, baboons, and more.
So in short: Buffalo Springs is named for the real springs that flow year-round in the reserve—and the buffalo that once dominated the area. The springs remain a life-giving feature in one of Kenya’s driest wildlife zones.