Buffalo Springs Reserve sits across the Ewaso Nyiro River from Samburu National Reserve, sharing much of the same dry, rugged landscape and distinctive wildlife found in Kenya’s arid north. Open plains and doum palm groves along the river support elephant, lion, leopard and the same set of specially adapted species found in neighbouring Samburu, including Grevy’s zebra and gerenuk.

Natural springs within the reserve give it its name, providing a reliable water source that draws wildlife even during the driest months and creating pockets of greenery within the otherwise arid terrain. The reserve’s smaller size compared to Samburu often means quieter game drives with fewer other vehicles.

Reached by road or flight via the wider Samburu region, Buffalo Springs is usually visited together with Samburu and Shaba as part of a combined northern Kenya safari, adding variety to an itinerary built around Kenya’s more visited southern parks.