Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is a stunning 131 square kilometer wildlife sanctuary located in northern Kenya, situated on the southern bank of the Ewaso Nyiro River directly opposite the more famous Samburu National Reserve. This semi-arid reserve protects a unique ecosystem characterized by dramatic mountain backdrops, lush riverine forests, and semi-arid plains dotted with termite mounds and umbrella acacia trees. The reserve is named after its natural hot springs, which serve as a scenic landmark and attract a steady stream of thirsty animals throughout the year. Buffalo Springs has long existed in the shadow of its northern neighbor but offers equally compelling wildlife viewing experiences with significantly fewer tourists. The landscape is almost encircled by dramatic mountains, creating a visually striking backdrop for safari activities. The combination of mountain scenery, river ecosystems, and semi-arid plains makes Buffalo Springs one of Kenya's most visually diverse reserves. The reserve is particularly renowned as one of the best places in Kenya to see leopards, with reliable sightings possible in the riverine forests along the White River and other watercourses. Elephants are particularly abundant throughout the reserve, and visitors frequently encounter these magnificent creatures against spectacular scenic backdrops. The reserve is home to four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, and elephant), though rhinos are notably absent. Beyond the major predators, Buffalo Springs is famous for its northern Kenya dry-country specials, including the striking Beisa oryx, lesser kudu, reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, and the unusual-looking gerenuk with its characteristically long neck. The reserve supports excellent birding opportunities, with many dry-country bird species present, particularly along the scenic river corridors. The Samburu pastoralists live a seminomadic lifestyle along the reserve's boundaries, and visits to traditional homesteads provide valuable cultural insights and authentic interactions with local communities.

Semi-arid savannah with dramatic mountain backdrops, lush riverine forests along the Ewaso Nyiro River, semi-arid plains studded with termite mounds and umbrella acacia trees, scenic hot springs, deep gorges, and varied topography creating visually striking scenery.

The Samburu pastoralists live a seminomadic lifestyle along the reserve's boundaries. These indigenous communities are known for their intricate, brightly colored beaded jewelry and traditional cultural practices. Visits to traditional Samburu homesteads are highly recommended and provide authentic cultural experiences and insights into pastoral life in northern Kenya.

Buffalo Springs offers excellent photography opportunities, particularly for elephant portraits against mountain backdrops. The riverine areas provide scenic compositions with wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon light are optimal. The reserve's dramatic scenery and reliable wildlife sightings make it excellent for wildlife photography. Bring telephoto lenses for distant subjects and wide-angle lenses for landscape shots.