Although Samburu is considered to be the southern edge of the arid north,
a river does run through it (Ewaso Ngiro) which provides much needed
water for its population of gerenuk, Reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s
zebra. Elephant, lion and cheetah can be found here and an unusual treat
is the possibility of seeing the reclusive leopard at dusk.
Shaba National Reserve is a starkly beautiful land of rocky hills, scattered
thornbush, volcanic rock and a multitude of springs. The landscape is
similar to nearby Samburu with riverine forests, acacias and doum palms.It
is perhaps best known for being the home of the famed conservation team
George and Joy Adamson. Although not as game rich as Samburu National
Reserve, the up-side is that far less people visit here. Oryx, gerenuk,
Grant’s gazelle and dikdik congregate around the many springs in the
dry season.
