Samburu is a year-round safari destination, but wildlife viewing is usually best in the dry months from June to October and December to March. Because of the dry season, the animals tend to congregate along the Ewaso River to drink and eat and it’s easier to spot them. It’s best to avoid the reserve during the wet season (November, April, and May) as the high grass will make animal spotting very challenging. However, If you are a bird lover, then the wet season is perfect to enjoy birdwatching as many migratory birds come here during this season.
When planning for your Samburu Safari its important to factor in the reserve's climate and seasonal change of prices inorder to meet your expectations.
The Samburu Game Reserve and the sorrounding reserves ( Buffalo Springs & Shaba) have an arid and semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry days and cold nights, with a moisture level between 42 and 57, this indicates that the evapotranspiration is more than the available moisture. Daytime highs range from 84 F (29 C) to 90 F (32 C) degrees and nighttime lows swing from 61 F (16 C) and 66 F (19 C) degrees depending on the month of travel. Samburu experiences long rains from April to May, while the short rainy season runs from mid-October to mid-December, but usually the rains are concentrated in November, while the dry season runs from June to early October and January to March.
The long dry season which runs from late June to October and the short dry season from December to March are considered the best time to visit the reserve for excellent African wildlife viewing. This is so as animals tend to be concentrated around the only permanent sources of water, like the Ewaso Ngiro river, where they can find water and pasture; during this time, the vegetation is generally poor and this further facilitates the sightings.
| December - March | April - May | June - mid September | Mid September - November | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Generally drier & warmer with clearer skies and lower rainfall | Still pleasant temperatures but with higher rainfall. Sunshine & clear skies still encountered. | Cloudier & cooler but drier with less rainfall but also fewer clear skies | 'Short' rains are a possibility but skies also tend to be clearer & sunny days possible |
Weather patterns in Samburu are not as predictable as in years gone by so last minute variations are possible to experience.
The cost of your Samburu Safari is determined by the standard of accommodation you choose, the duration of your safari, the season and the means of transport. The safari itineraries/costing provides a typical picture, but the final cost is determined by the below factors:
a. The number of persons travelling: Obviously, when travelling in a group the cheaper it is for everyone, as you get to share the costs compared to when one or two persons are travelling. Also, depending on the ages of the children who are on the trip, it will affect the cost. Children under the age of 12 will pay a reduced cost compared to what adults will pay.
b. The season you are travelling: Prices tend to be high during the peak season which is normally during the wildebeest migration as more people visit the country and particularly Masai Mara National Reserve making it more expensive to secure rooms. Peak season months are July to October. If you are on a limited budget best to avoid the peak season.
| Jan - March Nov- mid Dec |
July - October | April - June | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Mid to High Season
|
Peak Season
|
Low Season
|
July and August are the most expensive months to travel to Samburu. September to October are equally expensive but due to higher room availability it is possible to enjoy slightly lower prices. The cheapest months to visit Samburu are April to mid June excluding Easter period.
c. Mode of transportation: Depending on which mode of transport you prefer either flying or going by road, it will affect the cost. Flying to Samburu Game Reserve is more expensive compared to travelling by road. For road transport, there are normally two types of vehicles that are used for safaris i.e 4x4x Toyota Land-Cruisers or Safari Tour Vans that carry upto 7 persons. The 4x4 Land-Cruiser Safari vehicles are more expensive than the tour vans but more comfortable. You hardly feel the rough road as you travel.
d. Type of accommodation: depending on your preference, you have an option to book for your accommodation either in lodges or tented camps. There are different classes of accommodation ranging from the very basic to mid-range to the most luxurious depending on what you want.
e. Number of days on the safari: The cost for your safari is dependent on the number of days you are planning to be on safari. The more days you stay, the more you pay.
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