Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Wildlife Reserve Protected reserve noted for springs and wildlife viewing
Part of the Samburu-Isiolo ecosystem, Buffalo Springs National Reserve is visited for game drives, elephants and dry-country wildlife viewing on guided safaris.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve is a protected area in Isiolo County in northern Kenya, forming part of the wider Samburu-Buffalo Springs ecosystem. The reserve comprises arid and semi-arid bushland with an important riverine corridor along the Ewaso Ng’iro.
The reserve supports dry-country and riverine wildlife and is noted for species adapted to semi-arid conditions, including elephant herds, Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. Wildlife viewing concentrates along the river and watering points where animals gather, especially in drier months.
The reserve sits adjacent to Samburu National Reserve and together they form an important contiguous conservation landscape in northern Kenya, with management focused on wildlife conservation, community engagement and tourism.
- Characteristic wildlife: Adjoins the Samburu ecosystem and supports dry-country and riverine wildlife such as elephants, Grevy's zebra and reticulated giraffe that are characteristic of northern Kenya.
What to See #
- Ewaso Ng'iro River: The Ewaso Ng'iro river runs through the reserve and forms a key riverine habitat that concentrates wildlife, especially during the dry season.
How to Get to Buffalo Springs National Reserve #
Buffalo Springs is reached by road from Isiolo town (about 35 km). Most visitors drive from Isiolo on the A2 and then north on the Ewaso Ng’iro access tracks; 4x4 recommended. Scheduled transfers or guided tours often operate from Archer’s Post, Isiolo or Meru; Nairobi is about a 5-6 hour drive (or a short domestic flight to Isiolo Airport followed by a land transfer).
Tips for Visiting Buffalo Springs National Reserve #
- Hire a local guide from Archer's Post or Isiolo to increase the chance of sightings - guides know the springs' microhabitats.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens: many animals drink at the springs from a distance.
- Avoid the hottest hours (midday) when animals spread out; dawn and dusk are best for concentrated activity.
Best Time to Visit Buffalo Springs National Reserve #
The reserve is easiest to visit in the dry season (June-October) when wildlife congregates at springs; dry, cool mornings and late afternoons are best for game viewing.
Weather & Climate near Buffalo Springs National Reserve #
Buffalo Springs National Reserve's climate is classified as Hot Semi-Arid - Hot Semi-Arid climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 16°C to 32°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is the warmest month with highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 3 mm.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 16°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 17°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 17°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (130 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
