|
Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves |
|
|
|
Safari through Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba is a rich and rewarding experience. All three reserves offer unique vistas of rounded and rugged hills and undulating plains. The mix of wood and grassland
with riverine forest and swamp is home to a wide variety of animal and birdlife during the Kenya safari. Its the second most
visited reserve in Kenya after Maasai Mara. Travelling along the banks of the Ewaso N'giro river provides a fascinating procession of varied species. Shaba National Reserve is home to Joy Adamson's Monument. It is notable for its hot springs.
Samburu and Buffalo Springs,in particular, are popular Kenya safaris routes. Samburu covers an area of 104 Sq. Kms and is 343 Kms from Nairobi at an altitude of 2,500 Ft. Buffalo Springs covers 131 Sq.Kms and both were opened in 1985.
Large herds of rare species only found in the north of the Equator and only found in this park in Kenya includes Reticulated Giraffe, somali ostrich,long-necked gerenuks(antelopes) and grevy's Zebra. Others are buffalo, Impala elephant, black rhino,ground squirrel, oryx, all gather on the banks to drink. Elephant herds often wade across the river, stopping to wallow and bathe in the shallows.
There are plenty of crocodiles here, and large specimens can be seen sunning themselves on sandbanks.
The heavy traffic of game around the riverbanks means that Lion are commonly seen hunting here. Elephant come to the river to drink, and in the dry season, use their tusks to dig deep wells in the dry river beds.
These elephant excavations then become a focal point for other plains game and troops of baboon, attracted by the fresh water supply. The surrounding riverine forests are good birding country, and in the late afternoon also excellent leopard
territory. Several individual leopards are commonly seen in trees around the river each day.
The rocky slopes of the Kopjes and hills are good country for Kudu and are home to several prides of lion.
Most of the lodges and camps here are situated on the river bank, and this offers good view.
The best time to see game is early morning and late afternoon. In the midday heat, most animals retreat to the cool of thick undergrowth and become invisible. Morning and afternoon game drives also allow you to witness the unforgettable African dawn and sunsets.
Activities in the Reserves include guided walks, bird walks or Camel rides are possible, usually along the banks of the Ewaso N'giro.
|
