When to go
Best time to visit Samburu National Park
Samburu is a year-round destination. The right month depends on whether you prioritise sightings, photography, birding or value.
The short answer
June to October and December to March are the best months for game viewing, because the land is dry and wildlife depends on the Ewaso Ng'iro River. April, May and November bring rain, green landscapes, superb birding and the lowest rates.
Climate
Samburu is hot and semi-arid. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 30°C and 37°C, dropping to around 20°C at night. Long rains fall from late March to May and short rains in November, though both are unpredictable and rarely disrupt a safari for long.
January
Hot and dry, 34°C+ by day. Excellent game viewing on the river, clear skies, strong photography light.
February
The hottest, driest month. Wildlife tightly concentrated on the Ewaso Ng'iro. Superb sightings.
March
Still hot with the first storms possible late in the month. Very good game viewing, fewer visitors.
April
Long rains. Green, dramatic and quiet, with the lowest rates of the year. Some tracks become tricky.
May
Rains taper off. Lush landscapes, excellent birding, low season pricing continues.
June
Dry season begins. Cooler mornings, thinning vegetation and improving sightings. Excellent value early in the month.
July
Peak season. Reliable game viewing, comfortable temperatures, camps busy — book well ahead.
August
Peak season continues with dry conditions and excellent predator activity.
September
One of the best months: dry, warm, animals reliant on the river, and slightly quieter than August.
October
Hot and very dry before the short rains. Outstanding elephant activity on the riverbed.
November
Short rains bring afternoon showers, migrant birds and green flushes. Good value.
December
Rains ease. Green landscapes with strong game viewing; festive period books up quickly.
When to book
For July to October and the Christmas period, book six to nine months ahead — the best riverside camps are small and fill early. For green season travel, two to three months is usually sufficient and rates can be 30 to 40 percent lower.
Not sure which month suits you?
Send us your rough dates and priorities and we will tell you honestly what to expect.