Shaba National Reserve

Shaba National Reserve in northern Kenya that forms a part of trio of adjoining reserves Samburu and Buffalo Springs, hosts unique wildlife like the Special Five: Somali giraffes, oryx antelopes, Somali ostriches, Grevy's zebras, and gerenuks. The reserve is named after Mount Shaba, a volcanic mountain that dominates the landscape, providing a dramatic backdrop to the rugged terrain characterized by acacia woodlands, scrubland, and the meandering Ewaso Nyiro River. It's also home to four of the Big Five, excluding rhinos. Notably, the reserve gained international fame as the location where Joy Adamson, author of "Born Free," released her cheetah, Penny, back into the wild.

Covering 239 square kilometres, Shaba National Reserve boasts diverse landscapes, including riverside forests and dry grasslands around the Shaba Hill volcano. Along the Ewaso Ngiro River, you'll find elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and buffaloes, while predators like leopards, lions, cheetahs, jackals, and hyenas roam the area. The reserve is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 450 species, including the elusive Williams's lark.

Shaba offers a more secluded and intimate safari experience compared to the more frequented reserves. Game drives provide excellent opportunities to see the diverse fauna in their natural habitat, while guided bush walks offer a closer look at the smaller details of the ecosystem, from unique plants to insects.

Accommodation in Shaba National Reserve ranges from luxury lodges to more rustic camps, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment while providing modern comforts. Many lodges and camps offer open-air dining experiences where guests can enjoy local Kenyan cuisine under the stars, accompanied by the sounds of the African wilderness. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, Shaba National Reserve is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Entrance Fees to the Shaba National Reserve:

Park Entry Fee:
Citizen: Adult - KSH 500
Resident: Adult - KSH 1000
Non-Resident: Adult - USD 70, Child - USD 40

Vehicle Fee:
Less than 6 seats - KSH 400
6 to 12 seats - KSH 1200
13 to 25 seats - KSH 2400

Entrance Gates to the Shaba National Reserve:

1. Shaba Gate: This entrance gate provides access to the main Shaba area. It is closest to the reserve's headquarters and is closest to the town of Archers Post.
2. Natorbi Gate: Natorbi Gate allows entry into the Natorbi area of the reserve. It is relatively closer to the town of Nanyuki, serving as a convenient access point for visitors coming from that town.
3. Joy's Camp Gate: Joy's Camp Gate serves as an entrance point to the Joy's Camp area, a luxury safari accommodation as well as the town of Isiolo.
4. Chaffa Gate: Chaffa Gate grants entry to the Chaffa area of the reserve and is more accessible from the town of Maralal.