"Rugged Landscapes & Rare Wildlife in a Secluded Wilderness"
Shaba National Reserve Tourism
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:
The park has four main entrance gates:- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chaffa Gate: Chaffa Gate grants entry to the Chaffa area of the reserve and is more accessible from the town of Maralal.
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Things to do in Shaba National Reserve
1. Game Drive Safari
Game drives safaris typically last for a few hours, with morning and afternoon drives being the common options. Morning game drives usually start early, around sunrise, to catch the wildlife when they (Read More) are most active. Afternoon game drives offer the opportunity to witness the sunset and observe nocturnal animals as they become active. Game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles, led by experienced guides who provide insights into the wildlife and surroundings. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including the Special Five, predators, antelopes, and an abundance of bird species.
2. Guided Nature Walks
Guided nature walks allow visitors to explore the reserve on foot, accompanied by experienced guides. Nature walks typically last a few hours, with morning or late afternoon being the preferred times. (Read More) Visitors can discover the smaller details of the reserve, such as tracks, plants, insects, and birdlife. The guides share their knowledge about the flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area.
3. Camel Ride Safaris
Led by experienced guides, camel ride safaris in Shaba National Reserve offer a unique and immersive way to explore the reserve's rugged terrains. The duration of camel rides can vary, ranging from a (Read More)few hours to multiple days, allowing visitors ample time to discover the reserve's stunning landscapes and observe its diverse wildlife. Camels serve as reliable and traditional means of transportation, granting access to areas that are otherwise difficult to reach.
4. Shaba Hill
Located in the reserve, Shaba Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset when the views are particularly stunning.
5. Ewaso Ng'iro River
The Ewaso Ng'iro River flows through the reserve, attracting a diverse range of wildlife. To witness the river's wildlife activity, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
6. Natorbi Rock
Natorbi Rock is a prominent rock formation within the reserve, providing scenic viewpoints. It can be visited at any time during the day, but sunrise or sunset offers captivating lighting conditions f (Read More)or photography.
7. Chaffa Plateau
The Chaffa Plateau showcases expansive grasslands and is home to various wildlife species, including zebras, oryx antelopes, and gazelles. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the (Read More) afternoon for increased wildlife sightings.
8. Crocodile Point
For observing Nile crocodiles along the riverbanks, Crocodile Point is a prime location. Mid-morning or early afternoon visits are recommended, as crocodiles are often seen basking in the sun during t (Read More)hese times.
9. Riverside Forests
Shaba National Reserve features riverside forests, which provide a different habitat for various bird species. Birdwatchers will enjoy exploring these forests and can do so throughout the day.
10. Buffalo Springs
Adjacent to the reserve, Buffalo Springs is renowned for its natural springs and verdant vegetation. Visitors can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and numerous bir (Read More)d species.
11. Samburu Village Visit
You can explore local Samburu culture by visiting a nearby village and interacting with the Samburu community, witnessing their traditional dances and rituals, and gaining insights into their way (Read More) of life.
12. Game Viewing Hide
Some accommodations in the reserve provide game viewing hides. These concealed viewpoints offer opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats without causing a disturbance.
13. Shaba National Reserve Museum
Located within the reserve, the museum showcases exhibits on the local flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and the reserve's historical background.
Must Know Before You Travel to Shaba National Reserve
- Park Timings: All the gates are open throughout the year from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
- What to Expect: Shaba National Reserve, bordering Samburu and Buffalo Springs reserves, offers a less crowded and more off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
- Advance Booking: Pre-booking is advised for safaris and activities in the park as well as accommodations, particularly during the peak season.
- Park Fees: When staying inside the park, please note that park fees are applicable for each 24 hours of your stay.
- Vehicle Fees: Vehicle fees are paid daily and exclude the visitors in the vehicle.
- Activity Charges: Additional charges apply for activities like safaris unless booked with a tour operator.
- Combination with Other Reserves: It is recommended to combine Shaba National Reserve with the adjoining reserves - Samburu and Buffalo Springs for a complete safari adventure. However, note that visiting the other reserves has additional park entry fees.
- Malaria Precautions: Shaba is located in a malaria area, so consult your doctor for vaccinations and take antimalarials. Use DEET-containing mosquito repellent for effective protection.
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Wildlife in the Shaba National Reserve
In Shaba National Reserve, visitors can spot the "Special Five": Somali giraffe, oryx antelope, Somali ostrich, Grevy's zebra, and gerenuk. Additionally, four of the Big Five are present: African lion, African leopard, African elephant, and Cape buffalo. The reserve also hosts agile klipspringer and social hyrax in rocky areas, while shrublands are home to aardvarks, warthogs, and bat-eared foxes. Grasslands house common eland, impala, Grant's gazelle (Bright's sub-species), and gerenuk, while riverside areas attract zebras, Beisa oryx, greater kudu, and lesser kudu.
With over 450 recorded bird species, Shaba National Reserve hosts a range of avian residents and migratory species such as Williams's lark, African darter, great egret, white-headed vulture, martial eagle, and yellow-billed oxpecker.
With over 450 recorded bird species, Shaba National Reserve hosts a range of avian residents and migratory species such as Williams's lark, African darter, great egret, white-headed vulture, martial eagle, and yellow-billed oxpecker.
Travel Tips for Shaba National Reserve
- Guide Recommended: It is highly recommended to hire a guide when visiting Shaba National Reserve. A guide can help you get the best experience and reach hard-to-reach areas.
- Accommodation Recommendation: It is highly recommended to choose your accommodation that overlooks the river as it attracts a variety of wildlife.
- Self-Driving: If you intend to conduct your own safaris, it is advisable to have a 4x4 vehicle as the reserve has rocky and rough roads.
- Best Time for Wildlife Viewing: Opt for a morning game drive to observe animals when they are most active and abundant.
Best Time to Visit Shaba National Reserve
How to Reach Shaba National Reserve
How to Reach Overview
From Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, the reserve is approximately 314 kilometres away, and the most common mode of transport is by road. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, and it is advisable to use a 4x4 vehicle due to some rough sections of the road. Alternatively, domestic flights are available from Nairobi to Samburu Airport, which is about 15 kilometres from the reserve, with a flight duration of around 1 hour. Once you arrive at the reserve, private vehicles or safari tours are commonly used for transportation within the reserve.
How to reach Shaba National Reserve by flight
The nearest airport is Samburu Airport, located approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) away from the reserve. From Nairobi, there are scheduled domestic flights to Samburu Airport, with a flight duration of around 1 and a half hours. A round-trip would cost approximately $430 and can be booked on Safarilink and Airkenya.
How to reach Shaba National Reserve by road
The reserve can be accessed via a road journey from Nairobi, which is approximately 314 kilometres away. The driving time from Nairobi to Shaba National Reserve is approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. There are different routes available, and it is advisable to take the Thika Superhighway Road.
How to reach Shaba National Reserve by train
Currently, there are no direct rail connections to Shaba National Reserve. The closest railway station is Nanyuki Railway Station, located approximately 155 kilometres away. It takes around 7 hours by rail. From Nanyuki, you can proceed by road to reach the reserve.
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