Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is part of the larger Northern Rangelands ecosystem located in Isiolo County, northern Kenya. Covering a semi-arid terrain dominated by open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine thickets along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, the reserve supports a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, Grevy's zebras, reticulated giraffes, and diverse bird species. The reserve shares an unfenced boundary with the Samburu National Reserve, creating a significant conservancy area ideal for wildlife migration and viewing. Historically, Buffalo Springs was established as a game reserve in the 1940s and has grown into a critical refuge for endangered species amid expanding regional development pressures. It is managed by the Isiolo County government and local community groups that emphasize conservation alongside sustainable tourism. Key recreation opportunities include guided game drives, birdwatching, photographic safaris, and cultural visits to nearby Samburu communities. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Ewaso Ng'iro River, which provides a lifeline to wildlife, and the open plains where large herds of buffalo and elephant gather. The reserve's remote location offers a genuine East African wilderness experience offering both wildlife enthusiasts and photographers abundant viewing and immersive nature encounters.