Buffalo Springs National Reserve lies directly south of Samburu National Reserve, separated by the Ewaso Ng’iro River. Covering 131 square kilometres, the reserve takes its name from a beautiful natural spring — a crystal-clear pool surrounded by doum palms that serves as a popular swimming spot for visitors and a vital water source for wildlife.
While sharing many species with Samburu, Buffalo Springs has its own distinct character. The landscape includes open grasslands, rocky outcrops, and extensive doum palm forests along seasonal water courses. The reserve is particularly known for its large populations of Grevy’s zebra, an endangered species found only in northern Kenya and Ethiopia.
Birdwatching is excellent here, with over 365 species recorded including vulturine guineafowl, golden-breasted starling, and numerous raptors. The reserve offers a quieter, less-visited alternative to Samburu while providing equally rewarding wildlife encounters.