Northern Kenya is a hidden gem for birdwatching, offering a unique blend of arid landscapes, riverine forests, and montane ecosystems that support a diverse array of rare and endemic bird species. The region, including Samburu National Reserve, Marsabit National Park, and the vast northern wilderness, provides an unrivaled birding experience for both novice and seasoned birdwatchers.

1. Samburu National Reserve

Location:

Samburu National Reserve is situated along the Ewaso Nyiro River, approximately 350 km north of Nairobi in Samburu County. The reserve covers an area of 165 square kilometers, offering a mix of semi-arid savannah, acacia woodlands, and riverine vegetation.

Bird Species in Samburu:

Samburu’s rich ecosystem hosts over 450 bird species, making it a prime birding destination.

Notable Birds:

• Vulturine Guineafowl – A striking bird with blue and black plumage, found in dry scrublands.
• Somali Ostrich – Larger and bluer than the common ostrich, adapted to arid environments.
• Golden-breasted Starling – One of Africa’s most beautiful starlings, found in acacia woodlands.
• White-headed Mousebird – A unique mousebird species exclusive to arid northern Kenya.
• Taita Falcon – A rare and elusive raptor, often seen along cliffs.
• Yellow-throated Sandgrouse – Commonly found in dry open plains.

Other Birds:

• Secretary Bird
• African Pygmy Falcon
• Northern Red-billed Hornbill
• Eastern Chanting Goshawk
• Rosy-patched Bushshrike
• Buff-crested Bustard

Best Birding Spots in Samburu:

• Ewaso Nyiro Riverbanks – Excellent for spotting waterbirds and raptors.
• Acacia Scrublands – Home to starlings, hornbills, and bustards.
• Rocky Hills and Cliffs – Best place to find raptors like the Taita Falcon and Augur Buzzard.

2. Marsabit National Park

Location:

Marsabit National Park lies 560 km north of Nairobi, surrounding Marsabit Mountain, an extinct volcanic mountain that creates a montane forest oasis in the middle of an otherwise arid landscape.

Bird Species in Marsabit:

Marsabit is a critical refuge for forest, savannah, and wetland birds.

Notable Birds:

• Abbott’s Starling – A rare and localized species found in montane forests.
• Hartlaub’s Turaco – A striking green and red bird often seen in dense forests.
• Vermilion Flycatcher – A bright red and black insectivore found near water sources.
• Heuglin’s Bustard – A large ground bird commonly seen in open grasslands.
• Donaldson-Smith’s Nightjar – A nocturnal bird unique to northern Kenya.
• White-bellied Go-away-bird – Found in acacia woodlands.

Best Birding Spots in Marsabit:

• Gof Sokorte Guda Crater Lake – Excellent for waterbirds and raptors.
• Montane Forest Trails – Good for turacos, sunbirds, and starlings.
• Acacia Savannahs – Home to bustards, hornbills, and sandgrouse.

3. Other Birding Hotspots in Northern Kenya

Beyond Samburu and Marsabit, northern Kenya’s wilderness offers exceptional birdwatching locations:

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

• Masked Lark – An endemic species unique to dry savannahs.
• Blue-naped Mousebird – Commonly seen in lowland areas.
• Pink-breasted Lark – A bird species associated with dry bushlands.

Shaba National Reserve

• Golden Pipit – A rare and striking bird of open grasslands.
• Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse – Found in dry areas near water sources.

Chalbi Desert & Lake Paradise (Marsabit Highlands)

• Egyptian Vulture – Frequently seen in desert landscapes.
• Crowned Sandgrouse – Perfectly adapted to arid environments.
• Greater Flamingo – Occasionally found at seasonal water bodies.

Best Time for Birdwatching in Northern Kenya

The best time for birdwatching in Samburu, Marsabit, and northern Kenya is from November to April, when migratory birds arrive, and local species are in breeding plumage. However, birding is excellent all year round, with different species visible in different seasons.

Birdwatching Safari Experience in Northern Kenya

A birding safari in Northern Kenya offers a variety of experiences:

• Game Drives – Explore vast savannahs and acacia woodlands.
• Guided Bird Walks – Discover forest and desert species with expert guides.
• Photography Safaris – Capture breathtaking birdlife in diverse landscapes.
• Boat Rides (in suitable areas) – Spot wetland birds where water sources exist.

Other Wildlife in Northern Kenya

While birdwatching, visitors can also see unique wildlife, including:

• Grevy’s Zebra – Found in Samburu, one of the rarest zebras in the world.
• Reticulated Giraffe – Distinguished by its striking coat pattern.
• Beisa Oryx – A desert-adapted antelope with long straight horns.
• Gerenuk – A long-necked antelope often seen standing on its hind legs.
• Elephants, Leopards, and Lions – Spotted along riverbanks and open savannahs.

How to Get to Northern Kenya

• By Road: A drive from Nairobi to Samburu (6 hours), Marsabit (9-10 hours).
• By Air: Charter flights available to Samburu, Marsabit, and Buffalo Springs.
• Public Transport: Buses and matatus operate from Nairobi to major northern towns.

Where to Stay in Northern Kenya

Birdwatchers can choose from a variety of lodges and camps:

• Sarova Shaba Game Lodge – Luxury stay near Shaba Reserve.
• Samburu Game Lodge – Located along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
• Marsabit Lodge – Best for birding near Marsabit’s forests.
• Elephant Bedroom Camp – An intimate luxury camp in Samburu.
• Sabache Camp – A budget-friendly option near Samburu Reserve.

Why Choose Northern Kenya for a Birdwatching Safari?

1. Diverse Birdlife – Unique mix of savannah, forest, and desert species.
2. Rare and Endemic Birds – Includes Vulturine Guineafowl, Somali Ostrich, and Abbott’s Starling.
3. Scenic Landscapes – Stunning backdrops of deserts, mountains, and rivers.
4. Rich Cultural Experiences – Interact with Samburu and Rendille communities.
5. Exclusive Safaris – Experience uncrowded birdwatching destinations.

Conclusion

A birdwatching safari in Samburu, Marsabit, and Northern Kenya is an unforgettable experience. Whether exploring riverine forests, desert landscapes, or highland montane habitats, this region offers an exceptional variety of bird species in one of Kenya’s most untouched wilderness areas.

Book Your Northern Kenya Birdwatching Safari Today!

Plan your birding adventure in Northern Kenya and discover some of the most spectacular and rare bird species in Africa!