Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Buffalo Springs faces Samburu across the Ewaso Ng'iro and is usually visited alongside it, with vehicles crossing between the two on a bridge. Its name comes from a set of clear springs welling out of the ground in the west of the reserve, feeding pools that hold water when much of the country is dry, and these are the focus for game: elephant, buffalo, oryx, gerenuk standing on hind legs to browse, and the reticulated giraffe and Grevy's zebra that make the northern reserves distinct from the southern parks. Lion, leopard and cheetah are present. The landscape is open acacia and doum palm along the river, with lava scattered across the plains. Being the quieter half of the pair, it often gives sightings without the vehicle crowding that Samburu can attract at a good cat.

What you actually see

• The springs - clear pools that hold water through the dry season.
• Northern specials - Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and oryx.
• The river frontage - doum palms and elephants along the Ewaso Ng'iro.
• Open lava plains - the drier country away from the water.

When to go

Dry seasons for concentrated game and passable tracks; the river can flood and cut crossings in the rains. Early morning and late afternoon are the productive hours. Midday heat here is severe.

Honest expectations

Tracks are rough and the reserve floods in places after rain. Vehicle crowding at cat sightings can happen when Samburu vehicles cross over. Facilities are lodges and campsites of varying standard. Fees are charged separately from Samburu even though the two are usually visited together.

Nearby

Samburu reserve is across the river; Shaba lies east.