Why stay here
Ashnil Samburu Camp is correctly placed in Buffalo Springs National Reserve, south of the Ewaso Nyiro—not in Samburu National Reserve across the river. That distinction matters. Buffalo Springs provides its own road network, springs, dry-country habitat and broad views towards Mount Ol Olokwe while remaining part of the same connected wildlife landscape.
With nineteen tents and a pool, Ashnil offers more facilities than a very small bush camp without becoming a large conventional hotel. It is a good operational base for families and travellers who want a comfortable introduction to the northern reserves.
Setting and safari character
The camp stands on the river, the ecological spine shared by Buffalo Springs and Samburu. Elephants, giraffes and plains game use the corridor, while drives extend through open semi-arid country for Grévy’s zebra, gerenuk, oryx and Somali ostrich.
Buffalo Springs often feels less compressed than the best-known Samburu river circuits, though wildlife and vehicle density change daily. The reserve should be explored for its own character rather than treated only as an access route to the opposite bank.
Tents and camp life
The ensuite tents have private terraces and river or landscape outlooks. A swimming pool and established common areas make midday comfortable in a hot climate. The style is accessible, relaxed and suitable for guests who prefer a little more structure than a tiny expedition camp.
As with every unfenced river property, wildlife may pass nearby and staff guidance after dark is essential. The best experience balances early field time with a slower return to camp during the hottest hours.
Best for
Ashnil is well suited to families, couples, small groups and first-time visitors wanting a medium-sized tented camp with reliable facilities. It also works for travellers deliberately interested in Buffalo Springs. Guests seeking specialist elephant research, highly personalised hosting or extensive conservancy activities should consider a split stay.
Getting there
Scheduled flights from Wilson Airport serve the Samburu and Buffalo Springs area. The current airstrip and transfer are confirmed at booking, as operators may use different northern stops. A private charter can simplify connections for a family or a circuit continuing into Namunyak.
Driving is logical from Nanyuki, Ol Pejeta or Lewa in a private 4×4. From Nairobi it is a long travel day, but the changing country north of Mount Kenya gives the journey context when it forms part of a larger road safari.
What to combine it with
Ashnil can be paired with a Westgate or Kalama lodge to add walking and night drives, or with Sarara for a much more remote northern chapter. Ol Pejeta provides a strong road combination; the Mara is usually best connected by air when time is limited.
Wilderness Alternative note
We list Ashnil under Buffalo Springs because accurate geography helps guests choose well. Our game plan does not automatically cross the river in search of a famous Samburu sighting; we read Buffalo Springs first, use its space and only make longer movements when conditions justify them.