Shaba National Reserve

Gazetted in 1974, Shaba National Reserve lies adjacent to east of the Samburu and Buffalo Springs national reserves about 70 km north of Mount Kenya in Northern Kenya. It is a predominantly semi desert wildlife protected area is dotted with plenty of great rocky kopjes (small isolated hills) and several springs harboring the abundant wildlife. It stretches over an area of 239 sq km, and lies at an altitude ranging between 700-1500m. The Reserve delights a starkly stunning scenery influenced by Mount Shaba (2,145m above sea level), a dormant volcano on the southern border from which the reserve also derives its name. At the foot of Mount Shaba is a rugged terrain with steep ravines and volcanic sandy soils.
The rise to prominence of Shaba National Reserve is attributed to the late Joy Adamson and her lioness Elsa which and is often referred to as the Born free country.
Eco-system
For the nature enthusiasts, Shaba National Reserve delights an enthusiastic diverse eco-system including scattered woodlands riverine forests and dry grasslands dominated by the Mount Shaba volcano. Although much smaller compared to Samburu Reserve, Shaba has more riverine forests, dominant with acacia elatior and doum palms. Shaba forms part of three small adjoining Savanna National Reserves that lie on either side of the Northern Ewaso Nyiro River. Its habitats fluctuate between impregnable alkaline grasslands and open areas of lava rock that contain  crisscrossed pockets of grass and shrubs. For a relatively small area, the reserve is famous for its Grevy’s zebra and is a delight treat for wildlife travelers.

Grevy’s zebra
Wildlife
Shaba National Reserve is most prominent for the endangered Grevy’s zebra. However, visitors to Shaba can also catch glimpses of several wild animals including the Lesser Kudus, Generuk and the reticulated Giraffe and Gazelles, Leopards, the Somali Ostrich, Lions, herds of Elephants and other small game. Plentiful wildlife is more sighted around waterholes and in marshes scattered in the reserve.
Bird Life
Shaba National Reserve is one of the richest reserves in bird species in Africa. Owing to its varied terrain and diverse eco-system, Shaba shelters an excellent population of birds, both resident and migrant. Over 350 varieties of bird different species have been recorded with the prominent ones being William Robinsons Sparrow Weaver and Masked Lark. The near-threatened and poorly known Williams’s Lark is particularly spotted in the rocky lava semi-desert regions and low Barleria shrubs. Because the reserve lies on the migration route from the Palearctic for the globally threatened Lesser Kestrel, a few pass through each year. Some of the other many varieties of migratory birds seen here include the periodically visiting African Darter and Great Egret. Resident birds include the White-headed Vulture, Martial Eagle, Eastern Plantain-eater, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black-bellied Plover, Secretary-bird, Egyptian Goose, Yellow-billed Duck, Great Cormorant, Purple Heron, African Marsh-Harrier, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Lesser Striped-Swallow, Hunter’s Sunbird, etc.

Superb Starling
Getting There
This reserve is situated 314 km from Nairobi; and to get there by road it takes about 5 hours. By air, it takes visitors 45 minutes.
Where to Stay in Shaba National Reserve

Sarova Shaba lodge
Completely dedicated to the preservation of the ecology, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is constructed out of the natural wood and eco friendly material. It offers comfortable accommodation, superb service and is an ideal station from which to set off for tours of the reserve. The lodge lies attractively overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River stretch. It boasts picturesque scenery with all the chalet-style rooms balconied. Sarova Shaba Game Lodge offers a unique experience that extends beyond game drives in the reserve. It offers a plethora of safari activities ranging from bird watching to camel safaris to the viewing deck along the river to feed and watch crocodiles. It delights a fully stocked Bar, the Surpelei Restaurant which serves buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. There’s a swimming pool to cool off and relax at after tours.

Joy’s Camp
Joy’s Camp is a luxury tented camp set on Joy Adamson’s original campsite in Shaba. Each luxury tent is set on raised platforms with beautiful views of Mount Shaba and also to afford magnificent views of a natural spring a popular spot where elephants, lions, buffalos other wildlife reign. The lavish tent is uniquely decorated in Somali cloth designs, handmade glass and the vibrant fabrics of the local nomadic tribes creating a chic, sophisticated and stylish tented camp. The other main attraction remains the proximity to a museum, a tribute dedicated in Joy’s memory. This makes it a more perfect choice for discerning guests interested in a glimpse of Kenya history, as well as those looking for an authentic wildlife experience combined with the comfort of a luxury-tented camp.
Safari Activities
- Private Game Viewing – guests are taken on safaris to view the reserve’s endangered Grevy’s zebra and other animals.
- Honeymoons Picnic Hamper – For guests who want to enjoy longer game drives, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge in particular offers a picnic hamper with light meals and beverages.
- Bird Watching – There are spectacular birding trips that are organized for visitors.

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