Shaba National Reserve lies east of Samburu, forming part of Kenya’s northern frontier wilderness. The Ewaso Nyiro River weaves through volcanic hills and deep gorges, nurturing an oasis of life amid the arid landscape. The park’s rocky terrain, dotted with doum palms and acacias, gives it an otherworldly feel distinct from any other Kenyan reserve.
Shaba is celebrated not only for its striking scenery but also for its place in conservation history — it’s where Joy Adamson, author of *Born Free*, spent her later years rehabilitating wildlife. Visitors find the same raw solitude that inspired her work. Herds of elephants and rare species like the gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Beisa oryx roam freely, alongside predators drawn to the riverbanks.
Despite its remoteness, Shaba rewards those who seek authentic adventure. Its isolation guarantees serenity and intimate wildlife encounters without crowds — a sanctuary of silence and timelessness.
*Best time to visit: June – October and January – February for comfortable temperatures and clear skies.*