Three hundred and twenty-five kilometres from Nairobi on the Isiolo-Marsabit road. Established in 1963 for the protection of the great variety of wildlife species rarely seen anywhere else in such large numbers viz: Grevy. zebra, beisa oryx, elephant, lion, cheetah, buffalo, gerenuk, eland, grant's gazelles, impalla, birds and many other lower animal species found in the African savanna ecosystem.
Ewaso Nyiro River which traverses the reserve is the life giving bonanza in the dry woodland country .The river is inhabited by a large population of crocodile and hippo. Clusters of doum palm and riverine forest fringe the meandering river creating a lively habitat for many species of primates.
The reserve is adjoined by the equally attractive Buffalo Springs National Reserve (339 sq. kms), established sometimes later, with a similar environment, same species of game, aquatic life and birdlife.
Shaba National Reserve (239 sq. kms) established in 1974, is only separated from the two reserves by the great north road from Isiolo to Marsabit. The three reserves form what is known as the Samburu/Isiolo Complex - a trio of beautiful game sanctuaries unsurpassed anywhere in the Republic. Shaba got its name from a cone of a volcanic rock in the reserve. Large mantles of volcanic lava
preserve underground water which emerges as springs making Shaba better watered than the other two reserves. It is a lively unspoilt paradise for nature lovers who would like to spend their holidays in complete privacy
