Shaba National Reserve is a protected area in Isiolo County in northern Kenya to the east of the Samburu and Buffalo Springs national reserves. The distance of Shaba National Reserve from Nairobi is 320 km north-east of Nairobi. Its size is 239km square. It was established in 1974. The reserve lies in a hot and dry semi-arid area. The Shaba National Reserve is one of the less visited areas in Kenya and is located off the main tourism paths. It is one of the most northerly parks in the country and here you will experience the fascinating landscapes north of Mount Kenya in absolute seclusion.

The Shaba National Reserve is more known for its landscape than its wildlife. If you have already seen the Big Five, you can really take the time to enjoy the fascinating vegetation and the lesser-known animal species living in this region.

The reserve is surrounded by imposing mountain ranges and intersected by the Ewaso Nyiro River. The vegetation of the plain consists of grasslands, bushes and individual trees, while along the river you will find gallery forests growing.

Accessibility to Shaba is primarily by road, with the nearest major town being Isiolo, approximately 45 kilometers away. Visitors often travel from Nairobi, with the drive taking around 6 to 7 hours, though the journey offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Shaba is also known for its cultural heritage, as it is inhabited by the Samburu people, who contribute to the area’s rich traditions and lifestyle. This combination of wildlife, scenery, and cultural experiences makes Shaba National Reserve a unique destination for travelers seeking adventure and exploration.

Attractions

• Shaba National Park will take your breath away with its imposing landscape: the dry bushlands, surrounded by many small free-standing hills, framed by mountain ranges and traversed by the Ewaso Nyiro River awaits you in central Kenya.
• In addition to the exciting landscape, you will have the chance to see the animals of the arid zone such as Somali giraffes, oryx antelopes, Somali ostriches, Grevy’s zebras and gerenuks.
• Along the Ewaso Nyiro River, you will find elephants, crocodiles, hippos and buffaloes, closely followed by lions, leopards and cheetahs.
• Bird lovers will also delight in the over 450 species of birds found in the area.

Conservation efforts

Key conservation efforts include anti-poaching initiatives to protect vulnerable species like elephants and reticulated giraffes, as well as habitat restoration projects that focus on preserving the natural vegetation and water sources critical for wildlife. The reserve also engages local communities through educational programs and sustainable tourism initiatives, fostering a sense of stewardship and ensuring that the benefits of conservation extend to surrounding populations. These collaborative efforts aim to maintain the ecological integrity of Shaba while promoting coexistence between wildlife and humans.