Surana Buffalo Springs Camp

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Surana Buffalo Springs Camp

Surana Buffalo Springs is a luxury safari lodge located within Buffalo Springs National Reserve in Isiolo County, northern Kenya. Opened in 2024, it has quickly become one of the region's premium safari accommodations, combining modern luxury with exceptional wildlife viewing along the Ewaso Nyiro River. 

Location

The camp sits on an elevated bluff overlooking the confluence of the Ewaso Nyiro River and the Isiolo River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and the iconic Mount Ololokwe. Its position places guests in the heart of the Samburu ecosystem, which includes:

  • Buffalo Springs National Reserve

  • Samburu National Reserve

  • Shaba National Reserve

This interconnected ecosystem is renowned for its semi-arid landscapes, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and year-round wildlife. 

Accommodation

Surana Buffalo Springs offers luxury tented suites designed to blend contemporary comfort with an authentic safari atmosphere.

Each suite typically features:

  • Spacious bedroom with king or twin beds

  • En-suite bathroom with premium fittings

  • Indoor and outdoor shower

  • Private veranda

  • Private plunge pool

  • Sitting area

  • Tea and coffee station

  • Mini-bar

  • Ceiling fan

  • River or wilderness views

The décor incorporates natural materials, African-inspired artwork, and large windows to maximize wildlife viewing from the room. 

Dining

The lodge provides a fine-dining safari experience.

Guests can expect:

  • Full-board meals

  • Multi-course dinners

  • Fresh local and international cuisine

  • Bush breakfasts

  • Sundowner cocktails

  • Outdoor dining under the stars

  • Special dietary meals upon request

Many visitor reviews consistently praise the quality of the food and attentive service. 

Facilities

The property includes:

  • Infinity swimming pool overlooking the river

  • Spa and massage services

  • Lounge and bar

  • Restaurant

  • Observation decks

  • Fire pit

  • Free Wi-Fi in common areas

  • Conference facilities for small groups

  • Secure parking

  • 24-hour security

The elevated main lodge offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife without leaving the property. 

Wildlife

One of the biggest attractions is access to the famous Samburu Special Five:

  • Grevy's zebra

  • Reticulated giraffe

  • Beisa oryx

  • Somali ostrich

  • Gerenuk

Other commonly seen wildlife includes:

  • African elephants

  • Lions

  • Leopards

  • Cheetahs

  • Hyenas

  • Buffalo

  • Crocodiles

  • Hippos

  • Impalas

  • Grant's gazelles

  • Dik-diks

  • Warthogs

Over 400 bird species have also been recorded in the reserve, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers. 

Safari Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Morning game drives

  • Evening game drives

  • Birdwatching

  • Photography safaris

  • Sundowner experiences

  • Nature walks (where permitted)

  • Cultural visits to Samburu communities

  • Stargazing

  • Bush dining experiences

Professional guides familiar with the Samburu ecosystem lead most excursions. 

Accessibility

By Road

  • Approximately 5–6 hours from Nairobi via Nanyuki and Isiolo on mostly paved roads, followed by a shorter gravel section into the reserve. 

By Air

Scheduled safari flights operate from Nairobi to nearby airstrips, with lodge transfers provided.

Best Time to Visit

June–October

  • Dry season

  • Easier wildlife spotting

  • Pleasant temperatures

  • Excellent for photography

November–December

  • Short rains

  • Lush scenery

  • Fewer visitors

January–March

  • Dry and warm

  • Strong wildlife viewing

  • Good birdwatching

April–May

  • Long rains

  • Greener landscapes

  • Potentially fewer crowds

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