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Rift Valley National Parks

 The three national reserves in the Rift Valley region are located in the remote area north of Isiolo cover over 300 sq km (117 sq miles). Samburu, Buffalo Spring, and Shaba are situated along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and are surrounded by a combination of desert scrub and open savannah plains. The 32km (19 mile) river supports abundant wildlife as it never dries up. Visitors to the Samburu region will see two species found only in northern Kenya: Grevy's zebra and the reticulated giraffe. The reserves are approximately 64 km (38 miles) north of the equator and the temperatures remain hot with low humidity.
Marsabit National Park and Reserve is one of Kenya's most remote and least visited national parks. Getting to the park is difficult and dangerous so arriving by plane is highly advised. Driving requires a 4WD vehicle as well as a special permit from the Provincial Headquarters in Isiolo. Marsabit contains a forested mountain within its 2,070 sq km (787sq mi) borders is an oasis in the middle of the surrounding desert. The Dida Galgalla desert lies to the north of Marsabit. This expanse of black lava, although inhospitable, sustains numerous rare species of birds. Beyond Marsabit is a region of desert and semi-desert that is sparsely populated and harsh. Poaching is common here and bandits known as shiftas discourage all but the most ambitious traveler.

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