Ndoto Forest Reserve- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Ndoto Forest Reserve (also called the Ndoto Range Forest Reserve) occupies more than 932 km² in northern Kenya, spanning parts of Samburu and Marsabit counties. Established in 1956, it includes roughly 101.5 km² of dense montane forest amid predominantly dryland and semi-arid elevations. That landscape supports adapted wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs, and serves as an important water catchment, supplying firewood, fodder, and medicinal plants to local Rendille and Samburu pastoralist communities. The reserve's forested patches, montane zones, and unique geology—largely made up of ancient crystalline rock—offer striking contrast to surrounding arid plains and present opportunities for birding, nature walks, and cultural immersion.