The largest desert in Kenya, known as Chalbi desert, lies in North Eastern Kenya.  The waters of the Ewaso Nyiro are conducted through Samburu, Shaba, Buffalo Springs and Marsabit, creating a spectacular countryside, full of possibilities. The area is sparsely populated and the major forms of vegetation are scrubs and thicket. To reside in the area, one needs to have a certain level of adaptability, because only the fit survive. The Buffalo Springs game reserve (128 km2), Samburu (165 km2) and Shaba (280 km2) form an ecosystem, which lies about 320 km north of Nairobi. The Ewaso Nyiro descends from the Aberdares, providing a lifeline for the flora and fauna within the region, finally ending in the Lorian Swamp.

Also part of this region is Sibiloi, Lesai, and Marsabit. The region has a harsh climate and this is reflected in the arid landscape. Rainfall is scarce, with annual levels of around 350mm. Temperatures are high throughout the year, reaching 37 ° C during the day, in the hottest months. The night temperatures do not fall below 21 ° C.

A huge part of Eastern Kenya consists of remote arid and semi arid lands, with little signs of life. Although, the region is slowly opening up. 

The thick forests, tall grass, Doum palms surrounding hills and kopjes create an uncharted desert terrain. This is the wild field where the famous lioness Elsa in “Born Free” was returned in 1950 by George and Joy Adamson.

Lorian Swamp, Bisinadi, Rahole, Kora and national Kitui reserves are easily accessible from this area. Vegetation consists mainly of thorny shrubs and acacias, but there is a more diverse and abundant vegetation in the valleys of the rivers in Ewaso Nyiro and especially the Tana and its tributaries. Temperatures are high, around 32 degrees in the hottest months. There are many rocky hills that come alive with a variety of vegetation, especially after rains. Much of this territory of Kenya consists of desert steppes or semi arid land.