9 days best of Kenya Wildlife Safari
Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arriving in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, you will be greeted by our friendly staff. They will be waiting for you at the airport to welcome you warmly to this beautiful country. Once you have collected your luggage, you’ll be taken to your hotel in Nairobi. The journey from the airport to your hotel is a great introduction to the city, giving you a glimpse of its bustling streets and vibrant culture.
The hotel we have chosen for your stay, has been carefully selected to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. We want you to feel the warmth of Kenyan hospitality right from the start. The hotel offers a cozy atmosphere and reflects the rich culture of Kenya, providing a perfect setting to relax after a long flight.
Optional Excursion: Depending on the time you arrive in Nairobi, you may have the opportunity to take part in an optional excursion. This could include a visit to one of the city’s many attractions, such as the Nairobi National Museum, the Giraffe Centre, or a tour of a local market where you can experience the local lifestyle and sample some delicious Kenyan food.
Accommodation: Nairobi
Meals: Dinner and 1-night accommodation included.
Day 2 Journey to Samburu
Today marks the beginning of your exciting safari adventure. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up by one of our safari representatives. They will provide you with a short introduction and briefing about your upcoming safari. This briefing will include important information about the areas you will visit, the wildlife you may encounter, and tips for making the most of your safari experience.
After the briefing, you will set off on your journey to Samburu National Reserve, located in the northern part of Kenya. The drive takes you through a rich agricultural region where you will see vast fields of coffee, wheat, and other crops. As you travel north, you will cross the equator at a town called Nanyuki. This is an exciting moment and a perfect photo opportunity to capture your location at the earth’s midpoint.
Continuing north, you will descend from the cool highlands into the savanna woodlands rich in wildlife. As you approach Samburu, the landscape changes dramatically, and you will start to feel the essence of the African wilderness. You will arrive at Samburu National Reserve in time for lunch at your lodge.
In the afternoon, you will embark on your first game drive in the reserve. Samburu is one of Kenya’s lesser-known national parks but is famous for its abundance of wildlife. The reserve is situated along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, which serves as a vital water source for the animals. The river attracts a wide variety of wildlife, and you can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, and more.
One of the highlights of Samburu is the chance to see rare northern species, sometimes referred to as the “Samburu Special Five.” These include the Grevy’s zebra, known for its distinctive narrow stripes, the Somali ostrich, the beautifully marked reticulated giraffe, the long-necked gerenuk, and the elegant beisa oryx. These unique animals are rarely seen in other parts of Kenya, making Samburu a special place to visit.
Accommodation: Samburu
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 2 nights
Day 3 Exploring Samburu
Wake up early for a thrilling morning game drive in Samburu. The early morning hours are the best time to see wildlife as animals are most active before the heat of the day sets in. Your guide will take you on an exploration of the reserve, searching for the elusive leopards and lions that call this area home. The guide will share insights about the animals’ behaviors and the ecosystem of Samburu, enriching your safari experience.
After the game drive, you will return to your lodge for a delicious breakfast. You’ll have time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the lodge. Spend the day at your leisure, either lounging by the pool, reading a book, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Samburu.
In the late afternoon, you will set off on another exciting game drive. The evening light creates a magical atmosphere, enhancing your chances of seeing predators as they start to become more active. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, which are often spotted lounging in trees, and lions, which may be seen patrolling their territory.
During the game drive, you’ll encounter various other species that inhabit the reserve. Elephants, with their majestic presence, are commonly seen, as well as giraffes gracefully walking through the savanna . The abundance of birdlife is also impressive, with colorful species such as the lilac-breasted roller and the striking secretary bird.
After your evening game drive, you will return to the lodge for dinner. Enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by the talented chefs, savoring the flavors of African cuisine. The lodge offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures and anticipate what lies ahead.
Accommodation: Samburu
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 2 nights
Day 4 Ol Pejeta Conservancy
After a satisfying breakfast, you will depart from Samburu and embark on a scenic drive towards Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located at the foot of the Aberdare Ranges. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Aberdare Mountains, with their lush green slopes and cascading waterfalls.
Arriving at Sweetwaters Serena Tented Camp, you will be welcomed with refreshing drinks and a warm smile. The camp is set in the heart of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, offering a unique blend of under-canvas ambiance and luxurious safari accommodations. The camp’s location near a waterhole attracts a variety of wildlife, providing you with incredible wildlife-viewing opportunities right from the comfort of your tent.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary and is home to a significant population of these endangered animals. The conservancy is dedicated to wildlife conservation and supports various community projects in the area. It is also the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees, offering a unique opportunity to learn about these intelligent primates and the efforts being made to protect them.
In the afternoon, you will have time to relax at the camp, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and listening to the sounds of nature. You can take a stroll around the camp, visit the nearby waterhole, or simply unwind in your comfortable tent.
In the early evening, you will go on a game drive in the conservancy. Your guide will take you on a journey through the diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense bushlands, searching for the iconic wildlife that inhabits this area. Keep your camera ready, as you may encounter elephants, lions, buffalos, zebras, and more.
After the game drive, return to the camp for a delicious dinner under the stars. The campfire creates a cozy atmosphere, and you can share stories of your safari adventures with fellow travelers. As the night falls, listen to the sounds of the African bush and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness.
Accommodation: Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 1 night
Day 5 Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, you will leave Ol Pejeta Conservancy and make your way towards Lake Naivasha. The journey takes you along the scenic fringes of the Aberdare Ranges, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
As you descend into the Rift Valley, you will arrive at the shores of Lake Naivasha in time for lunch. The lake is a freshwater oasis set amidst the savannah grasslands and acacia forests, creating a diverse and picturesque ecosystem.
Lake Naivasha is renowned for its abundant birdlife, with over 400 species of birds inhabiting the area. Keep your binoculars handy, as you may spot fish eagles, herons, pelicans, and many other waterbirds. The lake is also home to hippos, which can often be seen lounging in the water or grazing along the shores.
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. This is a wonderful opportunity to get up close to the wildlife and take in the scenic beauty of the lake. Glide across the calm waters, observing the birds and hippos, and enjoy the tranquility of this natural paradise.
After the boat ride, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the lake, allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of local and international cuisine.
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 1 night
Day 6 Masai Mara National Reserve
After an early breakfast, you will leave Lake Naivasha and embark on a journey to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive takes you through the picturesque Rift Valley escarpment and the vast open plains of Maasai land.
Along the way, you will pass through the Maasai town of Narok, where you can catch a glimpse of the Maasai culture and lifestyle. The Maasai people are known for their distinctive clothing, vibrant beadwork, and rich traditions.
As you enter the Masai Mara, you will be captivated by its breathtaking beauty and abundant wildlife. The reserve is one of Kenya’s most visited due to its extraordinary wildlife density, including the iconic “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos.
The Mara River, which runs through the reserve, is a lifeline for the animals, especially during the annual wildebeest migration. Witnessing this incredible natural spectacle is a highlight for many visitors, as thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles embark on a treacherous journey across the river, facing numerous challenges along the way.
Arrive at your lodge in the Masai Mara in time for lunch, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the staff. After settling in, you’ll set off on an afternoon game drive to explore the vast landscapes and encounter the diverse wildlife that calls the Mara home.
During the game drive, you can expect to see a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and more. The open plains provide excellent visibility, allowing you to witness the interactions and behaviors of the animals in their natural habitat.
Return to the lodge in the evening for a delicious dinner, enjoying the warm hospitality and the unique atmosphere of the African bush. As you relax around the campfire, listen to the sounds of the wild and appreciate the magic of the Mara.
Accommodation: Masai Mara
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 3 nights
Days 7 & 8 Exploring the Masai Mara
Over the next two days, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Masai Mara. Each day will be filled with exciting game drives and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Day 7: Full-Day Game Drive
Today, you will be treated to a full-day game drive within the expansive Masai Mara Reserve. Your guide will take you to some of the richest predator areas of the Mara, where you can witness the remarkable interactions between predators and their prey.
The Mara is home to a wide range of animals, and you can expect to see elephants, hippos, Masai giraffes, common zebras, wildebeest, impalas, Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelles, topis, black-backed jackals, spotted hyenas, and more. Your guide will share their knowledge about the animals and their behaviors, providing you with a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.
Enjoy a bush picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscapes of the Mara, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of nature.
In the afternoon, continue your game drive, exploring different areas of the reserve and maximizing your chances of seeing a diverse range of wildlife. The Mara’s open plains and rolling hills offer endless opportunities for wildlife sightings and photography.
Return to the lodge in the evening, where a delicious dinner awaits you. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the day and share stories with fellow travelers around the campfire.
Day 8 Early Morning Game Drive
Start your day with an early morning game drive, taking advantage of the cool temperatures and the soft morning light. This is an excellent time to spot predators on the move and witness the beauty of the Mara as the sun rises over the horizon.
Return to your lodge for breakfast, enjoying a hearty meal to fuel your adventures. After breakfast, you have the option to relax at the lodge, take a leisurely walk, or participate in optional activities such as a visit to a local Maasai village to learn about their culture and way of life.
In the afternoon, set off on another game drive, exploring different parts of the reserve and encountering more wildlife. The Mara never fails to amaze with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
As the day comes to a close, return to the lodge for a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible experiences and memories you’ve created during your safari.
Accommodation: Masai Mara
Meals: All meals included.
Stay: 3 nights
Day 9 Return to Nairobi
On your final day, you will have the opportunity for one last early morning game drive in the Masai Mara. As you venture into the bush, take in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness and bid farewell to the incredible wildlife.
After the game drive, return to your lodge for breakfast. Take some time to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the Mara before checking out and preparing for your journey back to Nairobi.
As you drive through the plains of the Mara and the surrounding wildlife dispersal areas, keep your eyes open for any last sightings of the magnificent animals that inhabit this region.
Arrive in Nairobi in the early afternoon, where you will be transferred to the airport, your residence, or your hotel of choice. If you have a flight departing later in the day, we can arrange for additional activities or a day room at an extra cost.
Reflect on the incredible adventure you’ve experienced, the diverse landscapes you’ve explored, and the fascinating wildlife you’ve encountered. Your safari in Kenya has provided you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Accommodation: Nairobi
Meals: Not provided
Thank you for choosing this safari experience. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures in the future. Safe travels!