Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, you’ll be met by your driver and guide for a scenic transfer to Samburu National Reserve. This drive will take you through the heart of Kenya’s dramatic landscapes, including the arid plains and rugged terrain that lead to Samburu. As you arrive, you’ll notice the unique beauty of the region, from its dramatic rocky outcrops to the vibrant Ewaso Ng’iro River that flows through the reserve.
Wake up to the wild beauty of Samburu and begin your day with an early morning game drive. Samburu is known for its unique wildlife species, often called the Samburu Special Five, including the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the long-necked gerenuk. Spend the day exploring the reserve’s rugged landscapes on morning and afternoon game drives, spotting predators like lions and leopards, as well as large elephant herds that roam the riverbanks. In the evening, relax at your lodge, enjoying a peaceful night in the African wilderness.
Another full day in Samburu gives you more opportunities to explore its stunning landscapes and encounter its incredible wildlife. Begin with a sunrise game drive, when animals are most active, and the light is perfect for photography. You may also take part in a guided nature walk with a Samburu warrior, learning about the region’s flora, fauna, and the cultural significance of the reserve to the Samburu people. After lunch, enjoy a relaxing break before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Keep an eye out for predators hunting along the riverbanks and rare birds that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
Stays: Cormoran Lodge
After a final early morning game drive in Samburu, you’ll transfer to the airstrip for your flight to the Masai Mara Conservancy. As you soar over Kenya’s vast landscapes, you’ll be greeted by the golden plains of the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations. Upon arrival in the Masai Mara, transfer to your camp or lodge and settle in before heading out on a late afternoon game drive. The conservancy areas offer a more private safari experience, with fewer visitors and the opportunity for off-road game viewing, making it easier to get closer to the action.
Spend the day exploring the rich wildlife of the Masai Mara Conservancy on morning and afternoon game drives. The Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos—are often spotted in this area, alongside cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and more. If you’re visiting between July and October, you may witness the spectacular Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make their dramatic river crossings, often followed by hungry crocodiles and lurking predators. In the evening, return to your camp for dinner under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the African wilderness.
Enjoy another full day of wildlife adventures in the Masai Mara Conservancy. You’ll start with an early morning game drive, where you might catch a glimpse of a lion pride on the hunt or leopards lounging in the trees. In the afternoon, you can opt for a visit to a Maasai village, where you’ll learn about the Maasai people’s traditions, lifestyle, and their connection to the land. In the evening, consider taking a night game drive, a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife like hyenas, servals, and other predators that come alive after dark.
After a final morning game drive, bid farewell to the Masai Mara and transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival in the city, you’ll have time to explore or relax depending on your departure schedule. You can visit the Karen Blixen Museum, shop for souvenirs at local markets, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Nairobi’s famous restaurants. Later, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your flight home, bringing your unforgettable Kenyan safari to a close.
