Discover the Highlights of Kenya on this classic safari itinerary, taking in the Samburu National Reserve, Mt Kenya, Lake Nakuru and the renowned Masai Mara.
This classic Kenya itinerary takes in the country’s finest destinations: the beautiful semi-desert wilderness of Samburu National Reserve in the north with its specially adapted wildlife; the lush forests around lofty Mt Kenya; alkaline Lake Nakuru famous for its birdlife, and the undulating grasslands of the Masai Mara, which hosts the largest wildlife migration on earth and is home year-round to a huge population of resident game.
Take this opportunity to encounter the “Big 5” (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard) as well as to observe the “Samburu 5”: Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and reticulated giraffe. You may also have the chance to meet the proud Maasai warriors who inhabit the rolling plains and the semi-nomadic Samburu, who often wear exquisite beaded necklaces and headpieces.
Highlights
- Arid Samburu National Reserve with its unique dry-country species
- Iconic Mount Kenya, the country’s highest peak
- The Rift Valley’s magical Lake Nakuru, renowned for its rich birdlife
- The Masai Mara, home to vast herds of game and large numbers of attendant predators
Getting there
Kenya’s major capital Nairobi is the main entry point into the country. Major airlines that fly into Nairobi include British Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa and Air France. From Nairobi, Kenya Airways offers flights to other popular African destinations including South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Sample Itinerary
Highlights of Kenya
7 days/6 nights
Days 1/2
Samburu
Early departure by road for Samburu, home of the nomadic Samburu tribe. Enjoy 2 exciting days of gameviewing, searching for elephant, lion and leopard as well as endemic species such as Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. Accommodation at Ashnil Samburu Lodge (Silver) or Elephant Bedroom Camp (Gold) or similar.
Day 3
Mt Kenya
Leaving Samburu, drive past small farms, fruit and coffee plantations en route to Mt Kenya. Overnight at Mountain Lodge (or similar) overlooking a waterhole where forest game comes to drink.
Day 4
Lake Nakuru
Descend into the Rift Valley’s Lake Nakuru, famous for its millions of pink flamingos. The surrounding park supports many birds and animals, including waterbuck and the endangered white rhino. Afternoon game drive in the park. Overnight Sarova Lion Hill Lodge (Silver) or Mbweha Camp (Gold) or similar.
Days 5/6
Masai Mara
Early departure by road to the Masai Mara, Kenya’s best known game park, renowned for its migrating herds of wildebeest and zebra which come between July and September. Resident game include giraffe, elephant, crocodile, hippo and predators like black-maned lions, cheetah, leopard and hyena. Overnight Sarova Mara Tented Camp (Silver), Tipilikwani Tented Camp (Gold) or similar.
Day 7
Return Nairobi
Morning game drive then depart for Nairobi. Tour ends. (Optional flight Masai Mara/Nairobi).
Related Kenya Safaris
The following tours are private, independent and can be easily customised to suit your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin designing your personalised Kenya experience.
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Discover the Highlights of Kenya on this classic safari itinerary, taking in the Samburu National Reserve, Mt Kenya, Lake Nakuru and the renowned Masai Mara.
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Kenya Family Adventure
Explore the highlights of Kenya with the family, from Giraffe Manor in Nairobi to fantastic kid-friendly camps and lodges in the Samburu, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.
Wings over Kenya
Maximise the time that you spend exploring Kenya’s game parks on our Wings Over Kenya safari, flying into the Samburu and Masai Mara.
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