Day 1: Nairobi – Mount Kenya
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your Nairobi hotel. Depart for the scenic Mount Kenya region, arriving in time for a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a guided trek through the lush montane and bamboo forests of Mount Kenya’s lower slopes, where wildlife such as zebras and eland antelopes are often spotted. The breathtaking landscapes, along with the UNESCO World Heritage Site status of Mount Kenya, provide the perfect backdrop for nature lovers.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Mount Kenya – Samburu National Reserve
After breakfast, we head north to Samburu National Reserve. On the way, we cross the Equator line at Nanyuki, providing an exciting moment for a photo stop. Upon arrival at Samburu, enjoy a delicious lunch before embarking on a thrilling late afternoon game drive. The reserve, famous for its unique dry-country species like gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffe, offers fantastic opportunities to spot the Big Cats, including lion, cheetah, and leopard.

Day 3: Full Day at Samburu National Reserve
After breakfast, enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives across the stunning Samburu Reserve. Take a break for lunch at the camp, allowing some time to relax. In the afternoon a visit to a nearby Samburu village to experience the vibrant culture and nomadic lifestyle of the local people.

Day 4: Samburu – Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park. En route, stop at Thompson Falls, named after one of the first European explorers, Joseph Thompson. Continue your journey through scenic landscapes and lush tea and coffee plantations, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of Mount Kenya’s peak on a clear day. Arrive at Lake Nakuru in the early afternoon for check-in at your lodge, followed by a game drive in the park. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its flamingo population and white rhinos, along with the possibility of spotting the elusive Rothschild’s giraffe and other wildlife.

Day 5: Lake Nakuru National Park – Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha arriving in time for lunch. Later, embark on a peaceful boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where you can enjoy sightings of hippos and vibrant birdlife. The boat ride will take you to Crescent Island, where you can experience an unforgettable walking safari, tracking animals on foot.

Day 6: Lake Naivasha – Maasai Mara
After breakfast, drive to the renowned Maasai Mara Game Reserve, arriving in time for lunch and a brief rest. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the Mara’s expansive savannahs. Known for its exceptional wildlife density, the Mara is home to elephants, lions, buffalo, and, with some luck, rhinos and leopards. The Big Five is often spotted here, and the park’s wide-open spaces make it ideal for observing the natural behaviors of these majestic animals.

Day 7: Full Day in Maasai Mara
After breakfast, spend the day exploring the Mara with your guide, tracking a variety of wildlife in the reserve. The Mara is famous for the Great Migration, and depending on the time of year, you may witness the awe-inspiring movement of thousands of wildebeest and zebras. Aside from the Big Five, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, including giraffes, gazelles, and hippos. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool, followed by more game viewing in the afternoon.

Day 8: Maasai Mara – Nairobi

On this day after breakfast, you will have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Maasai people with a visit to a traditional Maasai village.

Explore the village, including the distinctive “enkangs” (homes) and the traditional practices passed down through generations. Enjoy traditional dances, songs, and demonstrations of Maasai crafts, and take the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the community. This cultural immersion provides a deeper understanding of the Maasai’s deep-rooted connection to the land and their sustainable lifestyle. The experience will be a meaningful and enriching addition to your safari journey.

Drive through the busy farmlands and the scenic great rift valley on the way back to Nairobi with lunch en-route.

Summary of Attractions:

• Samburu National Reserve: Home to unique wildlife such as gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffe, as well as the “Big Cats” and dry-country fauna.
• Mount Kenya Region: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and opportunities for a nature trek.
• Lake Nakuru National Park: Famous for its flamingo population, white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, and abundant birdlife.
• Lake Naivasha: Explore Crescent Island on foot, visit hippo colonies, and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.
• Maasai Mara: One of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves, known for its Big Five, rich wildlife, and the annual Great Migration.

This safari itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through some of Kenya’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, offering exceptional wildlife viewing and cultural experiences along the way.