MOUNT KENYA, ABERDARE RANGES
The Central Kenya Highlands (Mt. Kenya, Aberdare Ranges)
These parks and game reserves ore part of the most fascinating sanctuaries in terms of scenic splendor, and the great variety of wildlife found here.
Mount Kenya National Park
Mount Kenya National Park lies at an altitude of about 3,400m – 5,200m. It offers excellent game viewing, mountain climbing and breath taking scenery that includes glaciers, tarns and peaks. There are also mineral springs. According to the local folklore, Kenya owes its very name to this majestic mountain which is also ranked as the second highest mountain in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro. Mt. Kenya National Park is the centerpiece of these game sanctuaries. Part of the mountain’s attractions is the variation in flora and fauna found at different altitudes. Dry upland forest covers the lower slopes while true mountain forest begins at an altitude of 2,000 meters and comprise of cedar, Meru oak and podo trees. A belt of bamboo forest that merges with smaller trees, interspersed with glades begins at an altitude of 2,500 meters. The forest is home to a variety of animals and rare plants species.
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
Lying at a distance of 65 KM from Nairobi, this park is ideal for a day’s excursion from Nairobi. This park’s main attraction is its unparalleled beauty and the clear views of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro. Ol Donyo Sabuk is a
mountain which rises to about 2,500m from an otherwise flat terrain. The local folklore refers to the mountain as the Supreme-Being’s “Ngai’s” (God) second lesser home. The graves of Sir William Northrup Macmillan who was a great
philanthropist and his wife Lucie lie near the summit. The Macmillan Library in Nairobi was built in the memory of this great Philantholopist’s wife.
Mwea National Reserve
Fundamentally undiscovered, pristine and undisturbed, Mwea National Reserve is an oasis of calm and tranquility in a populous landscape. Boldly painted on a parchment canvas of dusty dry bush and feathered acacia, this diverse pocket of wilderness is traversed by torrential seasonal rivers and stubbed with bulbous baobab trees.
The ecosystem’s main features are the meeting point of rivers Tana and Thiba, Kamburu and Masinga hydro-electric dams, which harbor a variety of biodiversity. The reserve is renowned for its water birds and waders. It shelters two other rare bird species; Pel’s fishing owl and the white-backed night heron. It is the only protected reserve in which the globally threatened and Kenya-endemic Hinde’s Babber Bird is found.
The Aberdare Ranges National Park
“Majestic Peaks, Moorlands and Intriguing Falls”
Alluring and dreamy, the rise and fall of the misty valleys, hills and mountains of the spectacular Aberdare ranges that sit across Nyeri and Nyandarua counties are a sight to behold. Open moorlands and dense forests characterize the vast park coupled with a deep lush of clean crisp air perfect for a break away from life in search of relaxation, peace and tranquility. The picturesque mountainous scenery is one of the highlights of a visit to this wonderland.
The park is renowned for its torrential waterfalls plunging from cloud-shrouded heights to spray-filled ravines. The magnificent Karuru water falls, whose ice cold crystal clear waters drop an impressive 300meters, the spectacular Gura water falls which torrent from the opposite side of the same gorge, the sheer drop of the Chania water falls, and the enchanting Magura water falls which cascade across the yawning mouth of the Queen’s Cave.
Meru National Park
Remote, rugged and prominently unspoilt, Meru National Park sits on an 870 sq.km area. And lies at an altitude of 305 M a.s.l. The park is largely set in the wilderness yet strikingly beautiful. Few places and spaces compare to this great destination.
The park borders Bisanadi National Reserve to the north east and Kora National Park to the south east.
Meru National Park is located on the Equator and is bisected by 13 most remarkable Rivers and numerous mountain-fed streams that rank this protected among the very few most incredible tourist sites
Meru Park prides itself for the history of the coming together of Joy Adamson’s best-selling book “Born Free”. The script is based on the Adamsons’ lives and research on lions and cheetahs. George and his spouse Joy Adamson are best known through the movie Born Free. The movie based on a true story of Elsa the lioness; an orphaned cub they had had rescued, raised and later released into the wild. This story line is a great puller of safari lovers to the park.
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli
Early morning pick-up and proceed to Amboseli National Park which lies at the foot of the majestic Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest mountain).
Amboseli is Kenya’s most sought after photographic destination.
The park boasts a spectacular display of wildlife and is home to the Jumbo elephants, Lions and Cheetahs.
Day 2: Full Day – Amboseli
Full day game viewing drives in the morning and afternoon as you enjoy Amboseli’s scenery. On a clear morning, this is the best time to view Mt. Kilimanjaro.
In the late afternoon, if you wish, you can visit a Maasai village and experience the culture of the Maasai people at an extra cost (about US$ 20 person)
Day 3: Amboseli to Nairobi
Depart the lodge after breakfast for the last game drive on your way out of the park driving back to Nairobi with lunch en-route.
The Package Costs Include:
Park entrance fees
Transport and game drives
Accommodation
All meals (full board basis)
Driver-guide’s allowance
The Package Costs Exclude:
Items of personal nature
ay 1: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park
Depart from your Nairobi for Amboseli National Park, located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Amboseli is renowned for its stunning vistas and is one of Africa’s most sought-after photographic destinations. As you drive through the park, you’ll encounter large herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, and a myriad of bird species.
Arrive in time for a delicious lunch, After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive, exploring the park’s diverse wildlife and spectacular scenery with Mount Kilimanjaro as a breathtaking backdrop.
Day 2: Full Day in Amboseli National Park
Spend the entire day in Amboseli with game viewing drives in the morning and afternoon.
Amboseli is famous for its large herds of free-roaming elephants, as well as other animals such as wildebeests, giraffes, zebras, lions, monkeys, and hyenas.
Mount Kilimanjaro often creates a magnificent backdrop, providing a stunning opportunity for photography.
Day 3: Amboseli to Tsavo West National Park
After breakfast, check out and drive to Tsavo West National Park, known for its rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes.
Tsavo West is home to unique wildlife, including the iconic “Super Tuskers,” massive elephants with extraordinary tusks that are a symbol of the park’s rich heritage.
Visit the famous Mzima Springs, a tranquil oasis where you can observe hippos, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, lesser kudu, exotic fish, and abundant birdlife.
Enjoy a brief game drive in the park, exploring the rolling hills and the variety of species that inhabit this scenic area.
Day 4: Tsavo West to Tsavo East National Park
After an early breakfast, check out and proceed to Tsavo East National Park, with a brief game drive through Tsavo West en route.
Upon arrival at Tsavo East, enjoy a game drive followed by lunch at the camp or lodge.
Tsavo East is famous for its dust-red elephants, wild lions, and vast plains. The park’s unique features include male lions with no manes, cheetah sightings on the eastern plains, and rare wildlife such as the Hirola antelope and the Somali ostrich.
Tsavo East is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 500 species recorded.
Day 5: Tsavo East to Nairobi
After breakfast, check out and embark on a final morning game drive in Tsavo East.
Explore the park’s stunning landscapes one last time, spotting any wildlife you may have missed.
The Package Costs Include:
Park entrance fees
Transport and game drives
Accommodation and all meals
(full board basis)
The Package Costs Exclude:
Items of personal nature and extra drinks
Day 1: Nairobi – Maasai Mara
Today we pick you up early in the morning from your Hotel for Maasai Mara through the famous Rift valley viewpoint for photos and viewing along the way with spectular viewing sceneries, as you proceed for the Masai Mara Game Reserve to arrive intime for lunch.
Depart for an afternoon gamedrive in this magnificent Park, which forms the same eco-system with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park back early evening.
Day 2: Masai Mara (Full Day)
At sunrise we wake up for an early breakfast followed by a full day of game drives within the Reserve. The Masai Mara is famous for it’s wildlife concentration and abundance that is second to none in the region. Elephant, lion and buffalo can be seen with relative ease though luck is a necessary factor for spotting rhino and leopard that complete the big five as the two animals are very timid and sparsely numbered. We will cater for a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool where with luck you may spot crocodiles basking on the rocks. Numerous plains game including antelopes, wildebeest, zebra and maasai giraffe can be seen as well as scavengers like hyena and vulture.
Day 3: Masai Mara – Naivasha
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 before continuing on to Naivasha for the next leg of your adventure arriving in the late afternoon.
Day 4 : Naivasha – Amboseli National Park
Early morning boat ride in the lake. Spot the hippos that linger just at the surface of the water, and see some of the diverse birdlife; African fish eagles, lesser flamingos, African spoonbill, and little grebe are all common here or explore the crescent Island on foot.
Depart for Amboseli National Park arriving with lunch enroute arriving in late afternoon for dinner and overnight.
Day 5 : Amboseli Full day
Spend the day at Amboseli with game viewing drives in the morning and afternoon.
Amboseli is renowned for its large herds of free-ranging African elephants as well as huge herds of wildebeests and other animals including giraffes, lions, monkeys, zebras and hyenas with Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest
mountain providing a beautiful back drop.
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular parks.
The name “Amboseli” comes from a Maasai word meaning “salty dust”, and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands.
The animals you expect to see in Amboseli include: Leopard, Cheetah, Wild dogs, Buffalo, Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra, Lion, Mongoose, Hyrax, Dik- dik and Nocturnal Porcupine and a prolific birdlife.
Dinner and overnight at your lodge or tented camp.
Day 6 : Amboseli Nairobi
Depart the lodge after breakfast for the last game drive on your way out of the park driving back to Nairobi with lunch en-route.
The Package Costs Include:
Park entrance fees
Transport and game drives
Accommodation and all meals (full board basis)
The Package Costs Exclude:
Items of personal nature and extra drinks
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.
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.