What Makes This Adventure Special
This 6-day safari takes you through three of Kenya’s most diverse and breathtaking destinations: the endless savannahs of the Masai Mara, the lush mountain forests of the Aberdare Ranges, and the rugged landscapes of Samburu National Reserve. You’ll witness the Big Five, encounter unique species found only in northern Kenya, and enjoy the rare opportunity to view wildlife right from your lodge at Aberdare’s famous waterholes. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of classic safari thrills, cultural encounters, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara
Depart Nairobi and enjoy a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival at the Masai Mara, check into your lodge or camp and have lunch. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive in search of lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara
Begin with an early morning game drive when predators are most active. After breakfast, relax at the lodge or opt for a cultural visit to a Maasai village. In the afternoon, continue exploring the reserve on another game drive—or enjoy a full-day safari with a picnic lunch in the wild. Overnight at your Masai Mara lodge/camp.
Day 3: Masai Mara to Aberdare
Optional early morning game drive before breakfast. Depart for Aberdare National Park, arriving in time for lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, settle into your forest lodge, where you can watch elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife gather at the lodge’s waterhole. Dinner and overnight stay in Aberdare.
Day 4: Aberdare to Samburu
After breakfast, drive north to Samburu National Reserve, arriving in time for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to spot rare northern species such as the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Dinner and overnight stay at your Samburu lodge/camp.
Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Samburu
Start the day with an early morning game drive to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife. After breakfast, enjoy some downtime at the lodge before heading out for another game drive. Alternatively, take a packed picnic lunch and spend the entire day exploring Samburu’s rugged beauty. Overnight stay at the lodge/camp.
Day 6: Samburu to Nairobi
Enjoy a final early morning game drive before breakfast. Depart for Nairobi with a scenic drive through Kenya’s countryside. Arrive by afternoon and be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport for your onward journey.
Highlights
- Thrilling game drives in Masai Mara, home to the Big Five.
- Unique wildlife sightings in Samburu, including the “Samburu Special Five.”
- Wildlife viewing from a lodge deck overlooking a waterhole in Aberdare.
- Scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley, highlands, and arid north.
- Optional Maasai cultural village visit for authentic encounters.
Important Information
- Best time to visit: June – October (Great Migration in Masai Mara) & December – February.
- Fitness level required: Easy – Moderate (safari drives with minimal walking).
- What to pack: Lightweight clothing, warm layers for cool evenings, sturdy shoes, binoculars, sunscreen, and camera with extra batteries.
- Travel documents: Valid passport, Kenya entry visa, and travel insurance.
- Health requirements: Yellow fever vaccination required; malaria prophylaxis recommended.
