17-Day Midrange Safari: Aberdare, Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Masai Mara & More
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Welcome to Kenya, the land of stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife! Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your professional safari guide and driver. They’ll assist with your luggage and provide a seamless transfer to Sarova Panafric Hotel, an oasis of luxury and comfort nestled just outside Nairobi’s bustling city center.
After check-in, unwind in the serene surroundings of the hotel’s lush gardens or rejuvenate with a swim in the outdoor pool. If time allows, you can explore Nairobi through optional activities:
- Karen Blixen Museum: Step into Kenya’s colonial history at the former home of the famed author of Out of Africa.
- Giraffe Centre: Get up close and personal with the endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn about conservation efforts.
- Maasai Market: A lively hub where you can shop for traditional beadwork, carvings, and other Kenyan crafts.
In the evening, indulge in a welcome dinner at the hotel’s Flame Tree Restaurant, offering a blend of Kenyan and international cuisines.
Accommodation Option: Sarova Panafric Hotel (Superior Room).
Meals: Dinner.
Day 2: Nairobi to Aberdare National Park
After a delicious breakfast, embark on a scenic drive northward to Aberdare National Park, traversing central Kenya's rolling hills, coffee plantations, and small market towns. En route, marvel at the striking vistas of Mount Kenya in the distance.
Arrive at Treetops Lodge, a historic lodge famously known as the place where Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne. The lodge overlooks a waterhole and salt lick, frequented by herds of elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife.
After lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive into Aberdare’s mystical highlands, characterized by dense forests, bamboo groves, and cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye out for leopards, giant forest hogs, and the rare bongo antelope. Return to the lodge in the evening for a sumptuous dinner.
Accommodation Option: Treetops Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 3: Aberdare to Samburu National Reserve
Enjoy breakfast before continuing your journey north to Samburu National Reserve, a starkly beautiful semi-arid landscape. The drive takes you past the equator, offering stunning views of Mount Kenya's snow-capped peaks.
Arrive at Ashnil Samburu Camp, located along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, in time for lunch. After a brief rest, set out for an afternoon game drive, where you’ll encounter the Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Beisa oryx. Samburu is also home to large elephant herds and predators like lions and cheetahs.
Return to the camp for a freshly prepared dinner and relax under a starlit African sky.
Accommodation Option: Ashnil Samburu Camp (Luxury Tent).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Full Day in Samburu
Spend the entire day immersing yourself in the unique ecosystem of Samburu National Reserve. Morning and afternoon game drives will provide ample opportunities to spot wildlife. Along the riverbanks, watch elephants quench their thirst while crocodiles sunbathe nearby.
For a cultural touch, opt for a visit to a local Samburu village, where you can learn about their semi-nomadic way of life, beadwork, and traditional dances. Between game drives, relax at the camp, enjoying its serene riverside setting.
Accommodation Option: Ashnil Samburu Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5: Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
After breakfast, head south to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, renowned for its groundbreaking conservation efforts. Arrive at Sweetwaters Serena Camp, an idyllic retreat overlooking a waterhole.
After lunch, visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, home to orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. Later, embark on a game drive in search of the Big Five, including rhinos thriving in the conservancy’s protected environment.
Accommodation Option: Sweetwaters Serena Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6: Full Day at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Dedicate the day to exploring Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Highlights include visiting the Endangered Species Enclosure, where you can meet the last two northern white rhinos on earth. Game drives will reveal the diverse array of wildlife, from lions to African wild dogs.
Optional activities include:
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Night Game Drive: Witness nocturnal animals like aardvarks and porcupines.
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Guided Bush Walk: Explore the savannah on foot, learning about smaller creatures and plants.
Accommodation Option: Sweetwaters Serena Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 7: Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, travel west to Lake Nakuru National Park, famed for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary. Arrive at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, which offers panoramic views of the lake and park.
Enjoy lunch and relax before an afternoon game drive. Spot white and black rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and the elusive tree-climbing lions. The park’s alkaline lake is a magnet for bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.
Accommodation Option: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 8: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. The scenic drive takes you through Kenya’s beautiful countryside, passing Maasai villages and rolling hills.
Arrive at Sarova Mara Game Camp, a luxurious tented retreat nestled within the heart of the reserve, just in time for lunch. After settling in and enjoying a sumptuous meal, take a moment to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
In the afternoon, embark on your first thrilling game drive in Masai Mara. Traverse the rolling savannahs, home to an astonishing variety of wildlife including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and herds of elephants. If traveling during the migration season (July to October), you may witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River.
Return to the camp in the evening for a delectable dinner, followed by relaxation under a starlit African sky.
Accommodation Option: Sarova Mara Game Camp – luxurious tents set amidst the Mara wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 9: Full Day in Masai Mara
Awake to the sounds of nature and enjoy an early breakfast before heading out for a full day of game drives in Masai Mara. Explore the vast open plains, where predators like lions and hyenas hunt and graze alongside herbivores such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
During the day, enjoy a bush picnic lunch, surrounded by the unparalleled beauty of the reserve. Optional activities include:
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: Soar above the savannah at dawn for breathtaking views and a champagne breakfast upon landing.
- Cultural Visit: Meet the Maasai community, learn about their traditions, and experience their vibrant dances and beadwork artistry.
Return to the camp in the evening for another delightful dinner and the opportunity to share stories of the day’s adventures.
Accommodation Option: Sarova Mara Game Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 10: Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha
After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Masai Mara and drive to the tranquil Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. Arrive at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort in time for lunch, where you'll unwind in its serene lakeside setting.
In the afternoon, set out for a boat safari on Lake Naivasha. Spot hippos wallowing in the water and a variety of bird species, including African fish eagles and kingfishers. The boat will take you to Crescent Island, where you’ll enjoy a guided walking safari amidst grazing zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
Return to the resort for dinner and an evening of relaxation by the lake.
Accommodation Option: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort – a serene lakeside retreat.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 11: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli National Park
Begin your day with breakfast at the resort before departing for Amboseli National Park, located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. The journey offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and rural Kenya.
Arrive at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge in time for lunch, where you’ll be greeted by the lodge's breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. After a brief rest, embark on an afternoon game drive, exploring Amboseli’s open plains. This park is famous for its large herds of elephants and offers excellent opportunities to photograph wildlife against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro.
As the day winds down, return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and an evening to relax while marveling at the majestic mountain.
Accommodation Option: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge – offering exceptional views of Kilimanjaro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 12: Full Day in Amboseli
Spend a full day exploring the wonders of Amboseli National Park through morning and afternoon game drives. Amboseli is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, and over 400 bird species.
Highlights include:
- Observation Hill: A panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping views of the park, its swamps, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Elephant Herds: Observe the park’s renowned elephants, often seen grazing in the swamps.
Between game drives, return to the lodge for meals and relaxation. For those seeking additional adventure, consider an optional guided nature walk to learn about the park’s flora and smaller fauna.
Accommodation Option: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 13: Amboseli to Tsavo West National Park
Enjoy breakfast before departing for the rugged and diverse Tsavo West National Park. En route, marvel at the park’s unique landscapes, characterized by volcanic hills, lava flows, and acacia woodlands.
Arrive at Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge in time for lunch, where the lodge’s waterhole provides a constant source of activity from wildlife such as elephants, zebras, and giraffes.
In the afternoon, visit Mzima Springs, a crystal-clear pool fed by underground streams from Kilimanjaro. Here, you can view aquatic life such as hippos and fish through an underwater observation chamber. Conclude the day with a scenic game drive, soaking in the park’s dramatic scenery.
Return to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening under the African stars.
Accommodation Option: Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 14: Full Day in Tsavo West
Dedicate the day to exploring the rugged beauty of Tsavo West National Park. Morning and afternoon game drives will take you to some of the park’s most iconic locations:
- Shetani Lava Flows: A striking landscape of solidified black lava, a remnant of past volcanic activity.
- Chaimu Crater: A fascinating volcanic hill offering short hiking opportunities for panoramic views.
Between game drives, enjoy meals and leisure time at the lodge. Tsavo West is also home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, lions, and herds of buffalo.
Accommodation Option: Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 15: Tsavo West to Tsavo East National Park
After breakfast, head east to the expansive Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and oldest parks. Known for its striking red elephants and iconic baobab trees, the park offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
Arrive at Ashnil Aruba Lodge for lunch, located near the Aruba Dam, a popular watering spot for animals. In the afternoon, set out for a game drive, exploring the vast open plains and spotting wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, and zebras.
Return to the lodge for dinner and a peaceful evening.
Accommodation Option: Ashnil Aruba Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 16: Full Day in Tsavo East
Enjoy a full day of game drives in Tsavo East, soaking in its raw and untamed beauty. Highlights include:
- Lugard’s Falls: A series of cascading rapids and pools along the Galana River.
- Mudanda Rock: A natural vantage point offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains and a watering hole often frequented by wildlife.
With its vast landscapes and abundant wildlife, Tsavo East provides a sense of wilderness unmatched by other parks.
Return to the lodge for dinner and a restful evening.
Accommodation Option: Ashnil Aruba Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 17: Return to Nairobi and Departure
After breakfast, embark on your journey back to Nairobi, taking in the scenic views along the way. Upon arrival in Nairobi, enjoy optional sightseeing or shopping if time permits. Popular options include:
- Kazuri Beads Workshop: Shop for beautiful handmade ceramics and jewelry.
- City Market: A vibrant hub for local crafts and souvenirs.
Later, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight, carrying unforgettable memories of your Kenyan safari adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions:
- Accommodation Options: 16 nights at top-tier hotels and safari lodges, including Sarova Panafric Hotel, Treetops Lodge, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Ashnil Aruba Lodge (alternative accommodations will be provided if these are unavailable).
- Meals: Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) as per the itinerary.
- Game Drives: Daily game drives led by experienced safari guides in 4x4 safari vehicles.
- National Park & Conservancy Fees: Entry fees for Aberdare National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo West National Park, and Tsavo East National Park.
- Transportation: Comfortable transfers in a private, air-conditioned safari vehicle.
- Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Optional Activities: Includes visits to Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, Maasai Market, Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and Crescent Island boat safari.
- Cultural Visits: Optional visits to Maasai and Samburu villages for a cultural experience.
- Safari Guide: Professional, English-speaking safari guide for the entire tour.
- Luggage Handling: Luggage assistance during transfers between accommodations.
- Game Viewing: Opportunities to see the Big Five, along with other wildlife, bird species, and the Great Migration (seasonal).
- Picnic Lunches: Provided on full-day game drives in Masai Mara.
Exclusions:
- International Flights: Flights to and from Nairobi are not included.
- Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance, including trip cancellation and emergency evacuation, is not included.
- Visa Fees: Kenya visa fees are the responsibility of the traveler.
- Optional Activities: Additional optional activities such as the Hot Air Balloon Safari, nature walks, or cultural experiences outside the included activities.
- Drinks: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, except those specified as part of meal plans.
- Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as souvenirs, tips, laundry, phone calls, or any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Medical Expenses: Any medical or health-related expenses incurred during the trip.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Important to Know
- Children aged between 0-2 years are free of charge.
- Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult rate when sharing the same room with adults
- Children between 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their separate room from adults
- Children 13 years and above are recognized as adults
