7-Day Luxury Kenya Safari Escape: Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, you will be greeted by our professional guide and transferred in a comfortable, private vehicle to your luxury hotel in the city. Your hotel offers a serene retreat with modern amenities and exceptional service, perfect for unwinding after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to relax at the hotel or explore Nairobi’s vibrant culture. Optional activities include visiting the Karen Blixen Museum, where you can learn about the life of the famous author, or the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you can adopt an orphaned elephant. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of Nairobi’s top restaurants, famed for their fusion of local and international cuisines. Retire for the night in your plush accommodations, ready for the adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
After a sumptuous breakfast, you will either board a flight or embark on a scenic drive to Samburu National Reserve, situated in the arid northern region of Kenya. Upon arrival at the reserve, you will be transferred to your luxurious safari lodge or tented camp, known for its unparalleled views and elegant design that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. After settling in and enjoying a delicious lunch, you will head out for your first game drive. Samburu is home to unique wildlife species such as the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and reticulated giraffe, known collectively as the Samburu Special Five. As the sun sets over the rugged landscape, enjoy a sundowner by the banks of the Ewaso Ng'iro River, a perfect way to end your day. Return to your lodge for a delectable dinner and an evening under the starlit African sky.
Day 3: Exploring Samburu National Reserve
Start your day with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot wildlife as the animals are most active during the cooler hours. Traverse the diverse habitats of Samburu, from the riverine forests to the open savannahs, where you may encounter elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast, followed by some leisure time to relax by the pool or enjoy the luxurious amenities of your accommodation. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit a local Samburu village, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions, lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage of the Samburu people. The day concludes with another exciting game drive, where you might spot elusive predators preparing for their evening hunt. Enjoy dinner back at the lodge, savoring the flavors of expertly prepared local and international dishes.
Day 4: Samburu to Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to Lake Nakuru National Park, a haven for bird watchers and home to a large population of rhinos. The drive takes you through the Great Rift Valley, offering spectacular scenery along the way. Upon arrival, you will check into your luxury lodge, ideally situated with stunning views of the lake and park. After a leisurely lunch, set out on an afternoon game drive to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from the acacia woodlands to the grassy plains. Lake Nakuru is famous for its seasonal flocks of flamingos that create a striking pink shoreline. Keep an eye out for the park's resident rhinos, as well as buffalo, giraffes, and zebras. As evening approaches, head to Baboon Cliff for panoramic views over the lake and park, a perfect spot for photography. Return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve
Following an early breakfast, you will set off for the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, either by road or via a short flight. The Masai Mara is renowned for its dense populations of wildlife and the spectacular Great Migration. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your luxury tented camp, providing an authentic safari experience with all the comforts of home. After settling in and enjoying lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive across the vast plains. The Masai Mara offers excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and numerous herbivores. The reserve’s wide-open landscapes and abundant wildlife make every game drive an exhilarating adventure. Return to camp for a delicious dinner and an evening around the campfire, sharing stories of the day’s sightings.
Day 6: Full Day in Masai Mara National Reserve
Begin your day with an early morning game drive, as the soft light of dawn illuminates the savannah and the wildlife is most active. Witness the majesty of the Masai Mara as predators like lions and leopards hunt, and herbivores such as wildebeest and zebras graze in the dewy grass. After this exhilarating experience, return to camp for a hearty breakfast. Following breakfast, you have the option to relax at the camp or participate in an optional activity such as a hot air balloon safari. Floating silently above the Mara plains at sunrise provides a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife below, culminating in a champagne breakfast upon landing.
In the late morning, visit a traditional Maasai village to gain insight into the Maasai people's way of life. Engage with the villagers, learn about their customs, and perhaps even participate in a traditional dance. This cultural experience is a highlight of the trip, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.
After lunch back at the camp, embark on an afternoon game drive. The Masai Mara's diverse ecosystems, from riverine forests to open grasslands, are home to an incredible variety of species. Keep your camera ready for sightings of the Big Five, cheetahs, and a myriad of bird species. As the sun sets, the landscape is bathed in golden light, providing perfect conditions for photography. Return to camp for a gourmet dinner, where you can savor fine cuisine while reflecting on the day's adventures. Spend your final night in the Masai Mara under a blanket of stars, lulled to sleep by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi and Departure
Enjoy a final early morning game drive, maximizing your chances to observe the wildlife one last time before departing the Masai Mara. Return to camp for breakfast, and then prepare for your journey back to Nairobi. Depending on your preference and schedule, you can either drive through the scenic landscapes of Kenya or take a short flight back to the capital.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing, depending on your departure schedule. Consider visiting the bustling Maasai Market to purchase unique souvenirs or the Kazuri Beads Women's Cooperative for beautiful handmade jewelry. You might also enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Nairobi’s renowned restaurants.
In the late afternoon, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight. As you bid farewell to Kenya, you will carry with you unforgettable memories of the diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that defined your luxury safari adventure.
Inclusions:
- Luxury Accommodations:
- Nairobi: One night in a top-tier luxury hotel with amenities such as a spa, fine dining, and spacious rooms.
- Samburu National Reserve: Two nights in a high-end safari lodge or tented camp with stunning views, en-suite facilities, and exceptional service.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: One night in a luxury lodge offering panoramic views of the lake and park, with gourmet dining and comfortable lodgings.
- Masai Mara National Reserve: Two nights in a premium tented camp, featuring spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and personalized services.
- Meals:
- All meals as per the itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options for gourmet dining experiences and bush meals.
- Transportation:
- All airport transfers in Nairobi.
- Internal flights or road transfers between Nairobi, Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara.
- Custom 4x4 safari vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing and photography.
- Safari Activities:
- Daily game drives in Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara led by professional English-speaking guides.
- Sundowner experiences in scenic locations.
- Cultural visits to Samburu and Maasai villages.
- Optional guided nature walks.
- Park Fees:
- All national park entrance fees and conservation fees.
- Additional Amenities:
- Bottled water during game drives.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi at most lodges and camps.
- Laundry services at select accommodations.
Exclusions:
- International Flights:
- Flights to and from Nairobi.
- Travel Insurance:
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption.
- Personal Expenses:
- Souvenirs, tips, and any personal purchases.
- Additional beverages and premium alcohol not included in the meal plans.
- Optional Activities:
- Hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara.
- Additional tours or activities not specified in the itinerary.
- Visas and Vaccinations:
- Entry visas for Kenya.
- Required vaccinations and related health preparations.