12-Day Jua Safari – Sunlit Horizons

Welcome to Kenya! Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), your friendly Pita Safaris representative will greet you with a warm karibu sana—Swahili for “you’re very welcome.” Transfer to Sarova Panafric Hotel, a stylish midrange retreat with ensuite rooms, a poolside bar, and lush gardens near Nairobi’s highlights.

Depending on your arrival time, relax after your flight, enjoy a short city orientation, or unwind with a welcome dinner featuring both Kenyan and international cuisine. In the evening, meet your expert safari guide who will brief you on the adventure ahead.

- Travel Tip: Arrive a day early to explore Nairobi National Museum, the Giraffe Centre, or the Karen Blixen House.

- Ready to begin your Kenya safari adventure? Rest well—the wilderness awaits tomorrow.

Distance: ~18 km | Drive Time: ~30–45 minutes

After breakfast, journey southwest toward the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve (~280 km, ~5–6 hours). En route, pause at the Great Rift Valley escarpment for sweeping views before continuing to Mara Sopa Lodge, where you’ll enjoy lunch.

This afternoon, set out on your first Masai Mara safari game drive in search of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—plus cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeest, and 450+ bird species.

Safari Tip: Sunset in the Mara creates stunning silhouettes of acacia trees against golden skies.

- Want to experience Africa’s most iconic safari landscapes? The Mara awaits with Pita Safaris.

Distance: ~280 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Rise early for a sunrise game drive, the best time to spot predators. After breakfast, embark with picnic lunches for a full day across the Mara’s open plains. Depending on the season (July–October), witness the Great Migration river crossings—a natural wonder. Outside migration months, enjoy sightings of lions, elephants, cheetahs, and giraffes in abundance.

Optional: Visit a Maasai village to learn about traditional life, dance, and beadwork. Return in the evening for dinner at your lodge.

Safari Tip: Dawn and dusk are golden hours for capturing big cats on the move.

- Craving a front-row seat to Africa’s greatest wildlife show? The Mara delivers.

After breakfast, drive north (~250 km, ~5 hours) to Lake Nakuru National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and rhino conservation. Arrive at Lake Nakuru Lodge for lunch, then head out for an afternoon game drive. Spot endangered black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, lions, and buffalo, plus seasonal flamingo flocks shimmering along the lakeshore.

Safari Tip: Rhinos often graze close to the road—perfect for close-up shots.

- Want to see rhinos and flamingos in one breathtaking setting? Nakuru is unmatched.

Distance: ~250 km | Drive Time: ~5 hours

Enjoy a short drive (~100 km, ~2 hours) to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater gem surrounded by acacia forests. Check in at Muthu Lake Naivasha Country Club, a historic lodge set amid tranquil gardens. After settling in, you may choose to relax at the lodge or add on optional activities such as: Boat safari on Lake Naivasha – glide across the calm waters, spotting hippos, kingfishers, and African fish eagles and Guided walking safari on Crescent Island – stroll safely among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in one of Kenya’s most unique wildlife settings.

Safari Tip: Crescent Island is considered one of Kenya’s safest spots to walk beside wildlife.
- Whether you prefer to unwind at the lodge or explore by foot and boat, Naivasha offers flexible options for every traveler.

Distance: ~100 km | Drive Time: ~2 hours

Travel southeast (~310 km, ~6 hours) to Amboseli National Park, famed for its giant elephant herds and snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro views. Arrive at Amboseli Sopa Lodge for lunch before your first game drive across the swamps and plains.

Safari Tip: Photograph elephants in the golden light of late afternoon against Kilimanjaro’s backdrop.

- Dreaming of the ultimate safari photo? Amboseli is your stage.

Distance: ~310 km | Drive Time: ~6 hours

Start with a sunrise game drive, when Kilimanjaro’s peak often appears clear. Explore Amboseli’s wetlands, home to flamingos, hippos, and herds of elephants. Big cats patrol these plains too. In the afternoon, optional visit a Maasai village for cultural immersion.

Safari Tip: Carry binoculars—Amboseli is paradise for bird enthusiasts.

- Want wildlife, scenery, and culture in one park? Amboseli delivers.

Travel east (~250 km, ~5–6 hours) into Tsavo West, a land of volcanic hills, lava flows, and ancient baobabs. Check into Severin Safari Camp before heading out on safari. Highlights include Mzima Springs, where crystal waters shelter hippos and crocodiles. Keep watch for elephants, lions, leopards, and the elusive black rhino as the sun sets over the rugged landscape.
- Safari Tip: Stop at viewpoints—Tsavo’s scenery is as captivating as its wildlife.
- Want safari with wild beauty and dramatic landscapes? Tsavo West is calling.

Spend the day exploring Tsavo West. Search for cheetahs, elephants, and elusive black rhinos. Discover the Shetani Lava Flows and enjoy birdwatching, with 600+ species recorded. Return for a bush dinner beneath the stars.

Safari Tip: Carry a field guide—Tsavo is heaven for bird lovers.

- Craving wide horizons and fewer crowds? Tsavo West delivers true wilderness.

Journey east (~200 km, ~4 hours) to Tsavo East National Park, Kenya’s largest and most untouched park. Check in at Ashnil Aruba Lodge, located near the Aruba Dam. Afternoon game drives reveal Tsavo’s iconic red-dusted elephants, lions, cheetahs, and zebras.

Safari Tip: Watch elephants just after dust baths for unforgettable red-toned photos.

- Want to meet Kenya’s legendary red elephants? Tsavo East awaits.

Distance: ~200 km | Drive Time: ~4 hours

Enjoy a sunrise safari across Tsavo East’s endless plains. Spot elephants at watering holes, prides of lions, and maybe even leopards. With fewer visitors, this park offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-track safari. Return for dinner under star-filled skies.

Safari Tip: Focus each game drive on a specific region—Tsavo East is vast.

- Looking for raw, untamed Africa? Tsavo East is your perfect finale.

After breakfast and a final game drive, begin your return journey to Nairobi (~325 km, ~6 hours), with a picnic lunch en route. Arrive at JKIA for your outbound flight or enjoy an optional Nairobi day room and short city tour before departure.

Safari Reflection: From the predator-rich plains of Masai Mara to Amboseli’s elephants under Kilimanjaro and Tsavo’s red giants, you’ve experienced the very best of Kenya’s wild frontiers with Pita Safaris.

- Inspired to return—or bring friends next time? Let Pita Safaris craft your next adventure.

Distance: ~325 km | Drive Time: ~6 hours