7-Day Samburu to Masai Mara Safari
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Samburu Special Five Encounter - Explore the rugged wilderness of Samburu National Reserve, home to unique species found nowhere else — the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Enjoy 4x4 game drives along the Ewaso Nyiro River where elephants and lions roam freely.
Lake Nakuru Rhino & Flamingo Sanctuary - Discover Lake Nakuru National Park, a haven for rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, and thousands of pink flamingos. Capture iconic photos along the lake’s shimmering shores and enjoy panoramic views from Baboon Cliff.
Masai Mara Big Five Safari Adventure - Experience Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve — the Masai Mara. Witness the Big Five on thrilling game drives across golden plains and, during migration season (July–October), the dramatic wildebeest river crossings.
Hot Air Balloon Safari (Optional) - Drift silently over the Mara at sunrise for a once-in-a-lifetime view of elephants, lions, and wildebeest herds below. End the flight with a champagne bush breakfast.
Cultural Encounters - Meet the proud Samburu and Maasai communities — learn about their traditions, colorful attire, and deep connection to the land through guided village visits.
Midrange Lodge Comfort - Stay at handpicked safari lodges — Samburu Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge, and Mara Sopa Lodge — offering cozy rooms, full-board dining, and stunning views of Kenya’s wild landscapes.
Perfect for All Travelers - Ideal for couples, families, photographers, and nature lovers seeking affordable Kenya safari holidays with a balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Nairobi: Karibu Kenya!
Welcome to Kenya, the heart of Africa’s safari adventures. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), a friendly Pita Safaris representative will greet you and transfer you to Sarova Panafric Hotel — a comfortable midrange lodge surrounded by lush gardens.
Depending on your arrival time, visit the Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, or Nairobi National Museum to experience Kenya’s rich culture and heritage.
Travel Tip: Early arrivals can explore Nairobi’s craft markets with local guide recommendations.
Distance: ~15 km | Drive Time: ~30 mins
Day 2 – Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve: Wilderness Awaits
After breakfast, journey north toward the Samburu National Reserve, famed for its rugged beauty and unique wildlife. Enjoy stunning equatorial views before checking into Samburu Sopa Lodge.
In the afternoon, embark on your first Kenya safari game drive — spotting elephants, lions, leopards, and Samburu’s “Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich.
Safari Moment: Capture Samburu’s dramatic desert landscapes and wildlife up close.
Distance: ~340 km | Drive Time: ~6–7 hrs
Day 3 – Full-Day Safari in Samburu: Wildlife & Culture
Spend a full day exploring Samburu’s semi-arid wilderness. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, spotting elephants by the Ewaso Nyiro River, or photographing cheetahs on the move.
Optional: visit a local Samburu village to experience their rich culture and traditions.
Travel Tip: Bring a zoom lens for incredible bird and wildlife photography.
Day 4 – Samburu to Lake Nakuru: Flamingos & Rhino Sanctuary
After breakfast, drive south through the highlands with a stop at Thomson Falls. Continue to Lake Nakuru National Park and check into Lake Nakuru Lodge inside the park.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive to see flamingos, Rothschild’s giraffes, and both black and white rhinos in one of Kenya’s top rhino sanctuaries.
Safari Highlight: The pink glow of Lake Nakuru at sunset is unforgettable.
Distance: ~310 km | Drive Time: ~6–7 hrs
Day 5 – Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara: Enter the Wild Heart
After breakfast, journey to the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most iconic safari destination.
Arrive at Mara Sopa Lodge, located near the park entrance, and enjoy an afternoon game drive in search of the Big Five and endless herds of plains game.
Travel Tip: Sunset game drives in the Mara offer golden photography light.
Distance: ~260 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hrs
Day 6 – Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara: Migration & Big Five
Spend the day exploring the Masai Mara, home to the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October). Track lions, cheetahs, and elephants across the savannah, or enjoy a hot air balloon safari for breathtaking aerial views.
Safari Moment: Witness the wildebeest river crossings – Africa’s greatest natural show.
Day 7 – Masai Mara to Nairobi: Farewell Kenya
Enjoy a final morning game drive before returning to Nairobi. Picnic lunch en route. Arrive late afternoon for airport transfer or an optional extra night at your preferred Nairobi hotel.
Safari Reflection: From Samburu’s rugged beauty to the Mara’s rolling plains — your Kenya safari holiday ends with lifelong memories.
Distance: ~260 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hrs
Inclusions
Accommodation - 7 nights in midrange lodges: Sarova Panafric (Nairobi), Samburu Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge & Mara Sopa Lodge. Ensuite rooms with hot showers & scenic views.
Meals - Full-board: breakfast, lunch & dinner during safari; breakfast only in Nairobi. Includes picnic lunches on game drives. Special diets on request.
Transport & Guides - Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, English-speaking driver-guide & bottled water. Airport pick-up/drop-off (JKIA) included.
Game Drives & Park Fees - Unlimited guided safaris in Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara. All park entry & conservation fees included.
Added Value - Bottled water, pre-safari briefing, 24/7 support & AMREF Flying Doctors emergency cover.
Trusted Operator - Operated by Pita Safaris, licensed Kenya safari experts ensuring comfort, safety & memorable experiences.
Exclude
International Flights - To/from Nairobi (JKIA).
Visa Fees - Kenya e-visa & processing costs.
Travel Insurance - Not included – strongly recommended.
Personal Expenses - Tips, drinks, laundry, souvenirs & other extras.
Optional Activities - Hot air balloon safari, Samburu/Maasai village visit, Nairobi city tours.
Pre/Post Safari Stays - Extra nights in Nairobi before/after safari (available on request).
Minimum Age
3 years old
Includes
Water & Guide
Briefing
7:30 AM
Guaranteed Departures
2 Guests (MIN)
- 7 Days
- FROM $ per person
- 7 guests