4 days Samburu National Reserve- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day safari adventure, exploring two of Kenya's most unique and captivating wildlife destinations. Begin in Samburu National Reserve, known for its rare and endemic species like the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, and gerenuk. Then, journey to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, renowned for its Big Five encounters and the heartwarming Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the contrasting beauty and abundant wildlife of these two remarkable ecosystems.
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Samburu
Day 3: Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Day 4: Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Nairobi
Activities:
* Multiple game drives in both Samburu and Ol Pejeta to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
* Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Ol Pejeta.
* Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Samburu and Laikipia landscapes.
Optional activities: Cultural visits to Samburu villages, camel rides, bird watching, nature walks, or a visit to the Morani Information Center (additional cost).
Optional Travel Upgrade:
Travel Between Parks with Light Aircraft: For a seamless and time-efficient experience, consider upgrading your transportation between parks with a scenic light aircraft flight. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Kenyan landscape and significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximize your time on safari.
Wildlife & Scenic Highlights:
Samburu National Reserve: The "Samburu Special Five" (Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich), elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a variety of bird species including the vulturine guineafowl and the Somali bee-eater.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy: The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes), chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras, impalas, elands, oryx, and a variety of bird species including ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
Scenic Landscapes: The semi-arid landscapes of Samburu, featuring the Ewaso Nyiro River and doum palm trees, contrasted with the open plains and rolling hills of the Laikipia Plateau in Ol Pejeta.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)
- Morning (Arrival/Departure): Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi, you will be met by your professional driver/guide. After a brief welcome and safari briefing, depart for Samburu National Reserve.
- Mid-morning: The drive takes you north through diverse landscapes, passing through agricultural areas and gradually transitioning into more arid terrain. A stop for lunch will be arranged en route, often in a town like Nanyuki or Isiolo.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen lodge or camp in or near Samburu National Reserve. Check in and have some time to freshen up.
- Late Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive in Samburu. This reserve is known for its unique wildlife adapted to the arid environment, including Grevy's zebras, reticulated giraffes, Beisa oryx, Somali ostriches, and gerenuk (giraffe-necked antelope). The Ewaso Ng'iro River is a vital water source and attracts a variety of wildlife.
- Evening: Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation Suggestions: Samburu Sopa Lodge, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Elephant Bedroom Camp, Sasaab, or similar.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Samburu National Reserve
- Morning: Early morning game drive to witness the sunrise and observe wildlife during their most active hours. This is a great time for photography.
- Mid-morning: Return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast.
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Continue exploring Samburu with extended game drives, focusing on different areas of the reserve and searching for wildlife. Your guide will have knowledge of animal movements and good spots for sightings.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (Approx. 2-3 hours drive)
- Morning: Enjoy a final game drive in Samburu, perhaps focusing on any species you may have missed or revisiting a favourite spot.
- Mid-morning: After breakfast, check out and drive south to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The drive is relatively short and offers scenic views.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen accommodation in or near Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Check in and have lunch.
- Late Afternoon: Begin your exploration of Ol Pejeta. This conservancy is known for its conservation efforts, particularly with rhinos (both black and white). It's also home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and offers excellent opportunities to see the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and other wildlife. You could visit the chimpanzee sanctuary or take a game drive focusing on rhino tracking (if available and pre-arranged).
- Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation Suggestions: Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Serena Mountain Lodge (slightly further afield but a good option), or similar.
Day 4: Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Nairobi (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)
- Morning: Enjoy a final activity in Ol Pejeta. This could be another game drive, a guided bush walk, or a visit to the Rhino Information Centre.
- Mid-morning: Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Late Morning: Check out and begin the drive back to Nairobi.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your departure flight or to a hotel for onward travel.
Important Notes :
- This is a sample itinerary and can be customized.
- Driving times are estimates and depend on road conditions.
- Park fees are not included in accommodation costs and are payable separately.
- It is recommended that you book your safari well in advance.
- Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather, including warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.