Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Kenyan safari, exploring four of the country's most iconic and diverse 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 Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its breathtaking flocks of flamingos and diverse wildlife. Next, experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Naivasha, home to hippos, vibrant birdlife, and the unique Crescent Island sanctuary. Finally, witness the thrill of the Maasai Mara, with the potential to observe the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal) and encounter the Big Five. This extended tour offers a comprehensive Kenyan safari experience, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity and stunning scenery, with ample time to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and thrilling encounters.

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Samburu
Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 6: Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara
Day 7: Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara
Day 8: Maasai Mara to Nairobi

Activities:

* Multiple game drives in Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara National Parks
* Boat safari on Lake Naivasha
* Nature walk on Crescent Island
Optional activities: Cultural visits to Samburu villages, camel rides, bird watching, hiking, visiting a Maasai village, night game drives, or taking a hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara (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.
Lake Nakuru National Park: Flamingos, rhinos (both black and white), lions, leopards, Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes, waterbucks, zebras, and a plethora of bird species, including pelicans, eagles, and storks.
Lake Naivasha: Hippos, African fish eagles, cormorants, pelicans, herons, kingfishers, and various other water birds.
Crescent Island: Zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, gazelles, and numerous bird species.
Maasai Mara National Reserve: The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes), cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species, including ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
The Great Wildebeest Migration: Witness the annual spectacle of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores crossing the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands. (Seasonal, typically July-October)
Scenic Landscapes: The semi-arid landscapes of Samburu, featuring the Ewaso Nyiro River and doum palm trees; the picturesque landscapes of the Rift Valley, acacia forests, and the shimmering waters of Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha; and the vast plains, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted savannahs of the Maasai Mara.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

• Morning (Arrival): 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 brief stop for lunch will be arranged en route at a local restaurant.
• 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).
• Evening: Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Suggestions: Samburu Sopa Lodge, Ashnil Samburu Camp, Elephant Bedroom Camp, 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. The Ewaso Ng'iro River, which flows through the reserve, is a lifeline for the animals and a good place to spot wildlife.
• Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru National Park (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

• Morning: Enjoy a final game drive in Samburu, perhaps focusing on any species you may have missed.
• Mid-morning: After breakfast, check out and drive south towards Lake Nakuru National Park.
• Afternoon: Arrive at Lake Nakuru and check in to your accommodation near the park. Have lunch.
• Late Afternoon: Enjoy a game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its large flocks of flamingos (seasonal). The park is also a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, lions, leopards, and various antelope species.
• Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Suggestions: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, The Cliff Nakuru, or similar.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha (Approx. 1-2 hours drive)

• Morning: Enjoy a final game drive in Lake Nakuru, perhaps focusing on birdwatching or rhino tracking.
• Mid-morning: Drive to Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley.
• Afternoon: Check in to your lakeside accommodation.
• Late Afternoon: Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. This offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and close encounters with hippos. You can also visit Crescent Island for a walking safari among zebras, giraffes, and other plains game (optional).
• Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Suggestions: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge, Enashipai Resort & Spa, Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort, or similar.

Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara National Reserve (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

• Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning at Lake Naivasha, perhaps with a nature walk or more birdwatching.
• Mid-morning: Depart for the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. The drive will take you through scenic landscapes, including the floor of the Great Rift Valley.
• Afternoon: Arrive at your chosen accommodation in or near the Maasai Mara. Check in and have lunch.
• Late Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive in the Maasai Mara, famous for its incredible wildlife concentrations and the Great Migration (seasonal).
• Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Suggestions: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Mara Intrepids Camp, Angama Mara, Mahali Mzuri, or similar.

Day 6: Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara National Reserve

• Full Day: Enjoy full-day game drives in the Maasai Mara, with packed lunches provided. This allows you to explore different areas of the reserve and maximize your chances of seeing the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and other amazing wildlife. Consider a hot air balloon safari over the Mara plains for a truly unforgettable experience (pre-booking essential).
• Evening: Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 7: Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara National Reserve

• Full Day: Another full day dedicated to exploring the wonders of the Maasai Mara. You can focus on areas you haven't yet visited, track specific animals, or simply enjoy the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. You can also visit a local Maasai village for a cultural experience (optional and can be arranged locally).
• Evening: Return to your lodge/camp for a farewell dinner and overnight stay.

Day 8: Maasai Mara to Nairobi (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

• Morning: Enjoy a final early morning game drive in the Maasai Mara.
• Mid-morning: After breakfast, check out and depart for 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 to suit your preferences, budget, and travel dates.
• Driving times are estimates and can vary depending on road conditions and traffic.
• It is highly recommended to book your safari well in advance, especially during peak season (July-October for the Great Migration).
• Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, including warm layers for the evenings and early mornings, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.