7 Days Samburu, Nakuru, Naivasha & Mara
Safari Highlights
Samburu
- The Samburu Special Five: Unique wildlife species including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and the beisa oryx, which are rarely found in other Kenyan parks.
- Ewaso Ng'iro River: A lifeline for the reserve's wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for spotting elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.
- Bird Watching: Home to over 450 bird species, including the lesser kestrel and Taita falcon, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
- Leopard Sighting: Samburu is one of the best places in Kenya to spot leopards, often seen resting on tree branches.
- Cultural Experience: Interaction with the Samburu people, who share their rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, and crafts.
- Scenic Landscapes: Dramatic landscapes featuring rocky outcrops, dry riverbeds, and acacia woodland.
Nakuru
- Big Five Game Viewing: Encounter Africa's iconic wildlife including lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, both black and white, within the park's diverse habitats.
- Rhino Sanctuary: Visit one of Kenya's best places to see endangered black and white rhinos, with conservation efforts that have successfully increased their numbers.
- Birdwatcher's Paradise: Explore over 450 bird species recorded in the park, including pelicans, cormorants, and various birds of prey, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Makalia Waterfall: Hike to the scenic Makalia Falls, nestled within the park, offering a refreshing break and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Lake Nakuru from Baboon Cliff, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Masai Mara
- Great Migration: Witness one of nature's most incredible spectacles, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. (Seasonal: July to October)
- Big Five: The park is renowned for its high concentration of the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos.
- Scenic Landscapes: Marvel at the vast savannahs, rolling hills, and picturesque acacia trees that define the iconic African landscape.
- Maasai Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people through village visits and interactions with Maasai warriors.
- Bird Watching: Home to over 450 bird species, including ostriches, vultures, and numerous birds of prey.
- Predator Viewing: The Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see predators in action, with frequent sightings of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
- Sunset and Sunrise: Enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the plains, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Safari Itinerary
Morning: Depart Nairobi early in the morning and drive to Samburu National Reserve, passing through the scenic landscapes of central Kenya.
Arrival: Check into your lodge/camp and enjoy a welcome drink.
Lunch: Have a sumptuous lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive in Samburu National Reserve. Look out for the unique wildlife found in this semi-arid park, such as Grevy’s zebras, Somali ostriches, and reticulated giraffes.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Samburu Lodge or a similar accommodation.
Morning: Early morning game drive to catch the animals during their most active time. Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over the Samburu landscape.
Breakfast: Return to the lodge/camp for breakfast.
Mid-Morning: Relax at the lodge/camp or take a guided nature walk.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Another game drive exploring different areas of the reserve. Visit the Ewaso Ng’iro River, where wildlife gathers to drink.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Samburu Lodge or a similar accommodation.
Morning: After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley with a brief stop at the viewpoint for photos.
Arrival: Check into your lodge/camp in Nakuru.
Lunch: Have lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Go on a game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its large population of flamingos and rhinos. Keep an eye out for other wildlife, such as lions, leopards, and buffaloes.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Lake Nakuru Lodge or a similar accommodation.
Morning: After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley.
Arrival: Check into your lodge/camp and relax.
Lunch: Have lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and a variety of bird species. Visit Crescent Island for a guided walking safari among the freely roaming wildlife.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort or a similar accommodation.
Morning: After an early breakfast, depart for the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve.
Arrival: Check into your lodge/camp and enjoy a welcome drink.
Lunch: Have lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Head out for your first game drive in the Masai Mara. Look for the Big Five and other wildlife in this expansive savannah.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar accommodation.
Morning: Early morning game drive to witness the wildlife during their most active time.
Breakfast: Return to the lodge/camp for breakfast.
Mid-Morning: Option to visit a local Maasai village to learn about their culture and traditions (additional cost).
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon: Another game drive in the Masai Mara. Experience the beauty of the Mara River, especially if traveling during the Great Migration season.
Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner.
Overnight: Stay at Mara Serena Lodge or a similar accommodation.
Morning: After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive as you exit the reserve.
Mid-Morning: Depart for Nairobi, with a stop for lunch en route.
Afternoon: Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon. Drop off at your hotel or transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Safari Price Includes
- Transportation in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle.
- Accommodation in a lodge/camp for 3 nights.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as specified in the itinerary.
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- Park entrance fees.
- Game drives as per the itinerary.
- Bottled water during game drives.
Safari Price Excludes
- International flights.
- Visa fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Items of personal nature (laundry, tips, souvenirs).
- Optional activities (Maasai village visit, balloon safari).
- Drinks (soft drinks, alcoholic beverages).
Recommended Packing List
- Comfortable safari clothing (neutral colors).
- Sturdy walking shoes.
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Camera and binoculars.
- Personal toiletries and medications.
- Light jacket or sweater for cool evenings.