5-Day Kenya Highlands Safari with Ngare Ndare and Sagana Adventures

5 Days Round trip from Airport Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Scenic Great Rift Valley drive and exploration of Hell’s Gate National Park by cycling/hiking or game drive
  • 02 Lake Naivasha boat safari with chances to spot hippos and abundant birdlife
  • 03 Equator Marker stop en route to the Mount Kenya Highlands
  • 04 Ngare Ndare Forest experience featuring waterfalls, nature trails, and the famous canopy walkway
  • 05 Sagana adventures including white-water rafting, ziplining, and a stop at Chania Falls before returning to Nairobi

Discover a different side of Kenya on this 5-day highlands safari that blends classic scenery and wildlife with standout outdoor adventures. From the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and the open trails of Hell’s Gate National Park to the calm waters of Lake Naivasha, each day brings a fresh way to experience the country’s природной beauty.

Continue into the cool Mount Kenya region for forest walks, waterfalls, and the iconic Ngare Ndare Canopy Walkway, then add hands-on thrills in Sagana with rafting and ziplining before returning to Nairobi. With a professional driver-guide, carefully paced travel, and memorable stops like the Equator Marker and Chania Falls, this itinerary is ideal for travellers who want nature, comfort, and adrenaline in one journey.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Nanyuki, Naivasha, Nairobi, Mount Kenya, Hell's Gate National Park
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Nairobi, Hell's Gate, and Lake Naivasha

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or residence in Nairobi by your professional safari driver-guide. Depart for the spectacular Great Rift Valley, enjoying a scenic drive through rolling highlands before descending the escarpment, where breathtaking panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and expansive valley plains await.

Arrive at Hell's Gate National Park, one of Kenya's most unique national parks and among the few in Africa where visitors can explore on foot or by bicycle. Upon arrival, choose the experience that best suits your preference. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a guided cycling safari and light hike through the park's towering cliffs, dramatic gorges, and volcanic rock formations, sharing the trails with zebras, giraffes, gazelles, warthogs, buffaloes, and a variety of birdlife. Guests seeking a more relaxed pace may opt for a scenic game drive through the park while enjoying the same remarkable landscapes and wildlife.

After an enjoyable morning of exploration, stop for a delicious lunch before continuing to the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha. In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat safari, gliding across the freshwater lake while observing pods of hippos, African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, cormorants, and an abundance of other birdlife that thrives along the shoreline.

As the sun begins to set over the lake, transfer to Mwanzo Lodge for check-in. Relax in the peaceful surroundings before enjoying dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Accommodation: Mwanzo Lodge
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

2
Day 02

Lake Naivasha to the Mount Kenya Highlands

After breakfast, check out and depart Lake Naivasha, travelling north through Kenya's scenic countryside towards the cool, forested slopes of Mount Kenya. Along the way, enjoy a picturesque drive through fertile farmlands, charming rural towns, and rolling landscapes as the Great Rift Valley gradually gives way to the lush central highlands.

En route, stop at the famous Equator Crossing, where the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. Take time to stretch your legs, capture memorable photographs, and learn about this unique geographical landmark before continuing your journey.

As you travel further north, the scenery becomes increasingly verdant, with towering indigenous forests, winding streams, and breathtaking views of Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak. Arrive at Kongoni Camp, Nanyuki in time for lunch and check-in.

Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing in the camp's peaceful natural surroundings while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding highlands and the majestic Mount Kenya region. The tranquil atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and acclimatize to the refreshing mountain climate.

As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner before settling in for a restful overnight stay at the camp.

Accommodation: Kongoni Camp, Nanyuki
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

3
Day 03

Ngare Ndare Forest Exploration

After an early breakfast, depart for the breathtaking Ngare Ndare Forest, a hidden gem nestled on the northern foothills of Mount Kenya. Renowned for its lush indigenous forest, crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, and Africa's longest canopy walkway, the forest offers the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, enjoy a flexible, well-paced experience designed to suit different activity levels. Guests seeking a leisurely outing can take a guided nature walk through the forest, exploring its tranquil trails, refreshing waterfalls, and natural pools while learning about the area's unique flora and fauna. For the more adventurous, there is the opportunity to participate in a guided rock-climbing experience on the forest's rugged cliffs under the supervision of experienced instructors.

Later, regroup for the highlight of the visit—a thrilling walk along the Ngare Ndare Canopy Walkway, suspended high above the forest floor. From this elevated vantage point, enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the treetops, with opportunities to spot birds, monkeys, and, on occasion, elephants moving through the forest below.

Pause for a delicious packed lunch in a shaded picnic area surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the forest before beginning your return journey to Kongoni Camp, Nanyuki.

Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing at the camp, taking in the cool mountain atmosphere before enjoying dinner and another peaceful overnight stay.

Accommodation: Kongoni Camp, Nanyuki
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

4
Day 04

Mount Kenya Safari Club and Sagana

After breakfast, check out from Kongoni Camp, Nanyuki, and journey through the picturesque central highlands to the world-renowned Mount Kenya Safari Club, beautifully set at the foothills of Mount Kenya. Surrounded by manicured gardens and offering breathtaking views of Africa's second-highest mountain, the club provides a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty.

Arrive in time for a delightful lunch before enjoying a guided one-hour horse-riding experience through the scenic grounds of the Safari Club. Suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, this relaxing activity allows you to appreciate the tranquil surroundings from a unique perspective. Afterwards, spend an enjoyable one-hour fishing session, where you can unwind by the peaceful waters while taking in the serene mountain atmosphere.

Later in the afternoon, continue your journey to Sagana, travelling through lush countryside before arriving at Savage Wilderness Camp, an eco-friendly retreat nestled along the banks of the Sagana River. Check in and take time to freshen up before enjoying a delicious dinner in the tranquil riverside setting, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the flowing river and surrounding forest.

Accommodation: Savage Wilderness Camp, Sagana
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

5
Day 05

Sagana River Adventure and Nairobi Return

After an early breakfast, prepare for an action-packed morning in the heart of Sagana, one of Kenya's premier adventure destinations. Begin with an exhilarating three-hour white-water rafting experience along the Sagana River, navigating exciting rapids under the guidance of experienced instructors. Suitable for both first-time rafters and adventure enthusiasts, this activity promises an unforgettable blend of excitement and scenic beauty.

Continue your adventure with a thrilling 30-minute ziplining experience, soaring above the river and forest canopy while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and lush landscapes.

After the morning activities, check out and begin your journey back to Nairobi. En route, stop at the beautiful Chania Falls, where you can stretch your legs, admire the cascading waterfalls, stroll through the shaded forest trails, and enjoy the refreshing mountain atmosphere.

Proceed to the historic Blue Post Hotel for a relaxing lunch in its tranquil riverside gardens before continuing the drive to Nairobi.

Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marking the end of your memorable highlands and adventure safari through Kenya.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Airport 5 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private transportation in a safari minivan or 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for enhanced game viewing.

  • Services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide throughout all safari segments.

  • Early-morning pick-up in Nairobi on Day 1 and drop-offs as outlined in the itinerary.

  • Accommodation as specified in the itinerary (safari segments only).

  • Meals as specified in the itinerary.

  • Lunch and a refreshment stop during the Hell's Gate excursion on Day 1.

  • All scheduled activities as outlined in the itinerary (Lake Naivasha boat ride, horse riding, fishing, white-water rafting, ziplining, and the Ngare Ndare Forest experience).

  • All park entrance fees and conservation charges for Hell's Gate National Park and Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve.

  • Bottled drinking water during safari segments (1 litre per person per day).

What's Not Included

  • International and domestic flights (if not specified in the itinerary)

  • Kenya visa fees and travel documentation costs

  • Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, laundry, and telephone calls

  • Tips and gratuities for driver-guides, hotel staff, and activity guides

  • Optional activities or experiences not clearly listed in the itinerary

  • Alcoholic beverages and any items not included under the specified meal plan

  • Additional meals or services outside those stated in the itinerary

  • Personal gear such as hiking equipment, swimwear, or outdoor clothing

  • Any changes to the itinerary made at the guest's request that incur extra costs

What to bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight hiking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing for warm daytime temperatures

  • Warm jacket or fleece for evenings in the highlands

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Insect repellent

  • Small backpack for day excursions

  • Swimwear and quick-dry towel (optional for rafting/pools)

  • Camera or smartphone with extra batteries/power bank

  • Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit

  • Rain jacket or poncho, especially during rainy months

Know before you go

  • Big Five wildlife safaris.

  • The itinerary is suitable for families, couples, groups, and multi-generational travelers.

  • Activities such as cycling, hiking, horse riding, rafting, and ziplining are optional, with alternative relaxed experiences available where applicable.

  • Some activities involve moderate physical activity; comfortable fitness levels are recommended.

  • Temperatures in the Mount Kenya region and Nanyuki can be considerably cooler than Nairobi and the Rift Valley, particularly during the evenings and early mornings.

  • White-water rafting and ziplining are operated by professional instructors, with all necessary safety equipment provided.

  • Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket are recommended.

  • Road transfers between destinations are scenic and form an important part of the overall safari experience.

  • Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi access, though connectivity may be limited in some remote locations.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Airport
Tour start
Airport
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Airport.

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