Kenya · Safari

8-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari with Samburu, Aberdare and Maasai Mara

8 Days Round trip from Nairobi Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Boat ride on Lake Naivasha with a guided walk among freely roaming wildlife on Crescent Island
  • 02 Search for the rare Samburu Special Five in the wild landscapes of Samburu National Reserve
  • 03 Stay at the iconic Ark Lodge overlooking a floodlit waterhole in Aberdare National Park
  • 04 Spot black and white rhinos on game drives through Lake Nakuru National Park
  • 05 Explore the vast plains of the Maasai Mara with thrilling game drives and optional balloon safari

This 8-day safari in Kenya blends serene lakes, rugged northern reserves, lush highlands, and the legendary plains of the Maasai Mara into one unforgettable journey. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha and a guided walk on Crescent Island, search for the rare Samburu Special Five in Samburu National Reserve, and experience elevated wildlife viewing from the iconic Ark Lodge in Aberdare. The adventure continues to Lake Nakuru for rhino sightings and scenic game drives before culminating in the Maasai Mara, where vast savannahs teem with wildlife and optional experiences include a Maasai village visit or a sunrise balloon safari.

In the afternoon, embark on a peaceful boat ride across the lake, gliding past hippos and a variety of birdlife, before heading to Crescent Island for a guided walking tour among freely roaming wildlife in an open sanctuary.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Nyahururu, Naivasha, Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park, Samburu, Aberdare National Park
Languages English, French, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Nairobi to Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island

Your safari begins with a warm welcome from our friendly office representative and driver-guide, who will pick you up from the airport or your Nairobi hotel. After a short safari briefing, you'll set off towards Lake Naivasha, descending the scenic Great Rift Valley escarpment with breathtaking views along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the serene Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.

In the afternoon, embark on a peaceful boat ride across the lake, gliding past hippos and a variety of birdlife, before heading to Crescent Island for a guided walking tour among freely roaming wildlife in an open sanctuary. It's the perfect, tranquil introduction to Kenya's natural beauty.

Meals and overnight stay at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.

2
Day 02

Lake Naivasha to Samburu National Reserve

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the wild and rugged Samburu National Reserve, passing through Kenya's dramatic northern landscapes. Upon arrival, relax and take in the untamed beauty of the reserve.

In the late afternoon, head out for your first thrilling game drive in search of the rare Samburu Special Five-Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and the Beisa oryx. As the sun dips behind the distant hills, return to camp for a sumptuous dinner and unwind to the soothing sounds of the African wilderness.

Overnight at Samburu Simba Lodge - (FB)

3
Day 03

Full-Day Exploration of Samburu National Reserve

Spend the entire day exploring the untamed beauty of Samburu National Reserve, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife. Set out on morning and afternoon game drives in search of the Samburu Special Five, as well as lions, elephants, and graceful antelopes.

The reserve also offers a paradise for bird lovers, with its vibrant array of dry-country bird species providing a colorful backdrop to your adventure. In between game drives, enjoy moments of relaxation at the lodge, soaking in the tranquility of northern Kenya.

Overnight at Samburu Simba Lodge - (FB)

4
Day 04

Samburu to Aberdare National Park

After breakfast, depart Samburu and journey south toward the lush highlands of Central Kenya. Arrive in time for lunch at the charming Aberdare Country Club, nestled on the slopes of Mweiga Hill.

After a relaxing meal, you'll be transferred to the iconic Ark Lodge-designed like a ship overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, where wildlife gathers day and night. Spend your evening immersed in the sights and sounds of Aberdare National Park, enjoying unmatched game viewing from the comfort of your lodge.

Overnight at The Ark - (FB)

5
Day 05

Aberdare National Park to Lake Nakuru National Park

After a warm cup of Kenyan tea or coffee, enjoy breakfast at the base hotel before continuing your journey toward Lake Nakuru National Park. Along the way, pause to admire the scenic beauty of Thomson Falls-an ideal photo stop and refreshment break.

Arrive at Lake Nakuru in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive through the park's acacia-dotted plains and shimmering lake shores. Keep an eye out for the endangered black and white rhinos, as well as the elegant reticulated giraffes that roam freely in this wildlife-rich haven. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Overnight at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge - (FB)

6
Day 06

Lake Nakuru National Park to Maasai Mara

Depart after breakfast and journey toward the legendary Maasai Mara, driving deeper through the scenic Great Rift Valley with its dramatic landscapes and traditional homesteads. Arrive at your camp or lodge in time for a delicious lunch and a moment of rest.

As the golden afternoon light softens the landscape, head out for your first thrilling game drive across the vast plains of the Maasai Mara. This iconic reserve, teeming with wildlife and dramatic beauty, is the perfect place to crown your safari adventure. Return to your lodge as the sun sets for dinner and a peaceful night in the wild.

Overnight at Mara Serena Lodge or Similar - (FB)

7
Day 07

Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara

Spend the day immersed in the wonders of the Maasai Mara with both morning and afternoon game drives across its rolling savannahs. Each drive offers a unique and thrilling experience-whether it's spotting a pride of lions on the hunt, witnessing a herd of elephants crossing the plains, or watching zebras and wildebeests grazing peacefully.

For those seeking something extra, optional activities include a cultural visit to a local Maasai Village, a guided nature walk, or an unforgettable hot air balloon safari over the reserve at sunrise. Enjoy delicious meals and relax at your lodge or camp between adventures.

Overnight at Mara Serena Lodge - (FB)

8
Day 08

Maasai Mara to Nairobi

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a relaxed and scenic drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon. Lunch will be at your own arrangement, allowing you time to reflect on the incredible safari experiences. You'll then be dropped off at your city hotel or the airport for your onward journey.

Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island, Samburu National Reserve, Maasai Mara

Where this trip takes you

Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island, Samburu National Reserve, Maasai Mara

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Nairobi 7 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Full-board accommodation
  • All park entrance fees
  • All airport transfers
  • Game drives, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Use of a safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
  • Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • Complimentary bottled drinking mineral water (one bottle per person per day)
  • Government taxes

What's Not Included

  • Drinks and beverages
  • Any item of personal use
  • Travel insurance
  • Night game drive
  • Samburu Village visit
  • Maasai Village visit
  • Balloon flight: USD 450 per person
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Anything else not mentioned above

What to bring

  • Safari clothes
  • Cameras
  • Warm jackets
  • Spirit of adventure
  • Other personal belongings

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya
Tour start
Nairobi, Kenya
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Nairobi.

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