Set off on an exciting 23-days adventure across Kenya, discovering the country’s renowned wildlife reserves, national parks, and stunning natural wonders. Tailored for those eager to delve deep into Kenya’s varied landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, this safari offers plenty of opportunities for game drives, birdwatching, cultural tours, and nature walks.
Begin your safari adventure with a visit to Nairobi National Park, located just a short distance from the city center. This unique park offers the rare sight of wildlife with the city skyline as a backdrop. Spot lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos as you explore the park’s expansive grasslands. It’s a perfect introduction to Kenya’s wildlife.
After breakfast, head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, renowned for its rhino sanctuary, which houses both black and white rhinos, and the Chimpsanzee Sanctuary, one of the few places in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. This afternoon, enjoy an exciting game drive through the conservancy and observe a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, elephants, and the elusive leopard.
Today, journey to Samburu National Reserve in the northern part of Kenya. This reserve is home to unique wildlife species such as Grevy’s zebras, Somali ostriches, and the reticulated giraffe. The arid landscapes are contrasted by the Uaso Nyiro River, which supports a rich diversity of animals. Your afternoon game drive will introduce you to Samburu’s varied wildlife.
Enjoy a full day of game drives in Samburu National Reserve. The morning and afternoon drives will give you plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, cheetahs, and the rare Beisa oryx. As you explore, you may also encounter some of the indigenous Samburu people, known for their vibrant culture and unique traditions.
Today, drive south to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos, which can often be seen lining the shores, especially during migration seasons. The park is also home to a rhino sanctuary, providing an excellent opportunity to see both black and white rhinos in their natural habitat. Enjoy a scenic game drive along the lake’s shore.
Embark on a full day of game drives and birdwatching in Lake Nakuru National Park. In addition to flamingos, you might spot leopards, lions, rhinos, and various bird species, including the endangered white-backed vulture. Take your time to appreciate the park’s scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.
Head to Lake Bogoria, a stunning alkaline lake known for its hot springs and large concentrations of flamingos. It’s a peaceful and less-visited destination, offering beautiful views and a chance to relax in the serene environment. Enjoy an afternoon visit to the lake’s hot springs, and marvel at the birdlife.
Travel to Saiwa Swamp, a hidden gem that’s home to the rare and elusive sitatunga antelope. The swamp is perfect for a walking safari or birdwatching excursion, allowing you to explore its peaceful, lush environment. Keep an eye out for various birds, including the African Jacana.
Drive to Kakamega Forest, the last remaining tropical rainforest in Kenya. This rich ecosystem is home to various species of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife. Spend the day birdwatching and exploring the forest’s lush trails, with the chance to spot rare species such as the blue-headed bee-eater and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Travel towards Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the lake and the chance to participate in water-based activities like boat trips or fishing. The surrounding area is home to unique cultures, which you can explore through local visits to villages along the lake.
Start your day early with a pick-up from your accommodation in Kisumu. The drive to Masai Mara takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the road conditions, with picturesque views of the Kenyan countryside along the way. Enjoy lunch at a scenic stop en route. Upon arrival at Masai Mara in the afternoon, check in at your lodge or camp and relax before heading out for your first game drive. The game drive offers a chance to spot some of the Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and perhaps even leopards.
After an early breakfast in Masai Mara, head to a nearby Maasai village for a cultural experience. The Maasai people, famous for their traditional attire and rich cultural heritage, will welcome you to their village. Here, you can learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional dance and visit a Maasai homestead to understand how they live in harmony with nature.
After this enriching cultural visit, continue your journey to Lake Naivasha, approximately 5-6 hours away. En route, you’ll drive through the Great Rift Valley, stopping at scenic viewpoints to capture the landscape. Once you arrive at Lake Naivasha, enjoy a relaxing lunch before heading out for an afternoon boat ride on the lake, famous for its large hippo population and birdwatching opportunities.
In the late afternoon, visit Crescent Island, a private wildlife sanctuary located on Lake Naivasha. This island is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest, and is a great spot for walking safaris. You’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to your accommodation in Lake Naivasha for dinner and an overnight stay.
Spend the next two days in Masai Mara, one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species. Morning and afternoon game drives allow you to experience the thrill of the African wilderness. You can also opt for a visit to a Maasai village to learn about their rich culture and traditions.
After an early breakfast in Masai Mara, head to a nearby Maasai village for a cultural experience. The Maasai people, famous for their traditional attire and rich cultural heritage, will welcome you to their village. Here, you can learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional dance and visit a Maasai homestead to understand how they live in harmony with nature.
After this enriching cultural visit, continue your journey to Lake Naivasha, approximately 5-6 hours away. En route, you’ll drive through the Great Rift Valley, stopping at scenic viewpoints to capture the landscape. Once you arrive at Lake Naivasha, enjoy a relaxing lunch before heading out for an afternoon boat ride on the lake, famous for its large hippo population and birdwatching opportunities.
In the late afternoon, visit Crescent Island, a private wildlife sanctuary located on Lake Naivasha. This island is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest, and is a great spot for walking safaris. You’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to your accommodation in Lake Naivasha for dinner and an overnight stay.
After a morning breakfast at your accommodation near Lake Naivasha, enjoy a last stroll around the scenic lake or a final visit to Hell’s Gate National Park if you haven’t yet explored it in its entirety. Hell’s Gate is known for its impressive landscapes, including geothermal activity, dramatic cliffs, and gorges. Take a walk or ride a bike through the park, with opportunities to see wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and gazelles against the backdrop of rugged terrain.
After your visit to Hell’s Gate, begin your drive south towards Amboseli National Park, famous for its vast elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes and villages. Stop for scenic photos and a break along the way.
Upon arrival in Amboseli, check into your accommodation, and after a short rest, head out for an evening game drive in search of the park’s famous elephants and other wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and various bird species.
Spend this day in Amboseli, with game drives in the mornings and evenings. The park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, and cheetahs, will make for fantastic viewing. The stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro add to the allure of the park, especially in the early morning light.
After a morning in Arabuko Sokoke Forest, one of East Africa’s largest and most biodiverse coastal forests, head towards Mida Creek, just a short drive away. Arabuko Sokoke is home to an array of rare wildlife, including the endemic Sokoke Scops Owl, and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks. Explore its diverse habitats, from tropical dry forest to mangrove swamps, where you can see monkeys, butterflies, and various bird species.
In the afternoon, journey to Mida Creek, known for its scenic beauty and rich ecosystem. This peaceful coastal wetland is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during migratory seasons. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax and take in the picturesque surroundings of the creek. Enjoy a boat ride through the mangrove forests, observing the unique ecosystem of this coastal gem.
As the day winds down, enjoy the tranquil environment and perhaps participate in a guided walk to learn about the area’s importance for conservation and the local community.
On the final day of your safari, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing Mida Creek and traveling to Malindi, a charming coastal town. In Malindi, you can explore the local markets, visit historical sites, or simply relax on the beach.
In the afternoon, drive to Nairobi (approximately 7-8 hours) for your flight back home or further adventures. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief stopover in Nairobi, where you can visit local attractions or enjoy a farewell dinner before heading to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax or take a short city tour to explore Nairobi’s main attractions, like the Nairobi National Museum or local markets.
Nairobi National Park is best explored via a guided game drive. A professional guide will help spot wildlife, including giraffes, lions, and rhinos, while you enjoy a scenic drive through the park. It’s located just outside Nairobi city, making it a convenient and exciting introduction to Kenya’s wildlife.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is unique for its commitment to wildlife conservation, especially the northern white rhinos. Visitors can also enjoy game drives, visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and experience some of the best views of Mount Kenya. It’s a great place to see both the Big Five and endangered species.
The drive from Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Samburu National Reserve takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions. The route offers beautiful scenery, and you’ll likely stop for a meal or a break along the way.
Samburu is known for its unique species like the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and the gerenuk. You’ll also spot lions, leopards, elephants, and other classic safari animals.
Yes, Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its birdlife, especially the flamingos that gather in large numbers around the lake. The park also has an impressive population of rhinos, and you may also see lions, leopards, and various waterfowl.
Lake Bogoria is known for its stunning hot springs and geysers, along with abundant flamingos and other birdlife. It’s a peaceful park with scenic views and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Lake Baringo is a birdwatcher’s paradise. A boat ride on the lake is a must, allowing you to spot wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including pelicans, herons, and kingfishers.
Yes, Kakamega Forest offers walking safaris with a guide, which is an excellent way to explore the unique rainforest ecosystem. You’ll see a variety of flora and fauna, including rare bird species, primates, and forest antelopes.
Kisumu is a vibrant lakeside city with cultural attractions, including the Kisumu Museum and the Dunga Hill Camp for birdwatching. You can also explore Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, or take a boat ride to see the local fishing communities.
The Masai Mara offers world-class game viewing, especially during the Great Migration when millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River. You’ll likely see the Big Five, cheetahs, and a wide range of herbivores and predators in the vast savannah.
The Masai Mara offers world-class game viewing, especially during the Great Migration when millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River. You’ll likely see the Big Five, cheetahs, and a wide range of herbivores and predators in the vast savannah.
In Lake Naivasha, you can enjoy boat rides to see hippos, birds, and the Crescent Island Sanctuary, where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and other animals. The area is perfect for both wildlife viewing and relaxation.
Hell’s Gate is known for its unique geothermal landscape, dramatic cliffs, and geothermal hot springs. You can hike or cycle through the park, visiting the gorge, and seeing wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and baboons.
Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s a great place to witness the majestic elephants against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak, along with abundant other wildlife.
Tsavo West is known for its diverse landscapes, including volcanic hills, savannahs, and Mzima Springs, where you can see hippos and crocodiles. It’s famous for its red elephants and great opportunities for game viewing.
Taita Hills is a beautiful and less-visited destination, offering scenic views of the surrounding areas. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and leopards, as well as a rich diversity of bird species.
Shimba Hills is a coastal rainforest reserve known for its diversity of plants and wildlife, including the endangered Sable antelope. It offers a serene environment, perfect for nature walks and game drives.
Arabuko Sokoke is one of Kenya’s largest coastal forests and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It’s known for its unique birdlife, including the Sokoke Scops owl and the golden-rumped elephant shrew. It’s a great destination for eco-tourism and birdwatching.
The drive from Mida Creek to Nairobi takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You may opt to fly from Malindi to Nairobi for a quicker option.
