A rare and rewarding northern circuit – combining the rugged beauty of Samburu, the untamed wilderness of Meru and the conservation success story of Ol Pejeta for a safari rich in exclusivity, rare species and dramatic landscapes.
Overview
This six-day safari offers a distinctly different perspective of Kenya, venturing beyond the traditional southern circuit into the wild and less-travelled northern regions.
From the arid, river-fed landscapes of Samburu National Reserve to the lush and diverse ecosystems of Meru National Park and the conservation-driven plains of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, this itinerary delivers an exceptional blend of rare wildlife, scenic contrast and meaningful conservation experiences.
Starting and ending in Nairobi, the journey takes you across equatorial landscapes, dramatic river systems and remote wilderness areas, where wildlife encounters feel more intimate and less crowded.
This safari is ideal for travellers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience with a strong focus on biodiversity and conservation.
Trip Highlights
- Rare northern species in Samburu (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich)
- Scenic riverine landscapes along the Ewaso Nyiro River
- Untouched wilderness and diverse habitats in Meru National Park
- Conservation experiences at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Opportunity to see the last remaining northern white rhinos
- Fewer crowds and more exclusive wildlife encounters
Itinerary
This six-day safari unfolds across Kenya’s northern frontier, offering a progressive transition from arid landscapes to lush wilderness and conservation-focused reserves.
Distance: Approx. 350 km
Drive Time: Approx. 6 - 7 hours
07:00 a.m. - 08:00 a.m. | Departure from Nairobi
Your safari begins with a scenic drive north from Nairobi, gradually leaving behind the highland landscapes as you journey towards the semi-arid regions of northern Kenya.
Crossing the equator near Nanyuki, the terrain begins to change - open plains give way to rugged landscapes dotted with acacia trees and rocky outcrops.
01:30 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge or camp in or near Samburu National Reserve and enjoy lunch overlooking the surrounding wilderness.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Your first game drive introduces you to Samburu’s unique ecosystem, centred around the Ewaso Nyiro River - a vital lifeline in this dry region.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Grevy’s zebras
-Reticulated giraffes
-Somali ostriches
-Elephants along the riverbanks
-Lions and leopards
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the lodge, with the sounds of the African night echoing across the dry landscape at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Umoja Campsite | Samburu Riverside Tented Camps
Option 2: Standard | Sopa Lodge | Ashnil Samburu Camp | Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Elephant Bedroom Camp | Shaba Lodge
Option 4: Above Luxury | Sasaab | Saruni Samburu | Simba Lodge | Soroi Larsens Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Samburu cultural village visit
-Guided nature walk
06:30 - 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive
Set out at sunrise as the reserve awakens. Predators are active, and the soft morning light illuminates the rugged terrain, creating striking photographic opportunities.
08:30 - 09:30 | Breakfast
Return to the lodge for breakfast or enjoy a bush breakfast depending on wildlife activity.
10:00 - 13:00 | Extended Game Viewing
Explore deeper into the reserve, following the river and venturing into open plains where wildlife congregates.
The contrast between dry landscapes and green riverbanks creates a unique safari experience.
13:00 - 14:00 | Lunch
Lunch at the lodge or a scenic picnic within the reserve.
15:30 - 18:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Continue exploring new areas, tracking predators and observing herbivores as they move towards water sources in the late afternoon.
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the lodge, immersed in the raw beauty of Samburu at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Umoja Campsite | Samburu Riverside Tented Camps
Option 2: Standard | Sopa Lodge | Ashnil Samburu Camp | Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Elephant Bedroom Camp | Shaba Lodge
Option 4: Above Luxury | Sasaab | Saruni Samburu | Simba Lodge | Soroi Larsens Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost)
-Cultural village visit
-Private sundowner experience
Distance: Approx. 200 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast in the Wilderness
Enjoy breakfast as the morning light spreads across the reserve.
08:00 - 12:30 | Scenic Drive to Meru
Depart Samburu and journey towards Meru National Park, transitioning from arid terrain to greener landscapes with rivers, forests and open plains.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge and enjoy lunch surrounded by Meru’s lush vegetation.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Meru offers a diverse and less crowded safari experience.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Elephants and buffalo
-Lions and leopards
-Giraffes and zebras
-A variety of bird species
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight in the heart of this untamed wilderness at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Meru Slopes Hotel | Royal Prince Hotel | Three Steers Hotel
Option 2: Standard | Murera Springs Eco Lodge | Ikweta Safari Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Elsa's Kopje Lodge | Rhino River Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Guided nature walks
-Birdwatching excursions
06:30 - 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive
Explore the park at sunrise, when wildlife is most active and the landscape is bathed in golden light.
08:30 - 09:30 | Breakfast
Return to the lodge for breakfast or enjoy a bush breakfast.
10:00 - 13:00 | Extended Game Viewing
Discover Meru’s varied habitats - from riverine forests to open plains and swamps - each supporting different wildlife species.
13:00 - 14:00 | Lunch
Lunch at the lodge or picnic in the park.
15:30 - 18:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Continue exploring the park’s vast and uncrowded terrain, offering a more exclusive safari experience.
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at your designated accommodation.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Guided nature walk
-Photography excursion
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast with Forest Views
Enjoy breakfast as the sounds of the forest surround you.
08:00 - 12:30 | Scenic Drive to Ol Pejeta
Journey towards Ol Pejeta Conservancy, with views of Mount Kenya in the distance.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive and enjoy lunch at your lodge within the conservancy.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive and Conservation Experience
Ol Pejeta is renowned for its conservation efforts and diverse wildlife.
Highlights include:
-Black and white rhinos
-The last northern white rhinos
-Chimpanzee sanctuary
-Lions, elephants and other wildlife
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Riverside Villas Nanyuki | The Glacier Hotel
Option 2: Standard | Sarova Maiyan Hotel | Peaks Hotel Nanyuki | Esiankiki Resort | lifestyle Villas Nanyuki
Option 3: Luxury | Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Maisha Sweetwaters Camp | Ol Pejeta House
Option 4: Above Luxury | Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club | Kicheche Valley Camps | Tambarare Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Visit to chimpanzee sanctuary
-Guided conservation experience
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
07:00 - 08:30 | Breakfast with Views of Mount Kenya
Enjoy your final breakfast overlooking the conservancy, with views of Mount Kenya on clear days.
09:00 - 01:30 | Scenic Drive to Nairobi
Depart for Nairobi, travelling through the central highlands with scenic countryside views.
01:30 p.m. - 02:30 p.m. | Arrival and Drop-off
Arrival in Nairobi with drop-off at your hotel, residence or airport, marking the end of your safari.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Souvenir shopping en-route
inclusions / Exclusions
Package includes
- Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Park entrance fees for all parks and conservancies
- Accommodation for 5 nights
- All meals as per itinerary
- Game drives as per itinerary
- Bottled mineral water during game drives
- Government taxes and levies
Excludes
- International flights
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Optional activities
- Lunch on Day 6 (unless specified)
- Tips and gratuities (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Samburu offers unique northern species not found in most other parks, along with a more rugged and less crowded environment.
Yes, Meru offers diverse landscapes and fewer crowds, making it ideal for a more exclusive safari experience.
Yes, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos.
Drive times are moderate and scenic, with opportunities to enjoy changing landscapes.
Yes, it offers a unique northern circuit that differs from the classic southern safari routes.
Expect elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, rare northern species and abundant birdlife.
Light clothing, a warm layer, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera.
Yes, it is suitable for families, couples and small groups.
The safari is excellent year-round, with good wildlife viewing in all seasons.
Yes, it can be tailored to suit your preferences and travel style.
