A spectacular journey through Kenya’s untamed northern wilderness, flamingo-filled Rift Valley lakes and the legendary plains of Maasai Mara – designed for travellers seeking the ultimate blend of rare wildlife, dramatic landscapes and authentic East African safari experiences.
Overview
This nine-day Kenya safari showcases some of the country’s most diverse and visually striking ecosystems, combining the remote wilderness of Samburu, the conservation success of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the geothermal beauty of the Great Rift Valley lakes and the world-famous savannahs of Maasai Mara. Carefully structured to balance immersive wildlife encounters with scenic transitions, the itinerary offers an exceptional cross-section of Kenya’s natural beauty and safari heritage.
The adventure begins in Samburu National Reserve, where arid northern landscapes support rare wildlife species found nowhere else in Kenya, before continuing south to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, one of East Africa’s leading rhino conservation areas. The safari then descends into the Great Rift Valley to explore Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria and Lake Naivasha, each offering unique scenery and wildlife experiences. The journey concludes with two unforgettable days in Maasai Mara National Reserve, where abundant wildlife and sweeping savannah plains deliver a fitting finale to this extraordinary Kenyan safari adventure.
Trip Highlights
- Extended safari exploration in Samburu National Reserve
- Rare northern wildlife species including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and Somali ostrich
- Rhino conservation experiences at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Chimpanzee sanctuary visit opportunities at Ol Pejeta
- Flamingo-lined shores and geothermal springs at Lake Bogoria
- Boat safari and walking safari opportunities at Lake Naivasha
- Rhino sanctuary and birdlife at Lake Nakuru National Park
- Big Five safari opportunities in Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Scenic drives through Kenya’s dramatic Great Rift Valley
- Diverse landscapes ranging from semi-arid wilderness to freshwater lakes and open savannahs
Itinerary
This immersive safari begins in Nairobi before heading north into the rugged wilderness of Samburu National Reserve, one of Kenya’s most unique safari destinations. Here, dramatic semi-arid landscapes and the Ewaso Nyiro River support rare northern wildlife species found only within this region. The journey then continues to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where rhino conservation, chimpanzee protection and exceptional wildlife viewing combine within one of East Africa’s leading private conservancies.
From central Kenya, the safari descends into the Great Rift Valley to explore Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria and Lake Naivasha - each offering distinct ecosystems ranging from alkaline flamingo lakes and geothermal springs to tranquil freshwater environments rich in birdlife. The experience concludes in Maasai Mara National Reserve, where vast open plains, abundant predators and classic African safari scenery create one of the world’s greatest wildlife experiences.
Distance: Approx. 320 km
Drive Time: Approx. 6 - 7 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Departure Briefing - Northern Kenya Safari Introduction
Begin your safari with an early morning departure from Nairobi following a briefing from your professional safari guide. Leaving the capital behind, the route gradually transitions from urban landscapes into Kenya’s fertile central highlands and eventually the drier northern frontier regions.
08:00 - 01:30 | Scenic Transfer - Central Highlands and Equator Crossing
Travel north through coffee plantations, rural farmlands and scenic mountain landscapes surrounding Mount Kenya. Along the route, cross the Equator while continuing towards the rugged semi-arid landscapes of Samburu. As the terrain changes, lush vegetation gradually gives way to dramatic acacia woodland, rocky outcrops and dry riverbeds characteristic of northern Kenya.
01:30 - 02:30 | Arrival and Lunch - Samburu Wilderness Introduction
Arrive at your lodge or safari camp and enjoy lunch surrounded by the untamed beauty of Samburu’s wilderness landscapes. Wildlife sightings frequently begin immediately, with elephants, antelope and birdlife commonly visible near the accommodation.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - Rare Northern Species Exploration
Embark on your first game drive through Samburu National Reserve, one of Kenya’s most unique wildlife ecosystems. The reserve is renowned for supporting rare northern species often referred to as the “Samburu Special Five” - Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and Beisa oryx. Elephants move steadily along the Ewaso Nyiro River while lions, leopards and cheetahs inhabit the surrounding wilderness. The dramatic contrast between the arid landscape and the riverine ecosystem creates exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in 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
The remote wilderness atmosphere, star-filled skies and sounds of nocturnal wildlife create an unforgettable northern Kenya safari experience.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Samburu cultural village visit
-Sundowner experience
-Guided nature walk
06:30 - 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive - Sunrise along the Ewaso Nyiro River
Begin the day before sunrise when Samburu is at its most active and visually spectacular. Predators continue patrolling territories while elephants gather near the riverbanks during the cooler morning temperatures.
The soft golden light enhances the beauty of the reserve’s rugged terrain and scattered acacia woodland.
08:30 - 09:30 | Breakfast - Wilderness Camp Experience
Return to camp for breakfast surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of northern Kenya’s wilderness.
10:00 - 01:00 | Midday Game Drive - Semi-Arid Ecosystems and Wildlife Encounters
Continue exploring Samburu’s diverse habitats including riverine forests, open plains and rocky hillsides. Leopards are occasionally observed resting in acacia trees while crocodiles bask along the riverbanks.
The reserve’s dry climate and sparse vegetation often allow for excellent wildlife visibility throughout the day.
01:00 - 02:00 | Lunch - Relaxation within the Wilderness
Enjoy lunch and relaxation while overlooking the surrounding wilderness landscapes.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - Predator Territory and Savannah Landscapes
Venture deeper into the reserve during the late afternoon as wildlife activity increases once again. Lions emerge from shaded areas while elephants continue moving between water sources and feeding grounds. The dramatic scenery, rare wildlife species and remote atmosphere make Samburu one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari destinations.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight stay in 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
The peaceful wilderness setting provides a memorable conclusion to another rewarding safari day.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Photography safari
-Sundowner experience
-Cultural interaction experience
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast - Farewell to Samburu
Enjoy breakfast surrounded by the calm morning atmosphere of Samburu before beginning the journey south towards Laikipia.
08:00 - 12:30 | Scenic Transfer - Northern Frontier to Central Highlands
Depart Samburu and travel through changing landscapes as dry northern terrain gradually transitions back into the greener highlands surrounding Mount Kenya. The route offers scenic views of rolling countryside, rural communities and expansive ranchlands.
01:00 - 02:00 | Arrival and Lunch - Conservancy Introduction
Arrive at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and enjoy lunch within one of East Africa’s leading wildlife conservation areas.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - Rhino Sanctuary and Conservation Experience
Explore Ol Pejeta Conservancy, internationally recognised for its successful rhino conservation initiatives and high wildlife density. Both black and white rhinos are frequently sighted grazing across open plains while elephants, buffalo, giraffes and numerous antelope species roam freely throughout the conservancy. Ol Pejeta is also home to the last remaining northern white rhinos under 24-hour protection. Optional visits to the chimpanzee sanctuary provide additional insight into the conservancy’s wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programmes.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at Ol Pejeta 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
The peaceful conservancy setting and cool highland climate create a refreshing overnight safari atmosphere.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Chimpanzee sanctuary visit
-Lion tracking experience
-Night game drive
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast - Highland Safari Atmosphere
Enjoy breakfast while overlooking the conservancy plains and surrounding Mount Kenya region.
08:00 - 12:30 | Scenic Transfer - Into the Great Rift Valley
Depart Ol Pejeta and descend into the Great Rift Valley, travelling through scenic escarpments, agricultural landscapes and rolling countryside. The journey showcases Kenya’s remarkable geographical diversity as the landscape gradually transforms into Rift Valley terrain.
01:00 - 02:00 | Arrival and Lunch - Lake Nakuru Introduction
Arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park and enjoy lunch overlooking sections of the lake basin and surrounding woodland.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - Rhinos and Lakeshore Birdlife
Explore Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its rhino sanctuary and rich birdlife. Both black and white rhinos are commonly seen grazing across open grasslands while Rothschild giraffes browse gracefully through woodland areas. The lake attracts pelicans, flamingos and numerous water birds depending on seasonal conditions. Lions and leopards inhabit forested sections of the park, adding excitement to the afternoon exploration. The combination of lake scenery, acacia woodland and wildlife diversity creates a highly rewarding safari experience.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at Lake Nakuru at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1 : Standard | Lake Nakuru Lodge | Flamingo Hill Camp
Option 2 : Luxury | Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge | Sarova Lion Hill
Option 3 : Above Luxury | The Cliff, Nakuru
The cool Rift Valley atmosphere and peaceful surroundings provide a relaxing overnight stay.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Birdwatching excursion
-Nature walk
-Private game drive
Distance: Approx. 110 km
Drive Time: Approx. 3 - 4 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast - Rift Valley Morning Experience
Enjoy breakfast while early morning bird activity unfolds across the Rift Valley landscape.
08:00 - 11:30 | Scenic Transfer - Northern Rift Valley Landscapes
Depart Lake Nakuru and travel north through dramatic escarpments, volcanic terrain and rural landscapes towards Lake Bogoria.
12:00 - 01:00 | Arrival and Lunch - Geothermal Wilderness Setting
Arrive near Lake Bogoria and enjoy lunch surrounded by rugged volcanic scenery and remote Rift Valley landscapes.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Exploration - Flamingos, Hot Springs and Geysers
Explore the extraordinary landscapes surrounding Lake Bogoria, renowned for geothermal activity and seasonal flamingo concentrations. Natural hot springs and steaming geysers emerge dramatically along the lakeshore while thousands of flamingos may gather along the alkaline shoreline depending on water conditions. The surrounding acacia woodland and rocky terrain support wildlife species including greater kudu, zebras and antelope. The dramatic geothermal scenery creates one of Kenya’s most unique Rift Valley experiences.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at the Lake Bogoria Spa Resort. The remote wilderness atmosphere and geothermal surroundings create a peaceful overnight safari experience.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Geothermal exploration walk
-Birdwatching tour
-Nature photography experience
Distance: Approx. 180 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast - Rift Valley Sunrise Experience
Enjoy breakfast while sunrise light spreads across the dramatic Rift Valley escarpments and surrounding wilderness.
08:00 - 12:30 | Scenic Transfer - Great Rift Valley Journey
Travel south through some of Kenya’s most scenic Rift Valley landscapes, passing volcanic hills, escarpment viewpoints and agricultural communities.
01:00 - 02:00 | Arrival and Lunch - Freshwater Lake Environment
Arrive at Lake Naivasha and enjoy lunch surrounded by tranquil lakeside scenery and rich birdlife.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Activities - Boat Safari and Walking Experience
Optional boat safari experiences introduce Lake Naivasha’s freshwater ecosystem where hippos rest partially submerged while fish eagles soar dramatically overhead. Optional walking safaris on Crescent Island provide the rare opportunity to walk among giraffes, zebras and antelope within a predator-free environment, creating a completely different safari perspective. The calm lake environment and surrounding acacia woodland create one of the safari’s most peaceful and scenic experiences.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at Lake Naivasha at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Options 1 : Budget | Hotel Chambai Safari
Options 2 : Standard | Panorama Hotel
Options 3 : Luxury | Naivasha Crescent Camp
The cool evening air and lakeside atmosphere provide a refreshing overnight retreat.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Boat safari on Lake Naivasha
-Crescent Island walking safari
-Hell’s Gate cycling safari
-Guided nature walk
Distance: Approx. 250 km
Drive Time: Approx. 5 - 6 hours
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast - Lakeside Departure
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the calm waters of Lake Naivasha before departing towards Kenya’s most celebrated safari destination.
08:00 - 01:30 | Scenic Transfer - Maasai Lands and Savannah Plains
Travel south-west through rolling hills, fertile farmland and traditional Maasai pastoral regions as the landscape gradually opens into expansive savannah plains. The dramatic transition into Maasai Mara creates anticipation for one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences.
01:30 - 02:30 | Arrival and Lunch - Savannah Introduction
Arrive at your lodge or camp and enjoy lunch surrounded by the open savannah environment.
Wildlife sightings frequently begin immediately, with zebras, antelope and giraffes commonly visible near the accommodation grounds.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - First Maasai Mara Exploration
Set out on your first game drive across the legendary plains of Maasai Mara National Reserve. Large herds of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles dominate the landscape while elephants move steadily through the savannah. Predators are a defining feature of the Mara ecosystem. Lions are commonly seen resting in prides while cheetahs scan the plains from elevated termite mounds searching for prey opportunities. The immense scale and wildlife density create an unforgettable first impression of Maasai Mara.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Maasai Mara at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Rhino Tourist Camp | Lenchada Tourist Camp | Mara Ntulele Camp | Enchoro Wildlife Camp | Sunset Camp Masai Mara | Greenwood Safari Camp
Option 2: Standard | Jambo Mara Safari Lodge | Aruba Mara Camp | Osero Camp | Enkorok Mara Camp | Simba + Oryx Nature Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Mara Sopa Lodge | Sentrim Maasai Mara | AA Lodge | Sekenani Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury | Sarova Mara Game Camp | Ashnil Mara Camp | Muthu Keekorok Lodge | Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Mara Simba Lodge | Fig Tree Camp
The distant wildlife sounds and vast open landscape create a deeply immersive safari atmosphere.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Hot air balloon safari
-Maasai cultural village visit
-Sundowner experience
06:30 - 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive - Sunrise Predator Activity
Begin the day before sunrise when Maasai Mara is at its most active and visually spectacular. Predators complete nocturnal hunts while herbivores emerge cautiously into open grasslands. The soft golden light enhances visibility across the plains and creates exceptional photography opportunities.
08:30 - 09:30 | Breakfast - Wilderness Camp Setting
Return to camp for breakfast surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the savannah.
10:00 - 01:00 | Midday Exploration - Riverine Forests and Open Plains
Continue exploring Maasai Mara’s diverse ecosystems including riverine forests, open plains and seasonal river systems inhabited by hippos and crocodiles. Buffalo herds, elephants, giraffes and antelope species move freely across the reserve while predators continue patrolling hunting territories.
01:00 - 02:00 | Lunch - Relaxation within the Wilderness
Enjoy lunch and relaxation while overlooking the surrounding savannah landscapes.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive - Big Cats and Golden Hour Landscapes
Venture deeper into the reserve during the late afternoon as wildlife activity increases once again. Lions emerge from shaded resting areas while hyenas begin territorial patrols across the plains. The spectacular scenery, rich wildlife density and dramatic golden evening light combine to create one of the world’s finest safari experiences.
07:30 - 09:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight stay in Maasai Mara at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Rhino Tourist Camp | Lenchada Tourist Camp | Mara Ntulele Camp | Enchoro Wildlife Camp | Sunset Camp Masai Mara | Greenwood Safari Camp
Option 2: Standard | Jambo Mara Safari Lodge | Aruba Mara Camp | Osero Camp | Enkorok Mara Camp | Simba + Oryx Nature Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Mara Sopa Lodge | Sentrim Maasai Mara | AA Lodge | Sekenani Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury | Sarova Mara Game Camp | Ashnil Mara Camp | Muthu Keekorok Lodge | Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Mara Simba Lodge | Fig Tree Camp
The peaceful wilderness atmosphere and star-filled skies provide a fitting conclusion to the safari’s final full day.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Hot air balloon safari
-Photography safari
-Sundowner experience
Distance: Approx. 270 km
Drive Time: Approx. 5 - 6 hours
06:30 - 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive - Final Safari Experience
Begin your final safari day with a sunrise game drive offering one last opportunity to witness Maasai Mara’s extraordinary wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Predators may still be active after night hunts while elephants, giraffes and grazing herbivores spread across the plains beneath the golden morning light.
08:30 - 09:30 | Breakfast - Farewell to the Mara
Return to camp for breakfast while enjoying final views across the savannah and reflecting on the remarkable safari experiences encountered throughout the journey.
10:00 onwards | Scenic Transfer - Return to Nairobi
Depart Maasai Mara and travel back to Nairobi through the scenic Rift Valley and central highlands.
The drive offers a final appreciation of Kenya’s diverse landscapes ranging from open plains and escarpments to fertile agricultural regions.
03:30 onwards | Arrival in Nairobi - End of Safari
Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to your hotel, residence or airport, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Kenya safari adventure.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Nairobi city excursion
-Cultural centre visit
-Airport transfer upgrades
Inclusions / Exclusions
Package includes
- Transport in a customised 4x4 Land Cruiser safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Services of a professional English-speaking safari driver-guide
- Park entrance fees for all national parks and conservancies
- Accommodation for 8 nights
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Scheduled game drives and safari activities as outlined in the itinerary
- Bottled mineral water during game drives and transfers
- Government taxes and statutory levies
- Pick up from Nairobi hotel, residence or airport
- Drop off in Nairobi
Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees where applicable
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Optional activities and excursions not listed as included
- Tips and gratuities (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls and souvenirs
- Additional accommodation before or after the safari unless stated
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation cover
Frequently Asked Questions
This itinerary combines northern Kenya’s unique wildlife ecosystems with the Great Rift Valley lakes and Maasai Mara, creating a far more diverse safari experience than standard southern Kenya itineraries.
The Samburu Special Five are rare northern wildlife species found mainly in northern Kenya – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and Beisa oryx.
Ol Pejeta is one of Africa’s leading wildlife conservancies, famous for rhino conservation, chimpanzee rescue programmes and excellent Big Five wildlife viewing opportunities.
Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria both attract flamingos depending on seasonal water and algae conditions. Birdlife remains exceptional throughout the year even when flamingo numbers fluctuate.
Yes. Lake Naivasha offers freshwater ecosystems with optional boat safaris and walking safaris, providing a more relaxed and interactive wildlife experience compared to vehicle-only game drives.
You may encounter elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos and numerous bird species across the various ecosystems.
Pack lightweight neutral-coloured clothing, a warm jacket for early mornings, comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal toiletries, camera and binoculars. Soft-sided luggage is recommended for ease of storage in the safari vehicle.
Yes. This itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a comprehensive Kenya safari experience that combines wildlife, landscapes, conservation and cultural diversity within one journey.
Yes. Accommodation categories, additional nights, optional activities and private safari arrangements can all be customised to suit individual preferences and travel styles.
