Today is dedicated to exploring Samburu’s unique terrain and rich wildlife. Set out on early morning and late afternoon game drives when the animals are most active. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants cooling off in the Ewaso Nyiro River and predators like leopards and lions that often lounge on rocky outcrops. In between, relax at your lodge and soak in the dramatic views. You may also choose to visit a local Samburu village to learn about the culture, traditions, and colorful attire of this proud, semi-nomadic people. The day ends with a quiet evening at your lodge, surrounded by the wild sounds of the bush.

After breakfast, journey southwest to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located on the foothills of Mount Kenya. This private conservancy is a haven for endangered wildlife, including Kenya’s largest population of black rhinos, and is the only place in East Africa where you can see chimpanzees. After checking in and having lunch at your camp, enjoy an afternoon game drive in the conservancy. You’ll have the option to visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary or take part in special activities like night game drives or lion tracking. As evening sets in, relax around the campfire under the African sky.

Today you descend into the Great Rift Valley, heading to either Lake Nakuru National Park or the serene Lake Naivasha, depending on your preference. En route, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the escarpments and sweeping valley landscapes. If heading to Lake Nakuru, arrive for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive in search of rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, lions, and if lucky, leopards. Lake Nakuru is also famous for its birdlife, particularly flamingos and pelicans. Alternatively, if staying in Naivasha, take a peaceful boat ride among pods of hippos and waterbirds. Dinner and overnight will be at your lodge overlooking the lake or the national park.

This day is reserved for exploring the wonders of the Rift Valley at a more relaxed pace. If in Naivasha, you can opt to visit Hell’s Gate National Park, where you can walk or cycle among zebras and giraffes through volcanic gorges and dramatic cliffs. Another great option is a guided walk on Crescent Island, offering an up-close experience with herbivores in a unique, predator-free setting. Those in Nakuru may opt for a second game drive or simply enjoy the lodge amenities and lakeside views. The evening is yours to rest or enjoy a sundowner with stunning views of the valley.

After breakfast, set off for the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, perhaps Kenya’s most famous wildlife destination. As you drive across the vast plains and hills, the landscape begins to open up into endless savannahs dotted with acacia trees – a preview of what lies ahead. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge or camp, then head out for an afternoon game drive to begin discovering the Mara’s incredible wildlife. The reserve is home to the Big Five and a host of other species, from cheetahs sprinting across the grasslands to herds of elephants peacefully grazing. Return to camp in the evening and settle in for a night surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Spend two full days immersed in the magic of the Masai Mara. You may choose to do extended full-day game drives with picnic lunches to explore deeper into the reserve, or split your day into morning and afternoon drives with time to relax back at the lodge. During the Great Migration season (July–October), witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River in dramatic scenes. Year-round, the Mara teems with life – lions on the hunt, elephants with their calves, and hippos wallowing in the rivers. On one of the days, consider a sunrise hot air balloon safari followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush for a truly unforgettable experience. You may also visit a Maasai village to learn about their culture, traditional dances, and customs.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before beginning your return journey to Nairobi. Depending on your schedule, you may drive back with scenic stops along the way, or opt for a short domestic flight from the Mara to Nairobi. Upon arrival, enjoy some last-minute shopping or a farewell lunch or dinner at a local restaurant. Your safari ends with a transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Kenya’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and warm hospitality.