10-Day Kenya Safari to Samburu, Amboseli and Masai Mara

Upon arrival at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide. After a brief introduction, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Samburu National Reserve in the northern part of Kenya. This remote reserve is home to the “Samburu Big Five,” which includes the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich. Settle into your lodge or camp and enjoy a relaxing evening with a sundowner and dinner.

Spend the entire day exploring Samburu with morning and afternoon game drives. Samburu is famous for its unique wildlife, including the rare and endangered species not found in other parts of Kenya. You’ll also spot the dramatic landscapes of the Ewaso Nyiro River and surrounding hills. Between drives, enjoy the serene ambiance of your lodge and a delicious meal.

After an early breakfast, you’ll depart the Samburu and journey southeast toward Lake Nakuru or Naivasha. The drive takes you back through the scenic terrain, and you’ll stop for lunch along the way or upon arrival at your lodge. If you’re heading to Nakuru, enjoy an afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its flamingos, white rhinos, and Rothschild’s giraffes. If your destination is Naivasha instead, you can take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Naivasha or visit Crescent Island for a walking safari among zebras and giraffes. Settle into your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight.

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru to catch sight of any animals that are active during the cooler hours. Afterward, drive south to Amboseli National Park, famed for its vast open plains and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After checking into your accommodation, take in the views of Africa’s highest peak at sunset while enjoying a traditional safari dinner.

Spend a full day in Amboseli, one of Kenya’s most iconic parks. The park is renowned for its large elephant herds, and with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, it offers spectacular photographic opportunities. Along with elephants, you may spot wildebeest, giraffes, lions, and a wide variety of birdlife. A visit to a local Maasai village is also a popular option to experience the rich culture of the Maasai people.

After breakfast, head out for an early morning game drive in Amboseli before starting your journey southward to the Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive takes you through picturesque Kenyan landscapes, with the chance to stop for photos and enjoy the beautiful scenery. On arrival at your Mara accommodation, settle in and unwind for the night.

Masai Mara is world-famous for its exceptional wildlife and the Great Migration (if traveling during migration season). Today, enjoy a full day of game drives in this breathtaking reserve. You’ll have the chance to witness Africa’s Big Five in action, along with cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. Whether it’s the drama of a predator hunt or the peace of a wildebeest grazing, Masai Mara offers a front-row seat to nature’s wonders.

Start your day with an early-morning game drive or opt for a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride over the Mara plains at dawn (at an extra cost). The balloon ride offers a bird’s-eye view of the incredible landscapes and wildlife below. Later, enjoy another exciting game drive or visit a Maasai village to learn about the indigenous culture and traditions of the Maasai people.

After a final morning game drive in Masai Mara, you’ll return to Nairobi. The drive back offers the opportunity to reflect on your safari while soaking in the changing landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and have some rest after along safari.

On your final day, you may choose to explore Nairobi with a city tour, visiting places like the Giraffe Center, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, or the Karen Blixen Museum. Alternatively, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your incredible Kenyan safari.