9 Days | 8 Nights Off Beaten Path Kenya Safari

Overview

This 9-day safari adventure takes you deep into Kenya’s less-traveled but breathtaking wilderness, from the Aberdare ranges to Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and the world-famous Maasai Mara. Expect unique wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and unforgettable landscapes, all while staying in luxury lodges and tented camps.

Highlights

Begin your journey in Aberdare National Park, famous for its forests, waterfalls, and rare species like the bongo antelope, while enjoying the unique Ark Lodge overlooking a waterhole. Head north to Samburu to encounter the “Special Five” – Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and reticulated giraffe – alongside elephants and big cats. Continue to Lake Nakuru, a haven for birdwatchers and home to rhinos and Rothschild giraffes. The safari concludes with several days in the Maasai Mara, Kenya’s top wildlife reserve, where you’ll witness the Big Five and, seasonally, the Great Migration.

Day 1: Nairobi – Aberdare National Park

Arrival in Nairobi followed by a scenic drive through the central highlands to the Aberdare ranges. Check in at The Ark Lodge, a unique property modeled after Noah’s Ark, overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick where elephants, buffalos, and other wildlife gather. Evening wildlife viewing from the comfort of the lodge’s decks.

Day 2-3: Samburu National Reserve

Head north across Kenya’s dramatic landscapes to Samburu National Reserve, home to the “Samburu Special Five” – Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and reticulated giraffe. Enjoy game drives with chances of spotting elephants, lions, leopards, and over 450 bird species. Stay at Samburu Intrepids Camp, where you’ll enjoy close encounters with nature and cultural insights from the Samburu people.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park

Drive via the scenic Thomson’s Falls en route to Lake Nakuru National Park. Famous for its birdlife and rhino sanctuary, the park also hosts lions, leopards, and Rothschild giraffes. After an afternoon game drive, relax at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge overlooking the Rift Valley.

Day 5-8: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Travel to the legendary Maasai Mara, Kenya’s premier safari destination. Spend four days on extensive game drives, seeking out the Big Five and witnessing incredible predator-prey interactions. From July to October, experience the world-renowned wildebeest migration. Visit a Maasai village for cultural immersion and enjoy sundowner experiences or optional balloon safaris. Accommodation is at Loyk Luxury Camp, blending comfort with authentic bush surroundings.

Day 9: Maasai Mara – Nairobi

Take an early morning game drive to capture final sightings of the savannah’s wildlife. After breakfast, begin your journey back to Nairobi. On arrival, enjoy refreshments at a city hotel before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Inclusions

Accommodation in luxury lodges and camps (full board), return transfers in 4x4 Land Cruisers, domestic flights and bush transfers, park and concession fees, guided game drives, Maasai community visit, bush dinner, bottled water, services of a professional safari guide and photographer, and AMREF evacuation cover.

Exclusions

International flights, visas, insurance, tips and gratuities, alcoholic beverages (international brands), personal items, optional activities such as balloon safaris, bush breakfasts, sundowners, and bush walks.

Optional Add-Ons

1. Balloon Safari – USD 650 per person
2. Bush Breakfast – USD 50 per person
3. Sundowner – USD 100 per person
4. Guided Bush Walk – USD 30 per person

Safari Cost (per person sharing)

1. Low Season: USD 6,520
2. Peak Season: USD 7,760