Embark on an exhilarating eight-day Safari adventure to discover the true splendor of the wild. Witness the breathtaking natural wonders and extraordinary wildlife of the region, including the renowned ‘Big Five.’ Prepare to be captivated by the spectacle of diverse and colorful animals in their natural habitat, showcasing the drama of life on these ancient lands. This safari tour will immerse you in the awe-inspiring landscapes and incredible fauna of Kenya. Explore the Masai Mara National Reserve on an African safari, traverse the acacia-dotted plains teeming with wildlife and observe wading hippos and numerous bird species along the shores of Lake Naivasha.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be greeted by your safari driver-guide. Following a comprehensive safari briefing, your journey will commence towards Tsavo East National Park, renowned for its historical significance tied to the “Man-Eaters of Tsavo,” which once posed a threat to the construction of the Kenya-Uganda Railway. Spanning an expansive 11,747 square kilometers, Tsavo East stands as Kenya’s largest protected area, boasting remarkable biodiversity and serving as the natural habitat for Africa’s “Big Five” – black rhino, Cape buffalo, elephant, leopard, and lion.
Despite its vast size, the park’s sparse vegetation and predominantly flat terrain facilitate optimal wildlife viewing, providing opportunities to encounter the distinctive Tsavo lions, characterized by the absence of a typical mane in adult males. Notable attractions within Tsavo East include Mudanda Rock, Yatta Plateau, and Lugard Falls. The park hosts large herds of elephants engaging in dust-bathing rituals, creating unforgettable scenes. Game drives offer glimpses of Eland, Gerenuk, Impala, Maasai Giraffe, and an array of over 500 bird species such as the black kite, lovebird, and sacred ibis.
The Galana River, meandering through the park, introduces a verdant ribbon of greenery amidst the dusty savannah. Along its banks, you may encounter pods of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbuck, contributing to the diverse ecosystem of this unpredictable reserve.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Embark on a journey to Tsavo West National Park after breakfast, covering an expansive 9,065 square kilometers, making it one of Kenya’s larger parks. Separated from its counterpart, Tsavo East, by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and rail line, Tsavo West captivates visitors with its extreme and captivating features. The diverse landscape showcases striking contours, vibrant desert hues, and the thrilling emergence of wildlife from the scrub.
Experience the essence of your personalized Kenya dream tour as you traverse the park, encountering a plethora of wildlife species set against the backdrop of dramatic sceneries. Tsavo West boasts over 60 mammal species and 400 bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Highlights include the mesmerizing Mzima Springs, featuring an underwater hippo watching point, the Shetani lava flow on the western precinct, and the picturesque Lake Jipe and Chala in the southwestern corners.
As you explore this vast panorama, marvel at the savannah interrupted by dark volcanic lava beds, ancient baobab trees, and lush oases sustained by underground springs. Keep a keen eye out for giraffes gracefully feasting on treetops, while the presence of buffalo, leopard, and rhino adds an element of excitement, especially around the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary.
In this safari adventure, follow the footsteps of Africa’s great explorers and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the endemic tribes.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Have breakfast and embark on a journey to Amboseli National Park, renowned for its breathtaking vistas of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, weather permitting. Arrive at your hotel for lunch and enjoy an afternoon safari in the park. Additionally, you have the option to visit a Maasai cultural village at an extra cost.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full day of game drives in Amboseli National Park. You can opt for a picnic lunch during the game drive or take a break for lunch between the morning and afternoon drives. Amboseli National Park, situated at the base of Africa’s tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro, stands out as one of Kenya’s most renowned national parks. Located approximately 150 miles southeast of Nairobi and in close proximity to the Tanzanian border, the park offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, with its snow-capped peak towering above the clouds.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Lake Naivasha, where you will arrive in time for lunch and check in at your hotel. After a satisfying meal, indulge in an afternoon boat ride on Lake Naivasha, accompanied by bird watching.
Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake situated northwest of Nairobi, is renowned for its captivating boat rides and serves as a gateway to Crescent Island. During the boat excursion, your knowledgeable captain will provide detailed insights into the diverse array of animals and birds inhabiting the lake. Resident bird species include fish eagles, ospreys, lily-trotters, black crakes, and various herons, with hippos also making the lake their home. The lake’s waters attract a wide range of wildlife to its shores.
As you navigate the lake, you may spot giraffes meandering among the acacia trees, hippos wallowing in the swamps, and Colobus monkeys calling from the treetops. The lake’s substantial hippo population can often be observed peacefully resting in the shallows during the daytime.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Embark on a journey to Maasai Mara Game Reserve after a satisfying breakfast, where you’ll indulge in a delicious lunch at your hotel before immersing yourself in an afternoon game drive within the reserve. As an optional activity, consider visiting a Maasai Cultural Village, with an additional cost. In the village, you can join the vibrant Maasai dancers adorned in their African attire, moving to the rhythmic beats and captivating tunes that promise to leave you rejuvenated.
Maasai Mara Game Reserve, renowned for being the backdrop of “Big Cat Diary” and Disney’s “African Cats,” is a must-visit for both first-time and returning safari enthusiasts in Kenya. The reserve boasts a diverse array of unique wildlife and birds, making it an ideal destination to witness the “Big Five” animals – elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes.
Notably, Maasai Mara is the home of the spectacular “Annual Great Wildebeest Migration,” recognized as one of the natural wonders of the world.
Renowned for its remarkable wildlife, Maasai Mara offers an excellent chance to encounter the Big Five, as well as other species such as cheetahs, servals, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, hippos, crocodiles, baboons, warthogs, topi, eland, Thompson’s gazelle, Grant’s gazelle, and more. The landscape is a wildlife-rich savannah, creating an unforgettable safari experience.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full day of adventure with a game drive in Maasai Mara Game Reserve. You have the option to enjoy a picnic lunch during the drive or take a break in between for a more leisurely lunch.
For those seeking an extra thrill, consider the optional Maasai Mara Balloon Ride at an additional cost. Prepare for an early morning wake-up call at 5:30 am as you transfer to the balloon launch site. Experience the breathtaking scenery from above as you soar over the plains, witnessing the wildlife below and enjoying the sunrise. After approximately an hour in the air, the balloon will land, and you’ll be transferred to a picturesque bush breakfast site. Delight in the aroma of bacon, sausages, and eggs while sampling exotic Kenyan fruits and homemade pastries. Optionally, raise a glass of bubbly to toast to the memorable flight—a tradition inspired by the Montgolfier brothers.
Overnight stay at the Lodge
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a drive to Nairobi. You have the option to have lunch at a city restaurant (arrange and pay directly). Later, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you reach on time for your homeward-bound flight.
End of Tour
Included / Excluded
- Transport in a 4x4 vehicle
- English speaking driver/guide
- Fullboard accommodation
- Bottled water
- unlimited Game drives and all park entry fees
- International air transport
- Insurance
- Expenses of personal nature
- Christmas, New Year and Easter supplements.