Kenya 8-Day Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi & Transfer to Masai Mara

Morning: Arrive in Nairobi, meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Afternoon: Check into your lodge or camp, then enjoy your first game drive within the vast Masai Mara plains.

Evening: Return to camp for dinner; relax while absorbing the sounds of the African bush and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Full Day Exploring Masai Mara

Morning: Early morning game drive in Masai Mara to witness the Big Five and other wildlife during their most active hours.

Afternoon: Lunch at the camp followed by a visit to a local Masai Village to experience traditional culture and customs.

Evening: Sundowner drive with beautiful views of the savannah, returning to the camp under starry skies.

Day 3: Second Day in Masai Mara

Morning: Optional balloon safari over the Masai Mara to see wildlife from above (extra cost), followed by a morning game drive.

Afternoon: Relax at the lodge or take a nature walk around the camp area to spot smaller fauna and birdlife.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kenyan dinner and share stories around the campfire.

Day 4: Transfer to Naivasha

Morning: Depart early from Masai Mara and travel to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake renowned for birdwatching.

Afternoon: Boat safari on Lake Naivasha to spot hippos and abundant bird species amidst scenic papyrus-lined shores.

Evening: Dine at the lodge by the lake and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Day 5: Transfer to Samburu National Reserve

Morning: Drive north to Samburu National Reserve, a unique ecosystem away from the tourist crowds.

Afternoon: Afternoon game drive in Samburu to look out for endemic species such as the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.

Evening: Relax at the camp and enjoy a starlit dinner under the vast northern Kenyan sky.

Day 6: Full Day Exploring Samburu

Morning: Early game drive to catch predators and other wildlife at their prime activity time in Samburu.

Afternoon: Visit a local Samburu village to gain insight into the tribal lifestyle and crafts.

Evening: Return to camp for dinner, sharing experiences from the day’s adventure.

Day 7: Transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Morning: Depart for Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya’s largest black rhino sanctuary and home to the famous chimpanzee sanctuary.

Afternoon: Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary within Ol Pejeta and enjoy a game drive focused on rhino sightings.

Evening: Enjoy your final dinner in the bush at the lodge, reflecting on your safari highlights.

Day 8: Return to Nairobi & Departure

Morning: Early morning game drive or a leisurely breakfast before departing Ol Pejeta for Nairobi.

Afternoon: Arrival in Nairobi with time for shopping or a quick visit to the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, if time permits.

Evening: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight or onward travel.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Masai Mara National Reserve: 3 days, approx. 6 hours game drives/day, estimated cost $1200
• Lake Naivasha: 1 day, 2-hour boat safari, estimated cost $150
• Samburu National Reserve: 2 days, approx. 5 hours game drives/day, estimated cost $800
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy: 1 day, 4-hour game drives, visit to chimpanzee sanctuary, estimated cost $400
• Nairobi visits (Giraffe Centre & David Sheldrick): Half day, estimated cost $75

Total Estimated Cost: $2625

Tips

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to deepen your wildlife experience, consider extending your stay in the Masai Mara or Samburu by a day or two. For travelers with limited time, the Naivasha stop can be shortened or skipped, focusing on the premier reserves to maximize game viewing. Additionally, the optional balloon safari in Masai Mara is highly recommended for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective but can be omitted to reduce costs.