An iconic safari in Kenya

Experience Samburu culture in the north and feel the thundering power of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. Top this off with an indulgent beach stay on Kenya's radiant coastline.

Georgia Hinkley
Origin travel expert
Karibu: Welcome to Kenya!

Kenya presents an outstanding wildlife experience. You will observe iconic animals in the vast, acacia tree dotted plains of the Masai Mara, and right up to the northern reaches of the dramatic Samburu region, home to semi-nomadic tribes. With many David Attenborough documentaries filmed in this magical country, Kenya is the destination for a classic safari experience.

A cheetah prowling the savannah of the Masai Mara at dawn
Trip Overview

You'll begin in the dramatic landscapes of the Samburu region, where you will observe endemic species of wildlife and meet the Samburu people. You'll then fly down to the Masai Mara, and be perfectly located to see one of the most sought-after wildlife spectacles on the planet, the Great Migration. We'll top off your adventure with a secluded beach retreat, to enjoy some rest and relaxation before flying home.

Wildebeest daring to swim across the mighty Mara River during the Great Migration
Days 1 - 4: Samburu wildlife and tribes

Upon arrival into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport you will be transferred by road and then light aircraft flight to Samburu.

Samburu National Reserve

This remote region of Kenya unravels some truly breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, the winding Ewaso River and red earth dotted with bush, which contrasts drastically with the Masai Mara. It is home to endemic species of wildlife, such as the endangered Grevy zebra and the Somali ostrich. It is also the homeland of the Samburu people, and you can learn about their fascinating traditions.

Semi-nomadic Samburu tribe
Your Stay: Saruni Samburu

This luxury eco-lodge is located in the Kalama Conservancy and is built into a rocky outcrop, with spellbinding views over Samburu. You can access the villas through the winding walkways, with the dramatic landscape surrounding you. Almost all of the staff here are employed from the Samburu tribes and giving back to the communities and protecting this wilderness area is integral to Saruni's ethos.

One of Saruni's open safari vehicles with Mount Ololokwe in the backdrop

Your time at Saruni will be spent venturing out into the wilderness in search for wildlife such as elephants, lion and rare, endemic species which could include the Reticulated Giraffe and Grevy zebra. Saruni Samburu is located in a private conservancy, so you will have more flexibility on the activities you can do, which means you can go night game drives in search of nocturnal wildlife and enjoy thrilling walking safaris.

When you're back at the lodge enjoying the delicious cuisine and the incredible views, you will have plenty of opportunities to get to know the staff, most of whom are from the local communities, so you will have a fascinating insight into the Samburu way of life.

Days 4-7: The Masai Mara
A coalition of male lions walking through the Masai Mara savannah

This morning, after a final venture into Samburu, you will enjoy a breakfast cooked up for you out in the bush, before you catch a direct light aircraft flight to the Masai Mara.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Although the draw to this reserve is the Great Migration, which you can observe from July-September, the Mara is a phenomenal destination to enjoy a safari throughout the year. Big cat sightings such as lions, cheetah and leopard are common and there are number of authentic, luxury tented camps with a low carbon footprint.

Your Stay: Naibor Camp

This is an elegant, authentic tented camp perched on the banks of the Talek River in the main reserve. The tented rooms have private verandas where you can enjoy a gin and tonic overlooking the river, where you'll see pods of hippos. The camp has quick access to the main river crossing points during the migration season.

The luxurious tents open up to the surrounding nature
Enjoy private dining overlooking the Talek River

During you time at Naibor Camp, you will be immersed in the nature around you and will go on phenomenal game drives, led by highly regarded guides. When you're not tracking and observing wildlife, you'll be back at camp, where you can enjoy hearty home-cooked food and a glass of wine around the campfire, also known as "bush tv"!

Days 7-12 : Beach bliss

Late this morning you will be transferred to the airstrip in time for your scheduled light aircraft flight to Ukunda Airstrip, before being transferred by road to Msambweni.

Talcum-soft sand and swaying palms of Diani Beach
Kenya Coast

Kenya's stunning coastline is easily accessible from the Masai Mara, with some airlines offering direct flights so you can have a seamless bush and beach experience. Mombasa is a well known city on the Kenya Coast, however it's the beaches further south, such as Watamu and Diani Beach that impress, with a number of beautiful boutique hotels and luxurious villas.

Your Stay: Msambweni Beach House

A little further south of Diani Beach, Msambweni Beach House has an enviable location on an idyllic semi-private beach, so you can enjoy pure beach bliss away from tourists. This boutique hotel has chic, bright interiors with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The owner is passionate about amazing food, and you can enjoy delicious local cuisine in one of the many outdoor dining spots around this romantic property.

Ariel view of Msambweni Beach House & Villas
One of the elegant suites in the main house

You will have the chance to head out on a boat and snorkel the waters of the Kisite Marine Reserve, where you'll find colourful fish and maybe even manta rays and dolphins. You can also hire some bikes and take a guided tour of Msambweni Village and even kayak through the mangrove forest. Or simply read a book by the glistening pool, listening to the ocean waves breaking in the background.

A local fisherman heading out in a traditional dhow boat
Day 12: Heading Home

All good things come to an end. After your incredible adventure, it's time to head home.

After boarding your flight back to Nairobi Wilson, you'll be transferred by road to Jomo Kenyatta Airport in time for your onward flight.

Want to experience epic Kenya?

Just let us know and we'll get planning. We are happy to customize your trip based on your desires and preferences.

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