8-Day Classic Kenya Safari: Big Five Encounters & Scenic Beauty

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Welcome to Kenya! Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, our driver from Jossec Safaris will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to Sarova Panafric, a stylish hotel in Nairobi’s vibrant city center. Settle in and unwind after your journey, or opt for an exciting city excursion—visit the Giraffe Center to feed endangered Rothschild giraffes or explore the Karen Blixen Museum, the home of the legendary Danish author.

🛏 Overnight at Sarova Panafric (Panafric Room, BB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 2: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a stunning wildlife haven in Laikipia, about 4-5 hours north of Nairobi. Arriving at Sarova Maiyan, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Ol Pejeta is a leading rhino sanctuary, home to the last two northern white rhinos and a thriving population of black rhinos. You’ll also visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffalos, and big cats roaming the savannah.

🛏 Overnight at Sarova Maiyan (Deluxe Room, FB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Ol Pejeta to Lake Naivasha

After a relaxed breakfast, we depart for Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, check in at Sawela Lodge, a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. After lunch, take a boat safari on the lake, where you’ll spot hippos, fish eagles, and other aquatic birds. If time allows, you can visit Crescent Island, a unique sanctuary where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

🛏 Overnight at Sawela Lodge (Superior Room, FB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Nakuru National Park

Wake up early for a full-day game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, a paradise for bird lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its flocks of flamingos, Nakuru is also home to white and black rhinos, lions, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, and large herds of buffalos. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in breathtaking views of the lake and the acacia woodlands. Later in the afternoon, return to Sawela Lodge for dinner and relaxation.

🛏 Overnight at Sawela Lodge (Superior Room, FB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara

After breakfast, we set off for the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most famous safari destination. Arriving at Sarova Mara Game Camp, settle into your luxurious tent before enjoying a sumptuous lunch. In the afternoon, head out for an exhilarating game drive, where you may spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and even elusive leopards. If you’re visiting between July and October, you might witness the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.

🛏 Overnight at Sarova Mara (Deluxe Tent, FB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Full-Day Safari in Maasai Mara

Today is dedicated to exploring the vast plains of Maasai Mara. Set out on an early morning game drive, when predators are most active, and watch as the sun casts golden hues over the savannah. Your guide will take you to the Mara River, where hippos bask and crocodiles lurk. For an unforgettable experience, opt for a hot air balloon safari ($450 per person) at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Later, visit a traditional Maasai village, where you’ll learn about the Maasai people's rich culture and traditions.

🛏 Overnight at Sarova Mara (Deluxe Tent, FB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Maasai Mara to Nairobi

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the wild and begin our journey back to Nairobi. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, a convenient and comfortable place to relax before your flight. If time allows, you can enjoy a last-minute shopping tour or visit the Nairobi National Museum to learn about Kenya’s rich history.

🛏 Overnight at Crowne Plaza Airport (Superior Room, BB)

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 8: Departure from Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast, our team at Jossec Safaris will transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey. Your unforgettable Kenyan safari may be ending, but the memories will stay with you forever.

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast