Best of Kenya Safari: Samburu to Masai Mara & Amboseli

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve

Our Jossec Safaris team will warmly pick you up from your Nairobi hotel in the morning. After a safari briefing, you’ll drive through Kenya’s countryside, crossing the equator and heading into the semi-arid Samburu region. After lunch at the lodge, enjoy your first afternoon game drive in the land of the "Samburu Special Five." Look out for elephants, lions, and rare animals only found north of the equator.

Accommodation: Samburu Sopa Lodge (or similar)

Day 2: Full Day in Samburu National Reserve

Spend the whole day exploring Samburu with both morning and afternoon game drives. The Ewaso Ng'iro River draws wildlife like a magnet, and you might spot crocodiles basking along the banks or herds of elephants drinking at the water’s edge. Don’t miss sightings of leopards, cheetahs, and vibrant birdlife. You can also relax at the lodge in between safaris and soak up the scenery.

Accommodation: Samburu Sopa Lodge (or similar)

Day 3: Samburu to Aberdare National Park

After breakfast, depart for the cool highlands of Aberdare National Park. You’ll arrive at the base hotel for lunch before transferring to the historic Tree Tops Hotel. Spend the evening quietly watching the floodlit waterhole and salt lick, where elephants, buffalos, and rhinos often gather, giving you magical close-up views from the lodge.

Accommodation: Tree Tops Hotel (or similar)

Day 4: Aberdare to Amboseli National Park

After an early breakfast, you'll journey south towards Amboseli, famous for its grand views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After checking in at your lodge, enjoy an afternoon game drive across the dusty plains, seeking out large elephant herds, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs. With luck, Kilimanjaro’s peak will reveal itself at sunset for a perfect photo moment.

Accommodation: Sentrim Amboseli Lodge (or similar)

Day 5: Amboseli to Lake Nakuru National Park

Enjoy an early morning game drive, then after breakfast, drive towards the Rift Valley’s floor to Lake Nakuru National Park. Arrive in time for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive. Lake Nakuru is a protected sanctuary for black and white rhinos and offers great sightings of flamingos, lions, and the elusive leopard hidden among the acacia trees.

Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge (or similar)

Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, set off for the world-famous Masai Mara, Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife reserve. You’ll arrive at the camp in time for lunch and a brief rest before heading out for your first thrilling afternoon game drive in the vast open plains where big cats rule and the Big Five roam freely.

Accommodation: Mara Leisure Camp (or similar)

Day 7: Full Day in Masai Mara

Spend a full day immersed in Masai Mara’s magic. Morning and afternoon game drives offer opportunities to track lion prides, cheetahs hunting, and herds of elephants moving across the landscape. If visiting between July and October, you might witness the breathtaking wildebeest migration. An optional balloon safari can also be arranged for a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience over the Mara (additional $450).

Accommodation: Mara Leisure Camp (or similar)

Day 8: Masai Mara to Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy your last moments in the Mara before beginning your drive back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, the Jossec Safaris team will see you off at your hotel or airport, carrying memories of a truly incredible safari.