Essence of Kenya Safari

Thirteen days of discovery, twelve nights under African skies.

Adventure Beach Culture Eco Family Historical Luxury Nature Relaxation Romantic Safari

Essence of Kenya Safari - Main photo of the trip

Essence of Kenya Safari - Photo 2 of the trip

Essence of Kenya Safari - Photo 3 of the trip

Essence of Kenya Safari - Photo 4 of the trip

Essence of Kenya Safari - Photo 5 of the trip

From untamed savannahs to tranquil shores, discover the true essence of Kenya in style.

Trip Description

This well-rounded 13-day itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife havens. Designed for travelers seeking a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and culture, this classic safari begins in the vibrant capital of Nairobi and continues to the untamed beauty of Samburu, the flamingo-fringed shores of Lake Nakuru, and the legendary Maasai Mara—home to the Big Five and the Great Migration. The experience concludes with a relaxing retreat on the sun-drenched beaches of Diani, offering the ideal ending to your African adventure. From thrilling game drives and rare wildlife sightings to serene coastal moments, this safari showcases the best of Kenya in one seamless and luxurious journey.

Accomodation

Nairobi Radisson Blu (Upperhill or Arboretum) Fairmont The Norfolk JW Marriott Nairobi Hotel Hemingways Nairobi Samburu National Reserve Elephant Bedroom Camp Samburu Lodge Larsens Camp Ashnil Samburu Camp Surana Buffalo Camp Sarova Shaba Game Lodge Samburu Sopa Lodge Lake Nakuru Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge Lake Nakuru Lodge Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge The Cliff Masai Mara Mara Serena Safari Lodge Sarova Mara Game Camp Kichwa Tembo Camp Entim Mara Mara Sopa Lodge Diani Diani Reef Resort Diamonds Leisure Beach and Golf Resort Baobab Beach Resort and Spa Swahili Beach

Stay program

day 1
Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by a dedicated representative and transferred to your hotel in the city. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Optional activities include visiting the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum for a gentle cultural introduction to Kenya.
day 2
Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
After breakfast, fly or drive to Samburu National Reserve, a striking semi-arid region in northern Kenya. Upon arrival, enjoy your first game drive en route to the lodge. Settle into your luxury accommodation and soak in the views of the rugged wilderness.
day 3
Samburu – Wildlife Encounters
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in Samburu, renowned for the rare "Samburu Special Five": Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, you’ll also have excellent chances of spotting lions, leopards, and elephants.
day 4
Samburu to Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Samburu and head south to Lake Nakuru National Park, set around a picturesque soda lake. The park is a haven for birdlife, including thousands of flamingos, and a sanctuary for black and white rhinos.
day 5
Lake Nakuru – Game Drives & Birdwatching
Explore the park on morning and afternoon game drives. Search for Rothschild’s giraffes, tree-climbing lions, buffalo, and leopards. Bird lovers will appreciate the park’s vast diversity, with over 400 recorded species.
day 6
Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara National Reserve
Journey onwards to the legendary Maasai Mara. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive across the vast plains, home to a high concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five.
day 7
Maasai Mara – Full-Day Safari
Spend the day exploring the Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. Between July and October, you may witness the Great Migration—a spectacle of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River. There is also an optional visit to a traditional Maasai village.
day 8
Maasai Mara – Optional Balloon Safari
Another day to soak in the magic of the Mara. Begin with an early morning game drive, or choose a sunrise hot air balloon safari with a champagne breakfast in the bush. Afternoon at leisure, or enjoy more wildlife viewing.
day 9
Maasai Mara to Diani Beach
After breakfast, fly via Nairobi to Diani Beach on the South Coast. Transfer to your beachfront resort and unwind with ocean views and tropical breezes.
day 10
Diani – Coastal Relaxation
Enjoy a full day of relaxation on Diani’s pristine white sands. Indulge in your resort’s amenities or take a stroll along the beach. Optional spa treatments are available.
day 11
Diani – Marine Adventures
Choose from a range of optional activities, including snorkeling and diving at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, a traditional dhow cruise to Wasini Island, or a dolphin-watching excursion.
day 12
Diani – Last Day in Paradise
Spend your final full day at leisure. Enjoy a swim in the Indian Ocean, sip cocktails by the pool, or take a sunset walk along the beach.
day 13
Diani to Nairobi & Departure
After breakfast, fly back to Nairobi. A day room will be provided for you to freshen up before your international departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have the chance to do some last-minute shopping or enjoy a farewell dinner.