On Day 1, your adventure begins early in Nairobi. At 7:30 AM, your dedicated Natural World Kenya Safaris driver will pick you up from your hotel, residence, or the international airport and transfer you to Wilson Airport. Your flight departs at 8:30 AM, taking you on a scenic 90-minute journey northward toward Samburu National Reserve. From the air, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes below, including fields, forests, and, weather permitting, the majestic snow-capped peak of Mt. Kenya.

Upon landing at a nearby airstrip, your first safari driver and guide will warmly welcome you and escort you to a private, open-sided 4x4 Land Cruiser Jeep — the perfect vehicle for exploring the rugged wilderness ahead. With the excitement building, you’ll then head directly into Samburu National Reserve to begin your unforgettable safari experience.

After you’ve checked in and refreshed at your Samburu accommodation, we’ll begin our first game drive of this exciting nine-day safari. Samburu is a vast, arid expanse that sees far fewer visitors than some of the better-known parks, which means more uninterrupted wildlife sightings and fewer crowds. One of the key highlights here is the abundance of elephants, often seen in family herds.

We’ll make our way toward the Ewaso Nyiro River, the life source of this rugged region. Its waters nourish a ribbon of green along its banks, attracting wildlife throughout the day. This is the best spot to observe a variety of animals coming to drink — a natural meeting point for predators and prey alike. The setting is picturesque and ideal for photography as we quietly witness this timeless rhythm of the wild.

Come late afternoon, we’ll make our way back to our Samburu lodge or tented camp, bringing our first day of safari adventure to a close. With the golden light fading over the rugged landscape, it’s the perfect time to unwind and reflect on the day’s sightings. A freshly prepared dinner awaits, followed by a relaxing evening under the African night sky. Whether you choose to rest by the fire, stargaze, or simply enjoy the sounds of the wild, your Samburu experience has only just begun.

As the golden hues of morning light spill across the Samburu landscape, we’ll rise early to witness the park’s stirring wildlife begin their day. This full day in Samburu is yours to tailor—whether it’s hours spent exploring the rugged terrain on game drives or relaxing back at camp, your driver/guide will help craft the perfect plan.

We’ll scout for Samburu’s famed elephants and search for lion, buffalo, and unique species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. For a change of scene, we may venture to the neighboring Shaba and Buffalo Springs reserves—lush, green pockets where wildlife flourishes.

As the Samburu sun dips below the horizon, casting warm tones across the savannah, we’ll return to our lodge or tented camp for a well-deserved dinner. The sounds of the wild may still echo in the distance as we reflect on the day’s remarkable sightings—perhaps a lone lion on the prowl, a herd of elephants crossing the river, or the rare silhouettes of Samburu’s unique wildlife. This peaceful evening offers a perfect time to relax, share stories, and prepare for the next leg of our adventure.

We’ll begin the day with an early game drive, catching the golden light of sunrise as it plays across the rugged landscape of Samburu. This is a great time to spot wildlife as they stir from their nighttime shelters and begin their daily foraging and hunting rituals. The Samburu elephants, often found in great numbers, may be seen making their way to the Ewaso Nyiro River, while predators like lions and leopards finish their nightly prowls.

After breakfast back at our lodge or camp, we’ll say farewell to Samburu and begin our scenic drive to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. This journey takes about three hours, leading us into the greener, cooler central highlands of Laikipia, with the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kenya gradually appearing on the horizon. The change in landscape is remarkable as we leave the arid beauty of Samburu for the lush and fertile surroundings near Nanyuki town.

Upon arriving at Ol Pejeta, we’ll check in to our accommodation and settle in before heading out to explore this exceptional conservancy. Ol Pejeta is one of Kenya’s best-conserved private reserves and offers a distinctive experience, combining traditional game viewing with innovative wildlife protection initiatives.

This is the only place in Kenya where you can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Operated in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, it provides a safe haven for rescued and orphaned chimpanzees. The sanctuary allows you to observe these intelligent primates as they play, interact, and recover in a protected environment that mirrors their natural habitat.

Another highlight of Ol Pejeta is its pioneering rhino sanctuary, one of the largest in East Africa. The conservancy is home to over 100 black rhinos and also hosts the last two remaining northern white rhinos on the planet. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to learn about anti-poaching efforts and the critical importance of rhino conservation.

In addition to these sanctuaries, Ol Pejeta is also teeming with wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and even the elusive African wild dogs. The conservancy’s unique status as a private reserve also allows for activities not permitted in national parks, such as guided night game drives and optional walking or cycling safaris.

As the sun begins to dip below the peaks of Mt. Kenya, we’ll head back to our lodge or camp to relax, enjoy a hearty dinner, and reflect on this enriching transition from the semi-arid wilds of Samburu to the conservation-rich grasslands of Ol Pejeta.

After a day filled with immersive wildlife experiences and meaningful visits to the chimpanzee and rhino sanctuaries, we’ll return to our comfortable accommodation at Ol Pejeta for a well-deserved evening of rest. Here, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the conservancy, you can enjoy dinner while reflecting on the incredible conservation efforts underway in this unique part of Kenya. Whether you choose to relax by a fire or gaze up at the stars, your third safari evening promises to be both peaceful and memorable.

As your full day unfolds at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, you have the flexibility to shape your adventure. You may choose to embark on multiple game drives, seeking out not only Africa’s famous predators but also diverse species like giraffes, impalas, hyenas, jackals, and baboons. The private nature of the conservancy allows for exceptional experiences not found in national parks—such as exhilarating night drives to see nocturnal hunters or a unique cycling safari across the plains. Or, simply relax at your lodge and soak in the tranquil surroundings of this remarkable reserve.

As the sun sets over the Laikipia plains, we’ll make our way back to our Ol Pejeta lodge or tented camp. Here, you can enjoy a warm, freshly prepared dinner and share stories of the day’s sightings—whether it was a stealthy leopard, a rare rhino, or an unforgettable chimpanzee encounter. With the wild sounds of the African night around you, this peaceful evening offers the perfect close to another enriching safari day.

On the morning of your transfer from Ol Pejeta to the Masai Mara, you’ll rise early to soak in the serene beauty of the conservancy one last time, perhaps with a gentle morning game drive to catch any wildlife activity before departure. After breakfast, you’ll head to the nearby airstrip, ready for your 10:30 am flight.

Boarding the small aircraft, you’ll experience a breathtaking aerial view as you fly south to the Masai Mara. From your window, vast expanses of savannah stretch out beneath you, with the park’s signature rolling hills, dotted with iconic flat-topped acacia trees, creating a patchwork of green and gold. This unique vantage point offers a fresh perspective many visitors don’t get to enjoy — an introduction to the vastness and diversity of one of Africa’s most celebrated ecosystems.

Touching down on the Mara airstrip, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your new Natural World Kenya Safaris guide, who will greet you beside a private, open-sided 4x4 Land Cruiser. Climbing aboard, you’ll embark on a game drive en route to your accommodation within the reserve.

As you traverse the Mara’s sweeping plains, your guide will begin sharing insights about the abundant wildlife and the park’s rich ecology. The Masai Mara is famed for its dense populations of predators—prides of lions lounging in the tall grasses, stealthy cheetahs on the hunt, and elusive leopards resting in the trees. You’ll also find large herds of elephants, powerful buffalo, elegant giraffes, and graceful zebras and antelope roaming freely.

This afternoon marks the start of an unforgettable three-day immersion into the heart of this exceptional reserve, where every game drive promises the chance to witness nature’s most captivating spectacles.

As the sun sets over the Masai Mara, we’ll head back to your lodge or tented camp. The evening sounds of the wild will surround you as you relax and enjoy dinner, sharing stories from the day’s adventures. Under a brilliant African night sky, you’ll rest up for another exciting day ahead.

You’ll want to rise early to fully experience the vast Masai Mara and its incredible wildlife displays. Your driver/guide will help you decide which areas of the park to explore based on what animals you hope to see that day.

A visit to the Mara River is a must, especially between June and October during the Great Migration. Here, you’ll witness an astonishing spectacle as thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles pour into the park from the Serengeti, all driven by their search for food and water.

Lying in wait are the predators: crocodiles lurking in the river, and numerous big cats scattered throughout the reserve, ready to pounce. This is the raw drama of nature, where predator and prey play their eternal roles.

For a truly unforgettable perspective, consider our optional early morning hot air balloon safari. From high above, you’ll drift silently over the Mara, watching vast herds of wildebeest stretch to the horizon—an awe-inspiring sight.

To add a cultural dimension to your visit, you might choose to visit a nearby Maasai village. Here, you’ll meet the Maasai people, learn about their traditional pastoral lifestyle, and perhaps witness their vibrant dance ceremonies, gaining a deeper connection to this extraordinary land.

As the day begins to wane, take in one of the spectacular Mara sunsets as we head back to your accommodation for our final safari evening.

Maasai Mara – Amboseli (1 Hour Flight)

You might want to spend the morning revisiting some of your favorite spots in the Mara, such as the Mara River, to soak in those last glimpses of the park’s incredible wildlife. Take full advantage of this final morning with some game drives, capturing any remaining moments you wish to cherish.

After a leisurely lunch at your Mara accommodation, it will be time to pack up and make your way to the airstrip for the next stage of your journey. Your flight departs at 2:00 pm, carrying you south to Amboseli National Park.

As you say farewell to your Mara guide and board the plane, prepare for a scenic one-hour flight. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s towering, snow-capped summit — an unforgettable sight that dominates the landscape.

Upon landing at the Amboseli airstrip, you’ll be welcomed by your third driver and the familiar sight of a sturdy 4 x 4 open-sided Jeep. Together, you’ll head to your safari lodge or tented camp, where the adventure continues.

There will be time for an introductory game drive before dinner, giving you your first chance to experience Amboseli’s unique charm. Look southwards, where the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro looms large, its presence providing a stunning backdrop to the park’s abundant herds of free-roaming elephants.

As evening falls, keep an eye on the mountain’s peak — if the clouds lift, you may be treated to the iconic and awe-inspiring sight of Kilimanjaro’s snowy crown, a perfect end to your day.

After the day’s adventures, we’ll settle in at our Amboseli safari lodge or tented camp, where a delicious dinner awaits. Here, you can relax and unwind, sharing stories and reflections from the day’s game drives. The peaceful surroundings and warm atmosphere provide the perfect setting to rest and recharge, preparing you for the exciting days ahead in this remarkable park.

You’ve been on safari for over a week now, so rising early with the birds and watching the wildlife greet the new day has become second nature. There’s something truly magical about Mt. Kilimanjaro bathed in the soft morning light — a perfect sight to savor as you enjoy your breakfast.

Today is yours to explore Amboseli at your own pace, with plenty of time for game drives and moments of relaxation at your accommodation. This vibrant park buzzes with life, home to a rich variety of animals including lions, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, baboons, monkeys, and hippos.

One of the day’s highlights will be a drive up Observation Hill. Here, you can step out of your 4 x 4 Jeep and stretch your legs while taking in sweeping panoramic views across the park. From this vantage point, watch as majestic elephant families make their way through the expansive marshlands below, and keep an eye out for graceful pelicans, Egyptian geese, and the occasional ostrich striding through the landscape. It’s a perfect spot to pause, breathe in the wild beauty, and appreciate the vastness of Amboseli.

As the afternoon light softens and the day winds down, we’ll make our way back to your Amboseli accommodation. Here, you can unwind and reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes you’ve experienced throughout the day. Dinner will be served in a relaxed setting, offering the perfect opportunity to share stories and savor the peaceful atmosphere of your final evening on safari.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll slowly make our way back to your Amboseli lodge or tented camp, taking in the fading light that casts a warm, golden glow over the expansive plains. The air cools gently as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, a perfect African sunset that seems to linger just for this moment.

Along the way, you might catch the silhouette of elephants moving gracefully against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, their peaceful presence a fitting end to a day filled with incredible wildlife encounters. The sounds of the wild will gradually soften — the distant calls of birds settling in for the night, the rustle of leaves in the evening breeze, and perhaps the faint echo of lions communicating across the park.

Once back at your accommodation, you’ll have time to unwind and reflect on the memories of the day. The lodge or tented camp offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, where you can relax with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Dinner will be served, a carefully prepared meal featuring local and international flavors, providing a delightful end to your day.

As night fully settles over Amboseli, the sky will unveil a dazzling canopy of stars, uninterrupted by city lights. This vast, star-studded expanse offers a peaceful, almost spiritual experience — the perfect backdrop to rest and recharge for the next day or for the journey home, carrying with you the unforgettable impressions of your safari in this remarkable corner of Africa.

As the late afternoon sun begins to soften, casting a warm amber glow over the sweeping plains of Amboseli, we’ll make our way back to your accommodation.