8 Days Samburu, Naivasha & Nakuru, Masai Mara
Safari Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day safari adventure through Kenya’s iconic national parks and reserves with Ottawa World Travels. This journey takes you deep into the heart of East Africa, where breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences await.
From the rugged terrain of Samburu National Reserve to the bird-filled shores of Lake Naivasha, and the flamingo-dotted expanse of Lake Nakuru, each destination offers unique encounters with Africa’s most magnificent creatures. Cap off your safari with the legendary Masai Mara, famed for its vast plains teeming with the Big Five and the spectacle of the Great Migration.
Accompanied by knowledgeable guides and staying in comfortable lodges or camps, immerse yourself in daily game drives, bush walks, and cultural visits that promise to create memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply seeking an adventure in the wild, this safari promises an authentic African experience like no other.
Tour Highlights
Samburu
- The Samburu Special Five: Unique wildlife species including the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and the beisa oryx, which are rarely found in other Kenyan parks.
- Ewaso Ng'iro River: A lifeline for the reserve's wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for spotting elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.
- Bird Watching: Home to over 450 bird species, including the lesser kestrel and Taita falcon, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
- Leopard Sighting: Samburu is one of the best places in Kenya to spot leopards, often seen resting on tree branches.
- Cultural Experience: Interaction with the Samburu people, who share their rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, and crafts.
- Scenic Landscapes: Dramatic landscapes featuring rocky outcrops, dry riverbeds, and acacia woodland.
Lake Naivasha
- Boat Safaris: Popular for birdwatching and viewing hippos in their natural habitat.
- Crescent Island: A sanctuary for giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife, perfect for walking safaris.
- Hell's Gate National Park: Famous for its stunning landscapes, rock formations, and geothermal activities.
- Mount Longonot: A dormant volcano with a challenging hiking trail offering panoramic views.
- Adventure Activities: Including biking, rock climbing, and exploring caves within Hell's Gate National Park.
Lake Nakuru
- Big Five Game Viewing: Encounter Africa's iconic wildlife including lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, both black and white, within the park's diverse habitats.
- Rhino Sanctuary: Visit one of Kenya's best places to see endangered black and white rhinos, with conservation efforts that have successfully increased their numbers.
- Birdwatcher's Paradise: Explore over 450 bird species recorded in the park, including pelicans, cormorants, and various birds of prey, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Makalia Waterfall: Hike to the scenic Makalia Falls, nestled within the park, offering a refreshing break and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Lake Nakuru from Baboon Cliff, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Masai Mara
- Great Migration: Witness one of nature's most incredible spectacles, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. (Seasonal: July to October)
- Big Five: The park is renowned for its high concentration of the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos.
- Scenic Landscapes: Marvel at the vast savannahs, rolling hills, and picturesque acacia trees that define the iconic African landscape.
- Maasai Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people through village visits and interactions with Maasai warriors.
- Bird Watching: Home to over 450 bird species, including ostriches, vultures, and numerous birds of prey.
- Predator Viewing: The Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see predators in action, with frequent sightings of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Safari Itinerary
Early breakfast at the hotel.
Depart for Samburu National Reserve (approx. 5-6 hours’ drive).
Lunch at your lodge/camp upon arrival.
Afternoon game drive in Samburu National Reserve.
Dinner and overnight stay at Ashnil Samburu Lodge in Samburu.
Full day exploring Samburu National Reserve.
Morning and afternoon game drives.
Optional visit to a local Samburu village (additional cost).
All meals and overnight stay at Ashnil Samburu Lodge in Samburu.
Breakfast at Samburu.
Drive to Lake Naivasha (approx. 4-5 hours’ drive).
Lunch at your lodge/camp in Naivasha.
Afternoon boat ride on Lake Naivasha to view birdlife and hippos.
Dinner and overnight stay at Naivasha Sopa Lodge in Naivasha.
Early breakfast.
Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park (approx. 1-2 hours’ drive).
Game drive en-route to your lodge/camp.
Lunch at the lodge/camp.
Afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Dinner and overnight stay at Midland Hotel in Lake Nakuru.
Early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Breakfast at the lodge/camp.
Depart for Masai Mara National Reserve (approx. 5-6 hours’ drive).
Lunch at your lodge/camp in Masai Mara.
Afternoon game drive in Masai Mara.
Dinner and overnight stay at Mara Sopa Lodge.
Full day exploring Masai Mara National Reserve.
Morning and afternoon game drives.
Optional visit to a Masai village (additional cost).
All meals and overnight stay at Mara Sopa Lodge
Another full day at Masai Mara.
You can choose to have a full day game drive with picnic lunch on the wilderness.
Overnight stay at Mara Sopa Lodge
Early morning game drive in Masai Mara.
Breakfast at Masai Mara.
Drive back to Nairobi (approximately 5-6 hours drive).
Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.
Tour Price Includes
- 7 Nights Full Board Accommodation
- Services of an English speaking driver / guide
- Mineral water during game drives.
- Park entry fees
Tour Price Excludes
- All airport taxes, International airfares and Visas
- Insurance (trip cancellation medical insurances are recommended)
- Activities/Excursions not mentioned on itinerary
- Tips and Gratuities to driver/guide and hotels staff
- Premium Drinks / Beverages with meals
Please note that price reduces based on persons on a safari vehicle.