7 Nights / 8 Days
Pack your binoculars and your camera, as you head off for one of Kenya’s Classic Safaris regaled for sightings of the “Big 5”— buffalo, rhinoceros, elephants, lions and leopards. You will travel within four of Kenya’s most famous game parks; each with its own unique topography, wildlife and culture.
This will truly be an unforgettable safari experience as you begin your journey in Outspan and travel north through the rich farming lands of Africa. You will cross the equator to arrive at your first destination, Samburu Game Reserve. On your third day, game viewing will again be the focus as you drive into Aberdares National Park which sits near the slopes of Mount Kenya.
Your safari will then track to Lake Nakuru considered to be the “greatest ornithological spectacle on earth” as it proudly boasts over 400 species of birds and during migration, one may see millions of pink flamingoes flocking to the banks of Lake Nakuru. Your journey continues on to Lake Naivaisha, where your will relax in the tranquil settings of the lodge or you may want to take a boat ride to catch a glimpse of the resident hippos.
You will then descend into the Great Rift Valley and onto the Masai Mara. You will experience first-hand the grandeur of Kenya as told by Ernest Hemingway and as depicted in Karen Blixen’s, breath-taking film, “Out of Africa”.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi / Outspan (L/D)
Met and transferred to freshen up before departing for Aberdares National Park as you begin your journey in this unique African terrain known for its lush moorlands and mountains. Begin your adventure after lunch, exploring on your own or perhaps a nature walk with an expert guide (optional) or by playing golf near-by.
Overnight at Hotel
Day 2: Outspan / Samburu Game (B/L/D)
After breakfast, drive north across the Equator, to Samburu Game National Reserve. Explore the Samburu Game Reserve on a late afternoon game drive or you may just want to relax with a massage beneath the acacia trees. As the sun sets, you will want to experience the spectacular African sunset as you enjoy your sundowners or “Happy Hour” beverages.
Overnight at Camp
Day 3: Samburu (B/L/D)
Your second day in Samburu will include early morning and late afternoon game drives. This is the land depicted in Joy Adamson’s book, Born Free, featuring, Elsa the lioness. Be prepared to observe unique game indigent to this dry-country such as the Grevy zebra, reticulated giraffe, and more!! Bird watchers will marvel at more than 350 species of birds that inhabit the Samburu. You may even spot a Nile crocodile!
Overnight at Camp
Day 4: Aberdares / Mt. Kenya (B/L/D)
Drive to the slopes of Mount Kenya and check into your lodge. You are sure to enjoy the “champagne-clear” air found in these foothills. For your enjoyment, you may go fishing for trout in the sparkling streams or enjoy a soothing walk through the forest. For those who don’t want to miss a single animal that visits your oasis, you may elect to have a wake-up call during the night.
Overnight at Lodge
Day 5: Aberdares / Lake Naivasha (B/L/D)
After breakfast, descend into the Great Rift Valley, the famous geographic trench, created over 20 million years ago, separating Kenya from East to West. This geologic phenomenon transformed the land into great volcanic mountains, desert, fertile farmland, flat plains and steep cliffs.
Lunch at Lake Nakuru, a “soda” lake, rich in salts and algae, which attracts millions of birds to its waters. Your afternoon game drive will allow you to explore the Great Rift Valley. Your day concludes at Lake Naivasha, a welcome respite after your day’s adventure. Giraffes, buffalo, monkeys and hippos will welcome you to your lodge. In neighboring, Hell’s Gate National Park, you may decide to rock climb the “great red cliffs”, go cycling or even horseback ride. In Naivasha, you may enhance your viewing of the “stunning sunset” from a boat cruise. This would be a great destination to enjoy a massage or a spa treatment.
Overnight at Lodge
Day 6: Lake Naivasha / Masai Mara (B/L/D)
Today you venture into the Masai Mara National Reserve also known as the “Mara”, one of the largest game reserves in southwestern Kenya. The Masai Mara is an extension of the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania. The Mara is known for the “Big Cats”—namely lions, leopards and cheetahs! The “Great Migration” of wildlife thunders through the Masai Mara each year. The “Masai” people are your hosts to this magical land.
After Lunch, get out your binoculars and your safari hat and head-off into the Mara. Your luxury tent is located on the banks of the Mara River. You will be able to extend your game viewing from your sundeck! If you desire, you can schedule breakfast by the hippo pool or plan a private riverside dinner.
Overnight at Camp
Day 7: Masai Mara (B/L/D)
Enjoy an early morning balloon flight over the Mara, partake in a “bubbly” bush breakfast (optional) or enjoy an early morning game drive. Following lunch, relax by the pool or prepare for your last African game drive.
Day 8: Masai Mara / Nairobi / Departure (B)
After breakfast, return to Nairobi by road (approximately five hours) and proceed to the airport for your departure. Option to visit the local market and have dinner prior to your flight OR you may extend your visit in Africa with a visit to the Beach/Tanzania/Rwanda to see the gorillas in the mist!
