Safari Overview
The 9-Day Magical Kenya Highlights Safari is a meticulously designed itinerary that captures the breathtaking natural diversity of East Africa. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro towering over Amboseli to the world-renowned Big Five territory of the Masai Mara, this journey samples Kenya’s most iconic landscapes.
You will traverse the lush central highlands of the Aberdares, visit the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa at Ol Pejeta, and witness the avian wonders of the Great Rift Valley at Lake Nakuru. This safari is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive encounter with Kenya’s wildlife, geography, and vibrant ecosystems.
Safari Highlights
- Amboseli National Park: Iconic views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and legendary large-tusked elephant herds.
- Aberdare National Park: Unique Tree Hotel experience with floodlit night game viewing.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Home to the Big Five and Kenya’s only Chimpanzee sanctuary.
- Lake Nakuru: A bird-watcher’s paradise famous for its rhinos and Rothschild giraffes.
- Masai Mara National Reserve: The ultimate stage for the Great Migration and dense predator populations.
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), you will be met by our safari manager and transferred to your city hotel. Enjoy a pre-safari briefing to prepare for your upcoming adventure.
- Accommodation: Azure Hotel, Nairobi
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Journey to Amboseli National Park
Depart Nairobi for a scenic drive southeast to Amboseli, known as the Land of the Salty Masai Dust. Arrive for lunch before an afternoon game drive beneath the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
- Accommodation: Amboseli Sopa Lodge
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full Day in Amboseli National Park
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to observe family groups of elephants at close quarters. Look out for lions, cheetahs, and the Kori Bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird.
- Accommodation: Amboseli Sopa Lodge
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Drive to Aberdare National Park
Head north into the lush central highlands. After lunch at a base hotel, you will be transferred to your Tree Lodge deep within the park. Spend the evening watching wildlife from a raised bunker as animals visit the floodlit waterhole and salt lick.
- Accommodation: The Ark (or similar)
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
Drive to Ol Pejeta, a private conservancy with the highest predator density in Kenya. Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and meet Baraka, the famous blind black rhino, while tracking the Big Five.
- Accommodation: Serena Sweetwater’s Tented Camp
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Lake Nakuru & Thompson Falls
Descend into the Great Rift Valley with a stop at the stunning Nyahururu (Thompson Falls). Enjoy an afternoon game drive along the shores of Lake Nakuru, searching for rare Rothschild giraffes and both black and white rhinos.
- Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: The Great Masai Mara
Travel to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive to begin your search for the Big Five in Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife arena.
- Accommodation: Azure Mara Haven
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Full Day Masai Mara Exploration
Spend the day on extensive game drives. The Mara is home to vast prides of lions, leopards, and millions of wildebeests and zebras (seasonally). Enjoy the rolling savannahs and the raw beauty of the African wild.
- Accommodation: Azure Mara Haven
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Return to Nairobi & Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Nairobi. You will have the option for a farewell lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to JKIA for your evening international flight home.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast
Safari Quotation & Requirements
| Tier | Accommodation Level | Pricing Basis | Estimated Price (USD) |
| Mid-Range Highlights | 4-Star Lodges/Camps (Sopa, Serena, Azure) | Per Person Sharing | Contact for Quote |
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
| Category | Inclusions (What is included) | Exclusions (What is NOT included) |
| Transport | 4×4 Safari Vehicle with pop-up roof & fuel | International Airfares |
| Staff | Professional English-speaking driver-guide | Entry Visa fees |
| Entry Fees | All National Park & Conservancy entrance fees | Tips and gratuities for staff/guides |
| Accommodation | Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) | Personal medical/travel insurance |
| Activities | All game drives and activities in the itinerary | Extra meals not specified |
| Refreshments | Bottled drinking water throughout the safari | Personal expenses (Laundry, drinks, souvenirs) |
Quick Facts
- Primary Activity: Big Five Safari, Bird Watching, and Kilimanjaro Viewing.
- Destinations: Nairobi, Amboseli, Aberdare, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara.
- Wildlife: Elephants, Rhinos, Chimpanzees, Lions, Rothschild Giraffes, Leopards.
- Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June–October) provide the best wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
