From Giraffe Manor to the Wilds of Samburu

Your safari begins in Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi, where you’ll be warmly welcomed upon arrival. After a brief transfer to your hotel to refresh, you’ll head to Nairobi National Park, the only wildlife park in the world located within a city. On your first game drive, spot lions, giraffes and rhinos against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline. Enjoy a peaceful evening at a lodge near the park, where you’ll savor your first taste of Kenya’s hospitality and cuisine.

Begin your day with an early morning game drive, a prime time to observe predators and other animals as they are most active. Explore the park’s varied habitats, from open grasslands to acacia-dotted plains, home to over 400 bird species. After lunch, visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to meet orphaned elephants and learn about their rehabilitation journey. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.

After breakfast, head to the iconic Giraffe Manor, a boutique hotel set on a sprawling property that serves as a sanctuary for endangered Rothschild giraffes. Spend the day interacting with these gentle giants, feeding them from your hand or even your breakfast table. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the beautiful grounds, relax, or enjoy a spa treatment.

Savor another magical day at Giraffe Manor. Begin with a leisurely breakfast, where you might find giraffes poking their heads through the windows. Later, visit the nearby Giraffe Centre to learn about conservation efforts for these majestic animals. The afternoon offers time to unwind or take an optional guided nature walk. End your day with a gourmet dinner under the African sky.

Your journey continues northward to Samburu National Reserve, a strikingly beautiful park characterized by its rugged terrain, palm-fringed rivers, and unique wildlife. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive, where you’ll encounter the Samburu Special Five; Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx and gerenuk. Watch as herds of elephants and other wildlife congregate near the Ewaso Nyiro River, the lifeblood of this arid region. As night falls, enjoy dinner at your lodge, surrounded by the raw beauty of Samburu.

Spend a full day immersing yourself in Samburu’s unique ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Begin with a sunrise game drive, when predators like lions and cheetahs are most active. Later, take a cultural detour with a visit to a Samburu village, where you’ll learn about the traditions and lifestyle of this proud pastoralist community. In the afternoon, continue your wildlife exploration, searching for rare species and marveling at the dramatic landscapes. Conclude the day with a tranquil evening at your lodge.

Today, make your way to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve, the crown jewel of Kenya’s safari destinations. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive, where you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of vast savannahs teeming with wildlife. From the Big Five to the swift cheetahs and majestic giraffes, the Mara offers unmatched biodiversity. As the sun sets over the rolling plains, head to your lodge or tented camp for a relaxing evening under the star-studded African sky.

Dedicate this day to exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Maasai Mara. Morning and afternoon game drives will take you across the park’s varied terrains, providing ample opportunities to spot wildlife. Witness herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing alongside elephants and antelopes. If visiting during the Great Migration season, marvel at the dramatic river crossings. Enhance your experience with an optional hot-air balloon safari, offering panoramic views of the park followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.

On your final full day in the Mara, enjoy more game drives, perhaps focusing on animals you haven’t seen yet. Spend time photographing the sweeping landscapes and diverse wildlife, or visit a Maasai village for an authentic cultural encounter. End the day with a sundowner in the bush, toasting to the unforgettable moments you’ve experienced during your safari.

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to the Maasai Mara as you embark on a final game drive en route to Nairobi. Enjoy your last glimpses of Kenya’s incredible wildlife and landscapes before arriving back in the capital. Depending on your schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Nairobi before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight.