NORTHERN KENYA, CONSERVATION, MARA & NORTH COAST

Discover the Kenya beyond the classic safari route — from the dry Northern landscapes of Samburu and its unique Wildlife to Ol Pejeta's conservation story, Rhino country at Lake Nakuru and the Big Five of the Masai Mara.

The safari then changes completely as you head to the North Coast for three days of turquoise water, coral gardens, mangrove creeks and the relaxed Swahili-meets-Italian atmosphere of Watamu and Malindi.

Day 1

Nairobi → Samburu Arrival in Nairobi and begin the journey north. Stop along the way for scenic viewpoints and local experiences before reaching Samburu for an afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Ng'iro River.

Overnight: Samburu Simba Lodge / Samburu Sopa Lodge / Elephant Bedroom Camp

Day 2

Samburu Full-day Samburu safari searching for the Samburu Special Five — Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx and Somali Ostrich. Afternoon cultural visit with the Samburu community.

Overnight: Samburu Simba Lodge / Samburu Sopa Lodge / Elephant Bedroom Camp

Day 3

Samburu → Ol Pejeta Morning game drive before heading towards the foothills of Mount Kenya. Afternoon Ol Pejeta conservation experience, with opportunities to learn about rhino conservation and visit the chimpanzee sanctuary.

Overnight: Sweetwaters Serena Camp / Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages / Kicheche Laikipia Camp

Day 4

Ol Pejeta → Lake Nakuru Early morning conservation/game drive, then continue south through Kenya's highlands. Afternoon Lake Nakuru game drive focusing on Rhino, Lion, Giraffe and Birdlife.

Overnight: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge / Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge / Flamingo Hill Tented Camp

Day 5

Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara Morning game drive, then scenic journey through the Rift Valley towards the Masai Mara. Arrive for an afternoon game drive across the savannah.

Overnight: Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Sarova Mara Game Camp / Ashnil Mara Camp

Day 6

Masai Mara Full-day Big Five safari with picnic lunch. Explore different sections of the reserve in search of predators, Elephants, Buffalo and large plain-game herds.

Overnight: Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Sarova Mara Game Camp / Ashnil Mara Camp

Day 7

Masai Mara Optional sunrise Hot Air Balloon Safari, followed by a bush breakfast. Afternoon Maasai cultural experience or guided nature walk before a sunset game drive.

Overnight: Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Sarova Mara Game Camp / Ashnil Mara Camp

Day 8

Masai Mara → Watamu / Malindi Early morning game drive, then transfer to the airstrip for a flight towards the Kenyan coast. Arrive in Watamu or Malindi and settle into your beachfront retreat.

Overnight: Medina Palms / Hemingways Watamu / Zuri Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Day 9

Watamu & Malindi Explore the coast through a marine experience — snorkeling, glass-bottom boat or reef excursion depending on conditions. Afternoon at leisure on the beach and evening in Malindi.

Overnight: Medina Palms / Hemingways Watamu / Zuri Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Day 10

Watamu & Malindi Discover Mida Creek mangroves by boat or kayak, followed by a relaxed coastal lunch. Optional visit to Gede Ruins or an afternoon at the beach.

Overnight: Medina Palms / Hemingways Watamu / Zuri Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Day 11

Watamu & Malindi A final full coastal day for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, spa treatments or simply enjoying the beachfront resort.

Overnight: Medina Palms / Hemingways Watamu / Zuri Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Day 12

Watamu / Malindi Free morning for one final coastal experience, shopping for local crafts or a leisurely beachfront lunch.

Overnight: Medina Palms / Hemingways Watamu / Zuri Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Day 13

Watamu / Malindi → Nairobi / International Departure Morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Nairobi and onward international departure.