Day 1: Nairobi – Kenya

Jambo … as we greet in Swahili … your Affordable Kenya Safari begins as you step off the plane at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Our friendly agents will greet you and facilitate the transfer to your hotel in Nairobi. Here you will receive a briefing on plans for the adventure ahead and an introduction to your friendly driver-guide who will be with you for the full duration of your Kenya safari tour.

The rest of the day is for your leisure: relax in the comforts of the hotel or head out to explore the vibrant city of Nairobi and the many restaurants on offer.

Day 2 & 3: Samburu National Reserve – Kenya

After breakfast today, hop into the safari vehicle and make your way out of Nairobi. From Nairobi, our Affordable Kenya Safari heads north to the territory made famous by the book ‘Born Free’ about Joy and George Adamson, who reared Elsa the lion cub in the wild and picturesque Shaba National Reserve, which forms part of the Samburu area. You arrive at the luxury Sarova Shaba Lodge (or similar) in time for lunch.

Settle into the lodge, beautifully constructed around natural springs, a veritable green oasis amid the arid landscape. After freshening up, head to the safari vehicle for your first game drive. Your guide will take you in search of the wildlife that thrive in the Samburu National Reserve, sharing their expert knowledge with you. Samburu is home to some rare species collectively known as the “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and the Beisa oryx. As the sun begins to set, head back to the lodge in time to unwind before dinner at the beautifully located restaurant, on timbered stilts with views across the Ewaso Ng’iro River.

Day 3 of your Affordable Kenya Safari is a full day of game viewing. Rise early for an early morning 4×4 game drive. The Ewaso Ng’iro River is the lifeblood of this region, attracting wallowing hippos and crocodiles basking on the river banks. Keep a lookout for wildlife from vast herds of elephants, predators like lion, leopard, and cheetah, abundant plains game, and the rare reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk (also known as the giraffe gazelle), Grevy’s zebra (rather than Burchell’s zebra, which is more prevalent elsewhere) and the highly endangered wild dog. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded, including the curious blue-shanked Somali ostrich. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and rest before heading out later for another exploration. Finish your day on safari in Kenya with another hearty meal and an evening by the campfire under the star-studded African sky.

• Included Activities: Game Drives in Samburu National Reserve
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

About Sarova Shaba Lodge in Shaba National Reserve,

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is a luxury lodge situated in a natural oasis within the Shaba National Reserve, in the east Samburu. The lodge is sympathetically built around natural springs that make for a green oasis above the arid landscape. Sarova Shaba boasts 85 rustic yet comfortable units, each with a view over the Ewaso Ng’iro River, allowing the opportunity to watch wildlife coming and going from the privacy of your accommodation. Rooms are spacious and airy all featuring an en-suite bathroom with shower, overhead fan, mosquito net and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Wander in the lush gardens or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, filled with the natural spring waters, while you enjoy beautiful views over the river. The Surpelei Restaurant, built on stilts, offers alfresco dining in a tranquil setting overlooking the gardens, swimming pool and river beyond. The Chemi Chemi bar is located on the river banks, making for a tranquil setting to unwind alongside the flowing waters. Between safari drives, pamper body and soul with a spa treatment at the Tulia Wellness Centre. Relax by our pool or under a starry sky, dine in our restaurant, or enjoy our Boma or bush dining experiences.

Day 4: Samburu to Olpejeta Conservancy – Kenya

After breakfast today, our Affordable Kenya Safari heads for the privately owned 24,000-acre reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Previously a cattle ranch, this large not-for-profit wildlife conservancy is situated on the equator between the foothills of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya. With a commitment to conservation through research and breeding programmes, Olpejeta is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and is home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world. It also boasts a high density of predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and spotted hyenas.

You will arrive at Serena Sweetwaters (or similar) luxury tented camp in time for lunch. After freshening up, head out for an afternoon game drive in pursuit of the ‘Big Five’ – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino – and the other animals, large and small, that call the reserve home. Your drive will take you to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees. The Sanctuary was established to rehabilitate orphaned and confiscated chimpanzees from West and Central Africa. Join a guided tour to learn about these fascinating creatures and observe them in their semi-wild environment.

There are also several optional activities available at the Olpejeta Conservancy that may suit your interests:

• Night Game Drive: Experience the nocturnal side of the conservancy on a night game drive to experience this fascinating world after dark and spot animals that are most active at night, such as leopards, and hyenas.
• Bush & Bird Walk: Join the rangers who know this 90,000-acre Reserve like the backs of their hands. They will take you to the best places to see wildlife and share fascinating information about the fauna and flora, large and small, that you may encounter. Get up close and personal with the sights smells, and sounds of the African bush.
• Endangered Species Boma Tour: Visit the special enclosure where you can see the last two northern white rhinos up close.
• Horseback Riding: Explore the conservancy on horseback, a unique way to experience the beauty of the landscape and get close to wildlife. You might see black rhinos, zebras, and giraffes.

As the daylight fades, head back to camp to freshen up and enjoy a hearty dinner. Spend a relaxing evening watching animals like elephants, giraffes, zebras, and impalas coming to drink at the camp’s floodlit waterhole and salt-lick.

• Included Activities: Game Drive & Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visit
• Optional Activities: Night Game Drive, Guided Bush & Bird Walk, Northern Black Rhino visit, Horseback Riding, and more
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

About Sweetwaters Serena Camp in Olpejeta Conservancy

Sweetwaters Serena Camp is located in the vast Big 5 Ol Pejeta Conservancy, framed by views of Mount Kenya in the distance. This tented camp provides a lovely combination of under-canvas atmosphere and absolute comfort, featuring 56 tents, each with an en-suite bathroom (hot and cold running water, 24-hour hot showers and flushing toilets) and a shaded deck outside with table and chairs for enjoying the surroundings. All tents have canvas interiors, sturdy flooring, comfortable furnishings and individual thatched roofs.

The camp overlooks a grove of acacias and palm trees and a waterhole – illuminated at night – taking centre stage. The waterhole attracts plenty of wildlife, including impala, waterbuck, plains zebra, rare Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and occasionally white rhino. Set on level terrain, the main central building offers floor-to-ceiling views through large windows and French doors opening onto a conservancy, looking towards the nearby waterhole. The Rhino Room is the camp’s restaurant, offering delicious meals with locally sourced ingredients. Between game-viewing adventures, soak up some sun at the swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, pamper yourself with a massage in the spa room or relax in the TV lounge. The camp provides complimentary Wi-Fi and has a gift shop for souvenirs and safari essentials. A generator provides electricity 24 hours a day.

Day 5: Olpejeta to Lake Nakuru National Park – Kenya

After breakfast, our Affordable Kenya Safari heads south to one of the most famous of the Great Africa Rift Valley lakes, Lake Nakuru, part-time home to a migratory flock of nearly one million flamingos in some seasons. You will arrive just in time to freshen up and tuck into lunch at the Sarova Lion Hill Lodge (or similar), located in Lake Nakuru National Park and boasting beautiful views over the lake.

Spend the afternoon on safari in the reserve, looking out for both black and white rhinos, as this is the original and largest rhino sanctuary in Kenya. Your guide will take you on a drive around the lake and surrounds, looking out for the rhinos and other resident wildlife that includes lions, hippos, Rothschild’s giraffes, Colobus monkeys, plains game, and 450 bird species. If the season is right, you will see the flamingos.

• Included Activities: Lake Nakuru National Park Safari
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

About Sarova Lion Hill Lodge in Lake Nakuru National Park

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge is located on a hill in Lake Nakuru National Park offering stunning views of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding park. The safari lodge lies in lush gardens and features 67 chalet-style rooms, each with its own patio for private views of the Lake and Park. All rooms have comfortable beds with mosquito netting, en-suite bathrooms with shower, hairdryer and tea/coffee making station.

The Flamingo Restaurant at Sarova Lion Hill is named after the famous bird that swarms Lake Nakuru during feeding season, one of the largest flamingo flocks on earth. Guests can enjoy delicious food, much of which is sourced from the lodge’s own vegetable and herb garden. The Rift Valley Bar is perfect for sundowners with a view and also features traditional dance performances in the evenings. Head out to the Viewing Deck to take in the spectacular panoramic views of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding hills stretching beyond. With over 450 species of birds recorded in the park, the lodge is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. There is an outdoor swimming pool and spa treatments are available for a chance to truly unwind and relax. You can even opt for outdoor massage treatments amidst the sounds of nature.

Day 6 & 7: Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

Day 6 sees us depart Lake Nakuru after breakfast, heading to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve for the last leg of our Affordable Kenya Safari. Masai Mara serves as the scene for “the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth,” the yearly migration of nearly one million wildebeest to the Serengeti Plains in neighbouring Tanzania. This is a seasonal event – read more about the migration at the end of this itinerary.

Arrive at the Mara Sarova Tented Camp (or similar) in time for lunch. Settle into your luxurious safari tent while listening to the music of rasping Cicadas, croaking Tree Frogs, and the occasional bird call. A little later, head out in the safari vehicle for your first Masai Mara safari drive.

The Masai Mara National Reserve boasts incredible year-round wildlife concentrations. It is renowned for its populations of big cats, such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, offering visitors a high chance of witnessing these majestic animals up close. Your knowledgeable guide will point out animal behaviour, tracks, and fascinating details about the things that cross your path. You might come across a pride of lions stalking prey, a thrilling chase, or a tender family moment amongst elephants. Witness massive herds of zebra and wildebeest thundering across the plains, or even spot rarer animals, like rhinos or bat-eared foxes. As the sun begins to set, head back to camp in time for a refreshing swim, a hot shower, campfire drinks, and a sumptuous dinner.

Rise early on Day 7 and spend the entire day on safari in Africa’s most abundant wildlife destination. Crisscross the reserve in search of some of Kenya’s greatest lion prides and elephant populations. In the Mara River, you will spot plump hippo pods and massive Nile crocodiles, while the plains are dotted with giraffes, gazelles, zebra, buffaloes, and over 550 reported bird species. Relax at camp between game drives and spend another delightful evening at camp, where vivid Massai dance and cultural events are held nightly.

• Included Activities: Masai Mara Safari
• Optional Activities: Hot Air Balloon Safari, Maasai Cultural Tour
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

About Mara Sarova Camp in Masai Mara National Reserve

Sarova Mara Game Camp is perfectly situated in the middle of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, providing a real African safari experience amidst breathtaking savannah scenery. This premium safari camp, a highlight of our Kenya Safari Tours, features 72 luxury safari tents, each meticulously built with canvas sides with glass doors and wide “windows” and a permanent roof. Each has an en-suite bathroom with a shower and is equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Each tent features a mini bar that can be replenished upon request, an overhead fan, mosquito net and repellent, a safety deposit box, tea/coffee-making facilities, free bottled water and high-speed internet. Outside is a hardwood deck with a day bed, chairs, and table, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy nature.

In the main area, relax in the Olchani Club Lounge, designed to accommodate panoramic views of the lake and beyond, with interiors inspired by Kenyan flora & fauna and the rich culture of the Maasai tribe. The Isokon Restaurant provides delectable cuisine with fresh vegetables from the organic garden, a real farm-to-plate experience. Spacious Oloip bar has a dramatic indoor fireplace at its core and extends out onto a patio where Maasai dancers entertain guests in the evenings. The camp also boasts a swimming pool with sun loungers, and a gift shop, and the Maisha Spa offers a range of treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate during your stay.

Day 8: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Kenya

After breakfast, it is time for our Affordable Kenya Safari to leave Masai Mara National Reserve and return to Nairobi. The drive back takes you down the Great Rift Valley to Nairobi, past the dormant volcano Mount Longonot and the lakes Elementeita and Naivasha along the way. Keep a lookout for herds of giraffes and gazelles as you ascend the escarpment. You will arrive in Kenya’s busy metropolis, Nairobi, in the early afternoon. There is time for some last-minute shopping. Lunch will be at Carnivore Restaurant, which is famed for its delectable charcoal-grilled BBQ. Later, you will be transferred to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in time for your departing flight and the end of this epic safari in Kenya.

A Typical Day on Safari in Kenya:

• Before dawn: Wake up to hot coffee or tea as the cool morning air surrounds you.
• Morning game drive (sunrise to around 9 am): Bundle up and hop into the open vehicle with your camera ready. Your expert guide will navigate the bush, seeking out lions, elephants, giraffes, and other animals as the sun rises and paints the landscape. Every turn promises a new discovery, perhaps a pride of lions with cubs, a majestic herd of elephants, or a cheetah on the hunt. The drive lasts about two hours but can vary depending on the sightings.
• Breakfast (around 9 am): Return to the lodge and enjoy a delicious breakfast to refuel after your exciting adventure.
• Relaxation time (mid-morning): Take some time to relax after the early start. You can unwind by the pool, catch up on sleep, or participate in optional activities offered by the lodge, such as nature walks, cultural visits to nearby villages, or bike rides.
• Lunch (around 1 pm): Lunch is usually served at the lodge or camp. However, if you’re on a full-day game drive, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wilderness.
• Afternoon game drive (late afternoon): As the day heats up, head out again on another game drive, searching for animals you might have missed earlier. Your guide’s expertise will help you spot a variety of wildlife.
• Sunset and return to camp (evening): As the sun dips below the horizon, creating a breathtaking spectacle, return to the camp for a refreshing shower and refreshment.
• Dinner and evening relaxation: Indulge in a delicious dinner, followed by drinks and conversation around a crackling campfire, sharing stories of your safari adventures. Retire early, well-rested and filled with anticipation for the next day’s exploration.

Throughout your Kenya Safari tour, your knowledgeable driver-guide will be your companion and resource. They’ll share their expertise on the local wildlife, traditions, and history, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable safari experience.

Flexibility: While the schedule offers a general structure, your guide will consider your preferences and adjust the timings whenever possible. The priority remains adhering to park regulations and ensuring safe travel within the time constraints. Your guide will provide expert recommendations but is always open to hearing your interests.

Kenya Safari Tour Notes

All Affordable Kenya Safari tours are conducted on a private departure basis. A minimum of 2 clients is needed to guarantee a departure.

The accommodation listed in this itinerary is subject to availability. Should the listed establishment not be available, a similar lodge of the same standard will be booked. This will be conveyed to you at the time of booking.

The cost of any optional activities in Kenya will be confirmed on request.

Talk to one of our friendly travel experts if you would like us to arrange accommodation before and/or after your Affordable Kenya Safari.

For more details contact African Budget Safaris

Wildebeest Great Migration Explained

Please note that the Wildebeest Great Migration of Kenya’s Masai Mara & Tanzania’s Serengeti is seasonal. As a natural wildlife phenomenon, it is fluid and unpredictable. For this reason, it must be understood that seeing the Great Migration cannot be guaranteed.

The wildebeest and other wild herbivores migrate between Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. These herds move in a massive circular route covering some 1200 miles (1931km). It is a continuous movement of wildlife that can be seen in different areas at different times of the year. During certain phases of this annual trek, the animals disperse or slow down, whilst at other times the migration picks up speed, with the herds becoming larger and denser. Not only does the Wildebeest Great Migration vary from place to place and season to season but the movement of these large wildlife herds varies from year to year.

Please talk to a travel expert from African Budget Safaris about seeing the Wildebeest Great Migration on your safari to find out more. Also, check out our detailed article about the Great Migration in Serengeti and Masai Mara.