Day 1 & 2: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park – Kenya

Jambo … as we greet in Swahili! Your Best of Kenya Safari begins on your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. You will be met at arrivals for a briefing on the adventure ahead. Over breakfast meet your friendly driver-guide who will look after you throughout your safari tour.

After breakfast, head out of Nairobi in your comfortable private safari vehicle, travelling south towards your first destination, Amboseli National Park. Amboseli is a 39,000-hectare wilderness located in the traditional Maasai homelands close to the Kenya-Tanzania border with Africa’s tallest mountain, mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, visible in the distance. This park is considered one of the best places in Africa for viewing elephants and for learning more about the life and culture of the traditional Maasai tribes.

You will arrive at Sentrim Amboseli tented camp (or similar) in time for lunch. Settle into your luxury Meru-style safari tent and freshen up before your first afternoon of game viewing. Your guide will take you through Amboseli National Park, using their expert knowledge to track and identify the many animals and birds that cross your path.

There are five main ecosystems here, from the dry former rift valley lake, Lake Amboseli, to sulphur springs wetlands, savannah, and forest. Besides the free-roaming elephants wallowing in the swamplands or feeding in the savannah, other animals to look out for are lion, leopard, cheetah, Wild dogs, giraffe, herds of buffalo, zebra and a host of antelope, and if you’re lucky, a nocturnal porcupine. As the sun begins to set over the horizon, head back to camp for a hearty dinner and an evening spent around the campfire.

The next day is a typical day on safari in Kenya. Make an early start for your first game-viewing drive of the day as your guide crisscrosses Amboseli Park in search of wildlife. The game drive takes you from the huge lake bed, typically dry but marshy in certain spots, to the savannah lands with the stunning backdrop of beautiful Mount Kilimanjaro in its majesty. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast and relax in the heat of the day, before heading out later for another safari adventure.

If you wish to learn more about the Maasai tribes of the area, there is an option to tour a Masai Village to experience this nomadic tribe’s way of life and colourful culture.

• Included Activities: Game Drives in Amboseli National Park
• Optional Activities: Maasai Village Tour
• Meals: Breakfast x1, Lunch & Dinner x2

About Sentrim Amboseli at Amboseli National Park

Sentrim Amboseli is a luxury tented camp located close to the Kimana gate entrance to Amboseli National Park. The lodge features luxurious and comfortable deluxe tents spread out across the plains to offer privacy and beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Each Meru-style safari tent has comfortable beds, an en-suite bathroom with a hot shower, an outdoor area to relax in the beautiful surroundings, a tea/coffee station and mini-fridge, a fan, a hairdryer and a safe.

The main area of the camp boasts a spacious restaurant, gift shop, a swimming pool with sun loungers and dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and a beautiful outside deck for al-fresco dining and sitting around the campfire under the stars. Tembo bar serves a range of refreshing drinks and delicious cocktails. There is free WiFi in the public areas and Spa & Wellness facilities for some pampering between game-viewing adventures.

Day 3: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha – Kenya

After breakfast today, your Best of Kenya Safari heads northwest to the Rift Valley lakes of Lake Naivasha and Lake Elementaita. You will arrive at Sentrim Elementaita Lodge (or similar) in time for a late lunch. The afternoon is at your leisure to unwind at the lodge, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool and soak up the sun on the sun deck.

You may opt to spend the afternoon on an optional game-viewing boat excursion to Crescent Island, Lake Naivasha’s best-kept secret. Crescent Island is the rim of an extinct ancient volcano protruding out of freshwater Lake Naivasha and is home to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary.

You can roam freely on the islands, amongst giraffes and herds of wildebeest, waterbuck, zebra, and gazelle, while you watch hippos wallowing in the waters offshore. They emerge from the lake each evening to graze. From the summit of the hill, there are 360-degree views over the surrounding landscape, where you will spot landmarks like Lake Longonot, Hell’s Gate, and the Mau Escarpment in the distance. This view is quite magical in the golden hour before sunset, seeing animals graze against the glistening lake waters.

Later, take the boat back to the mainland and return to Lake Elementeita. Enjoy a hearty dinner and sit under the stars around the campfire enjoying the peace of this lakeside setting.

• Optional Activities: Game-viewing Boat Trip to Crescent Island
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

About Sentrim Elementaita Lodge at Lake Elementeita

Beautifully located on the shores of Lake Elementeita, a protected area due to its flocks of flamingos and pelicans, Sentrim Elementaita Lodge beckons. Accommodation is in spacious air-conditioned units that feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, flat-screen television, digital safe, mini fridge and tea/coffee station. Room service is available.

This lodge offers a tranquil retreat beside the soda lake for guests seeking relaxation and comfort. There is a spacious restaurant and a bar with beautiful views over the lake. Outside, guests can relax with a refreshing drink under a sun umbrella, stroll in the garden, or catch some sunshine on the sun terrace alongside the swimming pool, with the lake stretching out beyond. Indulge body and soul in the fitness centre, steam bath & Spa facilities. There is also a games room with darts and table tennis, and a children’s playground to entertain the little ones. Fast WiFi is available in the public areas.

Day 4 & 5: Elementeita to Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

After breakfast and a briefing from your guide, it is time to travel to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. One of Africa’s top safari destinations, Masai Mara is famous for what is dubbed as the greatest wildlife extravaganza on earth, the yearly migration of over one million wildebeest between Masai Mara and the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania. See the notes at the bottom of this itinerary for more details of this spectacle. You will arrive at your safari camp, Sentrim Mara Camp (or similar), in time for lunch. Settle into camp and freshen up before heading out on your first game drive in Kenya’s most popular reserve.

Masai Mara is home to Kenya’s most prolific prides of lion and elephant populations. Other predators include leopards, cheetahs, and spotted hyenas; while in the Mara River, you will spot pods of wallowing hippos and Nile crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. Other animals to be seen are giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, the vast herds of wildebeest, and over 550 reported bird species. As the sun sets, head back to camp in time for campfire drinks and a hearty safari dinner.

Day 5 of your Best of Kenya Safari will be spent on safari in Africa’s most celebrated wildlife park. Enjoy morning and afternoon game-viewing drives to different habitats within the park. Every turn unveils a new spectacle of wildlife in their natural habitat, from giraffes towering gracefully as they graze on acacia trees to lazy lions basking in the golden savannah sun. Your guide will point out the wonders of this wilderness area to you. Between game drives, relax back at camp enjoying the sounds and sights of this special part of Africa.

While in Masai Mara, there is an option for a Hot Air Balloon Safari. It is incredible to silently glide over the Mara plains in a hot air balloon viewing the wildlife from above. The balloon package includes a champagne brunch in the wilderness! This tour is subject to availability and must be booked in advance.

Another optional activity is a Maasai Culture Tour. Join a guide to visit a Maasai community and meet the local people, hear their stories and learn about their culture.

• Included Activities: Game Drives in Masai Mara National Reserve
• Optional Activities: Hot Air Balloon Safari, Maasai Village Cultural Tour
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2

About Sentrim Mara Camp in Masai Mara National Reserve

Sentrim Mara Camp is located just inside the Masai Mara Game Reserve, a rare find on Kenya Budget Safaris. This tented camp is close to the Sekenani entrance gate and offers beautiful views over the Ngama hills. Spread over 100 acres, the camp has 64 well-spaced, luxury safari tents on wooden platforms offering privacy and an outside area for relaxing in peace among the trees. Tents come with comfortable beds and mosquito nets, en-suite bathrooms with hot showers, solar power, tea/coffee-making facilities and a private safe.

Tents are linked to the main guest area by walkways. There is an indoor restaurant and bar, where friendly staff serve up delicious food and refreshing cocktails. Outdoors, you will find a swimming pool with an outdoor bar and sun loungers for relaxing in the sunshine between game-viewing activities. There are also Spa facilities for an indulgent treat. Evenings are spent around the campfire swapping stories and enjoying the sounds of the bush under the star-filled skies.

Day 6: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Kenya

After breakfast, your Best of Kenya Safari bids farewell to the Masai Mara as you drive back to Nairobi. The journey takes you back down the Great Rift Valley, through stunning scenery en route to Nairobi, passing the dormant volcano Mount Longonot and the lakes Elementaita and Naivasha along the way. Keep a lookout for herds of giraffes and antelope as you ascend the escarpment.

You will arrive in Kenya’s busy metropolis, Nairobi, in the late afternoon. There may be time for some last-minute shopping before a transfer takes you to the airport to catch your departure flight. Here your Best of Kenya Safari comes to an end.

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 game drive lasts about two hours but can vary depending on wildlife sightings.
• Breakfast (around 9 am): Return to your safari lodge and enjoy a delicious breakfast to refuel after your exciting wildlife 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 safari lodge or camp. However, if you’re on a full-day game drive, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush.
• 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. With your guide’s expertise, you are likely to 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 safari 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 Best of Kenya Safari, your knowledgeable driver-guide will be your companion and resource. They’ll share their insights into the local wildlife, traditions, and history, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable African 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.

Best of Kenya Safari Notes

All our Best of 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 on safari 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 Best of 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.