8 Days Kenya North to South Safari
Overview:
Discover Kenya’s beauty on this 8-day safari, from Nairobi to Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and the iconic Maasai Mara. Enjoy thrilling game drives, scenic landscapes, and luxury stays for the ultimate wildlife adventure.
6 nights luxurious Safari Lodge/Camp Resort
Highlights:
Samburu Game Reserve: Explore the unique landscapes and rare wildlife species with morning and evening game drives.
Thompson Falls: Enjoy a scenic stop at this stunning waterfall en route to Lake Nakuru National Park.
Lake Nakuru National Park: Witness flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife during game drives through this picturesque park.
Lake Naivasha Serenity: Relax at a lakeside resort and enjoy a boat ride to see hippos and water birds.
Maasai Mara Magic: Immerse yourself in the savannah with options for morning, evening, or full-day game drives, offering opportunities to see the Big Five and other wildlife.
Cultural and Scenic Drives: Experience the beauty of Kenya’s Maasai lands and the Great Rift Valley.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met for introductions and a pre-safari briefing before being transferred to your city hotel. Overnight at a modern city hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
4-5 Star Hotel in Nairobi
Day 2: Nairobi – Samburu Game Reserve
Depart at 7:00 AM for Samburu Game Reserve, with brief stops along the way. Arrive in time for lunch at the camp, followed by leisure in the early afternoon. At 3:30 PM, enjoy an evening game drive until dusk. Dinner and overnight at a luxury safari camp on a full-board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Ashnil Samburu Camp or similar
Day 3: Samburu Game Reserve
Start with a 6:30 AM game drive, then return to the camp for breakfast. Spend the midday at leisure with lunch, followed by a 4:00 PM evening game drive until dusk. Dinner and overnight at a luxury safari camp on a full-board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Ashnil Samburu Camp or similar
Day 4: Samburu – Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park, enjoying a scenic drive through the Rift Valley with a stop at Thompson Falls. Continue to Nakuru for game drives. Dinner and overnight at a safari lodge on a full-board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge or Similar
Day 5: Lake Nakuru – Lake Naivasha
Begin with a 6:30 AM game drive, then return to the camp for breakfast. Proceed to Lake Naivasha, arriving in time for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. At 4:00 PM, enjoy a boat ride to see hippos and water birds. Dinner and overnight at a lakeside resort on a full-board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Lake Naivasha Sopa resort or Similar
Day 6: Lake Naivasha – Maasai Mara Game Reserve
After an early breakfast, depart for the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, enjoying a scenic drive through the Maasai lands. Arrive in time for lunch, followed by leisure in the early afternoon. At 4:00 PM, embark on an evening game drive until dusk. Dinner and overnight at a safari lodge or camp on a full-board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge or Basecamp Mara or Similar
Day 7: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Spend the day in the park with options for morning, evening, half-day, or full-day game drives. All meals and overnight at a safari lodge or camp on a full board basis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Maasai Mara Sopa Lodge or Basecamp Mara or Similar
Day 8: Maasai Mara – Nairobi
Begin with a 6:30 AM game drive, then return to the camp for breakfast. Proceed to Nairobi, arriving in time for a late lunch, followed by a drop-off at your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast included
✓ What's included
Airport transfers (arrival/departure)
7 Nights luxurious Accommodation
Day 2 ~ Day 7 Full board
Day 8 Breakfast included
Safari Transport
Transport in a Safari Mini Van with pop-up roof for excellent game viewing and photography
Unlimited Game Drives
Park Fees
Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
Farewell lunch at Carnivore restaurant
Unlimited water on safari
✕ Not included
Drinks and Meals off the Hotel, Lodge and Camp meal plan
Items of personal use
Tips
Travel Insurance
Visas/ETA
Local and International Flights
Maasai Village Visits
Balloon Safaris
Upgrade to a 4x4 safari Land Cruiser
USD $80/per vehicle/ per day
ⓘ Need-to-know
ⓘ Peak Season Surcharge
During holiday periods (e.g., Easter, Christmas & New Year, ), a $50 per person, per day surcharge applies to accommodations. This is payable directly upon arrival.
ⓘ Passport & Visa Requirements
• A valid passport (minimum 6 months before expiry) and return ticket are required.
• All travellers must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in advance at etakenya.go.ke.
• Separate visas are required if visiting other East African nations.
ⓘ Entry & Vaccination Regulations
• Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are not mandatory, but a yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from an infected area.
• Malaria precautions are recommended — consult your doctor before departure.
• Avoid swimming in stagnant water due to risk of Bilharzia.
ⓘ Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover:
• Medical emergencies
• Trip cancellations
• Baggage loss
• Emergency evacuation
ⓘ Departure Tax
Usually included in your airline ticket. If not, you’ll need to pay it in foreign currency at the airport.
ⓘ Customs Regulations
• Personal items such as cameras and binoculars are allowed.
• Large professional equipment may require a customs bond.
• Firearms are prohibited unless prior authorization is obtained.
ⓘ Language
• Swahili is the national language.
• English is widely spoken.
• Multilingual guides available on request: Spanish, French, Russian, German, and more.
ⓘ Currency & Payments
• Local currency: Kenyan Shilling (Ksh)
• Credit cards accepted at major lodges/hotels, but cash is preferred in rural areas.
• Currency exchange available at banks, hotels, and forex bureaus.
• ATMs are accessible in most towns and cities.
ⓘ Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is appreciated for:
• Safari guides
• Camp & lodge staff
• Porters & waitstaff
The amount is discretionary and reflects the quality of service.
ⓘ Electricity & Charging
• Voltage: 220–240V, 50Hz
• Plug type: UK-style 3-prong
• Many camps run on generators, with power available only at specific hours.
ⓘ Connectivity & Communication
• Mobile networks: Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom
• Some camps may use radio communication due to remote locations.
• Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations, though speeds vary.
ⓘ Water & Food Safety
• Drink only bottled or filtered water.
• Avoid tap water, ice, and uncooked vegetables in remote regions.
ⓘ Safety & Security
• Kenya is generally safe for tourists, but take standard precautions:
• Use hotel safes for valuables.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Be respectful and cautious when photographing people or official sites.
ⓘ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this safari suitable for first-time travellers to Africa?
A: Absolutely! This private tour is ideal for first-time visitors, offering well-organized logistics, luxury accommodation, and a diverse mix of landscapes and wildlife.
Q: What wildlife can I expect to see?
A: You’ll have a chance to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), plus giraffes, zebras, flamingos, hippos, and more in Samburu, Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara.
Q: Are game drives private or shared?
A: All game drives are private for your group, ensuring a personalized and flexible safari experience.
Q: What’s the difference between the vehicle types?
A: Standard Package: Safari minivan with pop-up roof.
Optional Upgrade: 4x4 Land Cruiser (USD $80 per vehicle per day) — recommended for rougher terrain and optimal comfort.
Q: Are meals included throughout the safari?
A: Yes. Day 1 in Nairobi includes breakfast only.
From Day 2 to Day 7: All meals are included (Full Board).
Day 8: Breakfast and a farewell lunch at Carnivore Restaurant are included.
Q: Can I visit a Maasai village?
A: Yes, Maasai cultural village visits are optional and can be arranged at an additional cost upon arrival.
Q: Can I go on a hot air balloon ride in the Maasai Mara?
A: Yes, balloon safaris are available but must be booked in advance or on-site (subject to availability and weather). This is an optional add-on and not included in the base package.
Q: What clothing should I pack?
A: Bring lightweight layers for the day and warmer layers for the cool mornings and evenings. Neutral colors are ideal for safaris.