9 Day Samburu Masai Mara Big 5 Wildlife Safari

Safari Overview

9-day journey through Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife territories—from the arid wilderness of Samburu and Buffalo Springs to the lush, predator-rich plains of the Masai Mara. Along the way, you’ll explore iconic national parks including Aberdares and Lake Nakuru, each offering unique ecosystems and exceptional game viewing opportunities.

This immersive safari combines Kenya’s dramatic landscapes, rare and endangered wildlife species, cultural encounters with the Masai people, and unforgettable photographic moments. Travel in comfort aboard a 4×4 safari vehicle with an expert English-speaking guide who will bring the bush to life with in-depth knowledge and storytelling.

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Tour Highlights

Samburu & Buffalo Springs Game Reserves – Discover Kenya’s dry northern frontier where desert-adapted species like the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Beisa oryx roam.

Aberdare National Park – Stay in elevated forest lodges with nighttime wildlife viewing, ideal for spotting elusive nocturnal species like leopard, bush pigs, and civets.

Lake Nakuru National Park – Kenya’s premier rhino sanctuary, also home to flamingos, lions, Rothschild’s giraffes, and scenic woodland landscapes.

Masai Mara National Reserve – Africa’s most iconic safari destination, famous for the Great Migration, predator-prey action, and diverse big game populations.

Cultural Encounters – Visit a traditional Masai village (Manyatta) for an enriching cultural experience including song, dance, and craft shopping.

Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari – Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Masai Mara at sunrise with champagne breakfast in the bush.

Your Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Overnight Stay

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, our safari representative will greet you and facilitate your transfer to a comfortable city hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to embark on a self-guided city tour with support from the hotel concierge or one of our local guides. Relax and recover from your journey with a delightful dinner and overnight stay in Nairobi.

Day 2: Journey to Samburu National Reserve

After an early breakfast, depart Nairobi and head northeast towards Samburu National Reserve, a rugged and remote park known for its arid beauty and endemic wildlife. The drive takes you through the scenic Great Rift Valley and vast savannahs, eventually arriving in the Samburu region by midday. Check in, enjoy lunch, and take some time to relax before heading out on your first game drive. Look out for unique northern species like the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk in their natural arid environment.

Day 3: Full-Day Exploration of Samburu & Buffalo Springs

Begin your day with an early morning game drive when the animals are most active. Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves offer a sanctuary for rare wildlife species. Search for Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, leopards, and elephants against a backdrop of rugged hills and acacia trees. After a midday break for lunch and rest, head back out for an evening game drive to capture the magic of the golden hour and possibly spot elusive nocturnal predators emerging as the sun sets.

Day 4: Travel from Samburu to Aberdare National Park

After breakfast, depart Samburu and drive south toward the cool, forested highlands of Aberdare National Park. Arrive in Nyeri in time for lunch—guests staying at The Ark will dine at the Aberdare Country Club, while those at Treetops will enjoy lunch at the Outspan Hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your unique tree lodge nestled within the forest. Spend the evening watching wildlife from the comfort of your lodge as animals gather at the floodlit waterhole. You may also take part in a night game drive (optional), offering chances to see leopards, hyenas, civets, and other nocturnal species.

Day 5: Aberdare to Lake Nakuru National Park

After a hearty breakfast, depart Aberdare for Lake Nakuru National Park—Kenya’s famed rhino sanctuary. Arrive around midday and settle into your lodge before heading out for a game drive in the afternoon. Lake Nakuru is home to a healthy population of both white and black rhinos, as well as Rothschild’s giraffes, lions, leopards, and waterbucks. Explore the picturesque acacia woodlands, rocky escarpments, and the flamingo-lined shores of the lake as the park unveils its natural beauty.

Day 6: Scenic Drive to Masai Mara National Reserve
Following an early breakfast, continue your journey to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive offers sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley and lush farmlands of Narok County. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoying a light game drive. Optional visits to a local Masai Manyatta can be arranged for a firsthand look at the traditional way of life of this proud warrior tribe.

Day 7 & 8: Full Safari Experience in Masai Mara

Spend the next two days exploring the magnificent Masai Mara with both morning and evening game drives. Witness large herds of elephants, graceful antelope, and prides of lions roaming the open plains. If you're lucky, you may observe cheetahs stalking their prey or the dramatic Mara River crossing during the migration season. Drive to the Mara River to see crocodiles and hippos in their natural element.

Optional activities include:

Hot Air Balloon Safari – Soar over the Mara at sunrise and enjoy panoramic views and unforgettable photo opportunities.

Masai Cultural Visit – Engage with the local community, join in their dances, and support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts.

Sundowners and golden sunsets offer the perfect end to thrilling days on safari.

Day 9: Return to Nairobi & Departure

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Masai Mara and begin your drive back to Nairobi. Journey through the Rift Valley highlands, passing farmlands and Masai settlements. Arrive in Nairobi by mid-afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure or dropped off at your preferred hotel within the city.

What's Included?

  • English-speaking professional driver-guide
  • All meals and accommodation as per the itinerary
  • All park entry fees and game drives as outlined in the itinerary
  • Transport in a 4×4 safari land cruiser (window seat guaranteed)
  • Bottled drinking water while on safari
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure

What's not Included?

  • International and domestic flights
  • Tourist visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and hotel staff
  • Alcoholic beverages (wines, beers, spirits)
  • Souvenirs and personal expenses
  • Optional activities (balloon safari, cultural village visit, night game drives)

More of Kenya Tours

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4 Day Masai Mara Exploration
11 Day Masai Mara and Uganda Gorilla trekking
12 Day Masai Mara Amboseli Photo Safari
9 Day Samburu Masai Mara Big 5 Wildlife Safari

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