8-Day Kenya Safari Samburu, Ol Pejeta & Masai Mara Adventure

Travelers dreaming of spotting Africa’s legendary wildlife often find themselves drawn to Kenya’s famous parks and reserves. This 8-day tour by Jossec Safaris promises an exciting journey through some of the country’s most renowned conservation areas, from the rugged plains of Samburu to the world-famous Maasai Mara. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure offering authentic wildlife encounters and stunning scenery.

What shines here? The chance to see the unique Samburu Special Five, including Grevys zebra and Somali ostrich, the chance to walk among endangered rhinos at Ol Pejeta, and the opportunity to witness the breathtaking vistas of the Maasai Mara. The trip’s inclusive nature, with full-board lodges and expert guides, helps keep the experience smooth and immersive.

One point to consider is that optional activities like a hot air balloon safari and boat rides on Lake Naivasha aren’t included in the base price, so if those experiences are your priority, they will be an extra cost. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, valuing comfort, authenticity, and expert guiding.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with the chance to see the Big Five and rarer species like Grevys zebra.
• Comfortable, full-board accommodations at well-rated lodges and camps.
• Expert guides and 24/7 support ensure a smooth, informative journey.
• Visiting a mix of parks and conservancies offers diverse environments and animal sightings.
• Additional activities such as boat safaris and hot air balloon rides can elevate your experience, but at extra cost.
• Ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural exposure in Kenya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 8-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel. The transfer north to Samburu takes around 4-5 hours—an opportunity to enjoy the Kenyan countryside along the way. Once at Samburu Sopa Lodge, you’ll have time for lunch and a relaxed afternoon game drive.

Expect to see Grevys zebra, Somali ostriches, elephants, lions, and perhaps even the elusive reticulated giraffe. The landscape here is striking: rugged, semi-arid plains threaded by the Ewaso Ngiro River, which acts as a magnet for wildlife. The lodge offers comfortable rooms and a good base for your game drives, with reviews praising the staff’s friendly service and the views of the surrounding wilderness.

Day 2: Full Day Exploring Samburu

A full day of game drives allows you to cover the different habitats, including riverine forests and open plains. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times when animals are most active. Guides are often experienced locals who know the terrain and animal habits intimately—many reviewers highlight how their guides shared fascinating facts about the wildlife, making the experience more engaging.

The chance to see the Samburu Special Five is a highlight, and we loved hearing that the guides are skilled at spotting these rare animals. You’ll also cruise along the Ewaso Ngiro River, where animals gather to drink and cool off, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Day 3: From Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

After breakfast, you’ll leave the rugged Samburu for Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a sanctuary known for its intensive rhino protection programs. The drive offers a change of scenery, from arid plains to lush conservancy landscapes. Upon arrival at Sweet Waters Serena Camp, you’ll settle in for lunch before heading out on an afternoon game drive.

Ol Pejeta is also home to Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, adding a unique element to your wildlife viewing. The guides here are praised for their knowledge of conservation efforts and animal behavior, making the experience more meaningful. You’ll spot rhinos, elephants, and maybe even some elusive predators.

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Day 4: Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru National Park

Leaving Ol Pejeta, the journey continues to Lake Nakuru, famed for its flamingos and rhino populations. Arriving around midday, you’ll check into Lanet Matfam Resort—a comfortable base for exploration. The park’s landscape is a mixture of lake, woodland, and grassland, offering varied scenery.

In the afternoon, expect a game drive showcasing flamingos on the lake, white and black rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and possibly leopards lounging in the trees. Birdwatchers especially love Nakuru’s vibrant birdlife, making it a visual feast. Many reviews mention how the flamingo spectacle is worth the visit alone.

Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, you head to Lake Naivasha, a peaceful freshwater lake set in lush surroundings. The optional boat ride on the lake is highly recommended if you enjoy close encounters with hippos and water birds, although it costs extra. Alternatively, a walking safari on Crescent Island offers a chance to see giraffes, zebras, and ostriches in a more relaxed setting—many travelers love the proximity to wildlife here.

Your stay at Taphe Guest House provides a cozy, authentic base with scenic views. The lake’s tranquility contrasts beautifully with the previous days’ savannah drives, giving you a chance to unwind.

Day 6: Naivasha to Masai Mara

The drive to Masai Mara is a highlight in itself—expect to see some of the most iconic African landscapes along the way. Arrival at Rhino Tourist Camp for lunch marks the start of the Mara experience, globally recognized for its large predator populations and the chance to see the Big Five.

In the afternoon, your first game drive introduces you to the vast open plains, dotted with acacia trees. The scenery here is truly spectacular—wide, sweeping horizons that seem to stretch forever. The camp offers a rustic but comfortable base, and its proximity to prime wildlife areas makes for good morning and afternoon game drives.

Day 7: Full Day in Masai Mara

The entire day in the Mara means plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing, with morning and afternoon drives. Many guests comment on how the landscape looks like a movie set—endless grasslands, roaming herds, and the thrill of spotting lions, cheetahs, and elephants.

For the adventurous, the optional hot air balloon safari is a real treat—many reviewers describe it as unforgettable, with panoramic views of the plains and a champagne breakfast upon landing. It’s an extra cost ($450) but could be the highlight of your trip.

Day 8: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, it’s time to head back to Nairobi. The drive allows for reflection on a trip packed with incredible sights and experiences. The team from Jossec Safaris will assist with your transfer and ensure a smooth conclusion to your safari adventure.

The Experience Beyond the Itinerary

While the itinerary covers essential highlights, the small details truly enhance the trip. Several reviewers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, noting how their insights brought each animal and landscape to life. The full-board accommodations at well-rated lodges and camps ensured comfort after long days of game drives—many found the accommodations to be clean, well-located, and offering stunning views.

The transportation in a 4×4 safari jeep kept the journey comfortable and gave excellent access to wildlife hotspots. Many appreciated the flexibility, as guides often tailored drives based on animal activity and weather conditions, helping guests maximize their chances of seeing sought-after species.

Price-wise, while $4,585 per person is a significant investment, reviewers often mention the value in the inclusive park fees, expert guiding, and the seamless logistics. Additional activities like boat rides or balloon safaris are optional but can add a memorable layer to this already packed adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This safari is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an immersive, guided experience that balances comfort with authentic wildlife encounters. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see Kenya’s iconic animals and landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The mixture of parks and conservancies offers diversity, and the inclusion of conservation-focused areas like Ol Pejeta adds depth.

If you’re excited about seeing the Big Five, rare species, and experiencing the culture of the Maasai people, this tour delivers those highlights. It’s also ideal if you value full-board accommodations and the expertise of professional guides who can make wildlife sightings more meaningful.

However, if you’re after ultra-luxury options or exclusive experiences like private hot air balloon rides, you might want to consider upgrading or adding extras. Still, for most travelers, this trip offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers join this safari and find it a great way to meet like-minded wildlife enthusiasts. Group sizes are typically manageable, and guides are experienced in creating a friendly atmosphere.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The tour includes full-board stays at well-rated lodges and camps, such as Samburu Sopa Lodge and Sweet Waters Serena Camp. Travelers generally find them comfortable, clean, and with good amenities.

What optional activities can I add?
You can opt for a boat ride on Lake Naivasha or a hot air balloon safari over Maasai Mara, both at additional costs ($450 for the balloon ride). These experiences enhance the trip but aren’t included in the base price.

How much wildlife will I see?
You’ll have chances to see a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five, flamingos, giraffes, and rhinos. Reviews highlight that guides are skilled at spotting rare and elusive animals, making the game drives rewarding.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While the specific timing isn’t detailed, general safari seasons in Kenya favor dry months (June to October and January to March) for better wildlife sightings. The landscape and animal behavior vary slightly with the seasons.

Are there any cultural experiences included?
While the main focus is on wildlife, travelers often enjoy the opportunity to learn about Maasai culture during their time in Maasai Mara, especially if they choose to engage with local communities or visit Maasai villages.

This 8-day Kenya safari offers an extensive, well-rounded glimpse into the country’s most stunning parks and the incredible wildlife they harbor. With expert guiding, comfortable lodges, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s an excellent pick for those looking to tick Kenya off their bucket list without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: