9-Day Elewana Luxury Nairobi Amboseli Meru & Mara Fly In

A Closer Look at the 9-Day Elewana Luxury Nairobi Amboseli Meru & Mara Fly-In Tour

Traveling to Kenya offers a chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals, and this 9-day luxury fly-in tour from Exodus Safaris promises an experience crafted for comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable wildlife adventures. While I haven’t taken this exact journey myself, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and expert guides make it clear this trip is a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an authentic safari with a touch of luxury.

What immediately appeals to us is the personalized experience — from private game drives to guided walks with knowledgeable staff. The tour’s stunning scenes in the Masai Mara, especially during the migration months, are definitely a highlight. The chance to combine different ecosystems like Amboseli and Meru adds variety and depth to the wildlife encounters. Plus, the all-inclusive package—covering meals, drinks, activities, and transfers—reduces the hassle, letting you focus on the experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the schedule is fast-paced, with flights and transfers between parks, which might feel rushed for some travelers. It’s designed for those who appreciate a structured plan that maximizes time in the wild without sacrificing comfort. This tour is particularly ideal for solo travelers, adventurous couples, or anyone wanting a comprehensive Kenyan safari without the logistical stress.

In summary, this is a well-rounded, luxury-focused safari that combines comfort with authentic wildlife encounters, making it perfect for travelers who want a curated, high-end experience in Kenya’s most famous parks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury and Convenience: All-inclusive with transfers, meals, and guided activities, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Multiple game drives, walking safaris, and the chance to see the Big Five and the wildebeest migration.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights and details about the animals and landscapes.
• Versatile Itinerary: Visits to Nairobi, Amboseli, Meru, and Maasai Mara, offering diverse ecosystems and scenic views.
• Perfect for Solo Travelers: Solo-friendly with structured activities and group transfers.
• Authentic Maasai Tribe Interaction: Opportunities to meet local Maasai people for a genuine cultural connection.

An In-Depth Review of the 9-Day Elewana Safari Experience

Starting in Nairobi: The Welcome and First Impressions

Your journey begins in Nairobi, where you’ll stay at the Palacina Residence and Suites, a peaceful retreat located in the upscale State House area. This is a smart choice, especially if you’re arriving after a long flight, as it offers a comfortable, luxurious base to unwind, meet fellow travelers, and prepare for the adventure ahead. The property is praised for its serene atmosphere amid the city’s hustle, with a good breakfast to set you up for the days to come.

Flying to Amboseli: A Scenic Introduction to Kenya’s Wilderness

The journey from Nairobi to Amboseli is via an Elewana Executive Grand Caravan, a small, private plane that offers spectacular aerial views of Kenya’s landscapes. The 45-minute flight is part of the thrill, giving you a taste of the country’s vastness. Upon arrival at Tortilis Camp, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro—a highlight for many travelers. The camp itself receives high praise for its comfort and the authentic safari atmosphere, with all meals and drinks included, along with laundry and game drives.

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Exploring Amboseli: Big Five and Iconic Scenery

Amboseli is famous for its massive elephants, often seen roaming in herds against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Your days here are packed with morning and afternoon game drives, with plenty of opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, and a variety of bird species. Reviews mention that guides are especially knowledgeable, making the wildlife sightings even more rewarding. The experience of sundowners—enjoying drinks at sunset while watching wildlife—is a memorable highlight, emphasizing how the camp maximizes comfort amidst natural beauty.

Transition to Meru: A Hidden Gem for Wildlife Enthusiasts

After two nights in Amboseli, you’ll transfer to Meru National Park, where Elsa’s Kopje offers a more intimate, boutique-style experience. The drive to Meru provides a chance to see more of Kenya’s diverse landscape. Guests frequently mention the game viewing at dawn as particularly rewarding, with sightings of elephants, giraffes, and even predators. The cottages are described as cozy, with full board and inclusive drinks, making it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The guided walks and sundowners continue to be a big part of the experience, allowing for a slower, more personal connection to the environment.

The Maasai Mara: The Big Show

From Meru, you’ll fly to the Maasai Mara—arguably Kenya’s most famous wildlife sanctuary. The 90-minute flight offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley and the rolling plains below. At the Mara, your home is the Sand River Camp, where safari tents blend comfort and adventure. Guests often praise the full-day game drives, which can be tailored with picnic lunches to maximize your chances of seeing lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and the famous wildebeest migration (especially between July and October).

Encountering the Maasai: Culture and Wildlife

One of the tour’s authentic touches is the opportunity to interact with the Maasai tribe, a vivid reminder of the local culture that coexists with the wildlife. It’s a chance to learn about their traditions and lifestyle directly from community members, which adds depth to your safari experience. The guides are described as knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights into animal behaviors and conservation efforts.

Balloon Safari and Exclusive Experiences

While not included in the base package, some reviews mention the option for a hot air balloon safari—a classic Kenya experience that offers a bird’s-eye view of the migration and the plains. The camp’s strategic location ensures excellent game viewing, often with sightings of the “Big Five” and dramatic predator-prey interactions. The experience of watching a lion pride or a cheetah hunt from the balloon or the ground is something many travelers find truly unforgettable.

Final Day: Returning to Nairobi

Your last morning begins with a final game drive, giving you one last chance to spot wildlife. Then, a transfer back to Keekorok airstrip culminates your adventure with a flight to Wilson Airport in Nairobi. This smooth transition from wilderness to city life is appreciated for its convenience, allowing you to depart comfortably with plenty of time before your international flight.

The Value and Practicality of the Tour

The all-inclusive nature of this tour means you won’t need to worry about additional costs for activities, meals, or transfers—an excellent value considering the remote locations and premium accommodations. The guides are noted to be experienced and friendly, often going beyond just pointing out animals to sharing fascinating stories and conservation insights. Staying in luxury camps with full board ensures comfort after long days of game viewing, while the private flights between parks save hours of driving and add a sense of exclusivity.

The itinerary is carefully balanced to give a broad experience of Kenyan wildlife and landscapes without feeling overly rushed. The combination of game drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits ensures a well-rounded adventure. For solo travelers, the group format and guided nature of the tour create natural opportunities for socializing without sacrificing intimacy.

Considering the Price

While the tour is certainly on the higher end, the value comes from the inclusions—flights, luxury accommodations, expert guiding, and countless wildlife encounters. The experience of flying between parks and staying in carefully selected camps enhances the sense of adventure and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a hassle-free, premium safari.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari appeals most to solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an organized, luxury adventure that covers Kenya’s most iconic parks. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive, guided experience with plenty of wildlife viewing, cultural interactions, and scenic flights. Those with a penchant for comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and authentic wildlife sightings will find this tour hits the right notes.

Who Might Want to Consider Alternatives?

Travelers on a tighter budget or those seeking a more independent, self-guided trip might find this tour less flexible. Also, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace with more downtime, the busy schedule and multiple transfers might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

In all, the 9-Day Elewana Luxury Nairobi Amboseli Meru & Mara Fly-In Tour offers a well-curated blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s especially suited for first-time safari-goers or those who value comfort and guided experiences without sacrificing the thrill of seeing Kenya’s Big Five and other iconic animals.

The inclusion of expert guides, carefully selected camps, and scenic flights makes this a stand-out choice for those wanting to maximize their time and experience in Kenya’s premier parks. The opportunity to meet the Maasai and witness the migration (if timed right) adds cultural depth and excitement that few other tours can match.

This safari provides incredible value for travelers who want a seamless, high-quality adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments and authentic encounters. It’s a smart choice for those who appreciate details, expert guidance, and the thrill of seeing Africa’s wildlife in its natural habitat.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes park fees, all activities, accommodations, meals, drinks, transfers, and taxes/VAT. It also covers flights between parks and airport transfers.

Are all the accommodations luxury?
Yes, stays are at premium camps and lodges, such as Palacina Residence, Tortilis Camp, Elsa’s Kopje, and Sand River Mara, known for comfort and authentic safari ambiance.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s designed with solo travelers in mind, offering guided group activities and transfers that make meeting fellow adventurers easy.

Can I see the Big Five?
Yes, multiple game drives in Amboseli, Meru, and Maasai Mara are structured to maximize wildlife sightings, including lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards.

What makes the Maasai Mara special?
The Maasai Mara is famous for its abundance of wildlife, including the wildebeest migration (seasonal), and hosts over 450 species of animals, including predators like lions and cheetahs.

How safe and knowledgeable are the guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their expertise, friendly demeanor, and ability to spot wildlife that often eludes less experienced eyes.

What is the best time to go?
While the tour runs year-round, the wildebeest migration from July to October offers a spectacular experience of herd movements and predator action.

Are walking safaris included?
Yes, guided walks are part of the itinerary, offering a different perspective on the wildlife and landscape.

How does the scenic flight add to the experience?
Flying between parks provides stunning aerial views, saves travel time, and adds a touch of luxury and adventure to your trip.

What about cultural experiences?
The tour includes authentic interactions with Maasai tribes, adding cultural insight and personal connection beyond wildlife viewing.

If you’re dreaming of a Kenyan safari that balances luxury, wildlife, and cultural richness, this tour offers a comprehensive and memorable adventure that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: