11 Days Private Tour to Explore Amboseli and Samburu

Planning a safari in Kenya can feel overwhelming with so many options, but this 11-day private tour promises a well-balanced mix of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural insights. From the quiet plains of Samburu to the iconic Maasai Mara and the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, this journey offers a comprehensive glimpse into Kenya’s natural treasures. While the price tag of $5,000 per person might seem steep, it includes expert guiding, accommodations, and private game drives—crafting an experience that’s both luxurious and authentic.

What really shines about this tour? The knowledgeable guides, the chance to see a wide variety of animals (including the Big Five), and the opportunity for cultural interactions with local Maasai communities. Some might find the long drives between parks challenging, but for those craving an intense, immersive safari, the value is undeniable. Perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone looking to combine adventure with comfort, this tour delivers a truly memorable Kenyan experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering over 6 national parks in Kenya, including Samburu, Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo.
• Expert guides with excellent reviews for their knowledge, adaptability, and friendly service.
• Diverse landscapes from the arid Samburu plains to the lush lakes of Nakuru and the iconic savannahs of Maasai Mara.
• Wildlife sightings include elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, and numerous bird species.
• Cultural encounters with Maasai villages on Day 1 add depth to the safari experience.
• Value for money considering private transfers, game drives, and accommodations in top locations, though it’s a significant investment.

A Detailed Look at This Kenyan Safari Adventure

Starting Point: Samburu National Reserve

Your journey kicks off in Samburu, a quieter alternative to the more crowded Masai Mara, but still teeming with wildlife. Samburu’s remoteness means fewer vehicles on the road, which boosts your chances of spotting animals without the usual crowd noise. The reserve is famous for its unique wildlife, including the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Grevy’s zebra, and gerenuk—animals that are rarely seen elsewhere.

The highlight here isn’t just the animals—though they are impressive—but also the chance to learn about the Samburu people, who live on the reserve’s outskirts. You’ll visit some villages as part of your cultural excursions, gaining insight into their traditional way of life. The late afternoon game drive is particularly rewarding, with many guests noting how close and undisturbed the animals appear.

Early Morning Game Drives and Wildlife Spotting

On Day 2, early mornings in Samburu are highly recommended. Rising at around 5:50 am, you’ll set out before the sun is fully up, maximizing your chances to see predators like leopards and the elusive rhino (note: rhino is absent from the Big Five here, but elephants, kudu, and other antelopes are plentiful). One reviewer praised their guide Dixon, highlighting how he expertly avoided bad roads and made stops for comfort—an underrated aspect of private safaris.

Expect to see a good density of elephants, along with giraffes, cheetahs, and a variety of antelope species. The landscape, dotted with acacia trees and riverbeds, offers great photo opportunities, especially during the soft morning light.

Transition to Lake Naivasha and the Equator

Day 3 is a mix of travel and gentle exploration. After your early breakfast, you’ll head towards Lake Naivasha, making a quick stop at the equator in Nanyuki—an iconic photo spot that many travelers enjoy. Once in Naivasha, you’ll have the option for a boat ride, which many consider a highlight for spotting hippos, birds, and other aquatic wildlife.

The relaxed pace here contrasts with the earlier early mornings, giving you time to enjoy the serenity of the lake and the landscape. The evening may include a walk or another optional boat ride, perfect for unwinding.

The Maasai Mara and the Big Five

Day 4 marks your transition to the world-famous Maasai Mara. First, you’ll visit Hell’s Gate National Park—unique in Kenya for allowing walking and cycling safaris. Then, a scenic 4-hour drive takes you into the Masai Mara, often called the “Jewel of Kenya.” This park is famed worldwide for its impressive numbers of predators and herds of wildebeest.

Guests often express excitement about the endless plains and the possibility of witnessing the wildebeest migration if timing aligns. The landscape here is iconic with acacia trees, rolling hills, and open grasslands—an ideal setting for photography and wildlife viewing.

Full Days of Game Viewing in Maasai Mara

Day 5 is dedicated to exploring Maasai Mara thoroughly. Full-day game drives mean you’ll be out from dawn to dusk, with packed meals and plenty of stops for wildlife photography. You’re likely to see lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and possibly the elusive black-maned lion. The terrain varies from the open plains to wooded areas, providing diverse scenery and animal behavior opportunities.

Reviewers highlight guides like Gibson, who is praised for making safaris memorable, thanks to their extensive knowledge and friendly approach. Many guests mention how close and unobstructed their sightings were, especially with the help of expert drivers.

Lake Nakuru: Birdlife and Rhinos

From Maasai Mara, you’ll head to Lake Nakuru on Day 6. Known for its flamingoes and other bird species, Lake Nakuru is a bird-watcher’s paradise. It’s also home to rhinos—both black and white—making it a prime spot for close animal encounters.

Traveling from Maasai Mara takes some time, so this day involves long drives, but the reward is a different landscape with lakes, cliffs, and abundant birdlife. Arriving late, you’ll settle into your accommodation, ready to explore more the next day.

Amboseli National Park with Mount Kilimanjaro Views

Day 7 introduces you to Amboseli, renowned for its stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park’s open plains host the largest elephant herds in Kenya, and the snow-capped peaks create unforgettable scenery.

Your arrival might include a late game drive if time permits, but Day 8 is when you’ll spend the whole day on game drives. Many reviews appreciate Amboseli’s photogenic landscape, especially the iconic shots of elephants with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. Guides often help travelers capture those perfect moments, and the experience of seeing hundreds of elephants in one place is genuinely humbling.

Tsavo East: The Big Five and the Dramatic Landscape

Days 9 and 10 are dedicated to Tsavo East, the largest protected area in Kenya. The landscape varies from lush riverine forests along the Galana River to open plains dotted with wildlife. Tsavo is famous for its large herds of elephants, including some of the biggest tuskless elephants.

Game drives here often include visits to Aruba Dam, where wildlife congregates around the water. Guests appreciate the opportunity to see animals like lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos, along with numerous bird species. Many travelers mention how guides like Silas enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendliness.

Final Day and Return to Nairobi

On the last day, an early morning game drive in Tsavo East is often rewarded with sightings of predators and elephants, before returning to Nairobi. You’ll be dropped at the airport or can choose to extend your stay in the city.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Logistics

The private safari includes comfortable, private transfers in a well-equipped vehicle, with game drives conducted in the same vehicle. The long drives—sometimes up to 10 hours in a day—are made more enjoyable by the expert guiding and the scenic views along the way. Reviewers often point out their guides’ attentiveness and adaptability, which greatly enhance the experience.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodations are included for all nights, typically in lodges or tented camps that balance comfort and authenticity. Meals are provided throughout, with most days including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An optional boat ride at Lake Naivasha is available for an additional $30 USD, a worthwhile expense for many.

Price and Value

At $5,000 per person, this tour is an investment, but considering the private guiding, multiple park visits, and accommodations, it offers strong value. For travelers seeking a seamless, all-inclusive experience without the hassle of planning logistics, this package is a great choice.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari suits those who want a comprehensive Kenyan experience without the stress of organizing each detail. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to see a wide variety of animals across different habitats. Photographers will appreciate the scenic diversity and the chance to get those iconic shots. If cultural interactions and off-the-beaten-path reserves like Samburu appeal to you, this tour covers those interests too.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer long drives, this might not be ideal. The itinerary involves significant travel time between parks, so travelers should be prepared for some long days.

Final Thoughts

This 11-day private tour offers an intriguing blend of wildlife, landscapes, and culture, all guided by highly-rated professionals. The diversity of parks—from Samburu’s quiet plains to Maasai Mara’s legendary savannahs—means you’ll enjoy a broad spectrum of Kenya’s natural beauty. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making sightings more meaningful and memorable.

While the cost is on the higher side, the personalized service, expert guiding, and the opportunity to see Kenya’s Big Five and beyond justify the investment. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to experience Kenya’s wilderness fully, comfortably, and with authentic insights.

FAQs

What is included in this tour?
The package covers game drives, accommodations, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Pickup is offered, and the tour is private, meaning only your group participates.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, an optional boat ride at Lake Naivasha costs $30 USD per person.

How long are the drives between parks?
Some drives can be up to 10 hours, especially when traveling between Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo East. These long journeys are part of experiencing a comprehensive safari.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences directly with the provider, though the scheduled itinerary offers a well-rounded Kenyan experience.

What is the level of comfort during game drives?
Guests praise the guides for their attentiveness and vehicle comfort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience even during long drives.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but considering the long drives, families with young children should evaluate their comfort with extended travel times.

How early do the game drives start?
Game drives typically start around dawn, with some as early as 5:50 am, to maximize wildlife sightings.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, and many bird species are common sightings.

Are guides flexible with stops?
Reviewers mention guides like Dixon and Gibson are accommodating, making stops for comfort or photo opportunities.

What should I pack for this safari?
Light, breathable clothing, binoculars, camera gear, sun protection, and a hat are recommended for comfort during long days outdoors.

This 11-day private safari offers a chance to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife, experience stunning landscapes, and even learn about local cultures—all with the comfort of expert guides and private transport. For those looking for a full, immersive experience that balances adventure and relaxation, this tour delivers on all fronts.