If you’re looking for a quick yet enriching Kenyan safari, the 2 Days Lake Elementaita National Park Safari offers a fantastic chance to see abundant wildlife and bird species in their natural habitat. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on one glowing review, combines the beauty of Lake Elementaita with the excitement of game drives in Soysambu Conservancy. It’s a compact adventure that packs in memorable moments, perfect for travelers short on time but eager for authentic wildlife encounters.
What we especially like about this journey is the focus on birdwatching—highlighting the many species that call Lake Elementaita home, especially the iconic pink flamingos. The chance to see tree-climbing lions, elusive leopards, and herds of giraffes adds a layer of thrill. Plus, the convenience of pickup service, group discounts, and a mobile ticket makes the trip accessible and straightforward.
That said, the tour is quite packed—in just two days, you’ll cover a lot, which might leave some wishing for a slower, more relaxed pace. For those who love wildlife, nature, and birding, this safari is a great fit. It’s especially suited to travelers who want a well-organized, guided experience with authentic sights and sounds of Kenya’s wilderness.
Key Points
- Authentic wildlife experience with game drives in Soysambu Conservancy and birdwatching at Lake Elementaita
- Expert guides who are knowledgeable and dedicated to helping you see animals and birds
- Convenient logistics including pickup, drop-offs, and mobile ticketing
- Focused on birdwatching, especially flamingos and other shoreline species
- Affordable value considering the included meals, accommodation, and guided tours
- Limited time frame means a busy schedule — ideal for a quick getaway, but less suited for a leisurely pace
What’s Included and What’s Not
This safari provides everything you need for a comfortable, well-rounded experience. For $675 per person, you get lunch and dinner, accommodation for one night, a professional guide, bottled water, and pickup and drop-off services. The trip is designed to be private, so your group will have the guide’s full attention, making for a more personalized experience.
However, alcoholic and soft drinks are not included but can be purchased on-site, giving you the flexibility to choose your drinks. Souvenirs like photos are available for purchase, so if you’re keen on capturing memories, bring some extra cash.
Looking for more options in Naivasha? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: From Naivasha to Lake Elementaita and Soysambu Conservancy
The adventure kicks off early at 7:00 AM with a pickup from your accommodation. After a roughly three-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Lake Elementaita mid-morning. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the Kenyan landscape—something travelers often appreciate before the wildlife comes into view.
Once there, you’ll settle in for lunch and a chance to relax. The highlight of this day is the afternoon game drive in Soysambu Conservancy, which is renowned for its high density of wildlife and over 400 bird species. Expect to see giraffes browsing on treetops, herds of buffalo, and possibly tree-climbing lions—a rare and thrilling sight. Reviewers have praised guides like Charles for going above and beyond to help them spot elusive animals and birds, with one traveler remarking, “Our guide Charles went above and beyond to help us see all the animals and birds.”
Birdwatchers will be especially delighted by the shoreline of Lake Elementaita, where pink flamingos and other avian species gather in large numbers. The scenery is often described as spectacular, with the lake’s pink hues contrasting against the greenery of the conservancy.
Dinner and overnight accommodations round out the day, giving you time to reflect on the sights and sounds of Kenya’s wilderness.
Day 2: Birdwatching and Return to Nairobi
The next morning begins with a breakfast followed by a morning game drive and birdwatching session at Lake Elementaita. This is an ideal time to see the flamingos in their full glory, along with an array of ducks, herons, and other shoreline birds. If you’re a bird enthusiast, this part of the trip will likely be the highlight, offering close-up views of many species.
After checking out, you’re headed back to Nairobi, with an approximate eight-hour schedule that allows for a comfortable return journey and reflection on your wildlife encounter.
The Experience: What Makes This Safari Special?
What sets this 2-day safari apart is the combination of wildlife, birding, and scenic landscapes. The tour’s inclusion of Soysambu Conservancy means you’ll experience Kenya’s highest densities of game, including some elusive species that are less commonly seen in larger parks. The birdwatching opportunities are exceptional, especially for flamingos, which have become a symbol of this region.
The guides, notably Charles, have received praise for their knowledge and dedication. Reviewers mention that Charles went above and beyond to assist with sightings, making the experience more memorable. This personalized attention often means you don’t just see animals but understand their behavior and habitat.
The scenery of Lake Elementaita itself, with its shimmering pink waters and surrounding greenery, provides breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities. The wildlife spectacle, combined with the comfort of organized transport and meals, makes this tour a good value.
Practical Considerations
While the tour is highly rated for its authenticity and guide expertise, it is quite full on schedule. If you prefer a slow-paced, luxury-style safari, this might feel a little rushed. However, for those eager to maximize wildlife sightings and birdwatching in a short time, this is ideal.
The price of $675 includes most essentials, but remember you’ll need some extra for drinks or souvenirs. The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Naivasha or close by. The mobile ticketing option also simplifies logistics.
The free cancellation policy allows flexibility, which is important if your plans change unexpectedly. Since it’s a private tour, you won’t share the experience with strangers, adding a layer of comfort and customization.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari is perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers who want a compact, guided experience of Kenya’s wildlife. It’s well-suited for travelers short on time but still eager to see iconic animals and birds.
If you’re traveling as a family, couple, or small group, the private nature of the tour makes it flexible and intimate. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors to Kenya, as guides handle the logistics and help spot wildlife that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Those who value authentic encounters over luxury amenities will find this tour offers a genuine taste of Kenya’s natural beauty.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. The 2 Days Lake Elementaita Safari offers excellent value, combining guided game drives, birdwatching, scenic landscapes, and comfortable logistics. It’s a fantastic way to get a snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife and birdlife without needing a week-long commitment.
The tour’s highlight—professional guides like Charles—ensures you’ll see as much as possible and learn about the animals you encounter. The scenic views of Lake Elementaita and the high concentration of game in Soysambu Conservancy make this a worthwhile adventure.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a small group, or a family, this safari delivers a well-rounded, authentic experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Kenya’s wilderness.
FAQ
How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 8 days in advance, ensuring you secure your spot and have time to prepare.
What is included in the price?
For $675, you get lunch, dinner, one night’s accommodation, guided game drives, bottled water, and pickup/drop-off services.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility.
Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, providing a personalized experience.
What wildlife and bird species might I see?
Expect to see giraffes, buffalo, leopards, lions, and over 400 bird species, including the famous pink flamingos.
How long are the game drives?
The afternoon drive on Day 1 and the morning drive on Day 2 are designed to maximize wildlife sightings without being overly lengthy, balancing activity and comfort.
This safari offers a rich, authentic experience for anyone eager to explore Kenya’s wildlife and birdlife in just a short time. With knowledgeable guides and unforgettable scenery, it’s a solid choice for a quick nature escape.