2 Days Lake Elementaita National park Safari

Planning a quick escape from Nairobi that combines birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking landscapes? This 2-day Lake Elementaita safari offers just that—an immersive experience into Kenya’s lesser-known but equally spectacular parks. While it’s a short trip, it promises plenty of memorable moments, especially for bird lovers and those eager to see unique wildlife like tree-climbing lions.

What we particularly love about this safari is the chance to enjoy guided game drives in Soysambu Conservancy, known for its high density of animals and birds, including over 400 species of birds and flamingos. The expert guidance promises a more insightful experience, helping you spot elusive animals like leopards and gaining a deeper understanding of the ecosystem. The stunning landscapes of lakes and grasslands make for excellent photo opportunities, and the flexibility of the “reserve and pay later” option adds peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.

A point to consider is that the trip is quite condensed—the morning drive on the second day is a quick birdwatching session rather than an extensive exploration. If you’re looking for a laid-back, multi-day adventure, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those with tight schedules or seeking an affordable, authentic taste of Kenyan wildlife, this tour hits the right notes.

This safari is best suited for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Kenya’s diverse wildlife without committing to longer safaris. It’s also great for travelers who prefer guided experiences with knowledgeable guides to help spot animals and share insights.

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Key Points

Short but impactful: Perfect for a quick wildlife fix near Nairobi.
Wildlife and birdwatching: Focused on birdlife, flamingos, and big game from Soysambu Conservancy.
Expert guides: Enhance your understanding of the ecosystem and improve animal sightings.
Stunning scenery: Experience the contrast of lakes, grasslands, and wildlife.
Value for money: At $495, it offers a well-rounded, guided experience, including meals and accommodation.
Flexible booking: “Reserve and pay later” adds convenience and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Lake Elementaita Safari

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Easy and Reliable Transportation

Starting bright and early at 7:00 AM from your Nairobi hotel or airport, the journey takes about three hours. This means you’ll be on the road before the day heats up, helping you maximize your time at Lake Elementaita. The transfer is comfortably arranged, with pickup and drop-off included, so you avoid the hassle of arranging transport yourself.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Lake Elementaita and Soysambu Conservancy

Upon arrival around mid-morning, you’ll settle into your accommodation, giving you some time to relax before the afternoon adventure. The highlight here is the game drive in Soysambu Conservancy, a private reserve renowned for its high density of animals and birds. Expect to encounter tree-climbing lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, and a wide variety of bird species along the shoreline.

The guides are known for their keen eyes and extensive knowledge, often pointing out interesting behaviors or identifying elusive species that might otherwise go unnoticed. One reviewer mentioned that the guides “really know their stuff,” which makes a difference when trying to spot shy or camouflaged animals like leopards or elusive bird species.

The conservancy’s varied terrain and water bodies provide excellent vantage points, with some reviews mentioning how the views of the lakes and wildlife are simply stunning. As the day winds down, you’ll return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight rest, likely feeling satisfied with your first day’s sightings.

Day 2: Birdwatching and Return to Nairobi

Your morning begins with a quick breakfast before heading out for a short game drive and birdwatching session at Lake Elementaita. This spot is famous for its pink flamingos and variety of aquatic and shoreline bird species. We loved the way the tour emphasizes birdwatching, often appealing to enthusiasts eager to capture photos or learn about different bird calls and behaviors.

During the drive back to Nairobi, there’s time to reflect on the wildlife encounters and scenic views. While it’s a brief trip, the combination of lakes, wildlife, and birdlife offers a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s diverse natural beauty.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This package includes meals, accommodation, guided game drives, bottled water, and transportation. The cost of $495 per person is quite reasonable given the experience, especially considering that all logistics are handled for you. You won’t need to worry about booking guides or meals separately, which adds to the value.

However, alcoholic drinks or soft drinks aren’t included but are available to purchase, so you can bring your own or buy on-site. The flexible booking policy allows you to reserve now and pay later, perfect if you’re still planning your bigger Kenya adventure.

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Authentic Insights from Reviews

Travelers have shared that the guides are the real highlight—their deep knowledge and friendly attitude make wildlife sightings all the more enjoyable. One reviewer noted that “our guide was very patient with us, pointing out small birds and explaining their behaviors,” which makes a big difference when zooming in with binoculars.

Others appreciated the stunning landscape views, mentioning how the lakes with flamingos create a surreal, almost otherworldly backdrop. Some found the trip to be a tad rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore more, but for most, the balance of driving, game viewing, and relaxation hits the sweet spot.

Practical Tips

Bring binoculars and camera gear—bright, clear photos of flamingos and lions are memorable keepsakes.
Dress comfortably but be prepared for sun exposure—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.
Keep small change handy for optional purchases like drinks or souvenirs.
Remember, meals are included, so check if you have any special dietary needs beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This safari is ideal for first-time visitors to Kenya looking for an introduction to Kenyan wildlife and scenery without a long commitment. It’s also perfect if you want a cost-effective, guided experience with knowledgeable guides enhancing your chances of wildlife sightings.

Those with limited time in Nairobi will appreciate how much they can see and experience in just two days. It’s a good choice for nature lovers and birdwatchers, especially since the tour emphasizes birdlife and the opportunity to see flamingos in their natural habitat.

If you prefer slow-paced, multi-day safaris, this might feel a little rushed, but for a quick, authentic taste of Kenya’s wildlife, it’s a solid pick.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Lake Elementaita safari offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes—all within a short trip from Nairobi. The inclusion of expert guides means you’ll likely see more animals and learn more about the ecosystem than you would alone, making this experience particularly valuable for those new to Kenya’s wilderness.

The opportunities to spot tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and a variety of bird species make it especially appealing to bird enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. At a reasonable price point, with all logistics handled, it’s a practical choice for travelers seeking an authentic, guided adventure.

While it’s not a comprehensive safari, it’s a wonderful way to dip your toes into Kenya’s natural beauty, especially if time or budget constraints limit longer trips. Expect stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and memorable moments that make every dollar worth it.

FAQ

What is the departure time for this safari?
Pick-up is at 7:00 AM from your Nairobi hotel or airport, giving you plenty of time to start your adventure early in the day.

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Lake Elementaita?
The journey takes approximately three hours, allowing you to arrive mid-morning and maximize your time at the park.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You may encounter animals like giraffes, buffaloes, and possibly elusive leopards. The conservancy is also home to tree-climbing lions and a high density of birds, including flamingos.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the package, along with bottled water during the tours.

Is accommodation provided?
Yes, one night of accommodation is included, typically at a lodge or camp near Lake Elementaita.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
Alcoholic and soft drinks are not included but are available for purchase on-site, so bringing some along is optional.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the tour’s focus on guided wildlife viewing makes it suitable for families with older children who enjoy nature.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

Can I extend my stay at Lake Elementaita?
The package is designed for a two-day experience, but you can always arrange longer stays directly with the provider or at local accommodations.

This safari offers a practical, authentic taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, delivered through expert guidance and stunning scenery, making it a worthwhile addition to your Kenya itinerary.