4 days Private Safari to Olpejeta & Samburu National park

Kenya is famous for its wildlife, and a well-planned safari offers a chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. This 4-day private safari by Radar Tours and Travel takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, combining two of Kenya’s most fascinating reserves: Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Samburu National Park.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the focus on conservation at Ol Pejeta, especially its work with great apes, is genuinely inspiring. Second, the spectacular wildlife diversity in Samburu, including rare species found nowhere else in the country, makes every game drive a new adventure. Finally, the personalized attention and knowledgeable guides help us appreciate the intricacies of the landscapes and animals.

A possible consideration is the long travel time between the parks, which means a full and active schedule. This tour suits travelers who love wildlife encounters and aren’t bothered by some hours on the road. It’s perfect for those wanting a balance of wildlife, culture, and comfort in Kenya’s lesser-visited but equally rewarding parks.

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Key Points

Focus on conservation and unique species at Ol Pejeta, including great apes.
Rare Northern Kenya animals such as Gerenuk, Reticulated Giraffe, and Beisa Oryx are highlights.
Authentic local culture with the Samburu tribe adds a cultural dimension.
Expert guides and comfortable vehicles ensure great game viewing and photography.
Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later.
The price of $1,936 per person offers good value considering all accommodation, park fees, and meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Safari

This tour is designed for travelers seeking a thorough, comfortably paced exploration of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, with the added benefit of personalized services and local insights.

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Pickup and Start in Nairobi

Your adventure begins early at 7 am with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport. The first stop is the iconic equator crossing, a must-see for any traveler. Standing on the equator and snapping a photo next to the sign is both fun and a visual reminder of your journey into Africa’s heartland. Then, the drive continues towards Ol Pejeta, a conservancy renowned for its efforts in wildlife preservation and its sanctuary for great apes, including chimpanzees and mountain gorillas.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Arriving in time for lunch at Serena Sweetwaters Camp, you’ll get a chance to settle in and enjoy the lush surroundings. This luxury camp offers a comfortable base and spectacular views of the conservancy. The afternoon game drive is your first opportunity to see wildlife such as elephants, lions, and possibly rhinos, as Ol Pejeta is home to the only black rhinos in Kenya’s private conservancies.

The guides here are praised for their extensive knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about animal behavior and conservation efforts. One reviewer noted, “The guides really brought the animals to life, and I loved learning about their work protecting the rhinos and chimpanzees.” The openness of the Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs makes for excellent photography and eye-level animal viewing.

Transition to Samburu National Reserve

After breakfast the next morning, you’ll depart for Samburu, with an enroute game drive. This drive gives you your first glimpses of Kenya’s semi-arid landscapes and the wildlife that thrives there. The drive to Samburu is around 4-5 hours, so expect some scenic stops and plenty of opportunities to spot animals along the way.

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Exploring Samburu National Park

Arriving in Samburu around lunchtime, you’ll check into the Samburu Sopa Lodge, which offers a comfortable retreat with views of the wilderness. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a range of species not found in other Kenyan parks, making each game drive a chance to see something extraordinary.

In the late afternoon, a game drive reveals the rare Northern Kenya species like the Gerenuk (long-necked antelope), Reticulated Giraffe, and Grevy’s zebra. The landscape, characterized by dry riverbeds and acacia trees, provides stunning photographic opportunities.

One guest mentioned, “Seeing the Gerenuk standing on its hind legs to browse was surreal – I’ve never seen anything like it.” The variety of birdlife here is equally impressive, with species like kingfishers, hornbills, and secretary birds adding color and movement to your drives.

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Full Day in Samburu

The following day begins early with a game drive at dawn—arguably the best time for wildlife sightings—then return for breakfast. After some rest, an afternoon game drive continues your exploration. The guides’ local knowledge about the Samburu tribe’s culture enriches your understanding of the region, adding a cultural layer to your wildlife experience.

Return Journey to Nairobi

On the final morning, a quick early game drive precedes breakfast, after which you start your return to Nairobi. Enroute, there’s a short game drive to catch any last-minute animal sightings. You’ll arrive in Nairobi by late afternoon or early evening, with the option for lunch on the way (at your own expense).

The Practical Bits

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in a private, well-maintained Land Cruiser fitted with a pop-up roof, perfect for game viewing and photography. The small group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides are known for their professionalism and friendliness.

Accommodation and Meals

Your stays include 3 nights at comfortable lodges, with all meals included. The focus on good food and relaxing environments means you can recharge after days of exciting game drives. Meals are thoughtfully prepared, often featuring local ingredients, and cater to different dietary preferences.

Price and Value

The $1,936 per person covers everything: park entrance fees, accommodations, all meals, transport, and assistance. Considering the inclusiveness, the quality of guides, and the opportunity to see both conservation efforts and rare species, many travelers find this a fair deal. It’s especially appealing if you value personalized service and authentic wildlife encounters.

What’s Not Included

Tips and gratuities are at your discretion, and drinks such as alcohol aren’t included. Lunch on the last day is also optional and at your own expense, giving you flexibility to explore local restaurants if you wish.

Final Thoughts

This safari offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for wildlife lovers and cultural explorers alike. The combination of Ol Pejeta’s conservation efforts and Samburu’s unique species ensures you’ll see some of Kenya’s most special animals. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making every game drive educational as well as exciting.

The journey’s pace is lively but manageable, and the variety of landscapes—from lush conservancies to semi-arid plains—keeps the scenery fresh and fascinating. The comfortable accommodations and reliable transport make it suitable for those wanting hassle-free logistics, while the optional pay later booking adds flexibility.

If you’re looking for an authentic, wildlife-focused adventure that balances conservation insight, cultural exposure, and stunning vistas, this 4-day private safari is a solid choice. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private activity, with your own vehicle and guide, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility during your safari.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers three nights’ accommodation, all park entrance fees, meals, transport in a Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, bottled water, and assistance from the tour operator.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. Pack neutral-colored clothing for game drives and a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

How long are the drives between parks?
The drive from Ol Pejeta to Samburu is approximately 4-5 hours, so expect some travel time along with scenic stops and wildlife sightings en route.

Will I see specific animals like giraffes or elephants?
While sightings depend on animal movement and weather, both parks are known for elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and many other species, making sightings quite likely.

This 4-day safari strikes a nice balance between adventure, comfort, and authenticity. It’s a fantastic way to witness Kenya’s wildlife while enjoying the dedicated guidance and scenic landscapes that make the country a top safari destination.