8 Days Samburu,Nakuru,Masai Mara,Naivasha & Amboseli Camping

Planning a safari in Kenya is no small feat, especially when trying to balance adventure, comfort, and value. This 8-day journey offered by Jossec Safaris promises an immersive experience, taking travelers through some of Kenya’s most iconic parks. From spotting rare Samburu species to witnessing the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli, this tour is packed with highlights.

What we love about this trip is its focus on authentic wildlife encounters, the opportunity to camp in prime locations, and the knowledgeable guides who help bring each destination to life. The itinerary promises a well-rounded adventure with time to explore, relax, and connect with Kenya’s natural beauty.

A potential consideration is the long driving distances between some parks, which can be tiring for those preferring more relaxed days. However, the itinerary’s structure allows for plenty of game viewing and cultural experiences, making it ideal for those eager for a comprehensive safari.

This tour suits travelers who seek a genuine, budget-conscious Kenyan safari that combines game drives, cultural visits, and scenic landscapes. If you’re after memorable wildlife moments with the chance to learn from local Maasai elders or snap perfect photos of Mount Kilimanjaro, this trip might be just right.

Key Points

• Iconic parks like Maasai Mara and Amboseli are included, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• Unique species such as Grevys zebra, gerenuk gazelle, and reticulated giraffes are highlights of Samburu.
• Expert guides enhance your experience with knowledgeable narration and spotting skills.
• Camping and lodges combine comfort with authenticity, allowing close-to-nature experiences.
• Full board meals ensure you’re well-fed for full days of exploration.
• Cultural encounters with Maasai elders add an enriching dimension beyond wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Nairobi, where the Jossec Safaris team welcomes you and briefs you on the coming days. Leaving the hustle of the city behind, you’ll head northward across the equator into Samburu National Reserve. The drive itself offers scenic views, but the highlight is arriving in time for a game drive and getting your first glimpse of Africa’s wildlife.

Samburu is renowned for its endemic species like the Grevys zebra, gerenuk gazelle, and reticulated giraffe, which you won’t see anywhere else. The lush landscape of the reserve is punctuated by the Ewaso Nyiro River, providing vital water for the animals. Most travelers note that the guides, such as Jossec’s professional team, are skilled at spotting elusive wildlife and sharing interesting insights.

Day 2: Full Day in Samburu

A full day here maximizes your chances to encounter the rare species endemic to this region. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are typically the best times for wildlife viewing, when animals are most active. You might see herds of elephants, lions lounging near waterholes, or the elegant reticulated giraffe browsing the treetops.

Guests frequently mention the guides’ expertise, saying, “Our guide, John, was incredibly knowledgeable about Samburu’s wildlife and made sure we didn’t miss anything.” The landscape’s lush greenery combined with wildlife activity makes every drive special. The day’s pace allows for breaks at the camp, giving you time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, it’s time to head south towards Lake Nakuru National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic spots like Thomson Falls, Rift Valley viewpoints, and Menengai Crater. This route offers some of the best vistas in Kenya, with panoramic views and photo opportunities.

Lake Nakuru is famed for its spectacular flamingo populations, which often blanket the soda lake in a vibrant pink. The park is also home to rhinos, lions, and waterbucks. Visitors note that the landscape is a mix of wetlands and grasslands, providing diverse habitats for wildlife. Lanet Matfam Resort offers comfortable accommodation, but be prepared for a different atmosphere than the previous night’s camp.

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Day 4-5: The Maasai Mara

No safari in Kenya is complete without a visit to the Maasai Mara, especially during the peak of the Great Migration. You’ll arrive mid-morning after an early breakfast, settling into your tented camp—an experience blending adventure with a touch of luxury.

The Maasai Mara is where you’ll see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—and endless plains teeming with wildlife. The schedule includes four game drives spread across two days, ensuring ample opportunity to spot predators and prey. Reviews highlight the guides’ skill in locating wildlife: “We saw a cheetah chasing a herd of gazelles, something I’d only dreamed of seeing.”

The tour also offers an optional visit to a Maasai village, where you can meet elders, join singing and dancing, and learn about Maasai customs. This cultural element adds depth to the safari, making it more than just a wildlife chase.

Day 6: Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha

A scenic drive takes you from the Maasai Mara back towards the Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha. Once there, you’ll enjoy a boat ride, which offers a different perspective of this freshwater lake. Expect to see hippos, buffalo, and a variety of bird species including kingfishers and herons.

The highlight is visiting Crescent Island, a birdwatching paradise and a fantastic spot for close-up wildlife encounters. Guests loved the boat trip, citing it as a peaceful, scenic interlude amidst the game drives. The evening at Taphe Guest Resort provides a relaxing base after a full day.

Day 7: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli

From Naivasha, you’ll head back to Nairobi and onward to Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and the magnificent backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Most travelers mention that the sight of Kilimanjaro emerging at sunrise or sunset is unforgettable.

Your afternoon game drive here is packed with opportunities to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, and perhaps even a leopard. The camp, AA Amboseli, offers comfortable lodgings with views of the park’s plains, making every moment feel like part of an authentic safari experience.

Day 8: Depart from Amboseli

Early morning game drives allow you one last chance to see wildlife before heading back to Nairobi for lunch at the Carnivore Restaurant—an iconic spot for meat lovers—and then onward to the airport. The guide’s professionalism and timely logistics make this a smooth end to your adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Wildlife Encounters: The itinerary covers some of Kenya’s most famous parks, each offering distinct landscapes and animal populations. The chance to see Grevys zebra, gerenuk gazelle, and reticulated giraffe in Samburu is especially exciting for wildlife enthusiasts.

Expert Guides: Guided by knowledgeable professionals, you’ll gain insights into animal behavior, park ecology, and local cultures. Several reviews praised the guides’ ability to spot elusive animals and share fascinating facts.

Camping in Prime Locations: Staying at tented camps like Rhino Tourist Tented Camp in Maasai Mara or AA Amboseli provides a true safari feel. The blend of comfort and adventure helps guests connect with nature without sacrificing basic amenities.

Scenic Diversity: The tour takes you from lush riverine landscapes, soda lakes teeming with flamingos, to the spectacular plains of Maasai Mara, and finally to the iconic Kilimanjaro backdrop—each offering stunning photo opportunities.

Cultural Experiences: Visiting Maasai villages adds a meaningful layer to your safari, offering perspectives beyond wildlife.

Value for Money: At $3,890 per person, this includes all park entrance fees, full board meals, airport transfers, and game drives in a spacious vehicle with a pop-up roof—making it a practical option for those seeking a comprehensive safari without hidden costs.

Practical Insights

Transportation: The tour uses a spacious minivan with a pop-up roof, perfect for game viewing and photography. Long drives are unavoidable but are broken up with scenic stops and chances to stretch.

Accommodation: A mix of lodges and tented camps provides comfort while maintaining an authentic safari atmosphere. Guest reviews mention that guides go out of their way to make sure everyone is comfortable and well-informed.

Meals: All meals are included, typically served buffet-style with Kenyan staples. The full-board arrangement keeps you energized for full days of game drives.

Guides: The presence of professional English-speaking guides is a significant plus, with many guests praising their ability to spot animals quickly and share engaging stories.

Extras: Optional activities like village visits or balloon safaris are available at additional costs, offering opportunities for those wanting more.

Pricing: Considering the inclusiveness of park fees, meals, transportation, and guiding, the price offers good value for a multi-park experience. However, some extras like balloon rides or premium upgrades are paid separately.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari for You?

This 8-day Kenya safari offers a well-rounded experience, perfect for travelers eager to see a wide range of wildlife, enjoy local Maasai culture, and enjoy scenic landscapes. It balances adventure and comfort, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned safari-goers alike.

The focus on authentic game viewing, knowledgeable guides, and camping in strategic locations ensures you get a genuine sense of Kenya’s wilderness. The trip’s structure means you’ll likely come away with stunning photographs, memorable wildlife encounters, and a deeper appreciation of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or ultra-luxury accommodations, this might feel a bit active or rustic. Still, for those wanting an affordable, comprehensive safari packed with iconic sights, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Overall, Jossec Safaris delivers a safari experience that’s both exciting and meaningful—an excellent way to explore Kenya’s natural treasures while connecting with its vibrant cultures.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers transportation in a spacious minivan with a pop-up roof, all park entrance fees, full board meals, services of a professional English-speaking driver guide, accommodation as per the itinerary, and airport transfers.

Are park fees and meals included?
Yes, all park entrance fees and meals during the safari are included in the price, ensuring no hidden costs during your trip.

Can I visit Maasai villages?
Yes, there is a Maasai village visit included in the itinerary, allowing you to meet elders, learn about their traditions, and enjoy singing and dancing.

Is the accommodation camping or lodges?
The tour features a mix of comfortable lodges and tented camps in prime locations like Maasai Mara and Amboseli, providing an authentic safari experience.

What should I bring for this safari?
Travelers should bring a passport or ID card, camera, binoculars, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, activities like balloon rides are offered at additional costs (e.g., $450 per person), giving you the chance to see the parks from a different perspective.

This 8-day safari tour presents a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and culture, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable Kenyan adventure. With expert guides, authentic campsites, and access to some of Kenya’s best parks, it offers real value for those eager to explore East Africa’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: