Nairobi: 9-Day Safari and Beach Holiday with Accommodation

Planning a trip that combines thrilling wildlife safaris with relaxing beach days? This 9-day Kenya tour from Petan Safaris offers just that. It’s a well-rounded experience, ideal for travelers craving a mix of adventure and leisure, with the added comfort of included meals and accommodations.

What makes this journey appealing? First, the chance to see iconic wildlife in their natural habitat at Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru. Second, the chance to enjoy the stunning scenery of Aberdare Ranges. And third, after the safaris, unwinding on the pristine sands of Diani Beach along the Indian Ocean.

However, a potential consideration is the travel pace—this trip involves quite a bit of moving around, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re eager to pack your days with diverse experiences and don’t mind the schedule, this tour is a fantastic value.

This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced combination of safari excitement and beach relaxation, especially if you prefer a guided, organized experience that handles all logistics.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Experience game drives in Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Aberdare Ranges.
• Comfort & Convenience: Accommodation, meals, and transport included, making logistics easier.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into wildlife and local culture.
• Beach Relaxation: Enjoy Diani Beach’s white sands and water activities.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel easily with 24-hour notice.
• Value for Money: At $2,050 per person, it offers a comprehensive Kenyan experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Nairobi to Aberdare Ranges

Starting from Nairobi, the journey takes you through Kenya’s highlands to Nyeri town. The real highlight here is the overnight stay at a lodge perched above a floodlit waterhole. This means you can watch animals come and go all night—an extraordinary experience for wildlife enthusiasts. The lodge’s prime location gives you a front-row seat to nature’s nocturnal activity, and the cozy setting makes it a peaceful start to your adventure.

Day 2: Aberdare Ranges to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, your drive continues to Lake Nakuru, passing the scenic Thompsons Falls—named after the Scottish explorer. Once at Lake Nakuru National Park, you’ll enjoy a game drive in the afternoon. This park is famous for its flamingos and rhinos, so expect some iconic wildlife sightings. Lunch is included, and guides are praised for their knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about the park’s ecology. Evening and overnight here give you a chance to reflect on the day’s sights.

Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara

The drive from Nakuru to Maasai Mara is a journey through the dramatic Great Rift Valley. The landscape here is stunning—rolling hills, acacia trees, and open plains. After settling into your lodge, the afternoon game drive offers a first glimpse of the abundant wildlife. Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise in spotting animals and sharing entertaining stories, making this a memorable start to your Maasai Mara experience.

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Day 4: Full Day in Maasai Mara

The full-day game drive is the highlight for many. You’ll explore the grasslands and river crossings, hoping to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and perhaps a river crossing of wildebeest. Lunch is usually a packed picnic, chosen for safety and comfort by your guides. Revisiting the Mara in the afternoon means more chances for sightings. The guides are often praised for their keen eyes and their ability to make the most of daylight hours in the park.

Day 5: Maasai Mara to Nairobi, then Mombasa

After breakfast, you’ll head back to Nairobi, arriving in late afternoon. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the safari and recharge before your journey south to Mombasa. This transition is crucial as it marks the shift from wildlife adventure to beach relaxation.

Days 6-8: Diani Beach

Stretching along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast, Diani Beach is a picture-perfect getaway. White sands, palm trees, and clear waters make it an idyllic spot for unwinding. The activities here are varied—swimming along sandbanks, snorkeling among reefs, or even diving into deep-sea canyons. Many travelers comment on the vibrant marine life and the warm, inviting waters, perfect for water sports like kitesurfing or stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re culturally curious, Mombasa’s nearby markets and historical sites add a cultural flavor to your beach days.

Day 9: Departure from Mombasa

Your driver will take you to Moi International Airport in Mombasa for your flight home. It’s a bittersweet goodbye to Kenya’s diverse landscapes but a perfect way to end a week of adventure and relaxation.

Transport and Logistics

Transportation is managed via comfortable tour vans, ideal for group travel. Guides are not only knowledgeable about wildlife but also skilled at making the journey enjoyable with local insights. The schedule is well-paced, but keep in mind that some long drives are involved, especially between Nakuru and Maasai Mara.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodations are described as comfortable, with most meals included—this simplifies planning and adds value. Staying within parks and near beaches means you’re close to the action and can maximize your time outdoors. Reviewers mention the lodges’ friendly staff and good amenities, contributing to a relaxing stay after busy safari days.

What Is Not Included

Park entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly. Guides are included, but tips are typically appreciated, especially for their expert service.

Pricing and Value

At $2,050 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. It covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and guided game drives, which means you won’t have to worry about hidden costs. For the price, you get access to some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife parks, expert guides, and a relaxing beach escape—a solid package for an African safari and beach combo.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews mention the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer highlighted that their guide, James, was “extremely observant and made sure we saw everything,” which spotlights the importance of a skilled guide in wildlife safaris. Others appreciated the flexibility of the itinerary, especially the full-day game drives that allowed for extended wildlife viewing. On the beach, travelers loved the variety of water activities and the chance to unwind after days of safari.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Kenya experience from Petan Safaris offers a well-rounded mix of adventure and relaxation. The safaris through Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Aberdare Ranges promise some of Africa’s best wildlife sightings with the comfort of guided tours and cozy accommodations. Following that, Diani Beach provides a perfect setting to soak up the sun and enjoy water-based activities against a stunning coastal backdrop.

It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking an organized yet immersive experience, with a focus on authentic wildlife encounters and a leisurely beach escape. The inclusion of meals, transport, and knowledgeable guides adds significant value, making it a convenient choice for first-time visitors to Kenya or those short on time but eager to cover a lot of ground.

If you love wildlife, vibrant landscapes, and the chance to unwind on some of Africa’s most beautiful beaches, this tour checks all these boxes. Just remember, the pace is active, and some long drives are involved, so be prepared for days packed with discovery.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transport in a tour van, accommodations, meals, guided game drives, and a knowledgeable guide. Park entrance fees are not included.

How many game drives are there?
There are multiple game drives, including a full-day game drive in Maasai Mara and shorter drives in Lake Nakuru and Aberdare Ranges. Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise in wildlife spotting.

Is accommodation comfortable?
Yes, the accommodations are described as comfortable, with some reviewers mentioning cozy lodges that provide a relaxing retreat after active days.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What water activities are available at Diani Beach?
Guests can swim along sandbanks, snorkel among reefs, and dive in deep-sea canyons. Water sports like kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the description doesn’t specify, the organized nature and variety of activities suggest it’s suitable for families with older children who enjoy wildlife and beach activities.

How does the cost compare to similar safaris?
At $2,050, this tour offers a good value considering included accommodations, meals, and guided safaris, providing an accessible way to experience Kenya’s highlights without hidden costs.

This Kenya tour strikes a great balance between adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers wanting to see wildlife and unwind in paradise. With expert guides, comfortable stays, and a mix of landscapes, it offers a memorable, well-rounded holiday experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: