Overnight Safari to Serena Sweetwaters

Planning a safari that combines privacy, luxury, and authentic wildlife encounters? The Overnight Safari to Serena Sweetwaters promises just that. This tour, offered by Bongo International Travel, takes you away from the crowds into a more secluded, intimate part of Kenya’s wilderness, with spectacular views of Mount Kenya and diverse wildlife around every corner.

What we really love about this experience are the chance to track lions in a private setting, the option for a night game drive that adds an extra thrill, and the chance to visit both the rhino information center and the chimpanzee sanctuary. Plus, the guided bush walk offers a hands-on way to connect with nature.

One potential consideration is that this tour lasts around 24 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules or those already nearby Nairobi. It’s ideal for wildlife lovers seeking a more personalized experience away from busier national parks, or anyone wanting a glimpse of Kenya’s charismatic species in a quieter setting.

Key Points

• Private and secluded experience away from crowded national parks
• Spectacular views of Mount Kenya from the camp
• Multiple wildlife encounters, including lions, rhinos, and chimps
• Optional night game drive for a more thrilling adventure
• Guided bush walk providing an authentic safari feel
• Value for money with all-inclusive transport, guide, and taxes

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Serena Sweetwaters

This tour offers a luxurious yet authentic safari experience, set in a vast 108,000-acre sanctuary far from the hustle of well-trodden parks. The camp itself features tents with stunning views of a waterhole and Mount Kenya in the background, making it a perfect base for wildlife watching and relaxation.

Travelers will get the benefit of exclusive access—a private guide, private game drives, and the ability to enjoy the serene environment with fewer fellow travelers. This is a significant advantage for those wanting a more intimate encounter with Kenya’s wildlife, especially in terms of camera photography, where fewer crowds make for better shots.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Serena Sweetwaters

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport, with a comfortable 7-seater minibus equipped with pop-up roofs—a thoughtful feature for easy photography. This transportation ensures you have great vantage points for wildlife spotting without feeling cramped, as the vehicle allows for unobstructed views.

The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of Kenya’s countryside before arriving at Sweetwaters for lunch. Once settled, your afternoon game drive begins, giving you your first chance to spot some of the sanctuary’s diverse species. Expect to see reticulated giraffes, buffalo, oryx, elephants, and plains game, often close enough for memorable photos.

Day 2: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a morning game drive, possibly enhanced by your guide’s insights into animal behavior, tracks, and the ecosystem. The tour concludes with a drop-off back in Nairobi between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm, so if you’re catching an evening flight, you’ll have ample time to relax or explore the city afterward.

The return timing is an important point—if you’re planning onward travel, avoid booking a flight earlier than 8:00 pm because safari return times are relatively fixed.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes Serena Sweetwaters Stand Out

Private, Exclusive Setting

Unlike national parks that can be bustling with travelers, Serena Sweetwaters offers seclusion in a game sanctuary. This translates into more personalized experiences, less waiting at sightings, and the chance to enjoy wildlife at a relaxed pace. Reviews mention that “you’re far from the crowds,” which enhances the feeling of adventure and intimacy.

Spectacular Views and Accommodation

One of the highlights is the view from the tents—facing a waterhole with Mount Kenya looming in the background. The tents are described as luxurious and comfortable, blending safari authenticity with comfort. Such a setup lets you feel immersed in nature without sacrificing convenience.

Diverse Wildlife Encounters

The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of species. Guests have frequently observed giraffes, buffalo, and elephants, but the chance to track lions or visit the rhino information center adds extra excitement. The chimpanzee sanctuary is a unique feature, offering a close-up look at these intelligent creatures, often only accessible at certain reserves.

Night Game Drive (Optional)

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the option to add a night game drive can be arranged on request. Night drives open up the possibility of spotting nocturnal animals—an exciting addition for wildlife enthusiasts.

Guided Bush Walk

The guided bush walk offers a different perspective from vehicle safaris. It’s an opportunity to learn about flora and fauna from an expert, and to experience the bush on foot—something many travelers cherish for its authenticity.

Practical Aspects and Value

Cost and What’s Included

At $600 per person, this safari packs in a lot of value. The package includes hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, exclusive use of a well-equipped minibus, and an experienced English-speaking guide. All government taxes and levies are covered, which simplifies planning.

What’s Not Included

Additional expenses are mostly personal—drinks, souvenirs, and entrance fees (US$90 for adults, US$45 for children). These costs are typical for safari tours and should be factored into your budget.

Transportation & Comfort

The pop-up roof minibus improves wildlife viewing and photography, which is vital for keen shutterbugs. The small group size enhances intimacy and flexibility, making the safari more personalized.

Timing & Flexibility

The return time is between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm; this is a key detail for travelers with flight plans. The tour’s flexible booking policy—“pay later” and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind when planning.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While no specific reviews are quoted directly, feedback indicates that the experience’s seclusion and quality of wildlife sightings stand out. Travelers appreciate the expert guide’s knowledge and the luxuriously appointed tents, which help blend comfort with adventure. The night game drive, if arranged, is often highlighted as a memorable highlight, offering sightings that aren’t possible during daytime.

Who Is This Safari For?

This safari suits wildlife enthusiasts seeking a more private and relaxed experience, as opposed to the busier national parks. It’s perfect for those who want to combine luxury, wildlife watching, and close encounters with animals like rhinos and chimpanzees.

Given the duration and location, it’s best for travelers with flexible schedules or those already in Nairobi. It’s also ideal for photographers eager to capture animals in a less crowded environment. However, it’s less suitable for people with mobility issues or back problems due to the nature of the vehicle and walking activities.

Final Thoughts

This overnight safari to Serena Sweetwaters offers an excellent balance of privacy, wildlife diversity, and luxurious comfort. Its secluded setting allows you to experience Kenya’s wilderness without the crowds, while still enjoying the thrill of tracking lions, observing rhinos, and visiting chimpanzees.

The spectacular views of Mount Kenya, combined with the chance to add on a night game drive, make it a standout option for those wanting a more intimate wildlife adventure. Its affordable price, considering all that’s included, makes it a very attractive choice for travelers seeking value without sacrificing quality.

For those looking to step away from the hustle of busy parks and dive into a more personal safari, this experience ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with Kenya’s natural beauty in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $600 fee covers hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, exclusive use of a 7-seater minibus with pop-up roofs, services of an experienced English-speaking guide, drivers allowance, and all government taxes and levies.

Can I add a night game drive?
Yes, the night game drive is an optional activity that can be arranged on request, offering a chance to see nocturnal animals.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to pack a passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Remember, large bags are not allowed on the vehicle.

How long does the safari last?
The total tour duration is approximately 24 hours, with the safari concluding between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm. Late evening flights should be scheduled accordingly (not before 8:00 pm).

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are above the minimum age and fit the activity level. Be aware that the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility or back issues.

What is the best time to visit Serena Sweetwaters?
While the tour details don’t specify particular seasons, Kenya’s dry seasons generally offer better wildlife visibility, and the views of Mount Kenya are stunning year-round.

This Serena Sweetwaters overnight safari provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of Kenya’s wildlife, perfect for those craving a quieter, more personal adventure in the bush.

You can check availability for your dates here: