Classic Best of Kenya

Planning a trip to Kenya? We’ve reviewed the Classic Best of Kenya tour, a carefully curated 7-day journey that promises a mix of iconic wildlife, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural encounters. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and expert guides suggest it’s a solid choice for those wanting a well-rounded safari experience.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on high-quality wildlife viewing in top reserves, the knowledgeable guides who truly bring the experience to life, and the balanced mix of game drives, cultural visits, and optional adventures like hot air balloon safaris. The only potential consideration? The itinerary is quite full, so travelers should be prepared for long days of exploring.

This tour is best suited for first-time safari-goers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an immersive Kenyan adventure with comfort and expert guidance. If authentic wildlife encounters and vibrant landscapes are on your list, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Premium Wildlife Viewing: Focused visits to Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli for diverse animal sightings.
• Expert Guides: Guides are fluent in English and well-versed in local flora, fauna, and culture—making every game drive educational.
• Value for Money: At $2,860 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience with most essentials included.
• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Optional visits to Maasai villages provide insight into local traditions.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in a safari minivan with a pop-up roof, hotel stays, and all park fees included streamline the journey.
• Flexible Add-ons: Hot air balloon rides and village visits available at extra costs, enhancing your adventure.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Arrival in Nairobi and First Impressions

Your adventure kicks off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a Classic Journeys Africa tour leader will greet you. This immediate meet-and-greet sets the tone for a smooth experience, with assistance for the transfer to the Tamarind Tree Hotel. The briefing gives you a sneak peek of the week ahead, and it’s helpful to meet your driver guide early to ask questions or clarify plans.

Many reviewers appreciate this personal touch. One shared that “the guides Joseph and Eric were very thoughtful and friendly,” which hints at the warm, personalized service you’re likely to receive throughout.

Maasai Mara: The Heart of Africa’s Wildlife

The drive from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara is about 5 hours, giving you a scenic taste of Kenya’s landscapes. Arriving in time for lunch at your lodge, you’ll settle into your tented accommodation at Keekorok Lodge and prepare for your first afternoon safari.

The Maasai Mara is, of course, the star attraction. You can expect to see Kenya’s largest lion prides and elephant herds, along with predators such as leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. The landscape itself is breathtaking, with rolling plains dotted with acacia trees. Many reviewers have called it the “greatest wildlife spectacle on earth,” and they’re not wrong.

Wildlife Encounters and Optional Balloon Safari

Day 3 is dedicated to full-day game viewing. This is where the guides really shine. They are proficient in bush craft and wildlife identification, often pointing out animals you might miss on your own. Several guests mentioned how the guides’ knowledge made the experience more enriching—they’ll tell you about animal behaviors, bird species, and local flora.

For an unforgettable perspective, you might opt for a hot air balloon ride, which includes a champagne breakfast in the wild. This is an extra cost but highly recommended based on reviews, with travelers describing it as “an unforgettable experience,” offering a bird’s-eye view of the Mara’s vastness.

Lake Nakuru: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Next, the tour moves to Lake Nakuru, approximately a 5-hour drive. This park is famous for its flocks of flamingos, which turn the lake into a pink spectacle. Beyond the birds, there’s a surprising variety of wildlife—lions lounging in the trees, rhinos, giraffes, and even the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, unique to this park.

Guests highlight how they enjoyed unlimited game drives and picnic lunches amid these scenic surroundings. One reviewer pointed out that “leopard is often found snoozing on the branches,” adding a touch of suspense and excitement.

Amboseli: Iconic Views and Elephant Encounters

The drive from Nakuru to Amboseli is about 4-5 hours, taking you closer to Mount Kilimanjaro. This is one of Kenya’s most iconic parks, mainly because of the massive elephant herds and the stunning mountain backdrop. Arriving in time for lunch, you’ll have the afternoon for your first game drive.

Here, the wildlife is abundant, and the scenery is spectacular. Several travelers mentioned the “majestic views of Kilimanjaro” as a highlight. You’ll also have the chance to see lions, giraffes, cheetahs, and buffalo, with many reviews noting the richness of game in this park.

Two Days of Exploration in Amboseli

On Day 6, the focus is on maximizing game viewing. Many guests appreciate the flexibility here—driving across the dry lake beds, exploring swampy areas, and spotting herds of elephants against the mountain’s imposing presence. Optional visits to a Maasai village add an authentic cultural element, giving a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle and colorful traditions.

Returning to Nairobi and Wrap-Up

The final day entails a morning drive back to Nairobi, arriving in early afternoon. This allows for last-minute shopping or a relaxed lunch before heading to the airport. Some travelers appreciated how the transfer was smooth and well-organized, thanks to the guides’ professionalism.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The $2,860 price tag reflects a comprehensive package that covers most essentials—transport, park fees, accommodations, and some meals. Guests have raved about the quality of guides and their ability to enhance wildlife sightings with education and friendly service. The inclusion of activities like boat rides at Crescent Island and the option for balloon safaris adds extra layers to this adventure.

The lodges and camps listed, such as Keekorok Lodge and Sentrim Camps, are comfortable, offering a good balance between rugged safari charm and modern amenities. Many reviewers mention the delicious food and warm hospitality, which often becomes a memorable part of the overall experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• Expert guidance: Guides like Joseph and Eric have been praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making every game drive engaging.
• Diverse wildlife: From the Big Five to endemic species like Rothschild’s giraffe, the tour covers Kenya’s most iconic creatures.
• Authentic cultural insights: Optional Maasai village visits bring local traditions to life, enriching your understanding of Kenya beyond just wildlife.
• Flexible experiences: Extra options like balloon safaris and village visits enhance the trip according to your interests and budget.

Considerations for Travelers

The itinerary is packed, meaning long days with early starts and lots of driving. While this maximizes wildlife sightings, it might be tiring for some. Also, the tour is primarily focused on game drives and scenic locations, so if cultural pursuits or luxury accommodations are your priority, you might want to explore other options or extend your stay.

Final Thoughts

The Classic Best of Kenya tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed safari that balances wildlife, scenery, and culture. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting to check off Kenya’s top spots with expert guides leading the way. The reviews suggest that this trip delivers on its promises—stunning views, amazing animals, and friendly, knowledgeable staff.

If you’re after an adventure that combines the thrill of spotting wildlife with authentic cultural exchanges, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s also well-suited for those who want a comfortable, organized experience without sacrificing the authenticity of a true Kenyan safari.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
Most essentials are covered, including transportation in a safari minivan with a pop-up roof, all park entrance fees, accommodations, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Bottled water is also provided during game drives.

Are optional activities available on this tour?
Yes, you can choose to go on a hot air balloon ride or visit a Maasai village at extra cost, both of which are highly recommended for an unforgettable experience.

How long are the game drives each day?
While the exact timing varies, many days include full-day game drives, especially in Maasai Mara and Amboseli, providing ample wildlife viewing opportunities.

What kind of guides will I have?
Guides are fluent in English and local languages, with some speaking French and Spanish. They’re knowledgeable about wildlife, bird species, local traditions, and safety procedures.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, especially those with older children or teenagers interested in wildlife and nature.

What should I pack for this safari?
Light, neutral-colored clothing for game drives, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars, camera, insect repellent, and sunblock are recommended. Some guests also bring a small pillow for comfort during long drives.

This guided safari blends adventure, education, and comfort, making it a memorable way to experience Kenya’s most celebrated landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour offers a balanced, reliable way to explore the heart of Africa.