Explore Kenya: Samburu, Masai Mara & Amboseli in 9 Days Tour

Setting out on a safari through Kenya offers a chance to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and stunning scenery. This 9-day tour from Jossec Safaris promises a well-rounded experience, balancing wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. From the rare Grevy’s zebra in Samburu to the legendary Big Five in the Masai Mara, this trip covers the essentials for an authentic safari adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see unique species like the Somali ostrich and reticulated giraffes in Samburu. Second, the opportunity to witness flamingos and rhinos at Lake Nakuru, an ornithologist’s paradise. Third, the breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli and the chance to enjoy game drives with expert guides. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the pace — nine days packed with activities can feel a bit rushed if you prefer slow travel. This trip suits wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers wanting a comprehensive Kenyan safari experience, with a good mix of adventure and comfort.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife: Encounter rare species like Grevy’s zebras and Somali ostriches, alongside the Big Five.
• Iconic Landscapes: Experience the dramatic scenery of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay at well-reviewed lodges with full board meals, park entry fees, and expert guides included.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides enrich the experience with insight and professionalism.
• Extra Options: Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris and boat rides add a special touch.
• Travel Flexibility: Book now with pay later options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a flexible plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Kenya Safari Experience

This comprehensive 9-day tour from Jossec Safaris is designed for travelers eager to explore Kenya’s most famed parks. It balances exciting wildlife sightings with comfortable lodging and scenic drives, all led by guides whose local knowledge enhances each moment.

The experience begins in Nairobi, a bustling hub before venturing into the wilds of Samburu, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Naivasha, and Amboseli. The itinerary promises encounters with Africa’s iconic animals, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights — all crucial ingredients for a memorable journey.

What’s particularly appealing is the mix of destinations. Each stop offers something different: Samburu’s unique species, Nakuru’s birdlife, the vast plains of the Mara, and Amboseli’s elephants with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. While the price point of $6,679 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes almost everything—accommodation, park fees, meals, and guided game drives—making it a solid value for a top-tier safari adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve

The safari kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel, where you’ll meet your guide and the rest of the group. After a briefing, the journey north in a sturdy 4×4 safari vehicle begins. The drive takes you through Kenya’s scenic central highlands, offering glimpses of local life and lush landscapes.

Arriving at Samburu in time for your first game drive, you’ll notice how the terrain differs from other parks: rugged, semi-arid, but bursting with rare species. This reserve is famous for Grevys zebras and reticulated giraffes, which you’ll have the chance to spot up-close. The guides are well-versed in animal behavior, adding layers of context to each sighting.

Your accommodation, AA Samburu Lodge, is praised for its comfortable setting amid the wilderness. The lodge’s setting allows for relaxing evenings after exciting days of game viewing.

Day 2: Full Day in Samburu

A full day dedicated to game drives means multiple chances to see the park’s endemic species. Early mornings are best for spotting predators like lions and cheetahs, often seen stalking prey along the riverbanks. Afternoons tend to be warmer, but the guides keep an eye out for any animals you might have missed.

Reviews highlight the guides’ deep knowledge, with one mentioning, “Our guide, Samuel, was fantastic—he knew exactly where to find the animals and shared fascinating facts all day.” Many guests find that the Samburu experience is about more than just animals; it’s also about appreciating the stark, beautiful landscape and the chance to see wildlife in a semi-arid, rugged setting.

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Day 3: From Samburu to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, your journey heads south towards Lake Nakuru. The drive takes you through the sweeping scenery of the Great Rift Valley, a highlight in itself. The landscape opens up, revealing vast lakes, flamingos, and distant hills—a photographer’s dream.

Arriving at Lake Nakuru in the late afternoon, a game drive along the lake’s edge offers some of the best birdwatching in Kenya. Expect to see thousands of flamingos creating a pink spectacle and rhinos grazing nearby. The lodge, Ziwa Bush Lodge, gets good reviews for its cozy atmosphere and easy access to the park.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

This day is the journey’s highlight, crossing the Rift Valley to reach the legendary Masai Mara. The drive itself is spectacular, with views of the valley’s dramatic escarpments and plains.

In the Mara, your first game drive provides the opportunity to see the Big Five and possibly catch the tail end of the Great Migration if timing aligns. The vastness of the reserve is awe-inspiring, with rolling grasslands dotted with acacia trees and abundant wildlife.

Day 5: Game Drives in Masai Mara

A full day of exploration, with morning and afternoon game drives, offers many chances for sightings. The guides are experienced at tracking elusive animals and spotting rare species. Many reviews praise the guides for their professionalism and knowledge, with some guests mentioning they saw lions with cubs, cheetahs resting after a hunt, and large herds of elephants.

For an extra special experience, guests can opt for a hot air balloon safari at $450, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling plains and wildlife.

Day 6: From Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha

Leaving the Mara behind, you travel to Lake Naivasha, known for its tranquil waters and birdlife. The journey again offers scenic views, with a chance to see local Maasai villages and farms along the route.

Once at Lake Naivasha, you can enjoy an optional boat ride—widely praised for its close-up encounters with hippos and bird species—and a walking safari on Crescent Island, where zebras and giraffes roam freely. Guests find the relaxed pace here a nice change after the more intense game drives.

Day 7: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli

Continuing south, your destination is Amboseli National Park, famed for large herds of elephants and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The drive offers a sense of transition from the lush lakeside to the open plains of Amboseli, where wildlife congregates around swampy areas.

Arriving early afternoon, a game drive introduces you to the park’s diverse habitats. The guides’ familiarity with animal movements and behaviors makes each sighting more meaningful.

Day 8: Full Day in Amboseli

An entire day dedicated to exploring Amboseli means plenty of time to spot elephants—many guests comment on the impressive herds—and to enjoy the park’s birdlife. The backdrop of Kilimanjaro adds a magical element to every photo.

Evening at the lodge is perfect for relaxing after your busy day, with many reviewers mentioning how peaceful and scenic the setting is. Guides are praised for their patience and insight, helping guests understand animal behaviors and park ecology.

Day 9: Return to Nairobi

Your final morning in Amboseli includes a relaxed breakfast and one last game drive. Afterward, you’ll be driven back to Nairobi, marking the end of your safari adventure. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the incredible wildlife sightings and landscapes experienced.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour combines comfortable lodges, full-board meals, and guided game drives, designed to give you a seamless, hassle-free experience. The use of a 4×4 safari jeep ensures you’re comfortable and well-equipped for wildlife viewing, with bottled water provided during drives.

The guides are experienced, friendly, and fluent in English, often sharing interesting insights about animal behavior, local culture, and park ecology. Many reviews praise guides like Samuel and others for their professionalism and knowledge.

While the itinerary is packed, the inclusion of optional activities—such as hot air balloon safaris and boat rides—means you can tailor your experience if you wish to splurge a little extra.

However, the group size and timing might influence your experience. For some, the quick succession of parks leaves little time for relaxing, but for wildlife lovers eager to see as much as possible, it’s ideal.

Analyzing the Value of the Tour

At $6,679 per person, the tour includes nearly everything—lodging, meals, park fees, and guided drives—making it a rather comprehensive package. The cost reflects the inclusion of premium lodges and experienced guides, which adds to the overall quality.

Optional extras like hot air balloon safaris cost $450, which many consider worth the splurge for the panoramic views and memorable experience. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is another optional activity that adds value, offering a different perspective on Kenya’s lakeside wildlife.

Guests have noted that the tour’s logistical organization is well-handled, with timely transfers and accommodations of a similar standard as advertised. The small group size (not explicitly specified but implied) enhances the experience, allowing more personalized attention from guides.

Practical Details to Consider

• Luggage: Pack light, soft-sided bags (max 15 kg), to fit comfortably in the vehicle.
• Booking & Payment: Flexible options are available—reserve now and pay later, with cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure.
• What’s Included: Transportation, accommodations, meals, park fees, guides, and bottled water.
• What’s Not: International flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks outside meals, souvenirs, and post-safari accommodations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, especially those eager to see both the famous and rare species in Kenya. It’s ideal if you want a balance of adventure and comfort, with guided insights and scenic stops along the way.

Photographers will appreciate the chance to capture iconic landscapes and animal behaviors, especially with optional hot air balloon rides. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a comprehensive Kenyan adventure will find this itinerary well-paced and rewarding.

It’s also suited for travelers who value expert guidance and well-organized logistics, ensuring that every park visit is maximized without unnecessary stress.

The Sum Up

This 9-day Kenya safari delivers a well-rounded, immersive experience into some of Africa’s most celebrated landscapes and wildlife. The combination of knowledgeable guides, quality lodges, and diverse destinations makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to see the Big Five and beyond.

While the pace is brisk and optional extras cost extra, the core highlights are impactful and memorable. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a seamless, all-inclusive experience that balances adventure with comfort.

If your goal is to witness Kenya’s iconic wildlife, capture stunning photographs, and gain insightful knowledge from local guides, this tour offers excellent value and an authentic safari experience.

FAQ

What parks are included in this tour?
The tour visits Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli, giving you a broad overview of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems.

How many days are spent in each location?
You’ll spend two days in Samburu, one in Nakuru, two in Masai Mara, one at Lake Naivasha, and two in Amboseli, with the rest of the time traveling between parks.

Are meals included?
Yes, full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included throughout the safari.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
A 4×4 safari jeep with a professional guide is used, ensuring comfort and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Is the hot air balloon safari included?
No, it’s an optional add-on at $450 per person but highly recommended for a unique perspective of the Mara.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is pre-arranged, but optional activities like boat rides and cultural visits are available at extra cost.

What accommodation types are included?
Stays are at well-reviewed lodges such as AA Samburu Lodge, Ziwa Bush Lodge, and AA Mara Lodge, all praised for comfort and scenery.

Are park fees included?
Yes, all park entry fees are covered in the tour price.

What should I pack?
Light, soft-sided luggage (max 15 kg), neutral clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and a sense of adventure.

Is travel insurance necessary?
While not included, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, or lost belongings.

This Kenya safari offers a captivating journey through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the combination of scenery, animals, and expert guides ensures an experience worth every penny.

You can check availability for your dates here: