Kenya: 11-Day Safari and Beach Tour from Nairobi to Diani

Exploring Kenya: An 11-Day Safari and Beach Tour from Nairobi to Diani

Planning a trip to Kenya can feel overwhelming—so many incredible places, wildlife encounters, and landscapes. This 11-day safari and beach tour from Black Santa Safaris offers an impressive blend of wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and relaxing beach days, all wrapped into one seamless itinerary.

What drew us to this tour were three standout features: the chance to get up close with Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Center, the thrill of unlimited game drives in Amboseli with views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the ultimate relaxation at Diani Beach, including a dhow dinner cruise and a massage.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so many stops packed into just over a week, some travelers might find the schedule a little busy. But if you’re eager to see Kenya’s top wildlife spots and unwind on a tropical beach, this tour is a strong contender.

This experience suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, wildlife lovers, and those interested in exploring Kenya’s vibrant landscapes while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided activities.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Visit the Giraffe Center, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and several national parks for diverse animal sightings.
Active Adventures: Includes cycling in Hells Gate National Park and unlimited game drives, making it ideal for active travelers.
Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Experience local crafts at Kobe Beads, stunning views at Lake Nakuru, and the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro if weather permits.
Relaxation at Diani Beach: Enjoy leisure days with beachside massages, snorkeling, and a memorable dhow dinner cruise.
Value for Money: The $4,380 price covers accommodations, most meals, park fees, and activities—considered good value given the variety and quality of experiences.
Expert Guidance: The tour is operated by Black Santa Safaris, known for professional organization and authentic local insights.

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Starting Out in Nairobi

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Nairobi’s airport, where a representative from Black Santa Safaris will pick you up and transfer you to the Best Western Meridian Hotel or similar. This initial rest allows you to settle in before the adventure truly begins. While Nairobi itself is bustling, this hotel offers a comfortable base for your journey ahead.

Day 2 – Nairobi’s Wildlife Encounters
The morning starts with visits to two iconic spots: the Giraffe Center and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The Giraffe Center is where you’ll get to feed the Rothschild giraffes—an experience that’s both fun and educational. Many guests mention how close you can get to these tall, gentle creatures, which makes for unique photo ops.

Next, at the Elephant Orphanage, you’ll meet baby elephants rescued from various threats. The center’s work is inspiring, and guides are usually enthusiastic about explaining the stories behind each rescue. A review noted, “It’s touching to see how dedicated they are to saving these gentle giants.”

Later, the tour includes a visit to Kobe Beads, a pottery factory famous for creating stunning beads. It’s not just about shopping—crafting these beads involves local artisans and supports community livelihoods, adding an authentic touch.

Day 3 – Lake Nakuru: Flamingos and Wildlife
Traveling to Lake Nakuru National Park, you’ll first stop at a viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the park’s landscape. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its flamingos, which often cover the lake in a spectacular pink blanket—some guests describe it as “surreal.”

Beyond flamingos, the park is home to rhinos, buffalo, baboons, ostriches, pelicans, and possibly leopards. We loved the way the guide highlighted the bird species and explained their ecological roles—adding depth to what might otherwise be just a wildlife drive.

In the afternoon, more game drives reveal the park’s diversity, with some reviewers noting how peaceful and photogenic the scenery is. Evening relaxes at Nakuru Sopa Lodge, where the sunset views often steal the show.

Day 4 – Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha
Hells Gate National Park offers a unique experience: guided cycling through dramatic canyons, with views that are genuinely jaw-dropping. Many reviews mention how exhilarating it is to pedal past towering cliffs and spot wildlife along the way.

For the less energetic, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a highlight—expect to see hippos, buffalo, and numerous bird species. One guest commented, “The boat ride was a peaceful way to see the lake’s wildlife up close, especially with the stunning backdrop of the cliffs.”

This day blends active exploration with scenic relaxation, leaving you energized and inspired.

Days 5-6 – Amboseli National Park: Iconic Views and Animal Encounters
The drive to Amboseli is scenic, with the possibility of glimpsing Mount Kilimanjaro if weather permits—a magical sight that many travelers cherish. Once in Amboseli, unlimited game drives mean you can spend as much time as needed spotting elephants, lions, zebras, and giraffes.

Guests appreciate the abundance of wildlife and the opportunity to witness large herds of elephants in their natural habitat. The park’s flat terrain makes spotting animals easier, and many note that the views of Kilimanjaro make the experience even more memorable.

Days 7-8 – Tsavo West and Tsavo East
Moving to Tsavo West, you’ll visit Mzima Springs—an oasis where hippos and crocodiles bask in clear waters. The scenery here is lush and vibrant, and many guests find it to be a highlight of their trip.

A short transfer takes you to Tsavo East, where you’ll enjoy game drives that reveal the park’s expansive wilderness. The landscape is more open, and the wildlife sightings are just as impressive. Visitors often mention how these parks showcase Kenya’s true wilderness, with Mzima Springs offering a peaceful break from game drives.

Day 9 – Diani Beach: Relaxation Begins
Your journey concludes with a transfer to Diani Beach, a paradise of white sands and turquoise waters. The Baobab Beach Resort provides a comfortable base for unwinding.

Guests love the relaxed vibe here, with many scheduling leisure activities such as swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a soothing body massage. The beach setting is truly postcard-perfect.

Day 10 – Wasini Dhow Safari & Snorkeling
The full-day Wasini Dhow Safari is a standout. Guests rave about snorkeling at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park, where vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish make for a colorful underwater spectacle.

A delicious seafood lunch on the dhow, combined with the chance to spot dolphins, creates lasting memories. Reviewers mention how well-organized the tour is and how it offers a perfect mix of land and sea adventure.

Day 11 – Returning to Nairobi
Your safari ends with a flight back from Diani to Nairobi, providing ample time to connect with your departure. Many travelers find this convenient, though some suggest confirming flight times in advance.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife Diversity and Conservation Focus
From baby elephants at David Sheldrick to flamingos at Nakuru, this tour offers diverse animal encounters. The visits to conservation centers add a meaningful layer, emphasizing Kenya’s efforts to protect its wildlife.

Active and Relaxing Balance
Whether it’s cycling in Hells Gate or lounging on Diani’s beaches, the tour balances energetic days with restful evenings. The inclusion of massages and beachside dinners enhances relaxation.

Authentic Cultural Experiences
Kobe Beads gives insight into local craftsmanship, supporting community artisans. This touches on responsible tourism and adds a cultural dimension.

Impressive Scenery and Views
Expect breathtaking vistas—whether of flamingo-covered lakes, towering canyons, or Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak. Some guests mention how these sights surpass their expectations.

Value for Money
For $4,380, the tour includes accommodations, most meals, park entries, and activities, making it a competitive option for a comprehensive Kenyan adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size
Traveling is by comfortable minibus or 4×4, suitable for game drives and transfers. The group size isn’t specified, but guided tours like these tend to be intimate enough to foster camaraderie without feeling crowded.

Timing and Duration
The itinerary spans 11 days, balancing busy travel days with leisure. Starting from Nairobi allows easy access and efficient travel between parks.

What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are essentials. The tour advises dressing appropriately for weather changes and wildlife encounters.

Inclusions and Extras
The package covers most costs—hotels, meals, park fees, activities—but personal items, travel insurance, and optional extras like souvenirs are not included.

Flexibility and Cancellation
Booking options include a ‘reserve & pay later’ feature, with a cancellation policy allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance. This flexibility suits travelers wanting to keep plans open.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Kenya adventure suits travelers eager for a thorough exploration of Kenya’s national parks and wildlife, combined with quality relaxation at Diani Beach. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a packed schedule, but also craving downtime by the sea. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and active travelers will find plenty to love here.

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Final Thoughts

This 11-day Kenya safari and beach tour presents a compelling mix of wildlife, scenery, and relaxation. The chance to observe elephants, flamingos, and lions in their natural habitats, combined with cultural insights and beachside leisure, makes it a well-rounded experience.

While the pace is lively, the variety ensures every day feels fresh and rewarding. The inclusion of activities like cycling, boat rides, and the dhow dinner cruise adds unique touches that elevate the trip beyond the typical safari.

If you’re looking to combine Kenya’s best wildlife experiences with a relaxing beach escape, this tour offers excellent value and authentic adventures. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a mix of active exploration and tranquil downtime, all guided by knowledgeable local experts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $4,380 per person, which covers accommodations, most meals, park entrance fees, and activities.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making your start and finish stress-free.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll see giraffes, elephants, flamingos, rhinos, buffalo, pelicans, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly leopards, depending on luck and timing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it might suit families with non-swimmers and children comfortable with outdoor adventures.

How active are the activities?
There’s cycling through Hells Gate, game drives, and walking safaris, so it’s suitable for active travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, camera, water, and insect repellent are recommended.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included as per the itinerary, but personal snacks or drinks are extras.

Is there free time to relax?
Yes, especially at Diani Beach, where leisure days include massages and beach lounging.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, there’s a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, providing flexibility before finalizing your booking.

What languages are spoken on the tour?
English, French, Italian, and German are available, making it accessible for many travelers.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Kenya—wildlife, culture, and relaxation—all wrapped into one memorable journey. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic or just looking to unwind with a tropical beach stay, it’s a trip worth considering.