11-Day Flying Package — Conservation Highlights & Eco-Friendly Lodges

Overview

Combine meaningful conservation with spectacular safari on this 11-day flying package in partnership with the African Conservation Foundation. Stay at sustainable, eco-friendly lodges and camps, take part in hands-on conservation activities, and enjoy expert-guided game drives across Amboseli, Samburu and the Maasai Mara — all while minimising your environmental footprint.

This curated flying itinerary uses scheduled light-air transfers for comfort and efficiency and is ideal for travellers who want authentic safari experiences that give back. Expect superb wildlife viewing, community-led conservation initiatives, and restful nights at lodges committed to sustainability.

Highlights

Partnership with African Conservation Foundation — direct conservation support and hands-on opportunities.
Eco-conscious lodges: Tawi Lodge (Amboseli), Samburu Intrepids, Ilkeliani Camp (Maasai Mara) — solar power, local staffing and low-impact operations.
Scheduled domestic flights (Wilson → Amboseli; Amboseli → Samburu; Samburu → Mara → Nairobi) for faster travel between parks.
Guided game drives, night drives, walking tours, birding and community conservation visits.
Chance to learn from Amboseli Trust for Elephants and support local conservation corridors.
Optional hot-air balloon over the Mara (seasonal; extra fee).

Day 01 :

Arrival in Nairobi

On arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be met by your Sureway Tours representative and transferred to Purdy Arms, a quiet private guesthouse set in leafy residential Nairobi. The Giraffe Centre visit introduces the Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife and their Rothschild Giraffe breeding programme — feed giraffes from the platform or enjoy a nature walk. Dinner and overnight at Purdy Arms.

Day 02 :

Nairobi → Amboseli National Park (flight via Wilson)

After early breakfast transfer to Wilson Airport for a scheduled flight to Amboseli. On arrival at Amboseli airstrip you’ll be met and transferred to Tawi Lodge on the Tawi-Kilitome Conservancy — an eco-conscious lodge that supports an essential corridor for Amboseli’s elephants. Arrive in time for lunch and relax before your first afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 03 & 04 :

Amboseli National Park (conservation focus & drives)

Two full days at Tawi Lodge and Amboseli: morning and afternoon game drives, birding and optional walking tours or night drives. Visit the Amboseli Trust for Elephants to learn about monitoring projects and conservation work. Tawi Lodge offers bush-breakfasts, spa and pool time for downtime between activities. Dinner and overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 05 :

Amboseli → Samburu National Reserve (flight)

Transfer to Amboseli airstrip for a scheduled flight to Samburu (via Wilson). On arrival at Samburu airstrip meet your guide and transfer to Samburu Intrepids Lodge. Settle into your elevated tented accommodation overlooking the river — watch elephants, buffalo and crocodiles from your private deck. Dinner and overnight at Samburu Intrepids.

Day 06 & 07 :

Samburu National Reserve (local culture & wildlife)

Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives targeting Samburu’s unique northern species: reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk and Samburu ostrich. Optional guided nature walks, cultural visits and lectures on local conservation are available. Dinner and overnight at Samburu Intrepids.

Day 08 :

Samburu → Maasai Mara National Reserve (flight)

After breakfast transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to the Maasai Mara. Meet your guide on arrival and transfer to Ilkeliani Camp, an eco-friendly riverside camp on the Talek River. Relax before an afternoon game drive — frequent in-camp wildlife sightings are possible. Dinner and overnight at Ilkeliani Camp.

Day 09 & 10 :

Maasai Mara (eco-camp and game drives)

Two full days of Mara game drives led by Maasai guides who know the reserve intimately. Ilkeliani Camp follows eco-friendly practices (solar lighting, local staffing). Optional hot-air balloon excursion is available (extra fee) and includes a champagne bush breakfast. Full-day drives and guided walks are also offered. Dinner and overnight at Ilkeliani Camp.

Day 11 :

Maasai Mara → Nairobi (flight & departure)

After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight to Nairobi (Wilson). You’ll be met and transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your international flight home or to a Nairobi hotel if you opt to overnight. End of services.

FAQs

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What makes this safari ‘conservation-focused’?

The trip is run in partnership with the African Conservation Foundation and supports conservation corridors and projects such as the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. Stays at eco-lodges (solar power, local employment) and optional volunteer-style activities help minimise impact and contribute to local efforts.

Are conservation donations required?

No — donations beyond the trip cost are voluntary. Many guests choose to make an additional contribution to local conservation groups; we can facilitate donations during booking.

How do the scheduled flights work?

This flying package uses scheduled regional flights via Wilson Airport to shorten transfers between parks (Amboseli, Samburu, Masai Mara). Flight schedules vary seasonally and will be confirmed at booking.

Is this trip suitable for families or older travellers?

Yes — the flying format reduces long road transfers and lodges provide comfortable facilities. Some conservation activities may involve light walking; alternative options can be arranged for guests who prefer less activity.

Is the hot-air balloon included?

No — the balloon over the Mara is optional and charged extra. Book early as availability is seasonal.

Will I have opportunities to meet conservation staff?

Yes — the itinerary includes visits/briefings with conservation partners (e.g., Amboseli Trust for Elephants) and lodge-led conservation talks; hands-on opportunities are offered where appropriate.

What should I pack for a conservation-focused safari?

Lightweight neutral clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, binoculars, a small daypack, reusable water bottle, and any personal medication. Lodges often provide charging stations and basic amenities.

11-Day Flying Package — Conservation Highlights & Eco-Friendly Lodges

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