When is the best time to see the Wildebeest Migration?

The Mara typically sees the migration between July and October, but timings vary annually — we’ll advise the best windows when you enquire.

Is Samburu family-friendly?

Yes — Samburu welcomes families and offers comfortable lodges; game drives and activity pacing can be adjusted for children.

Are park fees included?

Park fees are included only if explicitly listed under “Cost Includes.” All fees will be itemised in your booking quote.

Can I add a balloon safari in the Mara?

Yes — the balloon is optional and charged extra. Book early during peak season to secure a spot.

How much driving is involved?

Expect several hours of road travel between regions (Nairobi↔Samburu, Nakuru↔Mara). We can add domestic flights to reduce road time for an extra fee.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Expect Big Five species across Aberdares, Nakuru and the Mara; Samburu offers rare northern species (Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe), plus diverse birdlife.

7-Day Highlights of Kenya Safari

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Overview

Experience Kenya’s most celebrated parks in one unforgettable week. This 7-Day Highlights safari links Samburu’s unique northern species with the montane forests of the Aberdares, flamingo shores at Lake Nakuru and the iconic Maasai Mara — perfect for travellers who want an expertly paced introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.

Expect daily morning and afternoon game drives, comfortable lodge or camp stays, knowledgeable driver-guides and opportunities for cultural encounters with the Maasai. Time your trip for July–October to maximise chances of witnessing the Wildebeest Migration.

Highlights

Classic loop: Samburu → Aberdares → Lake Nakuru → Maasai Mara → Nairobi.
Samburu “Special Five”: Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich & reticulated giraffe.
Aberdares montane scenery with waterhole viewing from your lodge.
Flamingo spectacle and rhino sightings at Lake Nakuru.
Full days of game drives in the Masai Mara with migration-focus options and optional balloon safari.
Expert driver-guides, quality lodges/camps and Carnivore farewell lunch in Nairobi.

Day 01 :

Nairobi → Samburu National Reserve

Depart Nairobi north to Samburu, following the Ewaso Ny’iro and watching for crocodiles along the riverbanks. Arrive in time for lunch and head out on your first afternoon game drive to search for elephants, lions, leopards, zebras and Samburu’s northern specialties. Dinner and overnight at lodge or camp. (L/D)

Day 02 :

Samburu National Reserve

Early morning game drive focusing on Samburu’s “Special Five” (Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grévy’s zebra, Somali ostrich and reticulated giraffe). Midday at leisure — enjoy lodge facilities or a pool/health club — then a late afternoon drive (approx. 16:00) to look for African hunting dogs, wildcats and more big-game action. Dinner and overnight at lodge or camp. (B/L/D)

Day 03 :

Samburu → Aberdare National Park

After breakfast depart north and travel toward the Aberdares, stopping for lunch at Aberdare Country Club before arriving at The Ark (or similar) for afternoon/evening waterhole viewing. Aberdares offers cool montane landscapes, waterfalls and a high chance of seeing forest and moorland species. Dinner and overnight at the lodge. (B/L/D)

Day 04 :

Aberdares → Lake Nakuru National Park

Leave Aberdares after breakfast and travel through the Rift Valley toward Lake Nakuru. On arrival enjoy an afternoon game drive around the lake to view flamingo flocks, pelicans and the park’s rhino populations, plus abundant birdlife. Dinner and overnight at lodge or camp. (B/L/D)

Day 05 :

Nakuru → Masai Mara

Drive via the Great Rift Valley to the Maasai Mara. Arrive for lunch and your first afternoon game drive in the Mara’s iconic plains — famed for predators, grazing herds and the possible arrival of migrating wildebeest (seasonal). Dinner and overnight at lodge or camp. (B/L/D)

Day 06 :

Masai Maara (full day)

Early morning game drive to catch predators and active wildlife. Return for a late breakfast and lodge relaxation, then head out again for an afternoon game drive. Opt for a full-day picnic by the Mara River to focus on migration hotspots (seasonal). Optional sunrise hot-air balloon can be arranged (extra fee). Dinner and overnight at lodge or camp. (B/L/D)

Day 07 :

Maasai Mara → Nairobi (Departure)

Choose a final early morning drive or an optional balloon safari at dawn. After breakfast depart the Mara and return to Nairobi, arriving in time for a complimentary lunch at the famous Carnivore Restaurant. Drop-off at your Nairobi hotel or transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for onward travel. End of services. (B/L)

7-Day Highlights of Kenya Safari

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