Unforgettable Kenya Journeys with Koi Travel

Welcome to Kenya! Embark on a lifetime adventure with Koi Travel, exploring Kenya’s most iconic wildlife destinations and cultural gems. Our 9-day, 8-night “Wilderness & Wonders” safari is meticulously designed to offer memorable encounters with diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences, ensuring quality service every step of the way.

Detailed Itinerary: Day-by-Day Kenya Safari Experience

Day 1: Samburu Game Reserve – Kenya’s Untamed Northern Gem

Your unforgettable Kenya safari begins at 07:00 AM from Nairobi as we drive to Samburu Game Reserve, Kenya’s untamed northern gem. Nestled between the lush highlands and arid north, Samburu, along with Shaba and Buffalo Springs, offers dramatic scenery, rare wildlife, and diverse birdlife.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in and enjoy lunch. At 16:00, immerse yourself in your first afternoon game drive, searching for the unique species found only in this region. The Ewaso Ngiro River, the lifeblood of the reserve, attracts a plethora of wildlife, including the famous Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, and Somali ostrich. Keep an eye out for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and hippos. Over 350 bird species thrive here, including kingfishers, sunbirds, and various raptors.

Samburu holds historical significance as a setting for “Born Free” and the home of “Kamunyak,” the lioness who adopted oryx calves. You’ll witness landscapes like Shaba’s volcanic cone and Buffalo Springs’ sparkling oasis.

  • Accommodation: Dinner and overnight at Samburu Sopa Lodge / Samburu Simba Lodge / Sarova Shaba Game Lodge or similar.

Day 2: Samburu Game Reserve – Unforgettable Wildlife & Culture

Today is dedicated to exploring the raw, authentic wilderness of Samburu Game Reserve with both morning and afternoon game drives. Samburu offers a distinctive safari experience away from more crowded parks, ideal for seasoned travelers, wildlife photographers, and those seeking a remote adventure.

Why Visit Samburu Game Reserve?

  • Home to the Samburu Special Five: This is the only place in Kenya where you can consistently see the rare Grevy’s zebra, Reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Gerenuk, and Somali ostrich.
  • Excellent Big Cat & Elephant Sightings: Despite being lesser-known, Samburu boasts healthy populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The Ewaso Nyiro River also attracts large herds of elephants, offering prime viewing opportunities, especially in dry seasons.
  • Raw, Authentic Wilderness: Experience fewer tourists and vehicle congestion, leading to more peaceful and intimate wildlife encounters.
  • Stunning Landscapes & Ewaso Nyiro River: Enjoy picturesque views of doum palm-lined riverbanks, rolling hills, and dramatic sunsets.
  • Rich Samburu Culture: Engage with the semi-nomadic Samburu people, close relatives of the Maasai, known for their vibrant dress and traditions. Cultural visits offer fascinating insights into their lifestyle, including the famous “Singing Wells.”
  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Samburu Sopa Lodge / Samburu Simba Lodge / Sarova Shaba Game Lodge or similar.

Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park – Kenya’s Flamingo Haven

After breakfast and check-out, we depart at 07:00 AM for Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya’s renowned “Flamingo Haven.” Situated in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, this ecologically diverse park is a must-stop for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in and have lunch. Your afternoon game drive at 16:00 will introduce you to the park’s wonders.

Why Visit Lake Nakuru National Park?

  • World-Famous Flamingos & Birdlife: Lake Nakuru is globally famous for its spectacular display of flamingos, painting the lake pink with thousands of lesser and greater flamingos (seasonal). It’s an Important Bird Area (IBA) with over 450 bird species, including African fish eagles and great white pelicans.
  • Home to Black & White Rhinos: It’s one of the best places in Kenya to see both endangered black and white rhinoceros, protected within its secure sanctuary.
  • Big Cats and Other Wildlife: Spot tree-climbing lions, leopards, hyenas, buffaloes, waterbucks, and large herds of zebras, impalas, and the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.
  • Scenic Landscapes & Photographic Opportunities: Enjoy stunning views from Baboon Cliff, acacia forests, and rocky escarpments, perfect for photography.
  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge / Egret Savannah Camp or similar.

Day 4: Masai Mara Game Reserve – Kenya’s Iconic Wildlife Kingdom

Today, our journey takes us to the world-renowned Masai Mara Game Reserve, Kenya’s iconic wildlife kingdom. We depart at 07:00 AM, arriving for lunch and check-in. At 16:00, embark on your first thrilling afternoon game drive.

The Maasai Mara, part of the greater Serengeti Mara ecosystem, is famed not only for the annual Great Wildebeest Migration but also for its exceptional year-round abundance of wildlife. Home to over 100 mammal species, including all of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), and over 450 bird species, game viewing here is unparalleled.

The reserve’s name comes from the nomadic Maasai people and “Mara,” meaning mottled, referring to the savannah plains speckled with riverine forests. This diverse ecosystem supports a proliferation of species. Beyond the main reserve, surrounding conservancies offer a more exclusive game viewing experience with limited visitors and vehicles.

  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Mara Sopa Lodge / AA Mara Lodge or similar.

Day 5: Masai Mara Game Reserve – The Heart of African Safari

Dedicate your day to exploring the Masai Mara Game Reserve with a full day of game drives, or morning and afternoon sessions, truly experiencing the heart of an African safari.

Why Visit the Masai Mara?

  • The Great Wildebeest Migration – A Natural Wonder: Between July and October, witness one of the world’s most dramatic wildlife spectacles as over 1.5 million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles move from the Serengeti into the Mara. Experience thrilling Mara River crossings and intense predator-prey encounters.
  • Unmatched Big Cat Encounters: The Mara is arguably the best place in Africa to see lions (often in large prides), elusive leopards around riverine forests, and cheetahs thriving in the open plains. Big cat sightings are almost guaranteed.
  • The Big Five and More: Besides the Big Five, encounter giraffes, hippos, hyenas, jackals, warthogs, and over 450 bird species.
  • Stunning Landscapes: The reserve’s golden savannahs with acacia trees create the quintessential African safari backdrop, enhanced by the Mara River and dramatic sunsets.
  • Cultural Encounters with the Maasai People: Engage with the indigenous Maasai community. Opt for a visit to a Maasai village (Manyatta) to learn about their traditions, warrior culture, and participate in traditional dances.
  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Mara Sopa Lodge / AA Mara Lodge or similar.

Day 6: Discover Lake Naivasha – Kenya’s Freshwater Paradise

After breakfast and check-out, we depart at 07:30 AM for Lake Naivasha, a tranquil, high-altitude freshwater lake in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Lake Naivasha offers a refreshing contrast to traditional savannah safaris, ideal for relaxation and scenic beauty.

Today is free for leisure or to choose from a range of optional activities (payable direct):

  • Hike Mount Longonot: A dormant volcano offering spectacular views into the crater and across the Rift Valley.
  • Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha: Get close to hippos and diverse birdlife (over 400 species recorded).
  • Visit Crescent Island: A private sanctuary where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests without predators.
  • Explore Hell’s Gate National Park: One of the few parks permitting walking, bicycling, and rock climbing. Discover unique rock formations, a gorge with hot springs, and abundant plains game. The landscape inspired “The Lion King.”
  • Visit a Geothermal Spa: Relax in natural hot springs.

Lake Naivasha also holds historical significance, used by Imperial Airways and known for the “Happy Valley” days. Flower farms and a geothermal plant are notable commercial enterprises here.

  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Osotua Luxury Resort or similar.

Day 7: Amboseli National Park – The Land of Giants Beneath Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, we depart at 07:00 AM for Amboseli National Park, renowned for its huge herds of elephants and spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in and have lunch. Your afternoon game drive from 16:00 to 18:00 will offer your first glimpse of this iconic park. Amboseli boasts a wide variety of wildlife, including all the Big Five, and rare species like wild dogs. Over 600 bird species, including pelicans and kingfishers, thrive here.

The area’s name, “Empusel,” meaning salty, dusty place in Maasai, belies the extraordinary range of habitats, from arid lakebeds to lush swamp oases. Observation Hill provides panoramic views, overlooking a swamp that attracts high numbers of elephants, buffaloes, and hippos. Amboseli is also home to the nomadic Maasai people, and opportunities to visit Maasai villages offer insights into their rich culture.

  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Amboseli Sopa Lodge / AA Amboseli Lodge or similar.

Day 8: Amboseli National Park – Unrivaled Elephant & Kilimanjaro Views

Enjoy a full day exploring Amboseli National Park with morning and afternoon game drives, truly experiencing the “Land of Giants.”

Why Visit Amboseli National Park?

  • Unrivaled Elephant Encounters: Amboseli is world-famous for its free-roaming herds of elephants, including some of the largest tuskers in Africa. Witness close-up elephant behavior and family groups against the stunning backdrop of Kilimanjaro. The Amboseli Elephant Research Project has identified over 1,400 elephants here.
  • Stunning Views of Mount Kilimanjaro: While Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, the best panoramic views of its snow-capped summit are from Amboseli, especially on clear mornings and evenings, creating a picture-perfect safari setting.
  • Diverse Wildlife & Birdlife: Spot lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. Its open landscapes make wildlife spotting and photography easier.
  • Unique Ecosystems: Explore varied habitats, including swamps fed by Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, open plains, and acacia woodlands, which sustain rich wildlife populations.
  • Cultural Experiences with the Maasai People: Located in traditional Maasai land, Amboseli offers chances to visit local Maasai villages, learn about their cattle-based culture, and support community-based tourism and conservation efforts.
  • Accommodation: Lunch, dinner, and overnight at Amboseli Sopa Lodge / AA Amboseli Lodge or similar.

Day 9: End of Your Lifetime Kenya Safari Adventure

After a final breakfast and check-out, we begin our scenic drive back to Nairobi, concluding your unforgettable 9-Day Wilderness & Wonders of Kenya Safari with Koi Travel.

Why Book This Kenya Safari? Unforgettable Wildlife & Cultural Immersion

Choosing the right safari is crucial. Our 9-Day Wilderness & Wonders of Kenya Safari offers:

  • Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From the unique Samburu Special Five to the Big Five in Masai Mara and Amboseli, and thousands of flamingos in Lake Nakuru.
  • Iconic Landscapes: Experience the dramatic Rift Valley, the arid north, and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • Authentic Cultural Immersion: Engage with the vibrant Maasai and Samburu communities, learning about their traditions and ways of life.
  • Expertly Guided Safaris: Benefit from the extensive knowledge of our English-speaking driver-guides, passionate about Kenya’s fauna and flora.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Enjoy 8 nights of full-board accommodation, comfortable safari tour van transport with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing, and complimentary mineral water.
  • Flexibility: While designed for excellence, this itinerary can be tailored to your preferences, including accommodation upgrades or additional activities.

Kenya Safari Package Pricing & What’s Included (Valid till 20th December 2025)

Number of PaxPrice Per Person (USD)
Each of 2 pax$2,835
Each of 3 pax$2,225
Each of 4 pax$2,105
Each of 5 pax$1,960
Each of 6 pax$1,860
Each of 7 pax$1,790
Each of 8 pax$1,740
SRS (Single Room Supplement)$580

Package Inclusions:

  • Services of an English-speaking driver/guide with extensive knowledge of Kenyan wildlife and flora.
  • 8 Nights’ Accommodation on a full-board basis (Lunch, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast).
  • All ground transport in a comfortable safari tour van with a pop-up roof for optimal game drives.
  • All specified game drives as per the itinerary.
  • Driver and vehicle park fees.
  • Complementary 3 bottles of mineral water (0.5L) per person per day.

Package Exclusions:

  • Clients’ park entrance fees (Samburu, Nakuru, Masai Mara, Naivasha, Amboseli) – payable directly at park gates using credit card.
  • All types of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) – payable direct as per consumption, even during meals.
  • Laundry and other items of personal nature not explicitly mentioned.
  • Optional upgrade to a safari land cruiser (available with supplements).
  • Accommodation in specific hotels preferred by the client (can be arranged with extra cost).
  • Optional activities (e.g., Hot Air Balloon Safari, Boat Ride, Hell’s Gate fees, Maasai village visits) – payable directly.

Enhance Your Safari: Optional Experiences & Excursions

Elevate your safari experience with these unforgettable add-ons (not included in the main package price):

Hot Air Balloon Safari – Soaring Above the Savannah

Experience the magic of Africa from a breathtaking new perspective with a Balloon Safari – a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that takes you gently soaring over the vast wilderness at sunrise. This early morning flight offers 360-degree panoramic views of the African plains, rivers, and woodlands, revealing wildlife roaming freely below.

The Experience:

  • Early Start: Pickup from your lodge/camp before dawn, followed by a light pre-flight breakfast.
  • Lift-Off at Sunrise: Gently ascend into the skies for an unforgettable aerial journey as the sun rises.
  • Flight Time: Approximately one hour of silent, scenic flight over rivers, plains, and wildlife (lions, elephants, giraffes, and potentially the Great Wildebeest Migration).
  • Champagne Bush Breakfast: Upon landing, enjoy a full bush breakfast with champagne/sparkling wine, served under an acacia tree in the wild – an iconic and indulgent finish.

Why You Must Experience a Balloon Safari:

  • Unmatched Views: Get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and wildlife, capturing breathtaking photos that ground safaris can’t offer.
  • Peaceful & Majestic: The flight is smooth, quiet, and peaceful—offering a deeply emotional connection with nature.
  • Ideal for All Travelers: Perfect for honeymooners, families, photographers, and anyone looking for a special safari highlight.
  • Rare & Memorable: Balloon safaris are limited and exclusive—making it a bucket-list experience not to be missed.

Quick Facts:

  • Duration: ~1 hour flight maximum
  • Includes: Transfers, bush breakfast, champagne, and flight certificate
  • Available In: Masai Mara, Amboseli, and other select parks
  • Best Time: Year-round, but especially scenic during migration or green seasons

Plan Your Dream Kenya Safari with Koi Travel

Ready to embark on your “Wilderness & Wonders of Kenya” safari? Contact Koi Safaris today to customize this itinerary, inquire about specific dates, or learn more about our other exceptional safari packages. Let us craft your dream African adventure!