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7 Days Samburu to Masai Mara Safari

4.8/5 (50 reviews)
Duration7 Days / 6 Nights
Group SizeMax 6 People
VehiclePrivate Vehicle
AccommodationSamburu Sopa, Nakuru Sopa, Naivasha Sopa, Masai Mara Sopa
MealsFull Board
DestinationMasai Mara Safaris, Naivasha, Samburu Safari, Nakuru Safari
From $3,150 /per person sharing
Free Cancellation up to 14 days Secure Booking Instant Confirmation

Safari Overview

Experience the ultimate Kenyan adventure on this 7-day circuit, connecting the rugged northern landscapes of Samburu with the world-famous plains of the Masai Mara. This journey offers a diverse tapestry of wildlife, from the “Samburu Special 5” to the iconic Big 5. Along the way, you’ll witness the birdwatcher’s paradise of Lake Nakuru and enjoy a serene boat safari on Lake Naivasha, concluding with an authentic cultural immersion into the Maasai way of life. Prepare for an expedition that promises breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, and a deep connection with Kenya’s vibrant heritage.

This meticulously crafted safari itinerary ensures a seamless transition between distinct ecosystems, offering a comprehensive view of Kenya’s natural wonders. From the arid beauty of Samburu, home to unique species adapted to its environment, to the lush, game-rich grasslands of the Masai Mara, every day brings new discoveries. You’ll traverse diverse terrains, each presenting its own set of wildlife spectacles and photographic opportunities, making this journey truly unforgettable.

Safari Highlights: Your Journey to the Masai Mara

  • Unique Northern Wildlife: Spot the Reticulated Giraffe and Grevy’s Zebra in Samburu.
  • Rhino Sanctuary: Explore Lake Nakuru, one of Kenya’s premier spots for viewing both black and white rhinos.
  • Naivasha Boat Excursion: Get up close to hippos and diverse birdlife on a freshwater lake.
  • The Masai Mara Experience: Spend two days in the heart of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve.
  • Cultural Immersion: Visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about ancient customs and vibrant heritage.

Discovering the Wonders of the Masai Mara

The highlight of your adventure culminates in the magnificent Masai Mara National Reserve, a vast expanse of rolling grasslands teeming with life. Renowned globally for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures, the reserve offers unparalleled wildlife viewing year-round. Even outside migration season, the Masai Mara is home to an incredible concentration of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, ensuring thrilling game drives.

During your two full days in the Masai Mara, you’ll embark on extensive game drives, guided by expert local trackers who know the reserve intimately. These drives provide ample opportunities to witness the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – in their natural habitat. Beyond the iconic large mammals, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, graceful giraffes, playful hyenas, and various antelope species that populate this vibrant ecosystem.

For an even more spectacular perspective of the Masai Mara, consider adding an optional hot air balloon safari at dawn. Drifting silently above the plains as the sun rises, you’ll witness the vastness of the landscape and the herds below from a unique vantage point. This unforgettable experience concludes with a champagne breakfast in the bush, a truly magical way to start your day in Africa.

Beyond the Game Drives: Cultural Encounters and Conservation in the Masai Mara

Your safari isn’t just about wildlife; it’s also an opportunity for cultural immersion. A visit to a traditional Maasai village offers a profound insight into the rich heritage and customs of this iconic pastoralist community. You’ll be welcomed with traditional songs and dances, learn about their daily lives, intricate beadwork, and their deep connection to the land and its wildlife. This authentic interaction provides a meaningful counterpoint to the thrilling game viewing.

Bison Safaris is committed to responsible tourism, and our safaris in the Masai Mara support local conservation efforts and communities. We believe in preserving this precious ecosystem for future generations, ensuring that your visit contributes positively to the region. Our guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge, not just of the animals, but also of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation.

From the unique dryland species of Samburu to the abundant plains of the Masai Mara, this 7-day safari offers a comprehensive and deeply enriching Kenyan experience. Every moment is designed to connect you with the wild heart of Africa, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Join Bison Safaris for an adventure that transcends the ordinary and immerses you in the extraordinary beauty of Kenya.

Safari Route Map

Nairobi
Samburu
Lake Nakuru
Lake Naivasha - Crescent Island
Masai Mara
Nairobi

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Day 1: Drive Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve

Depart 7:30 AM

Upon arrival at the airport and after you’re done with immigration procedures, enter arrivals lounge where your driver guide will be waiting for you. After meet and greet ,he will escort you to the waiting car and commence drive to Samburu national reserve arriving for lunch and check in as well. After lunch relax and settle in before joining your safari driver guide for the afternoon game drive at 1600hrs and returning to the lodge before dusk. Dinner and overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge.

Samburu Sopa Lodge. Lunch, Dinner Journey from Nairobi to Samburu for an introductory sunset game drive.
2

Day 2: Full day Game viewing drive in Samburu National Reserve

Full Day

Breakfast at the lodge 07:00am Join your safari driver guide and depart for a full day game drive with picnic boxes and proceed to Samburu national reserve, explore the park and its special and beautiful sceneries and lots of animals and birds. Dinner and overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge.

Samburu Sopa Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Full-day exploration of Samburu’s unique landscapes and "Special 5" wildlife.
3

Day 3: Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park

Full Day

After Breakfast at the lodge at 0700hrs, Join your safari driver guide and depart to lake Nakuru National Park arriving for lunch and check in as well. Relax after lunch and settle in before joining your safari driver guide for the afternoon game drive at 1600hrs and returning back to the lodge before dusk for dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge.

Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Scenic drive to Lake Nakuru for afternoon rhino and flamingo spotting.
4

Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Lake Naivasha Exploration

Full Day

After breakfast at the lodge, at 07:00 AM join your safari guide and embark on a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, a prime spot for both Black and White Rhinos. Later, exit the park before noon and drive to Naivasha, arriving in time for lunch at the lodge.

In the afternoon, depart for a scenic boat ride excursion on Lake Naivasha, where you will spot hippos and diverse birdlife. The boat will drop you at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary for a unique walking safari. Here, you can walk alongside giraffes, zebras, and waterbucks in a predator-free environment. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and your overnight stay at Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge.

Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Morning rhino spotting in Nakuru, followed by a boat ride and a guided walking safari among giraffes on Crescent Island.
5

Day 5: Drive to Maasai Mara National Reserve

Full Day

After breakfast at the lodge , at 0700hrs join your safari guide and depart to Masai Mara National Reserve arriving for lunch and check in as well, before joining your safari guide for an afternoon game drive at 1600hrs and returning to the lodge before dusk for dinner and overnight at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Masai Mara Sopa Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Head to the iconic Masai Mara for your first afternoon game drive on the plains.
6

Day 6: Full day Game Drive in Masai Mara National Reserve

Full Day

After breakfast at 0700hrs, Join your safari guide and depart for a full day game drive with picnic lunch boxes seeking adventure and exploring the famous Masai Mara National Reserve and returning to the lodge before dusk for dinner and overnight stay at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Masai Mara Sopa Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner A full day of untamed adventure seeking the Big 5 across the Masai Mara.
7

Day 7: Morning Maasai Village visit and return drive to Nairobi

Return

After breakfast, depart for a Maasai village visit where you will get to interact with the Maa community and learn about their way of life and culture. Later on, embark on your return drive to Nairobi. Upon arrival you will be dropped off at your hotel of stay in Nairobi.

Breakfast, Lunch Engage with the local community at a Maasai village before returning to Nairobi.

What's Included & Excluded

Included in Your Safari

  • Transport in a customized 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop up roof
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • All park entrance and conservancy fees
  • Full board accommodation at Sopa Lodges
  • Bottled drinking water during game drives
  • Boat excursions & Crescent Island walking safari

Not Included

  • International flights to and from Kenya
  • Visa fees to Kenya
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Drinks at the hotels
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

It refers to five rare species found north of the equator: the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and beisa oryx.

Yes, all boat excursions are conducted by experienced local guides using life jackets, maintaining a safe distance from hippos.

While Kenya is a year-round destination, the dry seasons (June to October and January to March) offer the best wildlife viewing.

Yes, it is very safe. Crescent Island is a "land-locked" peninsula that is free of large predators like lions or hyenas, allowing you to walk freely and closely among herds of plains game with a professional guide.

Traveler Reviews

4.8
Based on 50 reviews
5 star
78%
4 star
16%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%

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