Explore Kenya’s Premier Wildlife Destinations | Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Masai Mara Safari Package
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9 Days Kenya Safari Package
9-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary: Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Experience
Why Choose This 9-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Your adventure begins in Nairobi, traversing Kenya’s central highlands past coffee and tea plantations, the towering peaks of Mt. Kenya, and crossing the equator into the wildlife-rich plains of Samburu National Reserve. This arid ecosystem hosts rare species, including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and beisa oryx, animals found nowhere else in Kenya.
Continue to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to endangered Black Rhino and the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya. Explore the misty forests of Aberdare National Park with wildlife viewing from unique tree lodge balconies.
Experience the Great Rift Valley lakes, Lake Nakuru famous for Rothschild’s giraffe and rhino sanctuaries, and Lake Naivasha offering boat safaris, Crescent Island walking tours, and cycling through Hell’s Gate National Park.
The crown jewel awaits at Masai Mara National Reserve, where you’ll track big cats, witness the Great Migration (July-October), and enjoy optional hot-air balloon safaris with bird’s-eye views of the savannah.
Book your adventure today and create memories that last a lifetime!
Complete 9-Day Kenya Safari Package Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Distance: 320km | Duration: 5 hours | Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Morning Departure (7:00 AM)
- Hotel pickup from Nairobi (hotel, airport, or residence)
- Private 4×4 safari jeep transport through Kenya’s central highlands
- Scenic route past coffee plantations, tea estates, sisal farms, and pineapple fields
- Views of Mt. Kenya’s snow-capped peak
- Equator crossing ceremony into the northern hemisphere
Afternoon Arrival at Samburu
- Check-in at selected lodge or luxury tented camp
- Lunch and relaxation time
- First game drive in Samburu National Reserve
Wildlife Highlights:
- African lion and cheetah sightings
- Large elephant herds
- Cape buffalo populations
- Grevy’s zebra (endangered species)
- Reticulated giraffe
Landscape Features:
- Ewaso Ngiro River ecosystem
- Volcanic formations in neighboring Shaba Reserve
- Acacia woodland and riverine forests
- Buffalo Springs oasis
Accommodation: Samburu lodge or tented camp (first of two nights)
Day 2: Full Day Samburu Game Drives
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early Morning Game Drive
- Pre-dawn departure for optimal wildlife viewing
- Photography opportunities during golden hour
- Birdsong soundtrack along the Ewaso Ngiro River
Wildlife Specialties of Samburu:
- Samburu Special Five:
- Grevy’s zebra (largest zebra species)
- Reticulated giraffe (distinctive geometric patterns)
- Beisa oryx (long straight horns)
- Gerenuk (long-necked antelope)
- Somali ostrich
Birdwatching Opportunities:
- Malachite kingfisher
- Helmeted guinea fowl
- Great white egret
- Pygmy falcon
- Martial eagle
- Over 450 bird species recorded
Cultural Experience:
- Optional Samburu village visits
- Traditional beaded jewelry demonstrations
- Warrior jumping ceremonies
River Ecosystem:
- Ewaso Ngiro River (lifeline of the reserve)
- Crocodile and hippo populations
- Watering hole concentrations attract diverse wildlife
Accommodation: Samburu lodge or tented camp (second night)
Book your adventure today and create memories that last a lifetime!
Day 3: Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Distance: 180km | Duration: 3 hours | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Departure
- Final early morning game drive in Samburu
- Journey toward Mt. Kenya and Laikipia Plateau
- Transition from arid lowlands to cooler highland zones
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Highlights:
Rhino Conservation:
- Largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa
- Over 100 endangered rhinos protected
- Last two northern white rhinos on Earth
- 24-hour armed rhino protection units
Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary:
- Only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees
- Rescued chimps from West and Central Africa
- Educational conservation programs
- Viewing platform for safe observation
Big Five Safari:
- African elephant herds
- Lion prides
- Leopard (nocturnal sightings)
- Cape buffalo
- Both black and white rhino species
Additional Wildlife:
- Grevy’s zebra populations
- Rothschild’s giraffe
- Jackson’s hartebeest
- Tree hyrax (nocturnal)
- White-tailed mongoose
- Black-fronted duiker
Accommodation: Ol Pejeta safari lodge or tented camp
Day 4: Ol Pejeta to Aberdare National Park
Distance: 80km | Duration: 1 hour | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Game Drive at Ol Pejeta
- Final wildlife viewing in the conservancy
- Opportunities for giraffe, impala, baboon, jackal, and hyena
Aberdare National Park Introduction:
Ecosystem Characteristics:
- Montane rainforest habitat
- Moorland and bamboo zones
- Mountain peaks reaching 4,000 meters
- Cool evening mists and waterfalls
- Dramatic temperature contrast from lowland reserves
Unique Tree Lodge Experience:
- Historic tree hotel accommodation
- Ground-level watering hole viewing
- Balcony wildlife observation
- Night floodlighting for nocturnal species
Wildlife Viewing from Your Lodge:
- African elephant (forest subspecies)
- Cape buffalo
- Giant forest hog
- Bushbuck and waterbuck
- Spotted hyena
- Rare bongo antelope (elusive forest dweller)
- Black and white colobus monkeys
Photography Opportunities:
- Long-exposure night photography
- Close-range wildlife from elevated positions
- Waterfall landscapes
Important Note: Small overnight bags only (main luggage stored)
Accommodation: Aberdare tree lodge with balcony game viewing
Rediscover the calm and beauty of the natural world.
Book your adventure today and create memories that last a lifetime!
Day 5: Aberdare to Lake Nakuru National Park
Distance: 180km | Duration: 4 hours | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Departure through the Highlands
- Scenic drive through Kenya’s farmland
- Stop at Thomson’s Falls (Nyahururu Falls)
- 74-meter waterfall viewpoint
- Named after explorer Joseph Thomson
Great Rift Valley Crossing:
- Dramatic escarpment viewpoints
- Geological formation education
- Highland to lowland ecosystem transition
Lake Nakuru National Park Features:
Rhino Sanctuary:
- Protected black rhino population
- Southern white rhino breeding program
- One of Kenya’s most successful rhino conservation areas
Birdlife:
- Lesser and greater flamingo flocks (seasonal)
- African fish eagle
- Goliath heron
- Yellow-billed stork
- Pelicans and cormorants
- Over 400 bird species recorded
Endangered Species:
- Rothschild’s giraffe (critically endangered subspecies)
- Unique nine-ossicone characteristic
- Breeding and protection program
Landscape Diversity:
- Alkaline lake ecosystem
- Yellow acacia woodlands (fever trees)
- Rocky cliffs and euphorbia forests
- Makalia Waterfall
Wildlife Checklist:
- Plains zebra
- Waterbuck herds
- Eastern black rhino
- Southern white rhino
- Cape buffalo
- Leopard (tree-dwelling)
Accommodation: Lake Nakuru safari lodge or tented camp
Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
Distance: 60km | Duration: 1 hour | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Game Drive at Lake Nakuru
- Sunrise photography opportunities
- Final wildlife viewing
- Bird photography along the lakeshore
Lake Naivasha Activities:
Boat Safari Experience:
- Freshwater lake exploration
- Hippo pod viewing at close range
- Aquatic bird photography
- Fish eagle demonstrations
Crescent Island Walking Safari:
- Guided nature walk (no predators on island)
- Walk among wildebeest herds
- Thomson’s gazelle and Grant’s gazelle
- Waterbuck and impala
- Giraffe encounters
- 360-degree lake panoramas
Hell’s Gate National Park Cycling Safari:
Unique Features:
- Only park in Kenya permitting cycling and walking without guides
- Dramatic gorges and volcanic plugs
- Fischer’s Tower rock formations
- Geothermal steam vents
Wildlife on Bicycle:
- Plains zebra
- African buffalo
- Eland (largest antelope)
- Hartebeest
- Klipspringer on cliffs
- Vervet monkeys
Gorge Hiking:
- Narrow canyon exploration
- Rock climbing opportunities
- Hot springs and geysers
- Obsidian formations
Birdwatching:
- Lammergeier (bearded vulture)
- Verreaux’s eagle
- Augur buzzard
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha safari lodge or tented camp
Book your adventure today and create memories that last a lifetime!
Day 7: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara National Reserve
Distance: 240km | Duration: 5 hours | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Kenya’s Premier Wildlife Reserve
- Scenic drive through the Rift Valley
- Maasai pastoral lands
- Wheat and barley fields
Masai Mara Introduction:
Ecosystem Significance:
- Northern extension of Tanzania’s Serengeti ecosystem
- 1,510 square kilometers of protected wilderness
- Highest concentration of wildlife in Kenya
- Part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem (25,000 sq km)
Afternoon Game Drive:
- Introduction to the Mara’s diverse habitats
- Rolling grasslands and acacia forests
- Mara River crossings
- Talek River ecosystems
Wildlife Abundance:
- Over 95 mammal species
- 570+ bird species
- Highest density of African lions globally
- Cheetah populations on open plains
Big Five Tracking:
- African lion prides (multiple sightings common)
- African leopard (tree-dwelling and nocturnal)
- African elephant families
- Cape buffalo mega-herds
- Black rhino (rare but present)
Accommodation: Masai Mara safari lodge or luxury tented camp (first of two nights)
Day 8: Full Day Masai Mara Game Drives
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
All-Day Wildlife Exploration
Morning Game Drive (Dawn Departure):
- Golden hour photography
- Predator activity peaks
- Lion and cheetah hunts
- Hyena clan territories
Big Cat Capital:
- Highest lion density in Africa
- Cheetah coalitions on open plains
- Leopard in riverine forests
- Spotted hyena clans
Additional Wildlife:
- Topi antelope (fastest in sustained running)
- Coke’s hartebeest
- Eland herds
- Masai giraffe
- Hippo pools (Mara River)
- Nile crocodile (river crossings)
The Great Migration (Seasonal: July-October):
Migration Facts:
- 1.5 million wildebeest
- 200,000 plains zebra
- 500,000 Thomson’s gazelle
- River crossings at multiple points
- Dramatic predator-prey interactions
Mara River Crossing Sites:
- Lookout Hill viewing point
- Paradise Crossing
- Talek River junctions
Picnic Lunch:
- Bush lunch by the Mara River
- Hippo and crocodile viewing
- Under acacia shade
Birdlife:
- Marabou stork
- Secretary bird
- Crowned crane
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Yellow-billed stork
- Fish eagles
Optional Cultural Experience:
- Maasai Village Visit:
- Traditional manyatta (village) tour
- Warrior jumping ceremony
- Beadwork demonstrations
- Cultural storytelling
- Souvenir shopping
Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari:
- Pre-dawn departure (5:30 AM)
- One-hour aerial safari
- Bird’s-eye view of the savannah
- Wildlife from above
- Champagne breakfast in the bush
- Flight certificate
Accommodation: Masai Mara safari lodge or tented camp (second night)
Book your adventure today and create memories that last a lifetime!
Day 9: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Safari Conclusion
Distance: 265km | Duration: 5 hours | Meal: Breakfast
Final Morning at Masai Mara
- Leisurely breakfast at your lodge
- Last moments in the wilderness
- Check-out assistance from driver-guide
Return Journey to Nairobi:
Scenic Highlights:
- Great Rift Valley viewpoints
- Mount Longonot (extinct stratovolcano)
- Elevation: 2,776 meters
- Last eruption: 1860s
- Name meaning: “Mountains of many spurs” (Maasai: Oloonong’ot)
- Southeast of Lake Naivasha
Arrival in Nairobi:
- Drop-off at Nairobi hotel, residence, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
- End of 9-day safari experience
Safari Achievement Summary:
- 9 days of wildlife exploration
- 7 distinct ecosystems visited
- Big Five wildlife encounters
- Rare species sightings (chimpanzees, Grevy’s zebra, Rothschild’s giraffe)
- Multiple National Parks and Reserves
- Cultural interactions with the Samburu and Maasai tribes
Accommodations for the 9 Days Kenya iCONIC PARKS Safari
Samburu Lodges
Samburu Sopa Lodge
A family-friendly lodge set on elevated ground inside Samburu National Reserve, offering panoramic waterhole views and a swimming pool.
Samburu Game Lodge
A heritage lodge along the Ewaso Nyiro River with thatched cottages, river vistas, and iconic bars for a classic safari experience.
Ashnil Samburu Camp
A luxury tented camp with riverfront tents under Ol Olokwe Mountain, providing an immersive safari atmosphere and a swimming pool.
Masai Mara Game Reserve Lodges
PrideInn Mara Camp
Best For: Affordable Luxury & Riverside Views PrideInn Mara Camp offers a seamless blend of comfort, style, and proximity to prime wildlife areas. Nestled along the Talek River, the camp features spacious en-suite tents, a swimming pool, and excellent dining that blends African and international flavors. It’s a top choice for travelers who want a luxury feel at mid-range rates, with easy access to both game drives and cultural experiences.
La Maison Royale Mara Camp
Best For: Boutique Luxury & Tranquil Escapes Located near the Sekenani Gate, La Maison Royale Mara Camp combines European elegance with African warmth. The camp’s contemporary tented suites feature private decks and modern amenities. Guests enjoy fine dining, spa treatments, and scenic sundowners. Ideal for couples or honeymooners seeking romantic seclusion without losing touch with nature.
Mara Maisha Tented Camp
Best For: Authentic Safari Ambiance & Local Hospitality Situated near the main reserve entrance, Mara Maisha Tented Camp delivers an authentic tented experience infused with Maasai culture. Each tent is comfortable and well-furnished, with views of the open plains. It’s perfect for those wanting a real bush atmosphere combined with genuine Kenyan warmth and affordability.
Aberdare Lodges
The Ark Lodge
The Ark Lodge is set inside the park and built to resemble Noah’s Ark. Its location overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt-lick that constantly attract elephants, buffalo and sometimes even rhinos.
Treetops Lodge
Treetops Lodge is a heritage property in Aberdare that gives you a tree-house style experience overlooking a waterhole & salt lick. It’s famously the place where Princess Elizabeth became Queen in 1952
Aberdare Country Club
The Aberdare Country Club sits on Mweiga Hill and offers a different type of stay: classic country-inn charm, spacious room views (some with fireplaces) across highlands, and ease of access.
Lake Nakuru Lodges
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Nestled along the Lion Hill ridge inside Lake Nakuru National Park, this lodge offers panoramic views of the lake and flamingo-lined shores. Its elevated terraces and natural setting create an ideal spot to watch wildlife from dawn to dusk.
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Located within the park boundaries, this eco-lodge blends seamlessly with the surrounding savannah. Guests enjoy uninterrupted views of the lake and frequent visits from grazing rhinos, waterbucks, and baboons.
Flamingo Hill Tented Camp
Tucked between the “honeymoon” and “baboon” cliffs, this intimate tented camp combines rustic charm with comfort. Each tent faces the park’s plains, where giraffes and gazelles often roam close by.
Cost of 9 Days Kenya Safari Package Shoulder Season
| Shoulder Season (1st Jan – 31st Mar) & (1st November – 31st December) | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-3 persons in a private safari | $ 3000 | $ 3175 | $ 3400 |
| 4-5 persons in a private safari | $ 2495 | $ 2665 | $ 2855 |
| 6-7 persons in a private safari | $ 2350 | $ 2495 | $ 2690 |
| 1 person in a private solo tour | $ 3980 | $ 4290 | $ 4470 |
| Single Room Extra | $350 | $ 400 | $520 |
| Children below 3 Years | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Children between 3-12 Years | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate |
Economy: US$40
Comfort: US$45
Luxury:US$135 (Per Person Per Night, Please Inquire)
Cost of 9 Days Kenya Safari Package Peak Season
| Peak Season (1st July – 31st Oct) | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-3 persons in a private safari | $ 3380 | $ 3455 | $ 4520 |
| 4-5 persons in a private safari | $ 2820 | $ 2895 | $ 3960 |
| 6-7 persons in a private safari | $ 2630 | $ 2710 | $ 3770 |
| 1 person in a private solo tour | $ 4495 | $4575 | $ 5640 |
| Single Room Extra | $350 | $410 | $ 670 |
| Children below 3 Years | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Children between 3-12 Years | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate |
Cost of 9 Days Kenya Safari Package Low Season
| Low Season (1st Apr – 31st May) | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-3 persons in a private safari | $ 2570 | $ 2705 | $ 2810 |
| 4-5 persons in a private safari | $ 2115 | $ 2245 | $ 2355 |
| 6-7 persons in a private safari | $ 1960 | $ 2095 | $ 2200 |
| 1 person in a private solo tour | $ 3620 | $ 3730 | $ 4095 |
| Children below 3 Years | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Children between 3-12 Years | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate | 75% of adult rate |
US$ 45 (Per Person Per Night, on selected hotels, Please Inquire)
From 1st -15th June Low Season Rates will apply on select Lodges/Camps-Please Inquire.
What’s Included in Your 9 Days Kenya Safari Package
- Transport in a customized pop-up top 4 x 4 Land Cruiser jeep
- Services of an experienced English/ other language speaking driver/ guide
- Stay in budget, mid-range or luxury lodges / tented camps (please choose)
- Park entrance fees
- Game viewing drives
- Boat safari at Lake Naivasha
- Hell’s Gate visit with bicycle hire/ride/walk safari
- Guided walking safari at Crescent Island
- All meals on safari
- Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle
- The flying doctor’s emergency medical evacuation/ rescue insurance cover.
- Pick up from the Kenya Coast / drop off at Nairobi hotel, residence.
- Government taxes and local levies
What’s Not Included in Your 9 Days Kenya Safari Package
- Bottled & Soft Drinks
- Items and services of a personal nature
- Tips & Gratuities.
FAQs About the 9 Days Kenya Safari Package
Planning a safari can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right itinerary, cost, and duration. To make things easier, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask about the 9 Days Kenya Safari Package. From pricing and inclusions to comparisons with shorter or longer safaris, this guide will help you make the best decision for your dream African safari adventure. Here are the most frequently asked questions:
The package is carefully designed to cover all the essentials for a smooth safari experience. It typically includes game drives in top national parks, professional guides, accommodation, meals, and park entry fees. Some itineraries may also feature cultural visits, scenic drives, and opportunities to spot the Big Five and other unique wildlife. This means once you book, most logistics are taken care of, leaving you free to focus on enjoying your safari adventure.
The cost of the safari depends on a few important factors such as your travel season, whether you prefer budget-friendly lodges or luxury camps, and the size of your group. Since every traveler has unique needs, we provide personalized quotes that reflect your preferences. For the most accurate cost breakdown, we recommend contacting us directly so we can tailor the package to you.
In general, longer safaris like the 9-day package give you more time in multiple destinations, allowing you to explore Kenya at a more relaxed pace. Shorter safaris, such as a 5–7 day option, might feel rushed and focus only on one or two parks. A 9-day journey strikes the balance between value and experience, ensuring you don’t miss out on Kenya’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. For cost details based on your exact preferences, please reach out to us.
Yes, absolutely. Most safari packages, including this one, start and end in Nairobi. The city is a convenient gateway with international airport access and excellent road and flight connections to Kenya’s major national parks. Whether you’re arriving from overseas or connecting from another Kenyan destination, starting from Nairobi makes your safari logistics smooth and stress-free.
Yes, we cater to a wide range of budgets by offering different safari styles. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for camping or mid-range lodges, while those looking for comfort can enjoy luxury tented camps or boutique lodges. Our team works with you to find the right balance between affordability and comfort so you still enjoy the full safari experience without compromising on quality. Contact us to explore the best option for your budget.
Unlike shorter safaris, the 9-day package is crafted to give travelers more time to immerse themselves in Kenya’s natural wonders. You’ll cover iconic parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru, offering varied landscapes and wildlife encounters. With more days, you enjoy less rushed game drives, better chances of seeing the Big Five, and time for cultural experiences. This makes it a well-rounded safari holiday that combines adventure, wildlife, and relaxation.
The price of a safari in Kenya varies widely depending on factors like the type of accommodation, travel season, and the parks included. While some travelers prefer budget-friendly safaris, others opt for luxury experiences with private guides and exclusive lodges. Since every trip is unique, the best way to know your safari cost is by contacting us directly for a personalized quote based on your travel style and expectations.
Yes, we specialize in creating tailor-made safari itineraries. While the 9-day safari is a popular choice, we can adjust it to fit your schedule and preferences. Whether you want to spend more time in Maasai Mara, include a cultural tour with the Maasai people, or extend your holiday with a beach stay in Diani or Mombasa, our team can customize your trip to match your exact needs.
When booking this package, you can expect thrilling game drives where you’ll see lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and more in their natural habitat. Beyond wildlife, the experience includes breathtaking scenery such as the flamingo-filled Rift Valley lakes, rolling savannahs of Maasai Mara, and the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli. You’ll also have opportunities to connect with local culture and enjoy guided insights into Kenya’s ecosystems. This makes the 9-day safari more than just a holiday—it’s a complete African adventure.
A 10-day safari allows for an extra day of relaxation or an additional park visit. This can make the trip even more rewarding if you prefer a slower pace or want to see more destinations. For a breakdown of how a 10-day safari compares to the 9-day option in terms of cost and inclusions, we encourage you to contact us for a tailored recommendation.
A 7-day safari is shorter but still offers a taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes. However, the reduced time often means fewer parks and a tighter schedule. With a 9-day safari, you enjoy more variety, better chances of spotting rare animals, and a more relaxed pace. To know whether a 7-day or 9-day safari suits you best, get in touch with us and we’ll help you compare the two.
For most travelers, a safari in Kenya feels complete within 7 to 10 days, as this duration allows time to explore multiple parks and enjoy a balance between adventure and relaxation. A 9-day safari stands out as an ideal choice because it provides enough time to visit iconic destinations like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru without feeling rushed. It also gives you flexibility to enjoy cultural interactions, scenic drives, and downtime at your lodges or camps. This makes the 9-day option a perfect blend of variety, depth, and comfort for a truly unforgettable safari holiday.
Accreditations And Partners
AK African Tours And Safaris is fully licensed as a tour operator in Kenya by the Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA). We operate under the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and ethical tourism.
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