10 Days – 9 Nights Kenya Hidden Gem Safari
Arrive / Nairobi – Aberdare National Park – Samburu National Reserve – Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Nakuru – Masai Mara – Nairobi / Depart
Introduction
Accommodation preview |
Destination |
Start |
End |
Basis |
Duration |
Movenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi | Nairobi | Day 1 | Day 2 | B&B | 1 Night |
The Ark Hotel | Aberdare National Park | Day 2 | Day 3 | FB | 1 Night |
Samburu Sopa Lodge | Samburu National Reserve | Day 3 | Day 5 | FB | 2 Nights |
Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Ol Pejeta Conservancy | Day 5 | Day 6 | FB | 1 Night |
Lake Nakuru Lodge | Lake Nakuru National Park | Day 6 | Day 7 | FB | 1 Night |
Mara Leisure Camp | Masai Mara National Reserve | Day 7 | Day 10 | FB | 3 Nights |
Not Included | Transfer for International departure | Day 10 | Day 10 | Breakfast | Not Included |
Key
B&B: Bed and Breakfast.
LDBB: Full Board – Lunch,Dinner,Bed and Breakfast
DAY 1: MOVENPICK HOTEL & RESIDENCES NAIROBI, NAIROBI
Nairobi
Situated in along the Nairobi River in beautiful Kenya, the capital of Nairobi is East Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. It serves as an excellent starting point for African safari trips around Kenya. Nairobi is Africa’s 4th largest city and is a vibrant and exciting place, and although it has developed a reputation which keeps tourist visits brief, there are some fascinating attractions: its cafe culture, unbridled nightlife, the National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum and most notably just 20 minutes from the city centre wild lions and buffalo roam in the world’s only urban game reserve. Make sure you pay a visit to the elephant orphanage operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Day Itinerary
A warm welcome awaits you and your family upon arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International airport by our AMA Safaris representative, meet and greet and thereafter transferred to your hotel where you are booked on bed and breakfast basis. Overnight at Movenpick Hotel, BB.
Overnight: Movenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi
Superior African-themed 5-star hotel in the heart of Nairobi .Experience Nairobi in our 5-star hotel that charms with its African design, uplifting atmosphere, open spaces, cool features and panoramic views. Situated in the popular Westlands district, Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi is the perfect base to explore Kenya’s capital while staying for business or leisure in 276 spacious rooms, suites and residences.
Dine in the spectacular 360-degree revolving restaurant that complements two more restaurants, two bars and a lobby lounge. Chill out at the pool, relax in the spa and work out in the gym. More than a dozen modern meeting rooms, a beautiful ballroom and large exhibition hall make this a fantastic destination for conferences and events in Nairobi.
Basis
Bed and Breakfast
DAY 2: THE ARK LODGE, ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK
Aberdare National Park
Located northeast of Nairobi, Kenya, the Aberdare National Park was created to protect the Aberdare Mountain Range, the peaks of which soar to 3930 metres. The landscape is characterised by steep forested slopes, expansive moors, and deep ravines scattered with cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams and rushing rivers. The park is inhabited by a variety of African wildlife such as: elephant, lion, spotted hyena, rhino, black leopard and the very elusive bongo antelope that lives in the high altitude bamboo forests. The park offers the perfect environment for picnics, camping in the moorlands, trout fishing in the rivers, and excellent bird watching with over 250 species of birds including hawks, eagles, sunbirds and plovers.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast depart for the Aberdares region, arrive at the Aberdares Country Club in time for lunch. In the afternoon transfer to the tree lodge where you will spend the night and watch the game from the comfort of your lodge. Dinner and overnight art The Ark Lodge, LDBB.
Overnight: The Ark Lodge OR similar category.
The Ark has four viewing areas from which to observe the ever-present animal activity at the waterhole and saltlick. There is also a ground level hide – the perfect spot for the discerning photographer. From this vantage point, photos of animals can be taken at eye-level.
As described in the book, Haven Under the Hill, Monty Brown says, “In this intimate recess one can almost, but not quite, pat the animals, hear their sounds and smell the aroma of the night. This is a magical corner, where there is close contact with the essence that tells of unexplored Africa, and where, very often, the visitor may enjoy in solitary state the beauty of it all.”
So as not to miss any animal sightings, the resident guide will buzz your room when special animals come to the waterhole. Simply throw on your provided robe and slippers, grab your camera and view nightlife at the waterhole!
The sister property to The Ark the Aberdare Country Club, is a short distance away and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Activities include a game walk on our 1300 acres, golf, and tennis, horseback riding, relaxing at our health club or swimming pool, or simply enjoying the gorgeous gardens.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 3: SAMBURU SOPA LODGE, SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Samburu National Reserve
Resting on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and neighbouring the Buffalo Springs National Park, Samburu National Reserve is remote, hot and arid. The reserve spans over 165km² of spectacularly scenic landscape featuring rugged hills, undulating plains and riverine forests. The park is home to abundant wildlife including a variety of rare species such as the reticulated giraffe, the long necked gerenuk, Somali ostrich, Grevy’s Zebra and Beisa Oryx. Samburu was one of the homes of ‘Elsa the Lioness’, star of the bestselling book and award-winning movie ‘Born Free’. Visitors can enjoy viewing over 900 elephants, a variety of predators, and over 450 bird species.
Day Itinerary
A relaxed rise followed by breakfast and thereafter depart for Samburu National Reserve. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon proceed for a game drive till sun set. Dinner and overnight at Samburu Sopa Lodge, LDBB
Overnight: Samburu Sopa Lodge
The Lodge is built on top of raised ground allowing panoramic views of the distant Samburu Hills to one side and El Ndonyo Keri – the Samburu name for Mount Kenya – on the other.
Thirty cottages, forming a buffalo-horn pattern, converge at the public facilities area allowing the resident wildlife to access the lodge’s waterhole at its open end.
The architecture blends in with the area, similar to the style of the local Samburu housing. Each cottage has two tastefully appointed bedrooms, each with two queen-size beds, shower and private verandah. Local materials have been used in the construction, furnishings and interior decorations. High ceilings and space ensure that the rooms are airy and comfortable. Two rooms next to the reception and public areas are designed for the physically challenged.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 4: SAMBURU SOPA LODGE, SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Day Itinerary
Spend a full day in Samburu with morning and afternoon game drives.
All meals and overnight at Samburu Sopa Lodge, LDBB
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 5: SWEETWATERS SERENA CAMP, OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Resting at the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountain Range, in central Kenya’s Laikipia County, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa. It is also home to the last three remaining northern white rhino in the world. Originally a working cattle ranch in colonial Kenya and now a pioneering wildlife conservancy, Ol Pejeta works to protect wildlife and provide a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees. The Conservancy is a popular safari destination and is home to the renowned ‘Big Five’ as well as a wide selection of other African animals including: zebra, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, jackal, serval, hyena, vervet monkey and many more. Visitors can enjoy an assortment of outdoor activities such as horse rides, game walks, and nocturnal game drives.
Day Itinerary
A relaxed rise followed by breakfast and thereafter departs for Mount Kenya region to arrive at Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club in time for lunch. In the afternoon proceed to Ol Pejeta Conservancy and proceed for an evening game drive with visits to the Chimpanzees and Rhino Sanctuaries. Dinner and overnight at Sweetwaters Serena Camp, LDBB
Overnight: Sweetwaters Serena Camp
A sheltered oasis, clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine calm of the private Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweetwaters Tented Camp offers a charming blend of under-canvas ambiance and safari luxury.
Located on the plains of Mount Kenya, the camp features thirty-nine luxury tents, each with its own private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager’s house of this once colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. Also within the house is the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, built in the style of a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole and offers unrivalled wildlife-watching.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 6: LAKE NAKURU LODGE, LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Nakuru
Nakuru is a city on the shores of western Kenya’s Lake Nakuru, within a reserve that sprawls across almost 200 square kilometres. It is the capital of Nakuru County, located in the Great Rift Valley. Ten kilometres from town lies the massive Menengai Crater. A hiking trail leads up to the rim of this ancient caldera, offering bird’s eye views over the lake and surrounds then plunges 400 metres down to the floor below, where you will find ancient forests. Lake Nakuru National Park, surrounding Nakuru, is home to exceptional birdlife, as well as over 50 varieties of mammals. These include lion, leopard, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, rhino, antelope and various primates.
Day Itinerary
After breakfast drive to Rift Valley Region and arrive at your lodge in good time for lunch. The park’s ecosystem comprises of the lake, surrounded by mainly wooded and bushy grasslands. The park is an important Ramsar site and supports a wide ecological diversity. The 188km² Lake Nakuru is the only KWS-administered reserve that is fully enclosed. Once just a bird sanctuary, Lake Nakuru is now the best place in Kenya to see the highly protected black and white rhino Among other animals found in the park include rhino, lion, leopard, flamingos, Egyptian geese, water-buck, giraffe, hyena, buffalo, baboons, vervet monkeys, gazelles, Flamingos (Greater and Lesser) and other water birds being also major attractions of the area. In the evening proceed for a game drive till sun set. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge – LDBB.
Overnight: Lake Nakuru Lodge
Situated inside Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Nakuru Lodge is an eco-lodge that provides peerless views of wildlife and Lake Nakuru. Each guest rooms features a Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a seating area. The lodge also includes an in-house restaurant and an outdoor pool. Guests can visit must-see sights such as Egerton Castle and Menengai Crater less than 50km away from the property.
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 7: MARA LEISURE CAMP, MASAI MARA
Masai Mara
The Masai Mara together with Tanzania’s Serengeti form Africa’s most famous wildlife park, the Masai Mara National Reserve. The image of acacia trees dotting endless grass plains epitomises Africa for many, then add a Maasai warrior and some cattle to the picture and the conversation need go no further. The undeniable highlight of the Masai Mara National Reserve is undoubtedly the annual wildebeest migration traversing the vast plains of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. It is known as the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet – with more than a million animals following the rains. Large prides of lions, elephants, giraffes, gazelles and eland can also be spotted in the reserve. Aside from horse riding safaris and traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Mara plains has become almost essential.
Day Itinerary
Early rise followed by breakfast and thereafter start your journey for Masai Mara National Reserve, the reserve offers wonderful scenery and plenty of game. It is perhaps the only region left in Kenya where the visitor may see animals in the same super-abundance as existed a century ago. Arrive for check-in and lunch at your lodge , after lunch proceed for an evening game drive until sunset, dinner and overnight at Mara Leisure Camp – LDBB
Overnight: Mara Leisure Camp
Welcome to Maasai Mara – the most talked about destination in the world’s most talked about wilderness. Located along in the Talek River, at the confluence of the Maasai Mara’s four game-viewing areas on the northern boundery of the Maasai Mara game reserve, Mara Leisure camp is located around one of the most spectacular locations in the entire Mara Ecosystem. More
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 8: MARA LEISURE CAMP, MASAI MARA
Day Itinerary
(On this day you have a chance of departing for an early morning balloon ride with champagne-style breakfast at an extra cost not included in the package quote)
The early morning calm air of the Maasai Mara has made possible the introduction of Hot Air Balloon flights, available as an optional tour of a hot air balloon ride to see the park from a bird’s eye view, from leading lodges and camps in the reserve. (Please reserve early to avoid disappointment for this adventure!). Pre-breakfast morning game drive in the reserve, a great opportunity to explore the vast flora and fauna of this magnificent reserve. After a rewarding game drive, return to your lodge for late morning breakfast. Lunch and late afternoon game viewing drive.
OPTION: A full day game drive with picnic lunch boxes (full day game drive including visits to Mara River, Kenya Tanzania Border Post and a great chance to view the “Big Five”. You will have picnic lunch at Hippo Pool. Return to your lodge late in the afternoon). Later just relax or visit the nearby Maasai village as an optional excursion.
Dinner and overnight at Mara Leisure Camp – LDBB
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 9: MARA LEISURE CAMP, MASAI MARA
Day Itinerary
Spend a full day in Mara with morning and afternoon game drives or a full day game drive with picnic lunch.
All meals and overnight at Mara Leisure Camp – LDBB
Basis
Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
DAY 10: END OF ITINERARY
Day Itinerary
After breakfast depart for Nairobi arriving early afternoon. Lunch at a local restaurant (payable direct) and thereafter proceed to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in good time for you home – bound flight.
***End of Services***
Basis
Breakfast