6-Day Kenya Wilderness Safari

Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara

The ultimate 6-day Kenya wilderness safari. Drive from Nairobi to the rugged Samburu, the rhino-rich Lake Nakuru, and the iconic Masai Mara.

If you are looking for an itinerary that balances diversity with depth, this curated path through Nairobi, Samburu, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara provides the perfect window into the wild.

PEAK SEASON

JULY – OCT

IDEAL TRIP LENGTH

6 DAYS

Trip Highlights

The Special Five of Samburu: Encounter rare species found only north of the equator, including the Reticulated Giraffe and Grevy’s Zebra.
The Pink Horizon of Lake Nakuru: Marvel at the spectacular sight of thousands of flamingos fringe the lake’s shores.
Rhino Sanctuary Success: Enjoy guaranteed sightings of both black and white rhinos in one of Kenya’s most successful conservation parks.
The Iconic Masai Mara: Spend two nights in the world’s most famous wildlife reserve, home to the Big Five.
Big Cat Tracking: Witness the legendary lions, elusive leopards, and lightning-fast cheetahs of the Mara plains.

Ewaso Ng’iro River Life: Watch herds of elephants gather at the riverbanks in Samburu for a drink under the scorching sun.
The Great Rift Valley Views: Stop at the breathtaking viewpoints of the world’s largest valley system during your drive.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with the vibrant Samburu and Maasai people to learn about their ancient traditions and harmony with nature.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Spot over 450 avian species, from the massive Somali Ostrich to the elegant Fish Eagle

Kenya Wilderness Safari Itinerary

Days 1-2: The Rugged Charm of Samburu National Reserve

Your 6-Day Kenya Wilderness Safari begins with a drive north, crossing the equator toward the semi-arid wilderness of Samburu. Unlike the lush green parks of the south, Samburu offers a stark, hauntingly beautiful landscape of red earth, doum palms, and acacia trees.

During your two nights here, the focus is on the “Special Five.” These are species adapted specifically to this northern climate. You will see the Gerenuk, an antelope that stands on its hind legs to reach high branches, and the strikingly patterned Reticulated Giraffe. As the Ewaso Ng’iro River flows through the reserve, it attracts large herds of elephants who come to bathe and drink, providing incredible photographic opportunities. The nights in Samburu are silent and star-studded, offering a peaceful start to your safari.
Day 3: The Shimmering Shores of Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, you’ll head toward the Great Rift Valley for the next leg of your 6-Day Kenya Wilderness Safari. Lake Nakuru National Park is a stark contrast to Samburu. Known primarily for its soda lake, it was once famous for millions of flamingos that turned the water pink. While water levels fluctuate, the park remains a premier destination for birding and rhino sightings.

This is one of the best places in Kenya to see the endangered White and Black Rhino. The park is compact, meaning game viewing is often intense and highly rewarding. You might also spot the rare Rothschild’s Giraffe or a leopard resting in the yellow-barked acacia trees that fringe the lake. It is a shorter stay, but a vital chapter in the story of your 6-Day Kenya Wilderness Safari.
Days 4-5: The Grand Finale in the Masai Mara

No 6-Day Kenya Wilderness Safari would be complete without the crown jewel: the Masai Mara National Reserve. As you drive into the Mara, the horizons open up into the classic “Out of Africa” landscape—endless grasslands dotted with flat-topped acacia trees.

For two nights, you will be immersed in one of the densest wildlife populations on earth. If you travel between July and October, you may witness the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration. However, the Mara is a year-round wonder. You are almost guaranteed to see prides of lions, solitary cheetahs on the hunt, and massive herds of buffalo and elephants. Your safari reaches its emotional peak here, as you watch the sun set over the savannah, painting the sky in shades of violet and gold.
Day 6: Homeward Bound via the Rift Valley

On the final day of your safari, you’ll enjoy one last early morning game drive. There is something magical about the Mara at dawn—the air is crisp, and the predators are often still active before the heat of the day sets in.

After a hearty bush breakfast, you begin the journey back to Nairobi. You’ll stop at the Great Rift Valley escarpment for a final look at the vast landscape you’ve just traversed. As you arrive back in the bustling capital, you’ll realize that your safari hasn’t just been a trip—it’s been a transformation. You leave with a camera full of photos and a soul full of stories.

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Trip Highlights

Each journey is tailored to your specific needs and desires, and so our prices vary depending on the number of people
traveling, level of accommodations desired, and activities included, among other factors.

Our travel designers will curate a journey specifically for you. If you have a budget you want us to work with, please let
us know, and we will do our best to achieve it.