A safari combining the Samburu National Reserve and the Maasai Mara delivers two of Kenya’s most distinct and rewarding wildlife experiences. Samburu, set in Kenya’s semi-arid north along the Ewaso Nyiro River, is known for its dramatic landscapes and rare “Samburu Special Five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. With fewer crowds and a rugged atmosphere, Samburu offers an intimate safari feel, excellent elephant sightings, and striking contrasts of riverine forest against open scrubland.
In contrast, the Maasai Mara unfolds into vast golden savannahs famed for exceptional big cat density and the Great Migration (seasonal). Here, sweeping plains provide the perfect stage for lion prides, cheetahs on the hunt, leopards in acacia trees, and massive herds of wildebeest and zebra. Together, Samburu and the Maasai Mara create a beautifully balanced journey — from rare northern species and raw scenery to iconic Big Five encounters in one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative for a personalized meet-and-greet service. Assistance with luggage and a private transfer to your hotel will be provided.
Check in at your selected hotel for an overnight stay in Nairobi. The rest of the day is at leisure — relax after your international flight.
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After breakfast, transfer to Wilson Airport for your scheduled light aircraft flight to Samburu National Reserve, located in Kenya’s rugged northern frontier.Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be met by camp staff and transferred to your lodge or tented camp. Enjoy lunch followed by time to relax before heading out on your first afternoon game drive.Samburu is famous for its unique “Samburu Special Five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk — along with excellent elephant sightings.
Spend a full day on game drives in Samburu, taking time to explore the reserve’s striking landscapes of rocky outcrops, dry riverbeds, and acacia-dotted plains. Samburu is known for its uniquely adapted northern wildlife, often referred to as the “Samburu Special Five,” which include the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the gerenuk—an antelope that stands on its hind legs to browse. As you traverse different parts of the reserve, your guide will help you track these rare species while also pointing out elephants, lions, leopards, and an impressive variety of birdlife. With fewer crowds than other parks, Samburu offers a serene and intimate safari experience. Overnight is in Samburu.
Spend a full day exploring the dramatic landscapes of Samburu with morning and afternoon game drives along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Optional activities may include:
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your scenic flight to the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your lodge or luxury tented camp with a game drive en route.
After lunch and relaxation, enjoy an afternoon game drive in one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, renowned for its abundant predators and seasonal Great Migration.
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Wilson Airport.
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