11-Day The Big Five & Rare Special Five Adventure Safari

Nairobi Aiport-Pick Up

Day 1Nairobi Aiport-Pick Up Nairobi Aiport-Pick Up Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide or driver. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred comfortably to your hotel in the city, where you can relax and settle in after the long journey. Depending on your arrival time and how you’re feeling, there is the option to enjoy a short guided city tour of Nairobi. This can include key highlights such as the Giraffe Centre, where you can get up close with endangered Rothschild giraffes, or a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the "Out of Africa" author. If time allows, you might also stroll through local craft markets or visit the Nairobi National Museum. The city tour is optional and can be tailored to suit your schedule and energy level. If you prefer to rest after your journey, you’re welcome to spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel, preparing for the exciting safari adventure that begins the next day. Main Destination: Nairobi (City, Kenya) Accommodation: Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel Mid-range hotel in Nairobi (City, Kenya) +6 Photos +5 Photos Meals & Drinks: Meals at own expense Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Nairobi - Samburu National Reserve

Day 2Nairobi - Samburu National Reserve Nairobi - Samburu National Reserve After an early breakfast at your hotel in Nairobi, you'll depart for Samburu National Reserve, located in the northern part of Kenya. The scenic drive takes approximately 5 hours, passing through the lush central highlands and rural towns, with views of Mount Kenya's snow-capped peaks in the distance. As you journey north, the landscape gradually shifts from green to semi-arid savannah, signaling your approach to Samburu. Upon arrival at the reserve, you’ll check in to your lodge or tented camp and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. Take some time to relax and soak in the unique surroundings—Samburu is unlike other Kenyan parks, known for its rugged, dry terrain, red soils, and palm-fringed riverbanks. In the afternoon, you'll head out on your first game drive in Samburu, a region rich in wildlife and culture. Main Destination: Samburu National Reserve (Kenya) Best Time To Visit June to September and January to February High Season December to March and July to October (Busy) Best Weather June and December (Cool and fresh after rain) Wildlife in Samburu NR ElephantAbundant GiraffeCommon ZebraCommon LionOccasional LeopardOccasional BuffaloOccasional Show more HippoOccasional HyenaOccasional CheetahRare Wild DogRare White RhinoNone Black RhinoNone WildebeestNone Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge Mid-range lodge bordering Samburu NR (Kenya) without fences +4 Photos +3 Photos Meals & Drink

Samburu National Reserve

Day 3Samburu National Reserve Samburu National Reserve You'll rise early to the sounds of the African wilderness and set out on a sunrise game drive—the best time to witness wildlife at its most active. With a bit of luck, you may encounter elusive predators like leopards or lions returning from a night hunt. As the golden light spills across the landscape, keep your eyes open for the Samburu Special Five: the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and the gerenuk, known for its unique ability to stand upright on its hind legs while feeding on shrubs. You will follow the Ewaso Nyiro River, a vital water source for the region’s wildlife, where elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a variety of birdlife often gather to cool off and drink. As the day winds down, you'll enjoy a sundowner in the bush, taking in the beauty of the Samburu landscape at sunset. You'll return to your lodge for dinner and spend your final evening in Samburu under the stars, reflecting on the wild beauty and unforgettable moments of the day. Main Destination: Samburu National Reserve (Kenya) Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge Mid-range lodge bordering Samburu NR (Kenya) without fences Meals & Drinks: All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Samburu National Reserve

Day 4Samburu National Reserve Samburu National Reserve You'll begin your day early with a gentle wake-up call, accompanied by a warm cup of tea or coffee, before setting out on a sunrise game drive. The early morning light bathes the reserve in soft gold, awakening the landscape and its inhabitants. This is the prime time to witness the raw drama of the African bush, as predators become active after the cool night. You may spot lions returning from their nocturnal hunts, cheetahs prowling the open plains, or the elusive leopard lounging in the branches of acacia trees. Birdwatchers will also delight in the morning chorus, spotting raptors like eagles, colorful hornbills, and lively bee-eaters as they begin their daily routines. The morning and evening drive presents another excellent opportunity to seek out the famed Samburu Special Five—species that are unique or particularly abundant in this dry, rugged region. After a successful day, you will be returned to your accommodations for dinner and an overnight stay. Main Destination: Samburu National Reserve (Kenya) Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge Mid-range lodge bordering Samburu NR (Kenya) without fences Meals & Drinks: All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Samburu National Reserve - Nairobi City

Day 5Samburu National Reserve - Nairobi City Samburu National Reserve - Nairobi City After three unforgettable days exploring the wild beauty of Samburu National Reserve, you will be transferred by road to the nearby Samburu Airstrip. The short drive offers a final chance to take in the stunning arid landscapes of northern Kenya before you board back to Nairobi. As you soar above the Kenyan terrain, you'll enjoy scenic aerial views that showcase the country’s diverse ecosystems—from rugged hills to sprawling savannahs. Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation at Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands, where you will spend the night. Main Destination: Nairobi (City, Kenya) Accommodation: Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel Mid-range hotel in Nairobi (City, Kenya) Meals & Drinks: All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Nairobi - Amboseli National Park

Day 6Nairobi - Amboseli National Park Nairobi - Amboseli National Park After enjoying a hearty breakfast in Nairobi, you will embark on a scenic journey to Amboseli National Park, located approximately 4 to 5 hours away. The drive offers a wonderful introduction to Kenya’s southern landscapes, passing through vast open plains, small rural villages, and dramatic vistas that hint at the natural wonders ahead. Along the way, you may catch glimpses of local communities going about their daily routines, providing a glimpse into authentic Kenyan life. Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most iconic parks, internationally celebrated for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. Rising sharply from the surrounding plains, the mountain often appears capped with a shimmering blanket of snow—a stunning contrast against the park’s arid savannah. This majestic backdrop sets the scene for your safari adventure and makes Amboseli a photographer’s paradise. Main Destination: Amboseli National Park (Kenya) Best Time To Visit June to October and January to February High Season December to March and July to October (Busy) Best Weather June to September and January to February (Little rainfall) Wildlife in Amboseli NP ElephantAbundant GiraffeCommon BuffaloAbundant ZebraAbundant WildebeestAbundant HippoCommon Show more HyenaCommon LionOccasional CheetahOccasional White RhinoNone Black RhinoNone LeopardRare to None Wild DogNone Accommodation: Sentrim Amboseli Lodge Mid-range tente

Amboseli to Arusha Via Namanga Border

Day 7Amboseli to Arusha Via Namanga Border Amboseli to Arusha Via Namanga Border After a fulfilling breakfast at your lodge in Amboseli, you’ll begin your journey toward Tanzania, driving to the Namanga Border post. The drive takes you through scenic southern Kenya landscapes, with views of rolling hills, farmlands, and local villages, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of the region. At Namanga Border, you will complete immigration and customs formalities for both Kenya and Tanzania. The border crossing process typically takes some time, so it’s advisable to have your documents ready and stay relaxed as your guides assist with smooth processing. Once across into Tanzania, the journey continues with a short drive to the vibrant town of Arusha, known as the safari capital of East Africa. Main Destination: Arusha (City, Tanzania) Accommodation: Summit Safari Lodge Mid-range lodge in Arusha (City, Tanzania) +26 Photos +25 Photos Meals & Drinks: All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Tarangire National Park

Day 8Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park After breakfast in Arusha, you will depart for Tarangire National Park. Upon arrival in the morning, you will immediately embark on an exciting game drive along the Tarangire River circuit. This early game drive takes you through a diverse landscape of savannah, acacia woodlands, and the famous baobab trees, where you’ll have excellent opportunities to spot large herds of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and many other fascinating species. After the morning game drive, you’ll pause for a delicious lunch at a designated picnic site or lodge within the park, where you can relax and take in the serene surroundings. Later, you will leave Tarangire and drive to Karatu, a charming town near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge, where you can unwind and enjoy a restful overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s adventures. Main Destination: Tarangire National Park (Tanzania) Best Time To Visit July to November (Animals come to the Tarangire River) High Season June to October (The park is full of visitors) Best Weather June to October (Little rainfall) Wildlife in Tarangire NP ElephantAbundant GiraffeCommon LionCommon BuffaloAbundant ZebraAbundant WildebeestAbundant Show more HippoCommon HyenaOccasional LeopardRare CheetahRare Wild DogVery Rare White RhinoNone Black RhinoNone Accommodation: Farm of Dreams Lodge Mid-range lodge located 1-2hr drive from Tarangire NP (Tanzania) +4 Photos +3

Karatu- Central Serengeti National Park

Day 9Karatu- Central Serengeti National Park Karatu- Central Serengeti National Park After breakfast, you will set off for the Central Serengeti, traveling through the scenic Highlands and stopping briefly at the Ngorongoro Crater Viewpoint. From this vantage point, you’ll witness the breathtaking expanse of the crater’s vast caldera—a dramatic reminder of nature’s raw power and a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dense wildlife population. Upon arriving in the Central Serengeti, you will explore areas around Moru Kopjes, where dramatic rock formations rise from the plains. These kopjes are excellent spots for spotting lions resting in the shade or leopards lurking among the rocks. Nearby, the Hippo Pool offers a unique sight—hippopotamuses wallowing in the water, often accompanied by Nile crocodiles and a variety of birds. As the sun sets over the endless plains, you’ll head to your lodge or camp in the Central Serengeti for an overnight stay, resting comfortably while surrounded by the sounds and spirit of the African bush. Main Destination: Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) Best Time To Visit January to February and June to October (Different areas are best at different times) High Season July to March (The Seronera area is crowded) Best Weather June to October (Little to no rainfall) Wildlife in Serengeti NP ElephantCommon LionCommon CheetahCommon BuffaloAbundant ZebraAbundant WildebeestAbundant Show more GiraffeCommon HippoCommon HyenaCommon LeopardOccasional

Central Serengeti National Park

Day 10Central Serengeti National Park Central Serengeti National Park You'll start your day early in the Serengeti with the optional hot air balloon safari—a magical experience that lets you drift silently over the vast plains as the sun rises. From this elevated vantage point, enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the wildlife below and the iconic endless plains stretching to the horizon. You'll watch herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals moving gracefully in the early morning light, while the landscape glows with golden hues that photographers dream of capturing. After a rewarding morning, you'll enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lodge or designated picnic site within the park, soaking in the stunning scenery and recharging for the afternoon. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your lodge nestled in the highlands, where you can relax and unwind after a day filled with safari excitement. The serene setting and breathtaking views provide an ideal backdrop to reflect on your experiences and prepare for the adventures awaiting you the next day. Main Destination: Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) Accommodation: Ngorongoro Safari Lodge Mid-range lodge located outside Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania) +5 Photos +4 Photos Meals & Drinks: All meals included All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Ngorongoro Crater- Departure

Day 11Ngorongoro Crater- Departure Ngorongoro Crater- Departure After an early breakfast in the Ngorongoro Highlands, you’ll set off for one of Africa’s most iconic destinations: the Ngorongoro Crater. Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife. As you descend 600 meters into the crater, you'll be met by an incredible natural amphitheater where grasslands, acacia forests, and lakes host a breathtaking variety of animals. During your morning game drive, explore this self-contained ecosystem that supports over 25,000 large mammals. This is one of the few places in Africa where you might spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—in a single day. Later, after a successful day, you will be driven back to Arusha and dropped off at your accommodation or place of your preference. Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania) Best Time To Visit June to October (Wildlife viewing is best) High Season Most of the year – July to March (Expect crowds) Best Weather June to October (Rainfall is little to none) Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater Black RhinoCommon LionCommon BuffaloAbundant ZebraAbundant WildebeestAbundant HyenaAbundant Show more ElephantCommon HippoCommon LeopardOccasional GiraffeNone White RhinoNone CheetahNone Wild DogNone Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals & Drinks: All meals included All dri