8 Days Kenya Luxury Rare Wildlife, Rhinos, Hippos and Big Cats Safari

Experience an 8-Day Kenya Luxury Safari through Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and Maasai Mara with rare species, rhinos, hippos and big cats.

signature wildlife journey from Samburu to Maasai Mara.

Experience Kenya’s rare northern wildlife, important rhino habitats, freshwater scenery and iconic savannah predators on this 8-Day Kenya Luxury Rare Wildlife, Rhinos, Hippos and Big Cats Safari. Samburu introduces reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, gerenuks, Beisa oryx, Somali ostriches, elephants and possible predators within dramatic semi-arid landscapes. Lake Nakuru adds white and black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, baboons and rich birdlife before Lake Naivasha offers hippos, African fish eagles and a peaceful freshwater environment. Three nights in the Maasai Mara provide two complete game-drive days for lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hyenas, grazing herds and river wildlife. A private safari vehicle, professional driver-guide and carefully selected luxury accommodation create a varied, comfortable and highly marketable Kenya wildlife journey.

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Nairobi to Samburu – Northern Kenya Wildlife Journey
Day 2
Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari
Day 3
Samburu to Lake Nakuru – Northern Exit and Rift Valley Transfer
Day 4
Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Lake Naivasha
Day 5
Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Maasai Mara
Day 6
Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator Safari
Day 7
Second Full-Day Maasai Mara Big-Game Safari
Day 8
Maasai Mara to Nairobi – Return Journey

Tour Features

Duration 8 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus Serengeti Migration
Tour Type Private Safari
🌟
Special For Wildlife
Destination/Accommodation
Start/End
Nairobi
Tour Starting & Ending Point
1
Day 1
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
2
Day 2
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
3
Day 3
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: The lake nakuru flamingo lodge
4
Day 4
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Sawela Lodge
5
Day 5
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
6
Day 6
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
7
Day 7
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
8
Day 8
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Use two fingers to move the map

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu – Northern Kenya Wildlife Journey

Nairobi to Samburu – Northern Kenya Wildlife Journey

Your guide will collect you from Nairobi and begin the journey north through central highland farms, towns and changing landscapes. Lunch, refreshment and comfort stops will be arranged along the route. The scenery becomes drier and more dramatic as you approach Samburu. After lodge check-in and a short rest, an introductory wildlife drive may be included when arrival time permits.

Distance: Approximately 310–340 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–7 hours
Safari Time: Approximately 1½–2½ hours when arrival permits
Main Attractions: Northern landscapes, elephants, giraffes and first wildlife encounters
Scenery and Habitat: Highland farmland, rocky hills, dry plains and riverine vegetation

Destination:
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 2: Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari

Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari

Your guide will collect you from Nairobi and begin the journey north through central highland farms, towns and changing landscapes. Lunch, refreshment and comfort stops will be arranged along the route. The scenery becomes drier and more dramatic as you approach Samburu. After lodge check-in and a short rest, an introductory wildlife drive may be included when arrival time permits.

Distance: Approximately 310–340 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–7 hours
Safari Time: Approximately 1½–2½ hours when arrival permits
Main Attractions: Northern landscapes, elephants, giraffes and first wildlife encounters
Scenery and Habitat: Highland farmland, rocky hills, dry plains and riverine vegetation

Destination:
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp	(Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru – Northern Exit and Rift Valley Transfer

Samburu to Lake Nakuru – Northern Exit and Rift Valley Transfer

After breakfast and check-out, a short wildlife drive may be included when timing and entry validity permit. You will then travel toward Lake Nakuru through changing northern and highland landscapes. Lunch and comfort stops will be arranged before arrival at your luxury accommodation. The afternoon is normally reserved for check-in and relaxation after the long transfer.

Distance: Samburu activity approximately 15–30 km; transfer approximately 275–300 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–6½ hours
Safari Time: Approximately 1–2 hours when permitted
Main Attractions: Final northern wildlife and changing Rift Valley scenery
Scenery and Habitat: Semi-arid country, ranchland, farms, valleys and woodland

Destination:
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
The lake nakuru flamingo lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 4: Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Lake Naivasha

Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, you will begin a three-to-four-hour Lake Nakuru wildlife drive. Possible sightings include white or black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, baboons, zebras, waterbucks and birds. After the activity, you will return for check-out and lunch before travelling to Lake Naivasha. An optional evening boat activity may be included depending on arrival time and the confirmed package.

Distance: Lake Nakuru drive approximately 25–50 km; Nakuru to Naivasha approximately 85–100 km
Driving Time: Transfer approximately 1½–2½ hours
Safari Time: Lake Nakuru approximately 3–4 hours
Main Attractions: Rhinos, giraffes, buffaloes, birds and freshwater scenery

Destination:
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
Sawela Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 5: Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Maasai Mara

Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Maasai Mara

The morning may include a boat safari when included in the package. Possible sightings include hippos, African fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants and kingfishers. After returning to the lodge, you will check out and travel to the Maasai Mara through farmland, rolling hills and Maasai country. Lunch and comfort stops will be arranged before your late-afternoon arrival.

Distance: Approximately 195–230 km
Driving Time: Approximately 4½–6 hours
Activity Time: Boat safari approximately 1–1½ hours when included
Main Attractions: Hippos, fish eagles, lake scenery and Maasai landscapes
Scenery and Habitat: Freshwater lake, farmland, rolling hills and savannah

Destination:
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 6: Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator Safari

Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator Safari

After breakfast, you will leave with a picnic lunch for a complete wildlife day. Possible sightings include lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hyenas, wildebeest and zebras. River environments may provide hippos, crocodiles and birds. The guide will select routes according to current wildlife movement, weather and road access.

Distance: Approximately 60–100 km inside the reserve
Driving Time: Wildlife viewing throughout the day
Safari Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Main Attractions: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants and grazing herds
Scenery and Habitat: Open plains, woodland, riverbanks and seasonal marshes

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 7: Second Full-Day Maasai Mara Big-Game Safari

Second Full-Day Maasai Mara Big-Game Safari

The second full day allows you to explore additional wildlife habitats or search for animals missed during Day 6. Possible attractions include leopards, lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, jackals, vultures and waterbirds. The additional time improves flexibility because wildlife movement and weather can change from one day to another. Lunch may be carried as a picnic or enjoyed at the lodge depending on the agreed programme.

Distance: Approximately 50–100 km inside the reserve
Driving Time: Wildlife viewing throughout the activity
Safari Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Main Attractions: River wildlife, predators, elephants, scavengers and birds
Scenery and Habitat: Riverbanks, grasslands, woodland and scenic viewpoints

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 8: Maasai Mara to Nairobi – Return Journey

Maasai Mara to Nairobi – Return Journey

After breakfast and check-out, you will travel to Nairobi. Wildlife may be observed naturally while leaving the reserve, although the day does not include a formal extended game drive unless specifically confirmed. Lunch, refreshments and comfort stops will be arranged before drop-off at your hotel, residence or airport.

Distance: Approximately 260–280 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Activity Time: Scenic road transfer
Main Attractions: Maasai landscapes, Rift Valley scenery and final wildlife memories
Scenery and Habitat: Savannah, pastoral land, agricultural highlands and escarpments

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Gamedrive Cost

    No of pax Adult Price Child Price
    1 Pax From $3,370 pp From $2,528 pp
    2 Pax From $2,370 pp From $1,778 pp
    3 Pax From $2,037 pp From $1,528 pp
    4 Pax From $1,870 pp From $1,403 pp
    5 Pax From $1,770 pp From $1,328 pp
    6 Pax From $1,703 pp From $1,278 pp
    7+ Pax From $1,656 pp From $1,242 pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 8 Days Kenya Luxury Rare Wildlife, Rhinos, Hippos and Big Cats Safari

    1. Can guests see the Big Five?

    Several Big Five species may be encountered, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards and rhinos. Seeing all five cannot be guaranteed, particularly because leopards are secretive.

    2. Are Samburu’s rare species guaranteed?

    No. Reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, gerenuks, oryx and Somali ostriches move naturally. The full-day activity provides time to search different habitats but does not guarantee each species.

    3. Are rhinos guaranteed at Lake Nakuru?

    Lake Nakuru offers strong viewing opportunities, but every sighting remains natural. Vegetation, weather and animal movement can affect visibility.

    4. Are hippos guaranteed at Lake Naivasha?

    Hippos are commonly observed, but no wildlife sighting can be promised. Boat operators must maintain a safe distance and follow local regulations.

    5. Are predators guaranteed in Maasai Mara?

    No. The Maasai Mara offers excellent opportunities, but predators move naturally. Two full days provide more search time and habitat variety.

    6. Is the safari private?

    Yes. The standard package includes a private customised safari vehicle and professional driver-guide. This provides greater flexibility during drives and transfers.

    7. Is the Lake Naivasha boat included?

    It is included only when clearly listed in the confirmed quotation. Weather, wind and water conditions may affect operation.

    8. Are park fees included?

    The final written quotation will state which reserve, park and activity fees are included. Fees may vary according to travel date, age and residency status.

    9. Is the itinerary suitable for first-time safari travellers?

    Yes. The route combines rare northern wildlife, rhinos, freshwater habitats and classic Maasai Mara predators. Guests should be prepared for several road transfers.

    10. Can additional nights be added?

    10. Can additional nights be added?

    REVIEWS FOR signature wildlife journey from Samburu to Maasai Mara.

    Write a Review

    Rare Wildlife, Rhinos, Hippos and Big Cats

    5/5

    Samburu introduced animals we had never seen before, Lake Nakuru added rhinos, Naivasha provided hippos and birds, and the Maasai Mara concluded with lions and elephants. Every destination felt different.

    By: Jonathan Carter
    From: Flag US

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Samburu Rare Species Were Outstanding

    5/5

    : Reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras and gerenuks made Samburu one of the most distinctive places on the journey. The dry landscapes and river environment were beautiful

    By: Camille Dubois
    From: Flag FR

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Lake Nakuru Rhinos Were Magnificent

    5/5

    Seeing rhinos while learning about their conservation was extremely meaningful. The park’s green woodland and lake scenery created a strong contrast with Samburu.

    By: Frederick Adams
    From: Flag GB

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Lake Naivasha Added a Peaceful Change

    5/5

    : The boat safari provided hippos, fish eagles and freshwater scenery after the land-based wildlife drives. It was calm, safe and professionally operated.

    By: Valentina Bianchi
    From: Flag IT

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Excellent Wildlife Interpretation

    5/5

    Our guide explained animal behaviour, tracks, calls and habitat differences throughout the journey. Every sighting became more interesting because of his interpretation.

    By: Yvonne Meier
    From: Flag AD

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Four Completely Different Environments

    5/5

    Samburu’s dry country, Lake Nakuru’s woodland, Naivasha’s freshwater environment and the Mara’s grasslands created constant variety.

    By: André Santos
    From: Flag PT

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Flexible Private Vehicle and Guide

    5/5

    The private vehicle provided excellent viewing space and allowed the guide to adjust routes according to wildlife movement. We never followed another group’s schedule.

    By: Keiko Tanaka
    From: Flag JP

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image