9 Days Kenya Signature Species Safari: Samburu Rarities to Amboseli Giants

See Samburu’s rare species, Lake Nakuru rhinos, Maasai Mara predators, Naivasha hippos and Amboseli elephants on a 9-day luxury Kenya safari.

Nine days of northern specialities, rhinos, Mara predators, lake wildlife and Amboseli elephants.

Experience Kenya’s most contrasting wildlife environments on this 9-Day Signature Species Safari from Samburu to Amboseli. Samburu introduces northern specialities such as reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, gerenuks, Beisa oryx and Somali ostriches alongside elephants and predators. Lake Nakuru provides rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes and birdlife, while the Maasai Mara offers lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, hyenas and vast grazing herds. Lake Naivasha adds hippos, fish eagles and a relaxing freshwater setting before Amboseli completes the journey with elephant families, wetlands, open plains and possible Mount Kilimanjaro views. Private transport, professional guiding and selected luxury lodges create a complete safari for travellers who want rare species, famous predators and varied habitats within one itinerary.

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Nairobi to Samburu – Travel to Kenya’s Rare-Species Country
Day 2
Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari
Day 3
Samburu to Lake Nakuru – Final Northern Wildlife and Scenic Transfer
Day 4
Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Transfer to Maasai Mara
Day 5
Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator and Herd Safari
Day 6
Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha – Scenic Wildlife Transition
Day 7
Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Transfer to Amboseli
Day 8
Full-Day Amboseli Elephant Safari
Day 9
Amboseli to Nairobi – Return Transfer

Tour Features

Duration 9 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus Big 5 Safari
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: lake Nakuru Lodge
4
Day 4
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge
5
Day 5
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge
6
Day 6
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Maasai Simba Camp
7
Day 7
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
8
Day 8
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
9
Day 9
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Use two fingers to move the map

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu – Travel to Kenya’s Rare-Species Country

Nairobi to Samburu – Travel to Kenya’s Rare-Species Country

Your driver-guide will collect you from Nairobi and begin travelling north through highland farms, towns and changing landscapes. Lunch, refreshment and comfort stops will be included before the scenery becomes drier and more rugged near Samburu. After check-in at your luxury lodge, a short afternoon drive may be included when timing permits. Possible first sightings include elephants, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras and antelopes.

Distance: Approximately 310–340 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–7 hours
Safari Time: Approximately 1½–2½ hours when arrival permits
Wildlife Highlights: Elephants, reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebras
Habitat: Highland farmland, rocky hills, acacia scrub and riverine vegetation

Destination:
SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Samburu Intrepids Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
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 2: Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari

Full-Day Samburu Rare-Wildlife Safari

After breakfast, you will explore Samburu’s dry plains, rocky areas and river corridor. Possible sightings include Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, gerenuks, oryx, Somali ostriches, elephants, lions, leopards and birds. A picnic lunch or lodge break will be arranged depending on your programme. Your guide will select routes according to water availability, animal movement and road conditions.

Distance: Approximately 50–90 km inside the reserve
Driving Time: Wildlife viewing throughout the day
Safari Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Wildlife Highlights: Northern specialities, elephants, predators and river wildlife
Habitat: Semi-arid plains, rocky outcrops, acacia scrub and riverine forest

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 – Final Northern Wildlife and Scenic Transfer

Samburu to Lake Nakuru – Final Northern Wildlife and Scenic Transfer

After breakfast and check-out, a short exit game drive may be included when timing permits. You will then travel south through ranchland, farms, towns and Rift Valley scenery. Meal, refreshment and comfort stops will be arranged before arrival at your luxury accommodation. The evening will be used for 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
Wildlife Highlights: Final Samburu species and changing landscapes
Habitat: Dry country, ranchland, agricultural highlands and woodland

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

Day 4: Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Transfer to Maasai Mara

Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari – Transfer to Maasai Mara

After breakfast, you will begin a Lake Nakuru wildlife drive for white or black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, baboons, zebras, waterbucks and birds. After returning for lunch and check-out, you will travel through highlands and Maasai pastoral country to the Maasai Mara. Evening arrival is followed by check-in and dinner.

Distance: Lake Nakuru activity approximately 25–50 km; transfer approximately 230–260 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours from Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara
Safari Time: Approximately 3–4 hours in Lake Nakuru
Wildlife Highlights: Rhinos, giraffes, buffaloes and lakeshore birds
Habitat: Woodland, grassland, highland farms and open savannah

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

Day 5: Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator and Herd Safari

Full-Day Maasai Mara Predator and Herd Safari

After breakfast, you will leave with a picnic lunch for a complete day in the Maasai Mara. Possible sightings include lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, wildebeest, zebras, hyenas and vultures. River areas may add hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds. Your guide will choose routes according to 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
Wildlife Highlights: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants and grazing herds
Habitat: Open plains, acacia woodland, rivers and seasonal marshes

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

Day 6: Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha – Scenic Wildlife Transition

Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha – Scenic Wildlife Transition

After breakfast and check-out, you will travel toward Lake Naivasha. Wildlife may be observed naturally while leaving the reserve, though the day is primarily a transfer. The route passes Maasai communities, rolling hills and agricultural areas. On arrival at your lakeside lodge, you may enjoy a relaxed evening or an optional activity when included.

Distance: Approximately 230–260 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Activity Time: Scenic transfer and optional lakeside experience
Wildlife Highlights: Final Mara sightings, Rift Valley scenery and freshwater wildlife
Habitat: Savannah, rolling hills, farmland and lakeshore

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Maasai Simba Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge
Maasai Simba Camp Luxury 4 star lodge

Day 7: Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Transfer to Amboseli

Lake Naivasha Hippo Experience – Transfer to Amboseli

The morning may include a boat safari for hippos, African fish eagles, pelicans and cormorants. After returning to the lodge, you will check out and travel to Amboseli. Meal and comfort stops will be included before arrival at your luxury lodge in the late afternoon or evening.

Distance: Approximately 300–340 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–7 hours
Activity Time: Approximately 1–1½ hours on Lake Naivasha when included
Wildlife Highlights: Hippos, fish eagles and southern Kenya landscapes
Habitat: Freshwater lake, farmland, open plains and acacia woodland

Destination:
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 8: Full-Day Amboseli Elephant Safari

Full-Day Amboseli Elephant Safari

After breakfast, you will explore Amboseli’s plains, wetlands and seasonal lake beds. Possible sightings include elephant families, large bulls, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, lions, hyenas and birds. Mount Kilimanjaro may be visible in clear conditions but cannot be guaranteed. Lunch may be carried as a picnic or enjoyed at the lodge.

Distance: Approximately 50–90 km inside the park
Driving Time: Wildlife viewing throughout the day
Safari Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Wildlife Highlights: Elephant families, wetlands, birds and possible mountain views
Habitat: Open plains, marshes, lake beds, acacia woodland and mountain scenery

Destination:
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 9: Amboseli to Nairobi – Return Transfer

Amboseli to Nairobi – Return Transfer

After breakfast and check-out, you will travel to Nairobi with meal, refreshment and comfort stops arranged along the way. Wildlife may be seen naturally while leaving the Amboseli area, though an extended game drive is included only when stated in the confirmed programme. Drop-off may be arranged at your hotel, residence or airport.

Distance: Approximately 215–240 km
Driving Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Activity Time: Scenic road transfer
Wildlife Highlights: Final elephant-country views and southern Kenya scenery
Habitat: Open plains, farms, towns and Nairobi surroundings

Destination:
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK

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 $3,640 pp From $2,730 pp
    2 Pax From $2,515 pp From $1,886 pp
    3 Pax From $2,140 pp From $1,605 pp
    4 Pax From $1,953 pp From $1,464 pp
    5 Pax From $1,840 pp From $1,380 pp
    6 Pax From $1,765 pp From $1,324 pp
    7+ Pax From $1,711 pp From $1,284 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 9 Days Kenya Signature Species Safari: Samburu Rarities to Amboseli Giants

    1. Can guests see the Big Five?

    The route offers opportunities for lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards and rhinos. Seeing every species cannot be guaranteed, particularly because leopards are secretive and wildlife moves naturally.

    2. Why include Samburu?

    Samburu adds species and landscapes not usually found in the same form farther south. It makes the itinerary more distinctive than a safari focused only on the Maasai Mara and Amboseli.

    3. Are rhinos guaranteed at Lake Nakuru?

    No. The park provides good opportunities, but vegetation, weather and animal movement affect sightings. Giraffes, buffaloes, baboons and birds remain valuable parts of the experience.

    4. Is one full day in the Maasai Mara enough?

    One full day can be rewarding, especially with an evening arrival beforehand. Travellers whose main priority is predator photography or migration activity may prefer to add another Mara night.

    5. Is the Lake Naivasha boat included?

    It is included only when stated in the confirmed itinerary. Wind, rain or water conditions may affect operation.

    6. Are elephants common in Amboseli?

    Amboseli is well known for elephant families and large bulls, though their exact location changes. The full-day safari allows the guide to search different wetland and plains habitats.

    7. Is Mount Kilimanjaro guaranteed to appear?

    No. Clouds and haze may hide it for the entire visit. Amboseli should still be valued for elephants, wetlands and open landscapes.

    8. Is this suitable for a first African safari?

    Yes. It combines rare species, rhinos, predators, freshwater wildlife and elephants. Guests should be comfortable with several road-transfer days.

    9. What accommodation level is used?

    The package is designed around luxury lodges or tented camps. Exact properties depend on travel dates, availability, location and budget.

    10. Can the itinerary be reversed?

    It may be possible to begin in Amboseli and finish in Samburu, but driving flow, park fees and accommodation availability must be reviewed before confirmation.

    REVIEWS FOR Nine days of northern specialities, rhinos, Mara predators, lake wildlife and Amboseli elephants.

    Write a Review

    A Complete Kenya Wildlife Journey

    5/5

    Rare northern animals, rhinos, Mara predators, lake wildlife and elephants gave us a complete experience. I would recommend the route to travellers who want variety rather than spending the whole safari in one ecosystem.

    By: Sofia Almeida
    From: Flag DE

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    Comfortable Lodges after Busy Days

    5/5

    The rooms and meals were consistently good. After long drives, that level of comfort became very important

    By: Keiko Mori
    From: Flag JP

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    The Guide Made the Safari Better

    5/5

    He explained animal behaviour instead of simply naming species. He was also honest when a sighting was uncertain or when road conditions required a change.

    By: Faith Kamau
    From: Flag KE

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    Amboseli Was a Fitting Finale

    5/5

    We saw several elephant families in and around the wetlands. Kilimanjaro remained mostly cloudy, but the park was still outstanding.

    By: Miguel Costa
    From: Flag PH

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    Naivasha Helped Break the Journey

    5/5

    The lake stop gave us time to slow down between the Mara and Amboseli. Hippos and fish eagles made the morning interesting without becoming exhausting.

    By: Sarah McKenzie
    From: Flag AU

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    Maasai Mara Delivered the Drama

    5/5

    Lions, hyenas and large herds created the classic safari scenes we had imagined. The guide was patient and did not chase every vehicle report.

    By: Thabo Ncube
    From: Flag DE

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    Rhinos Were the Quiet Highlight

    5/5

    Lake Nakuru was a shorter stop, but the rhino encounter was calm and memorable. The woodland setting made it feel very different from the open Mara.

    By: Lena Fischer
    From: Flag GM

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    A Very Strong First Safari

    5/5

    We had never visited Africa before, and the route gave us a broad introduction without relying on only one park. The guide explained the differences between the ecosystems clearly

    By: Oliver Hayes
    From: Flag AU

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    Samburu Was Worth the Long Drive

    5/5

    The journey north was long, but reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebras made the destination feel special. The dry landscape was also one of the most beautiful parts of the safari.

    By: Camille Roux
    From: Flag DK

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    The Route Never Felt Repetitive

    5/5

    Samburu, Lake Nakuru, the Mara, Naivasha and Amboseli looked and felt completely different. Every destination introduced a new habitat and a new group of animals.

    By: Jonathan Miles
    From: Flag BS

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