Welcome to Kenya, one of the best safari destinations IN THE WORLD!
In this guide, we highlight the TWO most popular Kenya 10 day itinerary routes that have amazing wildlife, landscapes, lakes, and white sand powder.
Let’s get started!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
🌍 Varied safari routes: From a 10 day safari in Kenya covering the Big Five in the Masai Mara & Amboseli, to off-the-beaten-path adventures in the north (Meru, Samburu and Ol Pejeta).
🛫 Practical guides: Day-by-day breakdowns with drive times and flight options: We include prices, our own travel times, daily activities, and suggested lodges & trendy restaurants. Look out for our 👉 INSIDER TIPS.
🦁 Wildlife encounters: Both kenya 10 day itineraries are designed to maximize your chances of spotting the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo), plus unique species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
*These itineraries are based on our own safari experiences collected over the years. Laura grew up in Kenya, speaks Swahili, and has spent years exploring the country’s national parks and reserves, building trusted connections with local guides and lodges. It’s that knowledge you will find in this article.
Why should I go on a safari in Kenya?
Kenya is the land of the ORIGINAL SAFARI.
👉 DID YOU KNOW: The very word “safari” comes from Swahili meaning “journey.”
Kenya was one of the first countries in Africa to offer safari tourism, and it remains a top choice to this day, only surpassed by South Africa.
Here’s why your 10 days in Kenya will be unforgettable:
- Incredible wildlife: Kenya is famous as a Big Five country and lives up to the reputation every time (we can confirm!). Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo are present in its parks in large numbers.
- The Great Migration: Kenya hosts what we call “THE GREATEST WILDLIFE SHOW ON EARTH.” Each year in July and August, almost 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Masai Mara. More information here.
- Stunning landscapes & parks: Despite being a bit smaller than the size of Texas in the US (source), Kenya has 50+ national parks and reserves, from grassy plains to old forests.
- Rich culture: Beyond the animals, Kenya has many cultural experiences. You can visit a Maasai village to learn about old traditions or see Samburu warriors dancing by a campfire. With 43+ ethnic groups, Kenya’s people are as diverse as its wildlife.

In short, going on safari in Kenya means epic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and real cultural experiences, all in one trip.
THAT IS THE REASON why Kenya ranks among the TOP safari destinations worldwide.
How long to spend in Kenya
Based on our experience, you need AT LEAST 10 days, but we recommend spending at least two weeks in the country.
With 10 days, you can comfortably visit 3 safari areas (for example, Maasai Mara + Amboseli + a beach, or Samburu + Ol Pejeta + Lake Naivasha in our “northern” route).
As you’ll see in the itineraries below, a Kenya 10 day itinerary can pack in a lot more compared to a 5 day Kenya trip or even a 7 day trip.
You can use our widget below to fill in the short survey. Our trusted local tour operators will send you a personalized itinerary within 48 hours for your ultimate Kenya safari.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
Simply fill in the form below to get FREE QUOTES from trusted local tour companies that we’ve personally traveled with.
It only takes 60 seconds, and you’ll receive custom itineraries and pricing directly in your inbox within 48 hours.
Free of charge. No pressure. No obligation.
*Our trusted local partners create every itinerary with care. We kindly ask that you submit a request only if you’re considering traveling.
Best time to visit Kenya
Kenya is beautiful year-round, but the experience can vary with seasons (rainy vs dry season).
We have been through both rainy and dry seasons, so let us give you our honest opinion for the best time to visit Kenya!

Dry season in Kenya
Dry season (June to October): This is the BEST TIME for safari.
We experienced no rain, nice temperatures (75°F/24°C daytime in savannahs), and thinning vegetation. This means that animals group around waterholes.
Not only is game viewing excellent, but the Great Migration river crossings in the Masai Mara occur during July and August. These months see the highest visitor numbers, so parks like Mara are busy (and lodge rates highest).
October is a shoulder month, meaning that it is still mostly dry, with a bit fewer crowds as some migration herds start to move back to Tanzania.
Rainy season in Kenya
Kenya has two rainy seasons, and each comes with its own restrictions.
The SHORT rains arrive in November and last into mid-December.
These are usually brief afternoon showers (1 hour) that refresh the landscape, turning everything lush and green.
In November, the crowds are gone after the migration, the lodges drop their rates, and game viewing is still strong. We’ve had some of our best elephant and big cat sightings during this time in Amboseli.

The LONG rains are from March to May, with April being the wettest month. This is when you’ll see heavy downpours, making dirt roads impassable.
Many lodges are closed for this reason, and game viewing is also more difficult, as animals spread out with water available everywhere.
Hence, we do not recommend the long rainy season.
You can read a month-by-month comparison guide in our dedicated Kenya weather post!
Kenya 10 day itinerary overview
We’ve created TWO different 10 day kenya safaris based on our experiences.
The classic safari you MUST do to see the Great Migration, or a hidden gem safari to the north in Kenya with an equal amount of wildlife to the Masai Mara!
Below is a quick comparison of these 10-day Kenya safari itineraries:
| Itinerary name | Day by day breakdown |
|---|---|
| CLASSIC KENYA SAFARI & BEACH ITINERARY | Day 1: Nairobi (arrival and city overnight, optional visit to Giraffe Centre or Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage)
Day 2: Nairobi ➞ Masai Mara by car (Drive through the Great Rift Valley, afternoon game drive) Day 3: Masai Mara (full day exploring) Day 4: Masai Mara ➞ Lake Naivasha (morning game drive, drive to Naivasha, and afternoon boat ride) Day 5: Lake Naivasha ➞ Amboseli (drive to Amboseli, evening game drive) Day 6: Amboseli (full day safari) Day 7: Amboseli ➞ Tsavo West (afternoon game drive) Day 8: Tsavo West ➞ Diani Beach (morning safari, then drive to the coast) Day 9: Diani Beach (full day at leisure on the white sand beach, optional water sports or Wasini Island excursion) Day 10: Flight Diani ➞ Nairobi (morning at the beach, afternoon flight back to Nairobi for departure) |
| NORTHERN KENYA SAFARI ITINERARY | Day 1: Nairobi ➞ Meru National Park (afternoon game drive)
Day 2: Meru National Park (full day exploring wild Meru) Day 3: Meru ➞ Samburu National Reserve (afternoon game drive) Day 4: Samburu Reserve (full day safari and cultural visit) Day 5: Samburu ➞ Ol Pejeta Conservancy (evening game drive) Day 6: Ol Pejeta Conservancy (full day exploring rhino sanctuary and big five conservancy) Day 7: Ol Pejeta ➞ Lake Nakuru National Park (afternoon game drive, flamingos and rhinos) Day 8: Lake Nakuru National Park (morning game drive, then relax in the park or lodge) Day 9: Lake Nakuru National Park ➞ Lake Naivasha (boat ride on the lake with hippos and birdlife) Day 10: Lake Naivasha ➞ Nairobi |
10 Day classic Kenya safari & beach itinerary

Travel summary:
Day 1: Nairobi
Day 2: Nairobi ➞ Masai Mara by car (Drive through the Great Rift Valley, afternoon game drive)
Day 3: Masai Mara (full day exploring)
Day 4: Masai Mara ➞ Lake Naivasha (morning game drive, drive to Naivasha and afternoon boat ride)
Day 5: Lake Naivasha ➞ Amboseli (drive to Amboseli, evening game drive)
Day 6: Amboseli (full day safari with Kilimanjaro views)
Day 7: Amboseli ➞ Tsavo West (afternoon game drive in volcanic landscapes)
Day 8: Tsavo West ➞ Diani Beach (morning safari, then drive to the coast)
Day 9: Diani Beach (full day at leisure on the white sand beach, optional water sports or Wasini Island excursion)
Day 10: Flight Diani ➞ Nairobi (morning at the beach, afternoon flight back to Nairobi for departure)
This is the ultimate Kenya 10-day safari and beach itinerary for travelers who want to combine iconic parks with Indian Ocean relaxation.
You’ll get to see THREE of Kenya’s most famous wildlife destinations, the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West. On top of that, you’ll get to go to an Instagram-perfect WHITE-SAND BEACH on the Kenyan beach.
HOW TO GET AROUND: The parks in this itinerary are far apart; for example, driving from the Masai Mara to Amboseli is 9 hours by car. To not overburden you, we added a stop at Lake Naivasha, which is an amazing lake with many hippo’s and an island in the middle with animals that are stuck there!
👉 COST ESTIMATION: For this classic 10-day safari & beach in Kenya, you can expect to pay around $5,000 – $7,000 per person(EUR 4,600 – EUR 6,650) (including flight from Diani back to Nairobi). We have accounted for a mid-budget safari experience (meaning a private safari car and guide, but not the super luxurious hotels). More information here about the cost of a Kenya safari. Discover the difference in price between a budget, mid-range, and luxury 10-day safari in Kenya!
Day 1: Nairobi
Morning: Your adventure begins as you land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi.
After completing immigration and collecting your luggage, a PRIVATE TRANSFER will bring you to your hotel for check-in.
We recommend staying in the RADISSON in Nairobi. It’s centrally located, clean and good rooms and mid-budget pricing.
Here you can freshen up, enjoy a coffee, and take some time to recover from your flight before stepping out into the city.
If your arrival is in the morning, you will have the perfect opportunity to begin with a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage.

Entrance costs 20 USD / 18 EUR per person (but you also need to pay entrance to Nairobi National Park as the orphanage is located INSIDE the park).
Open for just one hour daily, from 11:00 to 12:00, this sanctuary gives you the chance to observe baby elephants being fed with the bottle, and you can see them play in a mud bath.
We love Sheldrick as it provides an introduction to Kenya’s elephants (and conservation efforts), which you will take with you on safari.

Afternoon: continue your visit to Nairobi with a stop at the GIRAFFE CENTRE (entrance 15 USD / 14 EUR per person).
Here you will meet the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, learn about their protection, and HAND-FEED THEM from a raised wooden platform.
It is a super experience as they literally lick the food from your hand. You’ll not get to experience this during your safari.

Afterward, make your way back toward the city to visit the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) ROOFTOP (entrance 5 USD / 4.50 EUR per person).
The tower provides INSTAGRAM-WORTHY VIEWS across Nairobi’s skyline, and on a clear day you may even see the Ngong Hills in the distance (worth a hike if you have more time).
Combining the Giraffe Centre with the Convention Centre works perfect in one afternoon.

Evening: return to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for dinner.
Nairobi is known for its cosmopolitan dining scene, and two restaurants stand out for their atmosphere and quality.
CULTIVA FARM, located in Karen, offers an unforgettable farm-to-table experience.

Seasonal organic produce is harvested from the property’s own farm and transformed into creative dishes.
It’s a trendy spot where Nairobi’s expats and young influencers dine, but expect European / American prices.

If you prefer to stay closer to the center, TALISMAN RESTAURANT is another excellent choice.
With its stylish interiors, open garden seating, and beautiful menu, it is one of Nairobi’s most beloved dining spots.
Expect to spend around 50 USD / 40 EUR per person for a three-course dinner with drinks.
A last option is the famous Carnivore Restaurant. They serve an all-you-can-eat BBQ of exotic meats (in the past, even game like OSTRICH or CROCODILE).
After dinner, return to the Radisson for a restful night.
Day 2: Nairobi ➞ Masai Mara

Morning: Leave Nairobi around 7 – 8 am for the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most famous safari destination.
It’s about a 5 – 6 hour drive, with a possible stop at the RIFT VALLEY VIEWPOINT to enjoy the views of the Great Rift Valley.
Afternoon: Arrive at the Masai Mara in time for lunch at your lodge (around 2 pm). We recommend staying in one of the conservancies NEXT to the Mara reserve. Same wildlife, fewer people, and much cheaper lodges for the same comfort as inside the park.
For a mid-range stay, we recommend the Jambo Mara Safari Lodge or PrideInn Mara Camp & Cottages, both of which offer comfort near the Talek Gate at $300 (€250) per night.
👉 KEEP IN MIND: Lodges will often include dinner, breakfast, and lunch, as there are not many other places.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for the Masai Mara National Reserve:
| Category | High season (per 12 hours) | Low season (per 12 hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 200 (EUR 170) | USD 100 (EUR 85) | Fee increase introduced in July 2024 to support conservation efforts |
| Child (9–17 years) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | Flat fee, same year-round |
| Child (0–8 years) | FREE | FREE | No entry fee |
Check the Masai Mara Reserve and Mara Triangle websites for the latest fees and rules.
We recommend PRIVATE CONSERVANCIES, as they are a lot cheaper, and since the Masai Mara is NOT A GATED PARK, the animals are free to roam, meaning you can see everything from the private conservancies that are right next to the reserve.
More information in our Kenya national parks entrance fees guide!

After a good lunch, enjoy the lodge for a few hours and then head out on your first game drive in the Mara by 4 pm. The late afternoon is perfect for wildlife, as temperatures cool down, making animals more active.
Drive across the savannah searching for lions in the grass, leopards in acacia branches, and herds of elephants and buffalo.
If your visit is between July and September, you may witness part of the GREAT WILDEBEEST MIGRATION, with thousands of wildebeest crossing the Mara River. More information here.
Stay out until sunset for those classic safari sundowner moments (wine and popcorn at sundown) as the sky turns orange and pink for golden hour!

By 6 pm, exit the reserve as the PARK GATES CLOSE.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and a campfire, and enjoy your evening at your safari lodge just outside the reserve.
You can use our widget below to fill in the short survey. Our trusted local tour operators will send you a personalized itinerary within 48 hours for your ultimate Kenya safari.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
Simply fill in the form below to get FREE QUOTES from trusted local tour companies that we’ve personally traveled with.
It only takes 60 seconds, and you’ll receive custom itineraries and pricing directly in your inbox within 48 hours.
Free of charge. No pressure. No obligation.
*Our trusted local partners create every itinerary with care. We kindly ask that you submit a request only if you’re considering traveling.
Day 3: Masai Mara

Morning: Rise before dawn for a full day of safari in the Masai Mara.
At first light, so around 6 am (yes, indeed 6 am!), set out on an early morning game drive when lions and cheetahs are still on the move after a night of hunting.
Make sure to have your breakfast packed so you can eat it in the park (this is called a BUSH BREAKFAST)!
👉 KEEP IN MIND: You have to let your resort know a day in advance about your BUSH BREAKFAST so they can prepare it for you (mostly this is already included in your lodge price but make sure to check).
We recommend visiting the area of the Mara River and the Musiera Swamp in the morning!

👉 INSIDER TIP: If you want a truly special and different kind of morning safari, then the Masai Mara is the best place in Kenya for a HOT-AIR BALLOON SAFARI with a champagne breakfast, a magical sunrise we experienced, and it is worth its price. Read about our REVIEW! It’s pricey ($450 per person) but an unforgettable romantic experience!
Afternoon: Return to your lodge by late morning to relax and have lunch there.
Many people opt for an all-day game drive with a packed lunch, but we prefer a morning game drive and one evening game drive (starting at 4 pm).
Between 12h and 4 pm, many animals are resting in the shade anyway to escape the midday heat.
What we recommend doing during those midday hours is to visit a nearby MAASAI VILLAGE (many are right next to the reserve). For about $20–$30, they’ll show you their homes, how they start fires, and perform traditional dances (the jumping dance is amazing, but be prepared to jump with them).

At 4 pm, resume your game drive. Keep your camera ready for elephants near watering holes, and for giraffes nibbling treetops, and if you’re lucky, the BIG CATS (lion, leopard, cheetah) waking up from their naps.
You’ll definitely see many wildebeest, as there are hundreds of thousands (!) in the Mara ecosystem, migration aside.
By around 5 pm, the light is fantastic for photography (GOLDEN HOUR), and you might spot predators like hyenas and cheetahs becoming active again.

Evening: Exit the reserve by 6 pm and return to your lodge for dinner (make sure to try the chapati and the ugali).
Day 4: Masai Mara → Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate
Morning: Make sure to have an early morning GAME DRIVE in the Masai Mara before leaving.
Late Morning: Around 8 am, you will leave the Mara and drive to Lake Naivasha, a journey of about 5–6 hours by car, covering roughly 155 miles (250 km).
The first stretch of the road can be BUMPY as you exit the reserve, but once you rejoin the main highway the drive is on paved roads.

Arrive at Lake Naivasha by 2 pm.
Afternoon (Hell’s Gate National Park): After lunch in the Naivasha area at your new lodge or a lakeside restaurant, set off for Hell’s Gate National Park, a short drive from Lake Naivasha.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Hell’s Gate National Park:
| Category | Entry fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | One of the most affordable Kenya Wildlife Service national parks, known for walking and cycling safaris. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 25 (EUR 21) | Flat rate year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
More information here about Hell’s Gate National Park entry fees.
Hell’s Gate is a small park known for its scenery. Imagine red cliffs, gorges, and geothermal steam vents, and no large predators, which means you can safely explore it on foot or bicycle.
Rent a bike at the park gate (or drive in if you prefer) and cycle along the dirt roads through the savannah (for about 4 miles / 7km to the start of the gorge hike).

It’s an amazing experience to pedal past herds of zebra, gazelle, and giraffe. You might also see warthogs and buffalo grazing (keep a distance from buffalo).
The park’s name comes from its geothermal activity; you’ll notice HOT SPRINGS AND STEAM VENTS, especially in areas like OL NJOROWA GORGE.
👉 INSIDER TIP: The Ol Njorowa Gorge has three lengths; SHORT, MIDDLE, and LONG. For short and middle, there are emergency stairs in case of a flash flood. The long part does not, hence the reason why it’s become forbidden to hike there. However, the guides will still take you there if you give them some extra cash (it’s the most beautiful part of the hike).
By around 4 – 5 pm, wrap up your Hell’s Gate adventure (the park closes by 6 pm).
Evening: Proceed to your lodge by Lake Naivasha to relax.

This freshwater lake is beautiful and serene, often with hippos grazing on the lawns at night.
For a comfortable mid-range stay, we stayed at, and recommend Sanctuary Farm, an amazing mini national park with only a FEW ACCOMMODATIONS.
We saw hippos at night from our campfire, zebras, and gazelles.
Enjoy dinner at their amazing restaurant, perhaps some grilled tilapia (a local lake fish).
As night falls, listen for the snorts of hippos; many come ashore to feed after dark.
You can use our widget below to fill in the short survey. Our trusted local tour operators will send you a personalized itinerary within 48 hours for your ultimate Kenya safari.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
Simply fill in the form below to get FREE QUOTES from trusted local tour companies that we’ve personally traveled with.
It only takes 60 seconds, and you’ll receive custom itineraries and pricing directly in your inbox within 48 hours.
Free of charge. No pressure. No obligation.
*Our trusted local partners create every itinerary with care. We kindly ask that you submit a request only if you’re considering traveling.
Day 5: Lake Naivasha ➞ Amboseli National Park
Morning: After breakfast, it’s time to leave Naivasha and go to one of the other best elephant parks in the world: Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya.
It’s around 7 hours (!) by road (330 kms or 205 miles), so leave by 7 am.

Afternoon: Arrive at Amboseli National Park by mid to late afternoon.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Amboseli National Park
| Category | Entry fee (24hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 90 (EUR 77) | Amboseli is classified as a Kenya Wildlife Service “premium park,” same tier as Lake Nakuru. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | Discounted child rate, flat all year long. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
*Amboseli only has one entry fee all year round (no high or low season), according to the Kenya Wildlife Service. More information here about Amboseli National Park entry fees.
If time allows, you’ll go straight into the park for a short game drive.
The contrast from the Mara is amazing. Amboseli is all about open grass plains, with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

Despite the travel fatigue, you’ll be rewarded by seeing Amboseli’s famous elephant herds (there are more than 1600 elephants in the park, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service), so you will definitely see them as the park is not that big!
Around 5 pm, dozens of elephants trek across the plains (so across the main roads in the park) from the dry interior towards the marshes at the foot of Kilimanjaro.
👉 DID YOU KNOW: Amboseli is called the “LAND OF THE GIANTS”, not only for its giant tusked elephants, but because it has Africa’s tallest mountain right next door? Although the Kilimanjaro is actually in Tanzania, the best views of it are from the Kenyan side (Amboseli).
Evening: Exit the park at sunset and check in to your Amboseli accommodation, like Kibo Safari Camp (close to the entrance of Amboseli NP), where we stayed 3 nights during our 2-week Kenya safari trip.

At your hotel, you can expect an extended buffet, Kibo Camp even offers you to make your own pizza. Afterwards, you can sit at the fire pit with some wine and popcorn!

👉 INSIDER TIP: Always be insured when you’re traveling to Kenya! There’s a company called SafetyWing that we use for our own insurance. It covers you in over 180 countries, and it’s quite affordable, starting at $56.28 (ages 18-39) per month. It covers not just emergency situations, but you can, for example, visit a doctor if you have the flu, and it also includes the prescribed drugs. Visit their website here!
Day 6: Amboseli National Park
Morning: Wake up to the sunrise over Kilimanjaro, the sky is usually clear (Kilimanjaro is often only visible at DAWN before the clouds come), and the animals are active.
Head out by 6.30 am to catch the big elephant families on their morning move.
Amboseli’s elephants are famous for their big size and long tusks, and at this hour you can watch them socializing and bathing (these are worthy Instagram pictures).
Apart from elephants, look for plains game like impala, Grant’s gazelle, and warthogs in the grasslands.

The cool morning also offers a chance to spot predators; lions and cheetahs (we saw one!) might still be patrolling for a hunt before the heat of the day.
Afternoon: After a lunch and a siesta (or a dip in the pool) back at Kibo Safari Camp, go back on a game drive around 3 – 4 pm when the harsh sun disappears.
Visit OBSERVATION HILL, a viewpoint in the park, to stretch your legs. It’s 80 meters (260 feet above the surrounding plains).

From the top, you get a panoramic overlook of Amboseli’s wetlands and plains dotted with wildlife.
It’s common to see pods of hippos wallowing in the swamps and elephants grazing in the water, with many pelicans nearby.
Evening: Enjoy your final night on safari with dinner at the lodge.
👉 INSIDER TIP: Many lodges offer an OPTIONAL NIGHT GAME DRIVE at extra cost. Since Amboseli is a national park, night game drives are not allowed, so they have to be arranged on private conservancies nearby.

Day 7: Amboseli → Tsavo West National Park
Morning: Leave Amboseli early (by 7 am) for the journey to Tsavo West National Park.
Normally, your driver (often in a Land Cruiser Jeep) will come to pick you up at your accommodation.
The drive from Amboseli to Tsavo East National Park takes about 4 hours by car, covering 95 miles (150 km) on mostly paved roads with some rougher stretches closer to the park entrance.
Arrive in the Tsavo West area around midday.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Parks:
| Category | Entry fee (per 24 hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 80 (EUR 69) | Both Tsavo East and Tsavo West have identical pricing structures, set by the Kenya Wildlife Service. |
| Student / Child (3–17 years) | USD 40 (EUR 35) | Flat child rate, valid year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
*Both Tsavos only have one entry fee all year round (no high or low season), according to the Kenya Wildlife Service for Tsavo East and Tsavo West. More information here about the Tsavo’s National Parks entry fees.
Afternoon: Enter Tsavo West. The park is known for its VOLCANIC hills, dense bush, and lava fields.
After lunch at a lodge or picnic site, go on an afternoon game drive.
Start with a visit to MZIMA SPRINGS, one of the park’s highlights.
Mzima is a series of lush springs that produce millions (!) of liters of fresh water a day, feeding the Tsavo River. These crystal-clear pools are fed by underground springs and filtered through volcanic rock.
Take the short walking trail to the springs (with a ranger escort).

There’s an UNDERWATER VIEWING TANK where you can often see hippos and giant Nile crocodiles swimming! You might also see fish and turtles through the glass.
Next, drive through the Rhino Sanctuary area if time permits (the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary is a 70 km² fenced zone in Tsavo West protecting about 80 black rhinos).
We cannot guarantee seeing any rhinos due to thick vegetation, but you might get lucky near dusk as rhinos become active.
Still, plenty of animals are here: giraffes nibbling leaves, herds of buffalo, and elephants browsing or bathing in mud.

Look out for the famous MANE-LESS LIONS of Tsavo and perhaps leopards around rocky outcrops (Tsavo West has a good leopard population).
As you cross the park, you might cross the ancient lava flows of SHETANI LAVA FLOW, a black lava field from an ERUPTION just 200 years ago, an almost lunar landscape near the road.
👉 DID YOU KNOW: The name “Shetani” means “Devil” in Swahili, as locals thought it was the devil’s work when it erupted.
By sunset, climb to a viewpoint or just enjoy the sunset from the bush.

Evening: Check in to your Tsavo West lodge for dinner and overnight.
Two excellent mid-range options we can recommend: Severin Safari Camp, a tented camp with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and a waterhole (around $200 / €180 per night), or Voyager Ziwani Camp on the park’s edge (also $200, offering tents by the dam).
Enjoy a night under Tsavo’s sky; without city lights, the Milky Way shines bright.
You can use our widget below to fill in the short survey. Our trusted local tour operators will send you a personalized itinerary within 48 hours for your ultimate Kenya safari.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
Simply fill in the form below to get FREE QUOTES from trusted local tour companies that we’ve personally traveled with.
It only takes 60 seconds, and you’ll receive custom itineraries and pricing directly in your inbox within 48 hours.
Free of charge. No pressure. No obligation.
*Our trusted local partners create every itinerary with care. We kindly ask that you submit a request only if you’re considering traveling.
Day 8: Tsavo West to the Beach (Diani)
Morning: It’s time to say farewell to Tsavo’s elephants and fly to the coast.
The drive from Tsavo West National Park to Diani Beach takes about 6 – 7 hours by car, covering around 210 miles (340 km).
Afternoon: Your driver will bring you straight to your beach resort on DIANI BEACH, the jewel of Kenya’s coastline.
For accommodations, we can recommend two hotels we have stayed at.
- Papillon Lagoon Reef Hotel (all-inclusive): From US $77 – $148 (€71–€137) per night, this beachfront Swahili-style hotel is in tropical gardens, right at the edge of the beach. Highlights include a large pool with a swim-up bar (order your drink from the pool), water sports, and huge buffets with local and international dishes.

- Diani Sea Lodge (all-inclusive): From US $110 – $180+ (€102–€167+) per night, this beachfront resort offers gardens, pool, spa, diving, and plenty of activities. Rooms are air-conditioned with garden views. Ideal for couples seeking a relaxed all-inclusive experience.
So once you have checked in and had lunch, it’s time to relax.
Kick off your shoes and walk on Diani’s white sand, ONE OF THE BEST BEACHES IN AFRICA.
The ocean is crystal-clear and usually calm (especially in the morning, which makes it perfect for windsurfing), protected by an offshore reef 150 meters into the ocean.
Take a swim in the warm turquoise water, or snorkel straight from the beach to spot colorful fish.

If you’re feeling active, many resorts offer water sports. Some of the sports we recommend are diving, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
Alternatively, just relax under a coconut palm with a good book or enjoy a nap by the pool.
Believe us, after the past days of 5.30 am wake-up calls, an easy beach afternoon is just what you need.

Evening: As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, take a stroll along the beach at golden hour, and you’ll see local fishermen pulling in their dhows.
Enjoy a Swahili-style dinner featuring local flavors (don’t miss the grilled jumbo prawns or coconut fish curry).
Day 9: Diani Beach

Morning: Wake up to the sound of the ocean and rustling palm fronds.
Today is a full free day to enjoy Diani Beach and its surroundings. After a leisurely breakfast with tropical fruits and Kenyan coffee, you can opt for a morning ocean adventure.
We recommend a SNORKELING TRIP to the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park (often called the “Blue Safari”) OR spending a full day at WASSINI ISLAND.
You’ll take a dhow boat out to coral reefs teeming with marine life; if luck is on your side, you could spot dolphins en route.

Snorkel among neon-colored fish and perhaps sea turtles; the coral gardens are truly beautiful (make sure to take your underwater camera with you).
If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can also arrange a SCUBA DIVE (Diani has many PADI centers at resorts). Diving sites like Galu Reef offer you the chance to also see underwater wildlife, such as moray eels, rays, and many beautiful corals.

The morning is also a nice time for a beach walk when the tide is low, revealing tidal pools with starfish and crabs.
Afternoon: After lunch, how about pampering yourself?
Many beach hotels have spa services, so you could enjoy a massage or spa treatment using local coconut oils.
By now, you have realized Diani feels like a different world compared to the savanna just a couple of days ago. That’s Kenya’s charm: safari na bahari (wildlife and beach), all combined in one trip.
For the active traveler, another option is visiting the COLOBUS MONKEY SANCTUARY in Diani’s forest inland. It’s a conservation center where you can see and learn about the endangered Angolan colobus monkeys that roam the area.

👉 INSIDER TIP: Come late afternoon, you can take a tuk-tuk to the Kongo River, where the sun sets over the water, specifically at the point where the river flows into the Indian Ocean.
If you have some time left over, you can also take a tuk-tuk and head into Diani town and pay a visit to Kazuri bead jewelry, amazing (yet slightly expensive) jewelry for women.
Evening: Celebrate your last night in Kenya with a beachfront dinner like Nomad (right on the sand, they have amazing grilled fish and cocktails) OR at the very special and ONLY CAVE RESTAURANT IN KENYA. It’s an open-air restaurant set in a natural coral cave lit by candles (the only cave restaurant in Kenya)

Many resorts also host barbecue dinners on the beach or have live bands playing mellow tunes.
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Day 10: Diani ➞ Nairobi
Morning: Enjoy your final morning of your 10 days in Kenya.
You might take one last early beach walk (especially as the sun comes up above the sea around 5.30 am).
Afternoon: Transfer to the Ukunda airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi (or directly to Nairobi’s international airport if your flight home is the same day).
Make sure to arrive one hour before your flight leaves to account for check-in and security checks.
The flight from Diani to Nairobi is about 1.5 hours.
You’ll be in Nairobi by afternoon, ending your 10 day Kenya safari and beach adventure.
👉 INSIDER TIP: If you extend your Kenya 10 day itinerary, then we recommend visiting Nairobi National Park or hiking the Ngong Hills in Nairobi.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
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10 day Northern Kenya safari itinerary

Travel summary:
Day 1: Nairobi ➞ Meru National Park (afternoon game drive)
Day 2: Meru National Park (full day exploring wild Meru)
Day 3: Meru ➞ Samburu National Reserve (afternoon game drive)
Day 4: Samburu Reserve (full day safari and cultural visit)
Day 5: Samburu ➞ Ol Pejeta Conservancy (evening game drive)
Day 6: Ol Pejeta Conservancy (full day exploring rhino sanctuary and big five conservancy)
Day 7: Ol Pejeta ➞ Lake Nakuru National Park (afternoon game drive, flamingos and rhinos)
Day 8: Lake Nakuru National Park (morning game drive, then relax in the park or lodge)
Day 9: Lake Nakuru National Park ➞ Lake Naivasha (boat ride on the lake with hippos and birdlife)
Day 10: Lake Naivasha ➞ Nairobi
This is the best 10 day Northern Kenya safari itinerary if you want to explore off-the-beaten-track parks with incredible wildlife diversity.
It focuses on four lesser-visited parks in northern Kenya: Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Hell’s Gate National Park.
We visited all of them and were blown away by how beautiful they were and how much wildlife we were able to see! For us, they belong on the SAME LEVEL AS MASAI MARA AND AMBOSELI.
It’s the perfect adventure if you want to skip the classic safari parks.
Day 1: Nairobi → Meru National Park
Morning: Begin your journey early, leaving Nairobi around 7 am for the ride to Meru National Park.
It’s about 6 hours by road (217 miles / 350 km), a long drive but through good roads (except for the last 18 miles / 30 km).
Head north past Mount Kenya’s slopes and through the towns of Embu and Meru. Passing these towns, you’ll see many farmers working on Kenya’s ricefields!
You will reach the national park by early afternoon.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Meru National Park:
| Category | Entry fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 70 (EUR 60) | Meru is categorized by the Kenya Wildlife Service as a wilderness park, so its entrance fees are lower than premium parks like Amboseli or Lake Nakuru. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 35 (EUR 30) | Consistent child rate, valid year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
*Meru only has one entry fee all year round (no high or low season), according to the Kenya Wildlife Service. More information here.
Afternoon: After a picnic lunch or quick bite at the park entrance, go into Meru National Park on an afternoon game drive en route to your camp.
First impressions: Meru is green with tall grasslands, swaying palms along numerous rivers (13 rivers flow through Meru!), and rich red soil.
Start spotting wildlife: Meru is home to all Big Five (rhinos especially, though they’re in a protected sanctuary area within the park).

You will see elephants, giraffes, herds of buffalo, and also the beautiful oryx.
As you drive deeper, you should cross the Bwatherongi River with its palm-fringed banks where many hippos and giant Nile crocodiles lurk.
The park’s remoteness means animals aren’t as used to vehicles, so they are shyer.

By late afternoon, arrive at your accommodation, perhaps the lovely Ikweta Safari Camp just outside the park (mid-range tented camp $120 / €110 per night) or one of the few inside, like Rhino River Camp (more upscale).

Evening: Settle in and enjoy the sounds of the wild. Meru has very clear night skies due to minimal light pollution.
As night falls, you’ll see a blanket of stars and maybe the outline of jagged Nyambene Hills in the distance.
Dinner is served under the open sky or in a dining area.
At night, Meru comes alive with sound: listen for the sound of hyenas, the grunts of hippos from the rivers, or even the far roar of a lion.
Meru’s lions are confident. They were once heavily poached out in the ’80s, but the population has come back.
👉 INSIDER TIP: Always be insured when you’re traveling! There’s a company called SafetyWing that we swear by. It’s insurance designed with digital nomads in mind. It covers you in over 180 countries, and it’s quite affordable, starting at $56.28 (ages 18-39) per month. It covers not just emergency situations, but you can, for example, visit a doctor if you have the flu, and it also includes the prescribed drugs. Visit their website!
Day 2: Meru National Park
Morning: Rise with the sun over Meru. The camp staff brings hot coffee to get you going (very welcome, as Meru can be warm but mornings are cold).
Set out on an early morning game drive while the air is cool and animals are most active.
Drive to areas where lions hunt: maybe the KINNA PLAIN or along riverine thickets where prey come together.
👉 INSIDER TIP: If you hear baboons barking alarm calls, follow that. It could be a lion or leopard nearby!
Meru’s cheetahs also favor the open plains in the eastern sector.

Along the way, enjoy the other wildlife: troops of OLIVA BABOONS trotting across the track, skittish warblers and guinea fowl fluttering off, and birdlife galore.
👉 DID YOU KNOW: Meru has 300+ species; watch for the vivid superb starlings, Lilac-breasted rollers, and perhaps the endemic Buffalo Weaver?
One special stop should be Elsa’s Kopje, a rocky hill that was George Adamson’s base and now a lodge (even if not staying, some game drives pass by it).
It’s surreal to be in the area where Elsa the lioness was released and later buried, a touching moment for fans of the “Born Free” story.

Late morning, you might choose to return to camp for a hearty brunch and some rest during the midday heat.
Take a dip in the pool or a short guided nature walk near camp to see the little things (tracks, plants, insects).

Afternoon: After a siesta, head out by 4 pm for another game drive.
Perhaps explore a different part of Meru National Park, the park is divided by many streams and rivers, making each section like its own micro-ecosystem.

You could drive toward the Rhino Sanctuary in the western part, a fenced (80 km²) secure area where 80 black and white rhinos have been reintroduced.
Chances of seeing rhinos here are quite high; rangers patrol and sometimes know where they like to graze (they told us).
Exiting the sanctuary, perhaps climb Mughwango Hill for a viewpoint, you can see the expanse of Meru’s wilderness stretch out, with rivers glinting below and possibly large herds of elephants moving like grey blobs in the distance.
As sunlight fades, consider parking near Hippo Pool at dusk, watching hippos emerge for their nocturnal forays is always fun (they lumber out of the water, honking and snorting).
Evening: Enjoy your final night in Meru with dinner under an African sky.
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Day 3: Meru → Samburu National Reserve
Morning: After a quick breakfast, bid farewell to Meru National Park.
You’ll leave for Samburu National Reserve, heading northwest.

The drive is roughly 4 – 5 hours (about 150 miles / 240 km) via Isiolo.
Arrive at Samburu around midday. Perhaps you’ll stop at your lodge first (e.g., Samburu Sopa Lodge or Ashnil Samburu Camp, both mid-range around $200/€180 per night) to have lunch and a short rest from the drive.

👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for the Samburu National Reserve:
| Category | Entry fee (per 24 hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 90 (EUR 77) | Flat fee, valid year-round (no high vs. low season pricing). |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | Discounted child rate, valid year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
*Samburu only has one entry fee all year round (no high or low season). More information here about Samburu National Reserve entry fees.
Afternoon: Now go to Samburu National Reserve for a late-afternoon game drive.
Samburu, along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, is different from Meru.
It’s hotter and dustier, so keep your water bottle handy. Begin exploring the riverine zone: often the first sightings include groups of impalas and Grant’s gazelles, and plenty of olive baboons near the river.
Then, the special treat, Samburu is known for its unique “Special Five” not found further south.

You’ll be on the lookout for:
- Grevy’s zebra: The largest zebra, with thin pinstripe stripes and huge, round ears, giving it an ancient, almost prehistoric look.
- Reticulated giraffe: Features the most striking white-lined coat pattern, elegant and common in the region, often seen browsing on thorny acacias.
- Beisa oryx: A gray antelope with long, straight spear-like horns and a bold black-and-white facial mask, sometimes spotted strolling in the distance.
- Gerenuk: A unique antelope with a giraffe-like long neck that often stands upright on two legs to browse leaves.
- Somali ostrich: Males are distinctive with their bluish neck and legs, setting them apart from the common ostrich.
Drive along the Ewaso Ng’iro River itself, you might see elephants coming to drink and spray themselves (Samburu elephants often appear reddish, dusted in mud).
On the sandy banks, look for Nile crocodiles and hippos in calmer bends.
Cross to the open plains: here you might spot cheetahs.
Evening: Head back to the lodge as darkness falls.
Enjoy a well-earned meal (maybe try local grilled goat if offered, a staple meat of the region).

DID YOU KNOW: Samburu Sopa Lodge offers an immersive sky show session at their planetarium, telescope viewing, and constellation tracing.

Day 4: Samburu National Reserve

Morning: Another early start in the African bush.
Today you have a full day in Samburu, so you can explore deeper into its 3 reserves (Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and possibly Shaba if time permits).
Start with a morning game drive in the cold dawn air.
During your late morning, perhaps arrange a cultural visit to a nearby Samburu village (many lodges can coordinate this).
It’s an educational experience: you’ll see traditional Samburu homes (manyattas) made of sticks and cow dung, and be greeted by warriors and women in their colorful attire.

They’ll show you dances (the men jump impressively high) and you can learn about their semi-nomadic lifestyle, how they survive with livestock in this harsh land, and their beadwork.
By midday, return to your lodge for lunch and maybe a quick cool-down in the pool (Samburu can get hot – often 30°C+ at noon).

Afternoon: Head out again around 4 pm when the sun’s intensity wanes.
If you want a beautiful sunset viewpoint, drive up Koitogor Hill in the reserve’s center.
Evening: Back at the lodge, enjoy your last dinner and night on safari.

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Day 5: Samburu → Ol Pejeta

Morning: After breakfast in Samburu, it’s time to leave and head south to Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Leave by 8 am for the drive (3.5 – 4 hours, 137 miles / 220 km).
Arrive in the Nanyuki area around midday.
Before entering Ol Pejeta, you might stop in Nanyuki town for a quick lunch or to browse the famous Equator markers (if you have not yet done so).
Then proceed to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a 360 km² private wildlife reserve and ranch that’s one of Kenya’s great conservation success stories.
Check in at the conservancy gate, where they’ll brief you on rules (this is a big 5 area with both black and white rhinos).
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for the Ol Pejeta Conservancy:
| Category | Entry fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 110 (EUR 95) | Includes access to game drives, rhino sanctuary, and chimpanzee sanctuary. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 55 (EUR 47) | Flat rate year-round. |
| Student* | USD 32 (EUR 28) | Valid with proof of student ID. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
More information here about the Ol Pejeta Conservancy entry fees.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at your lodge inside Ol Pejeta (or have a packed lunch if arriving later).
Afterward, head out on an afternoon game drive in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Start by visiting the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which Ol Pejeta uniquely hosts.
It’s the ONLY PLACE IN KENYA to see chimpanzees (rescued from poaching and the pet trade in West and Central Africa).
It’s a heartwarming project co-founded by the Jane Goodall Institute and a chance to see these intelligent primates up close.
Next, game drive across the open plains of Ol Pejeta.
Different from Samburu, here there are less grasslands and acacia thickets.
You’ll likely see plenty of plains game: zebras (common Burchell’s zebra here), Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, Jackson’s hartebeest, and large herds of Cape buffalo.

Ol Pejeta is also home to the Big Five, including a strong population of predators – you might see lions relaxing under a tree or even a pack of endangered African wild dogs if extremely lucky.
In the late afternoon, focus on Ol Pejeta’s star attraction: RHINOS.
This conservancy is East Africa’s LARGEST black rhino sanctuary (over 140 black rhinos) and also has about 40 southern white rhinos, according to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
White rhinos are easily spottable as they graze out in the open (black rhinos are shyer, preferring thick bush, but rangers can sometimes track them for you).
Ol Pejeta is famously home to the LAST TWO REMAINING northern white rhinos on the planet, kept in a special enclosure with 24/7 armed guards.

You can ask your guide about visiting their enclosure (it requires prior arrangement and an extra fee for a behind-the-scenes tour, where you can learn about efforts to save the subspecies).
As the sun sets, perhaps drive to Pelican Dam or another waterhole.
Evening: Head to your accommodation in Ol Pejeta.
A classic mid-range choice is Sweetwaters Serena Camp, a tented camp overlooking a waterhole that attracts rhinos, elephants, and giraffes (around $300 / €270 per night due to the exclusive experience).
The night skies here are also brilliant. Now that you’re near the Equator at high altitude, you can see constellations from both hemispheres.

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Day 6: Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Morning:
Wake early in the cool highland air of Laikipia and enjoy breakfast at your lodge before setting out on your full day in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Ol Pejeta is more than just wildlife viewing; it is also a hub of conservation innovation.
We recommend to begin the day with a behind-the-scenes rhino tracking excursion (arranged in advance, USD 60 / EUR 55 per person).
Accompanied by rangers, you’ll learn how to identify rhino tracks and signs, and if lucky, see black rhinos in their natural habitat.

Afternoon:
Return to camp for lunch and perhaps a short rest.
Afterward, set out again, this time to explore Ol Pejeta’s unique conservation projects.
Beyond its reputation as the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, Ol Pejeta also runs programs that connect wildlife protection with community benefits.
You can arrange a stop at the Canine Anti-Poaching Unit (extra fee), where trained dogs demonstrate their remarkable ability to detect snares and track intruders.

Evening:
As the day cools, your guide will take you to one of the conservancy’s scenic dams or waterholes, where wildlife gathers in the fading light.
Sundowner drinks can be arranged (approx. USD 20 / EUR 18 per person) to enjoy the African sunset with views of elephants, buffalo, and antelope coming to drink.
In the evening, return to Sweetwaters Serena Camp.
Dinner is usually served under the stars, and afterward, you can sit by the campfire listening to the sounds of the African night.
Day 7: Ol Pejeta → Lake Nakuru National Park
Morning: Say farewell to Ol Pejeta and leave by mid-morning for Lake Nakuru National Park, about a 3.5-hour drive, 170 km (105 miles) west.

Afternoon: Enter Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its alkaline lake that attracts massive amounts of flamingos (in the past, around 1.5 million).
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Lake Nakuru National Park:
| Category | Entry fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 90 (EUR 77) | Lake Nakuru is a Kenya Wildlife Service premium park, famous for rhinos and seasonal flamingos. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 45 (EUR 39) | Flat child rate, valid year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
*National Park only has one entry fee all year round (no high or low season), according to the Kenya Wildlife Service. More information here about the Lake Nakuru National Park entry fees.
Have a packed lunch or stop at your lodge inside (at Lake Nakuru Lodge or Sarova Lion Hill are our recommended mid-range choices) for lunch.
After a bite, set off on an afternoon game drive in the park.
Head straight for the lake shore, and the sight of thousands of pink flamingos to greet you.
👉 HOWEVER: In recent years, flamingo concentrations have sometimes shifted to other Rift lakes depending on algae conditions and water levels, but you’ll surely see some.
Also along the shore, watch for pelicans (Lake Nakuru often has great white pelicans), storks, and other waterbirds like avocets and plovers.

👉 KEEP IN MIND: Lake Nakuru is fenced and relatively small, but it’s filledd with wildlife, especially since rhinos were introduced here as a sanctuary.
Drive through the acacia woodlands along the shore, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot the park’s white rhinos grazing openly.
Their presence is due to successful breeding in this first rhino sanctuary in Kenya.
They often move in small family groups, cropping grass with their wide mouths.

The black rhino (browsers) are also here, but usually stick to thicker cover, so you should consider yourself lucky if you glimpse a solitary black rhino in the bush.
Continue to the Baboon Cliff overlook, step out (careful with your belongings; baboons here are notorious thieves!), and take in a panoramic view of the entire lake.
It’s stunning, with the forest, blue-green lake, and pink fringe of flamingos (seasonal) laid out below.
Descend and drive through the southern marsh; often you’ll find some buffalo wallowing or reedbuck hiding in the reeds.

Lake Nakuru NP also has the Rothschild giraffe, an endangered giraffe subspecies with white lower legs; they were introduced here for safety.
As the day cools towards evening, you have a chance to spot predators: Nakuru is home to lions (often found resting under bushes or on fallen logs) and a good number of leopards.
👉 DID YOU KNOW: Nakuru National Park was once nicknamed “the leopard park” for frequent sightings?
There’s also a LION Hill area where lions are sometimes seen on rocks.
Given the park’s small size, it’s possible on a single afternoon in Nakuru to see rhinos, lions, giraffes, buffalo, flamingos, etc., a mini-safari jackpot.

Evening: Exit by 6.30 pm as the park closes and head to your lodge.
Unwind after an exciting day. At Lake Nakuru Lodge, you might enjoy a sundowner with views of the lake from the ridge, or at Sarova Lion Hill, watch the sunset over the lake from their terrace.
👉 INSIDER TIP: Lake Nakuru is in a MALARIA ZONE, as are most lower altitude areas on this itinerary (like the Mara, Naivasha, etc.). Be sure you’re taking malaria prophylaxis, and use repellent especially around dusk. Most lodges will have mosquito nets so please use them!

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Day 8: Lake Nakuru
Morning: Rise early for a sunrise game drive, when the park is at its most beautiful.
Morning mist often drifts over the lake, and the calls of fish eagles echo across the water.
This is prime time for birdwatching, with more than 450 species recorded in the park, from glossy ibis to black-winged stilts.

After a few hours exploring, return to your lodge for lunch.
Afternoon: Dedicate the afternoon to exploring areas you may have missed the day before.
We recommend visiting the Makalia Waterfall, located in the southern part of the park.
The small waterfall provides a scenic stop, and the forested area around it is often good for spotting colobus monkeys and birdlife.

Evening: Conclude your day with another drive along the lakeshore, timing your route to enjoy the sunset. Waterbirds silhouetted against the golden water make for striking photography.
Day 9: Lake Nakuru National Park → Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate
Morning: Around 10 am, leave Lake Nakuru and drive to Lake Naivasha, a 2-hour car journey covering approximately 50 miles (80 km) on paved roads.
Arrive at Lake Naivasha by noon.
Afternoon (Hell’s Gate National Park): After lunch in the Naivasha area at your new lodge or a lakeside restaurant, set off for Hell’s Gate National Park, a short drive from Lake Naivasha.
👉 IMPORTANT: The entry fees for Hell’s Gate National Park:
| Category | Entry fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Non-Resident) | USD 50 (EUR 43) | One of the most affordable Kenya Wildlife Service national parks, known for walking and cycling safaris. |
| Child (3–17 years) | USD 25 (EUR 21) | Flat rate year-round. |
| Child (0–2 years) | FREE | No entry fee. |
More information here about Hell’s Gate National Park entry fees.
Hell’s Gate is a small park known for its scenery. Imagine red cliffs, gorges, and geothermal steam vents, and no large predators, which means you can safely explore it on foot or bicycle.
Rent a bike at the park gate (or drive in if you prefer) and cycle along the dirt roads through the savannah (for about 4 miles / 7km to the start of the gorge hike).

It’s an amazing experience to pedal past herds of zebra, gazelle, and giraffe. You might also see warthogs and buffalo grazing (keep a distance from buffalo).
The park’s name comes from its geothermal activity; you’ll notice HOT SPRINGS AND STEAM VENTS, especially in areas like OL NJOROWA GORGE.
👉 INSIDER TIP: The Ol Njorowa Gorge has three lengths; SHORT, MIDDLE, and LONG. For short and middle, there are emergency stairs in case of a flash flood. The long part does not, hence the reason why it’s become forbidden to hike there. However, the guides will still take you there if you give them some extra cash (it’s the most beautiful part of the hike).
By 5 pm, wrap up your Hell’s Gate adventure (the park closes by 6 pm).
Evening: Proceed to your lodge by Lake Naivasha to relax.

This freshwater lake is beautiful and serene, often with hippos grazing on the lawns at night.
For a comfortable mid-range stay, we stayed at and recommend Sanctuary Farm, an amazing mini national park with only a FEW ACCOMMODATIONS.
We saw hippos at night from our campfire, zebras, and gazelles.
Enjoy dinner at their amazing restaurant, perhaps some grilled tilapia (a local lake fish).
As night falls, listen for the snorts of hippos; many come ashore to feed after dark.
You can use our widget below to fill in the short survey. Our trusted local tour operators will send you a personalized itinerary within 48 hours for your ultimate Kenya safari.
Prices for an itinerary like ours start from $360 per person per day (all-inclusive).
Simply fill in the form below to get FREE QUOTES from trusted local tour companies that we’ve personally traveled with.
It only takes 60 seconds, and you’ll receive custom itineraries and pricing directly in your inbox within 48 hours.
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*Our trusted local partners create every itinerary with care. We kindly ask that you submit a request only if you’re considering traveling.
Day 10: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi
Morning: after checking out, begin the drive back toward Nairobi.
The journey is about 3 hours by car, covering 60 miles (95 km) on paved roads.

Afternoon
Arrive in Nairobi around midday or early afternoon.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can be dropped directly at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your onward journey, or at your hotel if you have chosen to extend your stay in the city.
If you have extra hours before your departure, you may wish to revisit a Nairobi highlight such as the Karen Blixen Museum, or enjoy a leisurely lunch in the Karen or Westlands neighborhoods.














