This 4-day safari takes you to two of Kenya’s most unique wildlife destinations: Samburu National Reserve, known for its distinct arid landscape and rare northern species, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a leading wildlife conservancy focused on rhino conservation. This itinerary offers the opportunity to see the “Samburu Special Five” alongside the Big Five, visit East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts.
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Travel:
- Departure from Nairobi: Early morning departure from Nairobi for Samburu National Reserve, a scenic 6-hour drive through the Great Rift Valley and rural Kenyan landscapes. Alternatively, you may choose to fly from Nairobi to Samburu to reduce travel time.
Late Morning Arrival in Samburu:
- Transfer to Lodge and Check-In: Upon arrival at Samburu, check into your safari lodge or camp. Freshen up and relax while enjoying the views of the Ewaso Ng’iro River and surrounding landscapes.
Afternoon Game Drive:
- Lunch at the Lodge: Enjoy a hearty lunch while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Afternoon Game Drive: Embark on an afternoon game drive to encounter unique wildlife found only in this region, such as Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and the gerenuk, which is known for standing on its hind legs to feed on bushes.
Highlights: “Samburu Special Five,” arid landscape, Ewaso Ng’iro River views.
Evening:
- Dinner and Relaxation: Return to the lodge for dinner, followed by relaxation or stargazing in the clear Samburu skies.
Accommodation: Samburu Intrepids Camp, Samburu Simba Lodge, or similar.
Day 2: Full Day in Samburu National Reserve
Early Morning Safari:
- Sunrise Game Drive: Start your day with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs before they retreat to the shade.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Samburu is home to over 350 bird species, including the African fish eagle, vulturine guineafowl, and martial eagle, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
Breakfast at the Lodge: Return to the lodge for a full breakfast after the game drive.
Mid-Morning Activities:
- Visit to a Samburu Village (Optional): Gain insight into the culture and lifestyle of the Samburu people. Participate in a guided tour of the village, where you’ll see traditional dance performances, learn about Samburu customs, and support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts.
Afternoon Safari:
- Lunch and Leisure Time: Enjoy lunch at the lodge, followed by some leisure time to rest or take a dip in the pool.
- Evening Game Drive and Sundowner: Head out for an evening game drive, where you’ll encounter Samburu’s diverse wildlife against the backdrop of the setting sun. End the drive with a sundowner, enjoying a drink as the sun sets over the reserve.
Highlights: Cultural village visit, evening wildlife sightings, and scenic landscapes at sunset.
Accommodation: Samburu Intrepids Camp, Samburu Simba Lodge, or similar.
Day 3: Samburu National Reserve to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Travel:
- Morning Departure from Samburu: After breakfast, depart Samburu for Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a 3-4 hour drive. This scenic journey takes you south through the beautiful Laikipia region, with views of Mount Kenya along the way.
Late Morning Arrival in Ol Pejeta Conservancy:
- Transfer to Lodge and Check-In: Upon arrival, check into your camp or lodge, nestled within Ol Pejeta’s diverse landscapes.
Afternoon Safari and Conservation Activities:
- Lunch at the Lodge: Enjoy lunch overlooking the plains and nearby waterholes where wildlife often gathers.
- Afternoon Game Drive: Go on a game drive in the conservancy, where you can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and elephants.
- Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Take a guided tour of the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees. Learn about the sanctuary’s mission to rehabilitate these primates.
Highlights: Black rhino sanctuary, chimpanzee rescue center, and unique wildlife sightings.
Evening:
- Dinner and Night Game Drive (optional): After dinner, opt for a night game drive, a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal animals like aardvarks, hyenas, and possibly even leopards.
Accommodation: Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages, or similar.
Day 4: Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Return to Nairobi
Early Morning Safari:
- Morning Game Drive: Begin the day with a final game drive through Ol Pejeta, focusing on any wildlife you may have missed. Take in the morning light on the plains and observe rhinos, Cape buffalo, and herds of antelope.
Breakfast at the Lodge: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast back at the lodge before packing up.
Visit to the Endangered Species Boma (Optional):
- Meet the Last Northern White Rhinos: Learn about the plight of the critically endangered northern white rhino species by visiting Najin and Fatu, the world’s last two remaining northern white rhinos. This visit is both a memorable and meaningful experience, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.
Return to Nairobi:
- Lunch and Departure: Depart Ol Pejeta for the journey back to Nairobi, either by road (4 hours) or via a scenic charter flight. Alternatively, enjoy lunch at the lodge before returning to Nairobi in the early evening.
Optional:
- Drop-off at Nairobi’s Wilson Airport: If flying, you will be transferred to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for an onward flight.
End of Safari
This 4-day itinerary combines a classic safari in Samburu with an inspiring conservation-focused experience in Ol Pejeta. Witness the beauty and diversity of Kenya’s wildlife while supporting and learning about key conservation initiatives, creating lasting memories and a deeper connection to Kenya’s unique landscapes and wildlife.