Ultimate Safari of Kenya.

An African elephant herd advances across the plains of Samburu National Park in Kenya
Caption: An African elephant herd advances across the plains of Samburu National Park in Kenya
Caption: Giraffe below a distant hot air balloon above the Masai Mara, Kenya
Caption: A mother cheetah and cubs, Masai Mara
Caption: Up close with the giraffes
Caption: Maasai Kudu Horn Blowing
Caption: African jewellery on a woman from the Samburu tribe in Kenya
Caption: A lioness waiting for her next catch in the undergrowth
Caption: Elephant at sundown
Caption: Out on safari
Prices From
GBP £6,885.00
 Deposit 20%.
Prices are per person based on 2 people sharing a cabin/room. Single room supplement £1,185.00.

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Book online or call Call us on:0844 3350 197 Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00 GMT

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Choose from the list below to book your journey

Available journeys:

  • Book Now! 10 Sep - 18 Sep 2026 from £6,885 Book Now
Book online or call 0844 3350 197

Journey Snapshot

Activity level: Level 1 Involves some moderate physical activity over short periods of time, such as short walks, on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain.
Destination: ULTIMATE SAFARI OF KENYA
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Flight information: Please arrange your flights to arrive into Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport [NBO] on Day 1, and depart from Nairobi Airport [NBO] on Day 9
Pickup location: Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport [NBO]

Overview

10 - 18 Sep, 2026

This safari is probably the most extensive safari available in Kenya - a truly magical adventure!

Kenya is the ultimate safari destination - by day we'll see a host of wildlife whilst keeping a look out for the "Big 5" Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and Rhino. By night, enjoy spectacular African sunsets, nocturnal wildlife and luxury accommodation. A truly unforgettable journey deserving of the number one spot on your bucket list.
You will travel to many different eco systems where you will see animals specific to those area. Crossing the equator, you will see hot desert, jungle and savannah. Your specially modified 4x4 vehicles and expert driver guide takes you into the heart of the bush and the great Masai Mara. The word safari means journey in Swahili and this journey ia a truly magical journey that will alter you soul forever.

Itinerary

Itinerary summary: DAY 1 - Welcome to Nairobi
DAY 2 - Samburu National Reserve
DAY 3 - Samburu National Reserve
DAY 4 - Sweetwaters & Ol Pejeta Conservancy
DAY 5 - Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha
DAY 6 - Masai Mara
DAY 7 - Masai Mara
DAY 8 - Masai Mara
DAY 9 - Nairobi and Home
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Full Itinerary

DAY 1 - Welcome to Nairobi

Nairobi is the largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg. Just south of the equator, Nairobi enjoys a spring-like climate. It is a modern city with its main avenues ablaze with colour from tropical bushes and vines.

Less than 100 years ago, there was a river in an empty wilderness where Nairobi now stands Nairobui has long attracted world attention as the centre of big-game safaris for the rich and famous. Perhaps the most famous historical safari was that of Teddy Roosevelt, who had 500 porters.

On arrival you will be transferred to the hotel where you will meet your Big Journey Company representative.

Accommodation: Nairobi 

DAY 2 - Samburu National Reserve

We have an early departure from Nairobi as we head north to Samburu by safari vehicle. We make a stop in Nyeri, a town in the Central Highlands, where we have lunch in a local restautant.

Samburu National Reserve (225 sq. km) offers what is arguably Kenya’s greatest - and least changed - encounter with wild Africa. This harsh, savagely beautiful wilderness depends on the steady flow of the Uaso Nyiro River for its existence; the river waters a wide variety of animal species not found south of the Equator, including the majestic Beisa oryx, the reticulated giraffe, the thin-striped Grevy’s zebra, and the ‘giraffe-necked’ gerenuk antelope, which stands on its hind legs to feed.

Elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard can all be seen along the river, and the 400-plus species of birds are positively spectacular. Together with neighbouring Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves, this area comprises 844 sq. km of protected semi-desert land.

This area is also the home of the Samburu tribe, cousins of the Masai, who share the same nomadic, cattle-herding existence, and an even stricter adherence to their age-old rites and customs.

In the late afternoon, depart from camp to undertake a game drive in the reserve.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Samburu National Reserve 

DAY 3 - Samburu National Reserve

Morning and afternoon game drives.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Samburu National Reserve 

DAY 4 - Sweetwaters & Ol Pejeta Conservancy

After an early breakfast we say goodbye to Samburu and drive to Sweetwaters (approx. 31/2 hours by safari vehicle).

Situated between the foothills of the Aberdares and the picturesque Mount Kenya in Laikipia, Ol Pejeta is a private wildlife conservancy located on 90,000 acre ranch in Central Kenya. Here there is a strong commitment to endangered species and it is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa.

Ol Pejeta is home to all of the ‘Big 5’, including the endangered white rhino. Other highlights include the Jackson hartebeest and the spotted hyena.

We have lunch at Sweetwaters Serena Camp before we head out again on a game drive in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Dinner will be served back at the Camp.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Sweetwaters & Ol Pejeta Conservancy 

DAY 5 - Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha

Today the road leads us to the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley, arriving for lunch at our lodge.

We will explore the area of Lake Naivasha, the highest and most beautiful of the lakes which form the Great Rift Valley. It is surrounded by a series of volcanoes and calderas, most notably Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano.

Lake Naivasha’s name comes from the masai word En-aiposha meaning “heaving” or “to and fro” in reference to how turbulent the waters can get in the afternoons. This area is home to resident giraffe, waterbuck and both Vervet and Colobus monkeys and is also a night stop for hippos.

Lake Naivasha is an ornithologist’s paradise, as well as having excellent fishing with tilapia and black bass first introduced by the early settlers. This is the perfect place to relax, walk with a guide or just sit under a canopy of mature shady Yellow Fever trees and listen to the sound of the animals and view the rich bird life.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha 
Optional extras: Lake Naivasha Boat Ride: Take to the water for an hour-long cruise on mighty Lake Naivasha. Spot families of hippos cooling off by the lake shores, flocks of pelicans, lofty cranes and storks and mighty African fishing eagles swooping down to catch their lunch and a whole host of other birds and animals grazing away. The lake is teeming with wildlife and you can see if from a different and relaxed perspective from the water as you sail quietly along. 

DAY 6 - Masai Mara

We enjoy an early breakfast this morning before heading out to Kenya’s richest game reserve: the Masai Mara.

The jewel in Africa’s crown, Masai Mara is host to the most spectacular array of wildlife. Here, 1,510 square kilometres of open savannah, woodlands and tree-lined rivers create an eco-system which supports huge numbers of bird and mammal species. The western border of the park is the spectacular Siria Escarpment, and together with the acacia dotted plains, creates scenery of stunning beauty across the whole region. Lion are found in abundance throughout the park as are elephant, giraffe, a variety of gazelle species and zebra. Cheetah and leopard are also regularly seen and, if lucky, you may also find rhino.

Game viewing is never dull in the Mara, and patience is often rewarded with unique sightings: a pride of lion stalking their prey; a solitary leopard retrieving its kill from the high branches of an acacia tree; male wildebeest sparring to attract females into their harem; even a herd of elephant protecting their young from opportunistic predators. The annual wildebeest migration traditionally is present in the Mara from July-September and at this time nature’s dramas unfold before your very eyes at every turn.

As well as wildlife, the Masai Mara is also home to many members of the colourful Masai tribe who may be seen around the borders of the park - morans (warriors) loping across the plains, young boys herding goats, or elders grouped under a tree discussing matters of the day.

Check-in and lunch upon arrival at the camp (approx. 5 ½ hours by Safari Vehicle).

In the afternoon, depart from camp to undertake a game drive in the reserve before returning to camp early evening for dinner.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Masai Mara 

DAY 7 - Masai Mara

Day spent undertaking morning and afternoon game drives.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Masai Mara 
Optional extras: Masai Village Cultural Visit Discover the Maasai culture as you visit a traditional Masai village. The Masai, a nomadic tribe, used to move with their herds across the Mara, searching lush pastures for their animals to graze. However, in recent times they have built permanent huts or bomas and prefer to stay in once place. Their cattle are the measure of a man’s success, as well as a vital food source and income for all the tribe. A loud and colourful welcome awaits you as the tribe come to greet you, dancing and singing in their brightly coloured robes. Be welcomed by the tribe as they invite you into their village and tell tales of their day to day lives, rituals and struggles to retain their culture faced with the modern world. You may even be invited into their houses, where you can see how they live, work and play along with their cattle and other animals. You’ll also get the chance to browse their handicraft and purchase artefacts made by the people you encountered, the proceeds of which go directly to the community and local school. This glimpse of the Masai culture is a fascinating insight into a unique way of life. 

DAY 8 - Masai Mara

Day spent undertaking morning and afternoon game drives.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 
Accommodation: Masai Mara 
Optional extras: Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne Breakfast. Few balloon trips are as breathtaking as the one over the Masai Mara, Kenya's famous game reserve. Setting out just before dawn, you are driven to the launch site, where the balloons are already up, just as the sun peeps over the horizon. Hear the burners firing as they raise you gently skyward where, depending on the wind speed, you’ll remain for forty minutes to an hour. Mother Nature will ultimately determine what wonders you will see on your flight. To give you the best possible views of the Mara, the pilots rotate the balloons and skilfully manoeuvre them up and down – bringing you almost literally face to face with life, undisturbed, in this richly diverse land. As you drift silently on the breeze, absorbing the sights and sounds of your early morning air-borne safari, you may forget about the second part of this fantastic excursion - your champagne breakfast! Close to where you land, breakfast awaits – time for good food, a glass or two of champagne and the chance to reflect on a trip we doubt you’ll want to forget. 

DAY 9 - Nairobi and Home

An early morning wakeup call before undertaking a last game drive in the Mara. Return to camp for breakfast, departing thereafter to Nairobi and drop off at the airport for onward flight arrangements.

Flights home on this final day must depart after 6pm local time so that the morning’s last game drive can be enjoyed.

Included meals: Breakfast 
Accommodation: None 
Optional extras: Fly back from the Masai Mara to Nairobi, enjoy lunch in the Karen region of Nairobi before heading to Giraffe Manor to see the Giraffes up close. Optional shopping time permitting. 

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More information

What's includedWhat's not includedImportant informationTravel Tips

What's included

  • Meet & Greet at the Nairobi Airport on arrival
  • Accommodation as detailed in the itinerary
  • Transfers as detailed in the itinerary
  • Meals as detailed in the itinerary
  • Transport in 4x4 vehicle
  • Park Entrance Fees into specified Parks and Reserves
  • All activities, visits and excursions as detailed in the itinerary
  • 2 x ½ litre Mineral Water Bottles per person, per day in Safari vehicle
  • National English speaking tour guide
  • Tour Director from The Big Journey Company as well as the local tour guide (subject to minimum group size being reached.)

What's not included

  • ATOL Protection
  • Return flights to/from Nairobi Airport [NBO] - Please contact us for a flight quotation
  • All entrance fees to non-stipulated attractions
  • Visa entry to Kenya
  • Drinks
  • Gratuities 
  • Visas, travel and medical insurance
  • Any personal items and anything not mentioned under included in price above
  • Any meals not mentioned in itinerary
  • Any optional activities offered
  • Any COVID tests or related entry & exit requirements

Important information

• Flights: International flights to/from your chosen destination are not included in this package. The Big Journey Company will be happy to provide a quotation for your flights—please contact us for further details.
• Vaccinations & Health: Vaccinations may be recommended depending on your destination. Please consult your doctor or travel clinic for the most up-to-date medical advice.
• Visas & Entry Requirements: Entry requirements vary by destination, and a visa may be required. Please refer to the travel tips section for full details. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the necessary travel documentation prior to departure.
• Medical Needs: Please inform The Big Journey Company prior to travel of any medical conditions or medications you take that we should be aware of to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Accommodation Check-in/Out: Unless otherwise stated in your itinerary, check-in is after 2–3pm and check-out is before 10am. Please note that hotels may be subject to change to the same or similar standard due to availability.
• Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made within 90 days of departure are subject to a 100% cancellation fee. Deposits are non-refundable, and balance payments are due 14 weeks prior to departure. It is your responsibility to ensure adequate travel insurance is in place to protect against the need to cancel your holiday.
• Minimum Numbers: The Big Journey Company host will accompany the tour should minimum guest numbers be met. We will confirm this closer to the departure date.
• Terms & Conditions: Further terms and conditions apply and will be provided upon request or at the time of booking. The Big Journey Company reserves the right to withdraw any offer prior to accepting a reservation. This does not affect your statutory rights. All offers are subject to availability and space is limited.

Travel Tips

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

**Requirements due to COVID-19 are constantly changing. Please check your own country's international travel advice as well as the airline requirements before travel.**

UK guests please see the UK Government Foreign Office Travel website for the latest entry and exit advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/kenya/entry-requirements 

**For those traveling on the Kenya tour extension to Rwanda: Please check the requirements for entry to Rwanda, as they differ from those for Kenya.

Passports:
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the period of stay. It is advised to have 1 blank page in your passport. Please be sure to fill out the "Emergency Next of Kin" section in your passport

Visas:
You must apply online for electronic travel authorisation in advance of travel. The local authorities recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your departure.: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en

Travelers can submit applications up to 3 months prior to travel, but visas must be valid for the full duration for the expected stay in Kenya.
**All nationalities must check the visa entry requirements before your departure.

Consular Information
Several major international embassies, including those for the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, are located in Nairobi. Embassies for other countries, such as New Zealand, are located in other African cities but offer coverage to Kenya. Please check with your government for relevant contact details.

**Note: Visa and entry requirements, regulations, and restrictions can change. Ensure you check the current requirements well in advance of travel.

Travel Insurance
All passengers must have valid travel insurance before traveling, including health and cancellation insurance. Ensure all pre-existing medical conditions are declared to the insurer. Provide the details of your insurance to The Big Journey Company at least 6 weeks before your departure date by emailing info@thebigjourneycompany.com. Take note of important information such as the insurer’s 24-hour emergency number and your policy number.

Medical Conditions and Personal Medication
Please advise us prior to travel if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip. If you have a specific medical condition, it is wise to carry the relevant doctor’s prescription with you.

Important:
Pack a sufficient supply of any medications you are taking, copies of the prescriptions and the contact details of your doctor.
Please note, some countries require that prescription drugs be carried in their original container, with the label clearly visible. In the event of you losing your medication, a qualified pharmacist should be able to source a replacement.

LUGGAGE
What to Pack and Wear:

On your safari you’ll want to dress for comfort, sun protection, and blending into the environment to avoid drawing attention from wildlife.

Here’s what we recommend to pack:

1. Neutral-Colored Clothing
Stick to colors like khaki, olive, beige, and brown. Bright colors can attract insects and may disturb animals.
Avoid black and dark blue, as they can attract tsetse flies, which can bite.

2. Lightweight, Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants
Protects you from the sun, insects, and scratchy bushes.
Choose breathable, quick-dry fabrics, as Kenya can get hot during the day but cooler in the mornings and evenings.

3. Comfortable, Closed-Toe Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are ideal if you plan to go on bush walks.
For game drives, comfortable sneakers are fine, but avoid open-toe shoes to protect your feet from insects and dust.

4. Layers
Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while midday is warm. Bring a light jacket or fleece for early game drives.

5. Sun Protection
A wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the intense equatorial sun.

6. Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be an issue, so bring a good repellent and consider wearing insect-repellent-treated clothing if you’ll be out during dawn or dusk.

7. Accessories
A small backpack for essentials (camera, water bottle, binoculars, and snacks) and a scarf or bandana to cover your face from dust during game drives can be helpful.

Luggage Allowances
Check with your airline for specific luggage requirements. We recommend one main suitcase (preferably soft-sided) and hand luggage. If your tour includes domestic flights, there is a strict 15kg/33lb luggage limit. Kenya and Rwanda tours include an international flight with a luggage limit of 23kg/50lb for the main suitcase plus 8kg/17lb hand luggage.

*Packing Tip
Soft-sided bags are easier to stow in safari vehicles and small planes if you’re flying between parks.

LANGUAGE
The main languages of Kenya are English and Swahili, with many regional languages spoken by different tribes. English is widely spoken in urban areas.

TIME ZONE
The time zone in Kenya is GMT+3, three hours ahead of London GMT.

WEATHER
The weather in Kenya will be warm, between 20-32°C, with cooler temperatures at night. On safari, it will be dry and dusty.

ELECTRICITY
In Kenya, the standard voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. You will need a UK-style plug adapter and/or converter for your electrical appliances.

COMMUNICATION
Moblie coverage is widely avaliable across Kenya, be sure to check with your mobile provider for coverage and rates, as data roaming can be extremely expensive.

MONEY
Currency:

The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES), but US Dollars are widely accepted. Carry both Kenyan shillings and US dollars (notes printed after 2006). Credit cards are accepted at lodges, but it’s advisable to carry cash. Inform your bank if you plan to use debit or credit cards in Kenya.

Gratuities:
After feedback from previous guests, we offer a group tipping package for this tour, more information on this will be shared in the 'Pre-Tour Emails'.

WATER
Drink only bottled or treated water. Avoid tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected. Bottled water is widely available.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
As visitors, tourists may be more vulnerable to petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams, so we recommend staying aware and taking simple precautions.

RELIGION
Kenya is predominantly Christian (70%), with significant Muslim and Hindu populations.

PHOTOGRAPHY
Kenya offers numerous photo opportunities. Bring your camera, charger, spare batteries, and a memory card.

ARRIVAL IN KENYA
Standard hotel check-in is around 3pm. If arriving early, your room may not be ready. Arrange airport transfers through The Big Journey Company or your hotel. Do not leave the airport with anyone until you have met our representative.

For further questions, contact us at: info@thebigjourneycompany.com

Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guideline only. The Big Journey Company assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in this document.

Updated Sep 2025

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Choose from the list below to book your journey.

Available journeys:

  • Book Now! 10 Sep - 18 Sep 2026 from £6,885 Book Now
Book online or call 0844 3350 197

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The big journey company was set up with one goal in mind, to share our passion for inspirational cultures, destinations and experiences. Over the last 10 years we have had the privilege to escort thousands of travellers on awe inspiring and sometimes life changing journeys. Our promise to every guest who joins us is that we will do everything possible to make sure your journey not only exceeds expectations but delivers at least one moment of true amazement.

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© The Big Journey Company 2020 - 2025. All rights reserved.
Holiday tours are operated by The Big Journey Company Limited. Registered in England. Registered office: Marron Bank, Branthwaite, Cumbria, CA14 4SZ. Registered number: 6532140. The Big Journey Company Limited is a member of The Travel Trust Association member number U5675 and holds an Air Travel Organiser’s License number T7282.
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