The Essence of the Wild Kenya 12-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Discover the very best of Kenya on a 12-day safari through six iconic destinations, combining rare wildlife, rhino conservation, scenic lakes, boat safaris, kilimanjaro views and legendary Big 5 game drives.
12-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary Overview
Experience six of Kenya's most iconic wildlife destinations on this unforgettable 12-day Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha and Amboseli safari. From Samburu's rare northern species to Ol Pejeta's world-renowned rhino sanctuary, the flamingo-lined shores of Lake Nakuru, the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha, legendary plains of the Masai Mara and Amboseli's magnificent elephant herds beneath Mount Kilimanjaro this itinerary showcases the very best of Kenya's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Enjoy expertly guided game drives in search of the Big 5, Samburu Special 5, black and white rhinos, Amboseli's iconic elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, cruise among hippos on Lake Naivasha, walk alongside giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island, and witness thousands of flamingos and other birdlife at Lake Nakuru. Between July and October, the Masai Mara also offers the opportunity to witness the spectacular Great Migration.
With handpicked safari accommodations, experienced local guides, and a thoughtfully planned route, this 12-day safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable wildlife experiences across Kenya's most celebrated safari destinations.
High Season
Jan 5th – Mar 31st
Adults
Deluxe
$1,942
Per person2 adults sharing · $3,884 total
Premium
$2,018
Per person2 adults sharing · $4,036 total
Luxury
$2,712
Per person2 adults sharing · $5,424 total
Every price shown is per person, based on 2 adults sharing. Travelling with teens or children? and we’ll price your exact group.
* Indicative costs per person in USD, excluding international airline tickets.
Kenya Safari Route Overview
Route: Nairobi → Samburu → Ol Pejeta → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Lake Naivasha → Amboseli → Nairobi
- Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu (L, D)
- Day 2: Samburu (B, L, D)
- Day 3: Samburu to Ol Pejeta (B, L, D)
- Day 4: Ol Pejeta (B, L, D)
- Day 5: Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru (B, L, D)
- Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 7: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 8: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 9: Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha (B, L, D)
- Day 10: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 11: Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 12: Amboseli to Nairobi (B)
Day-by-Day Safari Plan
12-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Beyond the Big Five
Nairobi
Samburu
Samburu
Ol Pejeta
Ol Pejeta
Lake Nakuru
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Lake Naivasha
Amboseli
Amboseli
Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Begin your adventure with a morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or the airport, then continue north to Samburu National Reserve, entering Kenya's rugged northern frontier. Arrive at your lodge or camp in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. Samburu is known for its arid beauty, dramatic landscapes, and unique wildlife species found only in the north.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive north from Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
- Afternoon game drive across Samburu's arid terrain
- Unique Northern Wildlife Species
- Sunset across the African savannah
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Soroi Larsens Camp
- Premium: Samburu Intrepids Camp
- Deluxe: Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Drive time: 6 to 7 hrs
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Day 2
Full Day in Samburu
Spend a full day on guided game drives along the Ewaso Ng'iro River, the lifeline of this semi-arid landscape. Search for elephant, lion, leopard, and cheetah, along with the "Samburu Special Five" — Reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and Beisa Oryx. These species are almost found nowhere else in Kenya.
Return to your lodge for lunch and rest during the heat of the day, then head back out for an afternoon game drive as wildlife activity picks up again. End the day with dinner and your last overnight stay in Samburu.
Day Highlights:
- Morning and Afternoon game drives
- Chance to spot Samburu Special Five
- Excellent predator sightings
- Final night in Samburu Reserve
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Soroi Larsens Camp
- Premium: Samburu Intrepids Camp
- Deluxe: Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Day 3
Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
After breakfast, depart Samburu and travel south to Ol Pejeta, one of East Africa's most important rhino sanctuaries. Arrive in time for lunch, then head out on an afternoon game drive across the conservancy's open plains and woodland.
Search for elephant, buffalo, lion, and giraffe as you settle into Ol Pejeta's varied terrain, with a good chance of your first rhino sighting along the way. Return to your lodge for dinner and your first overnight stay at Ol Pejeta.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Samburu
- Afternoon game drive
- Spot rhino, elephant, and lion
- Overnight stay at the camp
Accommodations:
- Luxury: The River Camp
- Premium: Serena Sweetwaters Camp
- Deluxe: Maisha Sweetwaters Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 4 to 5 hrs
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Day 4
Full day at Ol Pejeta
Dedicate a full day to Ol Pejeta's conservation work and wildlife. Visit Najin and Fatu, the world's last two northern white rhinos, along with Baraka, the conservancy's blind black rhino.
In the afternoon, visit the Ol Pejeta Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees, before heading back out on a game drive in search of the Big Five and East Africa's largest black rhino population. Return to your lodge for dinner and your second overnight stay at Ol Pejeta.
Day Highlights:
- Visit to see the last two northern white rhinos
- Chance to meet Baraka, the conservancy's blind rhino
- Visit to Ol Pejeta Chimpanzee Sanctuary
- Last overnight stay at the camp
Accommodations:
- Luxury: The River Camp
- Premium: Serena Sweetwaters Camp
- Deluxe: Maisha Sweetwaters Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5
Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru
After a final morning at Ol Pejeta, check out and travel south toward Lake Nakuru, passing through the foothills of the Aberdares and the changing landscape of the Rift Valley. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge/camp, followed by an afternoon game drive around the lake’s shores and acacia forests. Look out for pelicans, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions lounging in the trees with thriving populations of black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, flamingos (seasonal), and over 450 bird species. Overnight at your lodge / camp.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru
- Afternoon game drive
- Spot rhinos, reticulated giraffe, flamingos (seasonal)
- Overnight at the camp/lodge
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Mbweha Camp
- Premium: Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- Deluxe: Sarova Woodlands
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 4 to 5 hrs
Day 6
Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the lake, then check out and begin your drive to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Pass through farmlands and Maasai villages as you approach the Mara’s rolling savannah's. Arrive at your lodge / camp in time for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive in the reserve, where you might spot elephants, lions, and herds of antelope.
As the African sun begins to set, return to camp for dinner and your first overnight stay in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Day Highlights:
- Drive through rural Kenya and Maasai lands
- First game drive in the Masai Mara
- Excellent opportunities to spot the Big 5 and resident wildlife
- Sunset across the African savannah
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive time: 4 to 5 hrs
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Day 7
Full Day in Masai Mara
Spend a full day exploring the world-renowned Masai Mara on expertly guided game drives. After an early breakfast, head into the reserve with a packed picnic lunch, allowing you to maximise your time in the wilderness. Enjoy exceptional opportunities to spot the Big Five, along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and countless antelope species across the vast savannah.
If you're visiting between July and October, you'll have the opportunity to witness hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrating across the Masai Mara. If you're lucky, you could witness one of the dramatic river crossings.
Day Highlights:
- Full-day game drive in Masai Mara
- Search for the Big 5 and other iconic wildlife
- Picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve
- Spectacular wildlife photography opportunities
Accommodations
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8
Masai Mara
Begin your day with an optional Hot Air balloon safari, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Masai Mara as the golden sunrise illuminates the vast savannah below. After landing, celebrate the experience with a champagne bush breakfast before rejoining your guide for another exciting game drive through the reserve.
Return to camp for lunch and some time to relax before heading out on an evening game drive in search of the Big 5 and recent predator activity, as the cooler temperatures often bring increased wildlife movement and excellent viewing opportunities.
End the day with dinner and your final overnight stay in the heart of the African wilderness.
Day Highlights:
- Optional sunrise hot air balloon safari
- Champagne bush breakfast (balloon safari guests)
- Morning and evening game drives
- Sunset wildlife viewing across the savannah
Accommodations
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Day 9
Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha
Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out of your camp and beginning the scenic drive to Lake Naivasha. Arrive at Lake Naivasha, a tranquil freshwater lake known for its rich birdlife, proceed to your lodge for check-in and lunch, followed by boat safari spotting hippos and waterbirds. Also opt for a guided walk on Crescent Island among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. After your activities, head back and stay overnight at the lodge/camp.
Day Highlights:
- Early morning departure from Masai Mara after breakfast
- Optional Maasai village visit — USD 30 / person
- Boat Safari in Lake Naivasha
- Optional Walking Safari
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Naivasha Sopa Resort
- Premium: Great Rift Valley Lodge
- Deluxe: Naivasha Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 5 to 6 hrs
Day 10
Lake Naivasha to Amboseli
After breakfast, depart Naivasha and travel to Amboseli, known for its enormous elephant herds and clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive. Watch for elephant families moving against the mountain backdrop, along with zebra, buffalo, and resident lion prides. As the light softens toward evening, return to your lodge for dinner and your first overnight stay in Amboseli.
Day Highlights:
- Early morning departure from Naivasha to Amboseli
- Afternoon game drive
- Spot elephant herds
- Overnight stay at camp/lodge
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Elephant Gorge Camp
- Premium: Kibo Safari Camp
- Deluxe: Kilima Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 6 to 7 hrs
Day 11
Full day in Amboseli
Wake up to breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro before setting out on a full-day safari through Amboseli. Explore its vast open plains, seasonal swamps, and acacia woodlands in search of large elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
Pause for a picnic lunch in the park or return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch before continuing your afternoon game drive. As the day draws to a close, enjoy the golden light across the Amboseli plains before returning to your lodge for dinner and your last overnight stay.
Day Highlights:
- Full-day game drive in Amboseli
- Explore Amboseli's open plains, marshes, & acacia woodlands
- Relaxing picnic lunch in the wilderness
- Search for lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and abundant birdlife
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Elephant Gorge Camp
- Premium: Kibo Safari Camp
- Deluxe: Kilima Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12
Amboseli to Nairobi
Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out of your camp and beginning the your drive back to Nairobi. Arrive in Nairobi by early to mid-afternoon, marking the end of an incredible 12-day Kenya safari adventure. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or at Airport in time for your onward journey, carrying memories of Kenya’s wild beauty and warm hospitality.
Day Highlights:
- Checkout after breakfast
- Scenic Drive back to Nairobi
- Drop off at Nairobi Hotel/Airport
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Drive Time: 1.5 to 2 hrs
Wildlife Experience
Wildlife You Can Expect on This Kenya Safari
Discover the incredible wildlife, from the iconic Big 5, Special 5 and variety northern species to abundant predators, diverse birdlife.
The Predators
HighTrack Africa's most iconic predators across Kenya's diverse wilderness. From Samburu's elusive leopards and lions to the predator-rich plains of the Masai Mara, every game drive offers thrilling wildlife encounters.
- African Lions
- African Leopard
- Cheetahs
- Spotted Hyenas
- Black-Backed Jackals
- Nile Crocodile
The Giants
HighThe open savannah is home to some of Africa's largest mammals. Watch elephant herds roam the plains, buffalo gather in impressive numbers, and towering giraffes gracefully move between scattered acacia trees.
- African Elephant
- Reticulated & Masai Giraffe
- Chimpanzees
- Black & White Rhinos
- Hippopotamus
- Cape Buffalo
The Wanderers
HighAcross the endless plains, vast herds follow ancient migration routes in search of fresh grazing. Their remarkable journey is one of instinct, endurance, and survival, creating one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife experiences.
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Thompson's Gazelle
The Skyfolk
HighThe skies above the Masai Mara are alive with colour and movement. From soaring birds of prey to elegant waders and vibrant rollers, every flight adds another layer to the reserve's rich and ever-changing wilderness.
- African Fish Eagle
- Vulture
- Secretary Bird
- Marabou Stork
- Kori Bustard
- Flamingos (Seasonal)
The Plainsfolk
HighKenya's grasslands are home to vast herds of grazers that sustain the savannah and support its thriving predators.
- Somali Ostrich
- Beisa Oryx
- Grevy's Zebra
- Topi
- Impala
- Eland
- Kirk's Dik Dik
- Gerenuk
The Waterfolk
HighWhere rivers flow and lakes shimmer, life gathers in abundance. The waters nurture both calm and chaos; a realm of reflection, movement, and grace that sustains the heart of the wild.
- Grey Heron
- Egyptian Goose
- African Jacana
- Nile Crocodile
- Waterbuck
Make Your Dream Trip Come True with Marvels of Africa
At Marvels of Africa, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences — our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey.
When to visit
Best Time to Visit Kenya for This Safari
All the s parks can be visited year-round, with July to October offering the best wildlife viewing during the Great Migration and excellent conditions for safari experiences.
When to Visit
Big Five Season
Highlights
- Excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five
- Warm, sunny days ideal for game drives and boat safaris
- Calving season attracts predators to the open plains
- Fewer crowds for a more exclusive safari experience
- Excellent for photography and family safaris
Lush Green Season
Highlights
- Vibrant landscapes and dramatic skies
- Discounted rates at lodges and camps
- Excellent birdwatching around Lake Naivasha and Nakuru
- Peaceful game drives with fewer visitors
- Beautiful light and moody skies for photography
Dry & Migration Season
Highlights
- Witness the legendary Great Migration
- Chance to see dramatic Mara River crossings
- High predator activity around migrating herds
- Crystal-clear skies and golden light for photos
- Peak time for first-time safari-goers
Short Rains Season
Highlights
- Resident wildlife remains active throughout the reserve
- Lesser crowd before peak festive season
- Enjoy premium safari experiences at lower rates
- Lush landscapes with vibrant colours
- Great conditions for birdwatching and photography
Safari Inclusions
What’s Included in This 12-Day Safari Package?
Everything you need for a seamless safari—from park fees and expert guides to accommodation, meals, and game drives—so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.
Included
Essentials covered — no surprises.
All Park Fees
Private 4×4 Land Cruiser
Professional KPSGA-Certified English Speaking Safari Guide
Unlimited Drinking Water During Game Drives
Accommodation & Meals As Per The Itinerary
Unlimited Game Drives
Safari Accessories — Binoculars and Cooler box
Airport Transfers - Pickup And Drop Off
Boat Safari in Lake Naivasha
Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visit
Excluded
Paid separately if chosen.
International Flights
Personal Expense - Shopping & Laundry
E - visa / ETA
Hot Air Ballon Safari
Guide Tips { 10-15 USD / Day }
Walking Safari At Crescent Island
Last Two Northern Rhinos Visit
Samburu Cultural Visit
Why This Safari
Why Choose This 12-Day Safari Itinerary?
Explore why this 12-day safari offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic wildlife experiences in Kenya's most celebrated national reserve.
- 01
Kenya's Wildlife Masterpiece
Experience six of Kenya's most iconic destinations, from Samburu's Special 5 and rare northern species, Ol Pejeta's rhinos and Nakuru's flamingos, rare giraffe's to Lake Naivasha's scenic adventures, legendary Big 5 of the Masai Mara and herds of elephant with Kilimanjaro backdrop.
- 02
Curated Safari Stays
Relax in carefully selected safari lodges that combine comfort, warm hospitality, and easy access to Kenya's most iconic wildlife destinations.
- 03
A Well-Paced Safari Experience
Thoughtfully designed to reduce long travel hours, this itinerary balances exciting game drives with comfortable travel, allowing you to enjoy more time exploring Kenya's spectacular wildlife.
Safari FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About 12-Day Safari
Find answers to common questions about planning your Kenya safari, including costs, best time to visit, wildlife, travel logistics, and customization options.
How much does a 12-day safari cost?
The cost of a 12-day safari depends on your travel season, accommodation category, and group size. We offer Deluxe, Premium and Luxury options to suit different budgets and travel styles. Contact our safari specialists for a personalised quote based on your preferred travel dates and requirements.
What are the Samburu Special 5?
The Samburu Special 5 are wildlife species unique to northern Kenya: the Grevy's zebra, Reticulated giraffe, Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx, and Gerenuk. Samburu National Reserve is one of the best places in Africa to see all five during a safari.
Is Ol Pejeta Conservancy worth visiting?
Absolutely. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is East Africa's largest black rhino sanctuary and home to the world's last two northern white rhinos. It also features a chimpanzee sanctuary, excellent Big 5 game viewing, and outstanding conservation experiences.
What animals will I see on this safari?
You'll have opportunities to spot the Big 5, Samburu's Special 5, endangered black and white rhinos, chimpanzees at Ol Pejeta, Southern rhinos and flamingos(seasonal) at Lake Nakuru, hippos and abundant birdlife at Lake Naivasha, along with giraffes, zebras, elephants, cheetahs, hyenas, and many other iconic African wildlife species.
Why is Lake Naivasha included?
Lake Naivasha gives you different experience with boat safari, walking safari while reducing the travel hours between the parks acting as an connecting place between north and south parks.
Can this Kenya safari itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. Every safari can be tailored to suit your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you'd like to upgrade your accommodation, add optional activities, internal flights or extend your stay.
Is a guide included during the safari?
Yes. Your safari is led by a professional KPSGA-certified guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. Their local knowledge and animal tracking and behavioral expertise will leave you mesmerized.
Can i witness Great Migration in this safari?
Yes, if you travel between July and October, you'll have the opportunity to witness the Great Migration of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles in Masai Mara.
Still have questions? We're here to help!
Guest testimonials
Stories from Our Travelers
Firsthand reflections from guests who experienced East Africa with us.
Read more guest stories on Tripadvisor.
Lindsay Koch
United States
“I truly don’t know where to start! Marvels of Africa is absolutely amazing; unmatched when it comes to making sure their guests are happy and comfortable. From first booking with Riman and then having our pre-travel meet…”
Lindsay Koch • United States
Kashish A
India
“From witnessing all the Big Five up close, to watching the heart-warming bond between animals and their young ones, observing feeding, nurturing, hunting, teamwork during a kill, and even getting the rare chance to be ne…”
Kashish A • India
Renee Ronald
United Kingdom
“Firstly, this trip felt surreal, out of a movie. All credit to Marvels of Africa for organising it so well taking into consideration our needs and requirements.Starting with Mayur - he was patient and planned the perfect…”
Renee Ronald • United Kingdom
Rajiv Sharma
Qatar
“Excellent services by the Marvels team, my family and I are so happy we chose them for our first ever safari trip. I was bit apprehensive at first but everything was just great. From the time of initial discussion with M…”
Rajiv Sharma • Qatar
Abhishek
United States
“Everything was so well organized. The team in India and Kenya are real professionals. Edith Marie our Guide Salim they all went above and beyond for all the requirements or requests we have before and during the stay in…”
Abhishek • United States
Rakteem
United Arab Emirates
“We went for 5 days to Masai Mara in February 2025, and it was one of the most memorable holidays we've had. Marvels of Africa were fabulous, arranging everything flawlessly. The team are responsive, diligent, meticulous…”
Rakteem • United Arab Emirates
Visual Journey
Safari Gallery
A glimpse into the extraordinary moments awaiting you in Africa
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