ITINERARY

Day 1 - Depart

Fly from Heathrow to Nairobi, arriving the next day. Regional departures from around the UK are also available.

Day 2 - Aberdares

Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival at the airport, you'll be met by a friendly representative for a comfortable transfer to a hotel in Nairobi where light refreshments await, allowing you to find your feet before being introduced to your expert driver-guide and receiving a short safari briefing to prepare you for the adventure ahead. Your safari begins as you leave the vibrant city of Nairobi and head for the majestic foothills of the Aberdare Range. This scenic drive will take you to a lodge in the Aberdare region, where lunch awaits. After lunch you will travel on to your accommodations for the night. The unique lodge you will be staying at is built in the shape of Noah's Ark. Strategically positioned near a salt lick and overlooking a bustling waterhole, it offers the best wildlife viewing experience. The waterhole attracts a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and numerous colourful bird species. A true highlight is the lodge's special night viewing feature, allowing you to observe the waterhole under the cover of darkness. For an enhanced experience, there is a buzzer system which is used to rouse you should you request to be notified if specific animal makes an appearance at the waterhole, ensuring you don't miss any nocturnal visitors. Overnight at The Ark (lunch and dinner included).

Day 3 - Lake Nakuru-Lake Naivasha

After breakfast you'll continue your safari journey. Stop for memorable photos as you cross the iconic Equator en route to your next lodge. Your expert driver-guide will share fascinating insights into the dramatic landscape as you enter the awe-inspiring Great Rift Valley and descend to the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha. This freshwater lake is brimming with life, boasting a significant hippo population and a remarkable diversity of over 450 bird species. After settling into your lodge, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, with opportunities for a leisurely walk where you might spot giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and perhaps even elands or wildebeests. Overnight at Lake Naivasha Country Club (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 4 - Masai Mara

Today your day will begin early. After breakfast your vehicle will be ready to whisk you away to the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve. This drive of approximately 270 km takes you through varied Kenyan landscapes, building anticipation for the wildlife-rich plains ahead. Arriving in the Masai Mara just in time for lunch, you'll soon set out on your very first game drive across this legendary reserve, spending the afternoon discovering its sweeping savannahs as the sun makes its way across the vast blue sky. Prepare to be captivated by your Somak driver-guide's profound understanding of Mara's ecosystem. They will lead you on an exhilarating journey in pursuit of Africa's iconic 'big five' - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos - alongside numerous other fascinating creatures, both large and small, in one of the world's most thrilling game viewing destinations. Arriving in the Masai Mara just in time for lunch, you'll soon set out on your very first game drive across this legendary reserve, spending the afternoon discovering its sweeping savannahs as the sun makes its way across the vast blue sky. Prepare to be captivated by your driver-guide's profound understanding of Mara's ecosystem. They will lead you on an exhilarating journey in pursuit of Africa's iconic 'big five' - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos - alongside numerous other fascinating creatures, both large and small, in one of the world's most thrilling game viewing destinations. Your experienced driver-guide will ensure that you have the best chances to observe a diverse array of wildlife from the most advantageous viewpoints, guaranteeing that your photographs will be the envy of all your family and friends.  Overnight at Keekorok Lodge (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 5 - Masai Mara

Awaken to the symphony of the African bush and immerse yourself in its wonders on an early morning game drive, a prime time to witness wildlife activity as the day begins. Afterwards, return to the lodge for breakfast and enjoy leisurely hours to relax and soak in the atmosphere. After lunch, venture out once more to explore the Mara's incredible tapestry of wildlife and its breathtaking landscapes.

Alternate option for this day (extra payable in advance):

Elevate your Mara experience with an unforgettable early morning hot air balloon ride. Drift silently above the endless plains as the African sunrise paints the sky in breathtaking colours, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife roaming below. Upon landing, indulge in a delightful 'bubbly' bush breakfast, creating a memorable start to your day. Continue your adventure with a scenic game drive as you make your way back to the lodge, where lunch awaits.

Overnight at Keekorok Lodge (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 6 - Beach

Return to Nairobi by road (300 km), or for a supplement there's the option to fly by light aircraft from the Masai Mara to Nairobi (do bear in mind that this limits your luggage allowance for the whole safari). Transfer to Nairobi airport for your flight to Mombasa or Zanzibar. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your chosen beach hotel - prices here include a week on the beach but pretty much any duration is possible. Spend the next week relaxing on the beach.

Day 13 - Return

Return transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Notes

This is a group itinerary which operates with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 passengers, all guaranteed a window seat.

On occasion the itinerary may operate in a different order, or different lodges used according to availability and road conditions.

Travel times vary on road conditions and game sightings.

Pack a mixture of warm and light clothing in soft bags, plus sunglasses, camera and insect repellent.

Thorn Tree Safari & Beach Stay

4 night Kenya driving safari

One of our most popular short driving safaris, combining the three key areas of mountains, lakes and plains. The Thorn Tree Safari includes the famous game viewing lodge Treetops, and spends two nights at the world-famous Masai Mara. This four-night safari offers a wonderful combination of mountain scenery and plains dotted with game.

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Kenya safaris Tanzania safaris

2025/26 Kenya safari and beach holidays Holiday prices are per person based on two sharing, including flights, transfers and accommodation, and are subject to availability. Flights from Heathrow - other departures also available, call for details.