12 Day Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Maasai Mara & Serengeti Safari

The 12 Day Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Maasai Mara & Serengeti Safari is one of East Africa’s most rewarding conservation-focused safari journeys. Combining northern Kenya’s unique wildlife ecosystems with the legendary plains of Maasai Mara and Serengeti, this itinerary is designed for travelers seeking more than a traditional safari experience.

This journey showcases the remarkable success stories of African wildlife conservation while providing exceptional opportunities to see rare species, endangered rhinos, chimpanzees, and the Big Five. From the rugged landscapes of Samburu to the predator-rich grasslands of Serengeti, every destination contributes a unique chapter to East Africa’s wildlife story.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, conservation-minded travelers, and repeat safari visitors, this itinerary offers a deeper understanding of Africa’s ecosystems while delivering outstanding game-viewing experiences.

WHY THIS SAFARI IS SO POPULAR

Unlike many safari itineraries that focus solely on famous parks, this safari combines premier wildlife destinations with some of East Africa’s most important conservation areas.

Travelers choose this itinerary because it offers:

  • Samburu Special Five sightings
  • Rhino conservation experiences
  • Chimpanzee sanctuary visits
  • Big Five wildlife viewing
  • Predator-rich safari destinations
  • Diverse ecosystems
  • Conservation education opportunities
  • Excellent wildlife photography

The combination of rare species, conservation success stories, and iconic safari landscapes creates a safari experience that is both educational and unforgettable.

ROUTE OVERVIEW

Nairobi → Samburu National Reserve → Ol Pejeta Conservancy → Maasai Mara National Reserve → Isebania Border → Serengeti National Park → Arusha

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

  • Search for the Samburu Special Five
  • Visit East Africa’s leading rhino conservation area
  • Meet rescued chimpanzees at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
  • Experience Big Five wildlife viewing
  • Explore the Maasai Mara ecosystem
  • Discover Serengeti’s predator-rich plains
  • Exceptional wildlife photography opportunities
  • Conservation-focused safari experience

FULL DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN NAIROBI

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be welcomed by a representative from Horizon Explorer Africa Safaris and transferred to your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, optional activities may include a visit to Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, or Karen Blixen Museum.

The remainder of the day is reserved for relaxation and safari briefing.

Overnight: Nairobi

DAY 2: NAIROBI → SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE

After breakfast, depart Nairobi and travel north through Kenya’s central highlands toward Samburu National Reserve.

The journey passes Mount Kenya’s foothills and rural agricultural landscapes before entering the semi-arid wilderness of northern Kenya.

Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive.

Samburu’s unique ecosystem supports wildlife species rarely found elsewhere in East Africa.

Possible sightings include:

  • Grevy’s zebra
  • Reticulated giraffe
  • Beisa oryx
  • Somali ostrich
  • Gerenuk

Overnight: Samburu

DAY 3: FULL DAY SAMBURU SAFARI

Spend the day exploring Samburu National Reserve with morning and afternoon game drives.

The reserve is famous for the Samburu Special Five, a collection of rare northern species adapted to arid conditions:

  • Grevy’s zebra
  • Reticulated giraffe
  • Beisa oryx
  • Somali ostrich
  • Gerenuk

The Ewaso Nyiro River attracts elephants, lions, leopards, and numerous bird species, creating excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

The reserve’s dramatic landscapes and lower visitor numbers make it particularly appealing to photographers.

Overnight: Samburu

DAY 4: SAMBURU → OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY

After breakfast, depart Samburu and travel south to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, one of Africa’s leading wildlife conservation success stories.

Arrive for lunch before embarking on an afternoon game drive.

Ol Pejeta is renowned for:

  • Black rhino conservation
  • White rhino protection
  • Chimpanzee sanctuary
  • Big Five wildlife viewing

The conservancy combines conservation initiatives with exceptional safari experiences.

Overnight: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

DAY 5: FULL DAY OL PEJETA CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE

Today focuses on conservation and wildlife encounters.

Begin with a game drive through the conservancy’s wildlife-rich landscapes where rhinos, elephants, lions, buffalo, and numerous antelope species roam.

Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in the region dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of chimpanzees.

Learn about anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration programs, and ongoing conservation efforts protecting endangered species.

This day provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes shaping modern African conservation.

Overnight: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

DAY 6: OL PEJETA → MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

After breakfast, travel through Kenya’s scenic landscapes toward Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Arrive in time for lunch before enjoying an afternoon game drive.

The Maasai Mara is one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations and supports exceptional wildlife densities throughout the year.

Expect opportunities to see:

  • Lions
  • Elephants
  • Buffalo
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Hyenas

Overnight: Maasai Mara

DAY 7: FULL DAY MAASAI MARA SAFARI

Spend a full day exploring the reserve with extensive game drives.

The Maasai Mara is renowned for:

  • Big Five wildlife
  • Large predator populations
  • Great Migration ecosystem
  • Open savannah landscapes

Morning and afternoon game drives maximize opportunities to encounter lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and buffalo.

A picnic lunch inside the reserve allows for extended wildlife viewing.

Overnight: Maasai Mara

DAY 8: MAASAI MARA WILDLIFE EXPLORATION

A second full day in Maasai Mara provides flexibility to explore additional regions of the reserve and conservancies.

Your guide may focus on predator territories, river systems, or areas known for recent wildlife activity.

This additional day significantly increases opportunities for photography and memorable wildlife encounters.

Overnight: Maasai Mara

DAY 9: MAASAI MARA → ISEBANIA → SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and proceed to the Isebania border crossing.

Following immigration formalities, continue into Tanzania and enter Serengeti National Park.

Enjoy wildlife viewing en route as the landscape opens into the vast Serengeti plains.

Overnight: Serengeti

DAY 10: FULL DAY SERENGETI SAFARI

Spend the day exploring one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

The Serengeti supports:

  • Large predator populations
  • Great Migration movements (seasonal)
  • Diverse wildlife communities
  • Exceptional photography opportunities

Morning and afternoon game drives focus on predator behavior and wildlife interactions.

Possible sightings include:

  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Cheetahs
  • Elephants
  • Wildebeest
  • Zebras

Overnight: Serengeti

DAY 11: SERENGETI WILDLIFE EXPLORATION

A second full day allows deeper exploration of Serengeti National Park.

Depending on wildlife movements, your guide may explore different sectors to maximize viewing opportunities.

This extended stay enhances chances of witnessing predator activity, migration herds, and unique wildlife behaviors.

Overnight: Serengeti

DAY 12: SERENGETI → ARUSHA → DEPARTURE

After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive while exiting the Serengeti ecosystem.

Continue to Arusha for lunch and airport transfer according to your departure schedule.

End of safari.

DESTINATIONS COVERED

Samburu National Reserve

A unique northern Kenya ecosystem known for rare wildlife species and dramatic semi-arid landscapes.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

East Africa’s leading conservation area, famous for rhino protection and the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

One of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations offering exceptional Big Five and predator viewing.

Serengeti National Park

Home to vast wildlife populations, predator-rich plains, and the Great Migration ecosystem.

CONSERVATION EXPERIENCES INCLUDED

Samburu Wildlife Conservation

Learn about conservation efforts protecting rare northern Kenya species and fragile arid ecosystems.

Rhino Protection Programs

Gain insight into successful rhino conservation initiatives at Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Visit rescued chimpanzees living in a protected environment dedicated to rehabilitation and welfare.

Community-Based Conservation

Discover how wildlife conservation contributes to local livelihoods and sustainable tourism development.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

January – March

Excellent wildlife viewing and photography conditions.

June – October

Peak safari season with dry conditions and concentrated wildlife.

July – September

Excellent opportunities for migration-related wildlife viewing in Maasai Mara and Serengeti.

ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE

Package CategoryPrice Per Person
Budget SafariUSD 4,800 – 6,800
Mid-Range SafariUSD 7,200 – 11,500
Luxury SafariUSD 12,500 – 21,000+

Prices vary depending on season, accommodation category, and group size.

INCLUSIONS

  • Accommodation throughout the safari
  • Park and conservancy entry fees
  • Professional safari guide
  • Private safari vehicle
  • Daily game drives
  • Chimpanzee sanctuary visit
  • Meals as specified
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Airport transfers

EXCLUSIONS

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Samburu Special Five?

The Samburu Special Five consists of Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk—species commonly found in northern Kenya but rarely elsewhere.

Can I see rhinos on this safari?

Yes. Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers some of the best rhino viewing opportunities in Africa.

Is the chimpanzee sanctuary included?

Yes. Visits to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary are included as part of the Ol Pejeta experience.

Is this safari suitable for repeat visitors to East Africa?

Absolutely. It combines famous safari destinations with unique conservation experiences often missed on traditional itineraries.

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