Throughout our Wazimba Travel blog series, we’ve explored Kenya’s diverse attractions—from iconic wildlife reserves to pristine beaches, cultural experiences to practical travel advice. Now, it’s time to bring everything together in our grand finale with carefully crafted itineraries that showcase the best of Kenya based on your available time and interests.
As seasoned Kenya specialists, we understand that planning the perfect East African adventure can feel overwhelming given the country’s incredible diversity. These sample itineraries serve as inspiration, though remember that every Wazimba Travel journey is fully customizable to match your specific preferences, pace, and priorities.
7-Day Kenyan Highlights: The Essential Experience
This fast-paced week delivers Kenya’s quintessential experiences for time-constrained travelers, combining classic safari with cultural encounters.
Day 1: Welcome to Nairobi
- Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with Wazimba’s VIP meet and greet service
- Transfer to your boutique hotel in the leafy Karen neighborhood
- Afternoon visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s elephant orphanage during the public visiting hour
- Welcome dinner at the renowned Carnivore Restaurant for a taste of Kenya’s famous nyama choma (grilled meat) tradition
- Overnight at Hemingways Nairobi or similar
Wazimba Travel Tip: After a long international flight, we purposely keep your first day relatively relaxed. The elephant orphanage visit provides a gentle, heartwarming introduction to Kenya’s wildlife commitment while allowing you to adjust to the time zone.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
- Early morning charter flight to the Masai Mara (approximately 1 hour)
- Welcome by your dedicated Wazimba guide at the airstrip
- Game drive en route to your tented camp, with wildlife viewing beginning immediately
- Afternoon game drive in the renowned reserve, focusing on big cat sightings
- Sundowner drinks in the bush with spectacular savannah views
- Dinner and overnight at a premium tented camp inside the reserve
Wazimba Travel Tip: By flying directly to the Mara, you maximize your safari time rather than spending precious hours on the road.
Days 3-4: Masai Mara Immersion
- Two full days of extraordinary wildlife experiences with your expert guide
- Flexible schedule allowing for morning and afternoon game drives
- Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise (additional cost but highly recommended)
- Visit to an authentic Maasai village to learn about traditional customs and contemporary life
- Bush breakfast beside the Mara River, watching for hippos and crocodiles
- Evening presentation from Wazimba’s naturalist about Mara ecosystems
- Dinners under the stars and overnights at your tented camp
Wazimba Travel Tip: If visiting between July and October, we position you in the northern Mara for optimal Great Migration viewing opportunities. In other months, we focus on resident wildlife concentrations.
Day 5: Masai Mara to Amboseli
- Final morning game drive with picnic breakfast in the bush
- Late morning flight from Masai Mara to Nairobi, connecting to Amboseli National Park
- Afternoon game drive in Amboseli, famous for its free-ranging elephant herds against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Dinner and overnight at a lodge with views of Africa’s highest mountain
Wazimba Travel Tip: The best views of Kilimanjaro typically occur at dawn and dusk when clouds clear. We position your accommodation for optimal mountain vistas.
Day 6: Amboseli National Park
- Full day exploring Amboseli’s diverse landscapes, from marshlands to dry lake beds
- Focus on extraordinary elephant encounters with some of Africa’s largest tuskers
- Visit to a conservation project working with local communities on human-wildlife conflict
- Afternoon relaxation at your lodge’s pool, watching wildlife at the waterhole
- Special farewell dinner under the stars
- Overnight at your Amboseli lodge
Wazimba Travel Tip: Amboseli’s flat, open terrain makes it perfect for photography, especially for capturing elephants against Kilimanjaro. Our guides position vehicles ideally for the best light and composition.
Day 7: Amboseli to Nairobi and Departure
- Morning game drive with breakfast overlooking the plains
- Direct flight to Nairobi (approximately 45 minutes)
- Lunch at the charming Tamambo Karen Blixen Coffee Garden
- Optional afternoon visit to the Giraffe Centre or Kazuri Beads workshop (time permitting)
- Use of dayroom facilities to refresh before your evening flight
- Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure
Wazimba Travel Enhancement: For those with evening flights, we can arrange an extended city tour or shopping expedition in Nairobi after lunch.
10-Day Kenya By Road: The Scenic Route Experience
This overland journey allows you to experience Kenya’s changing landscapes and hidden gems that are often missed when flying between destinations. Perfect for travelers who appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
Day 1: Nairobi Arrival
- Welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with VIP meet and greet service
- Transfer to your boutique hotel in Karen
- Afternoon visit to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage during the public visiting hour
- Welcome briefing with your Wazimba Travel guide
- Dinner at the renowned Carnivore Restaurant for a taste of Kenya’s famous nyama choma tradition
- Overnight at Hemingways Nairobi or similar
Wazimba Travel Tip: After a long flight, we keep your first afternoon relaxed but meaningful, with the elephant orphanage providing a gentle introduction to Kenya’s wildlife commitment.
Day 2: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru (3-4 hours drive)
- Early breakfast at your hotel
- Morning departure for Lake Nakuru National Park
- Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley with stops at dramatic viewpoints
- Picnic lunch at a scenic spot overlooking the valley
- Afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for rhinos and flamingos
- Visit to Makalia Falls (seasonal)
- Dinner and overnight at a lodge within or near the park
Wazimba Travel Tip: The journey to Nakuru offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley’s dramatic escarpments. Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos in a compact, accessible park.
Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (5-6 hours drive)
- Early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park
- Breakfast at your lodge
- Scenic drive through the Rift Valley and up the western escarpment
- Journey through traditional farming communities and small towns
- Picnic lunch en route
- Afternoon arrival in the Masai Mara with immediate game drive opportunity
- Dinner and overnight at a premium tented camp
Wazimba Travel Tip: The drive to the Mara takes you through the heart of Kenya, offering glimpses of everyday life that are missed when flying. Our comfortable 4×4 vehicles make the journey pleasant, with regular stops for stretching and photography.
Days 4-5: Masai Mara Exploration
- Two full days exploring this wildlife paradise with your expert Wazimba guide
- Morning and afternoon game drives focusing on different areas of the reserve
- Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise (additional cost but highly recommended)
- Visit to a local Maasai village to learn about traditional customs and contemporary life
- Bush meals in scenic locations throughout the reserve
- Evening presentations on Mara ecology and wildlife
- Dinners and overnights at your tented camp
Wazimba Travel Tip: Two full days in the Mara allows for unhurried exploration of different reserve sectors, including less-visited areas away from tourist concentrations. If visiting between July and October, we position you in the northern Mara for optimal Great Migration viewing opportunities.
Day 6: Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha (5-6 hours drive)
- Final morning game drive in the Masai Mara
- Breakfast at your camp
- Scenic drive back through the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha
- Lunch en route at a local restaurant
- Afternoon arrival at Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake home to hippos and over 400 bird species
- Evening boat trip on Lake Naivasha spotting hippos, eagles, and other wildlife
- Dinner and overnight at a lakeside lodge or luxury tented camp
Wazimba Travel Tip: Lake Naivasha offers a perfect contrast to your safari experiences, with activities focused on the lake ecosystem and surrounding areas. The area’s slightly higher elevation also provides a refreshingly cool climate.
Day 7: Lake Naivasha Exploration
- Morning visit to Crescent Island for a unique walking safari among free-roaming wildlife
- Guided nature walk with opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, and antelopes at close range
- Return to your lodge for lunch
- Afternoon visit to Elsamere Conservation Centre, former home of Joy Adamson of “Born Free” fame
- Optional afternoon visit to nearby Hell’s Gate National Park for dramatic landscapes and possible cycling safari
- Dinner and overnight at your Naivasha accommodation
Wazimba Travel Tip: Crescent Island offers one of the few opportunities in Kenya to walk freely among wild animals with no predators present, creating exceptional photography opportunities and intimate wildlife encounters.
Day 8: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli (5-6 hours drive)
- Early breakfast at your lodge
- Departure for Amboseli National Park
- Scenic drive through rural Kenya and around the outskirts of Nairobi
- Picnic lunch en route
- Afternoon arrival at Amboseli with immediate game drive opportunity
- First views of Mount Kilimanjaro (weather permitting)
- Dinner and overnight at your Amboseli lodge
Wazimba Travel Tip: This drive showcases Kenya’s diversity, from the lush highlands around Naivasha to the more arid landscapes approaching Amboseli. Keep your camera ready for the first spectacular sighting of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 9: Amboseli National Park
- Full day exploring Amboseli’s diverse habitats and famous elephant herds
- Morning game drive when Kilimanjaro is typically most visible
- Visit to a local Maasai community to learn about their coexistence with wildlife
- Afternoon game drive focusing on the large elephant herds
- Special farewell dinner under the stars
- Overnight at your Amboseli lodge
Wazimba Travel Tip: Amboseli’s flat, open terrain makes it perfect for photography, especially for capturing elephants against Kilimanjaro. Our guides position vehicles ideally for the best light and composition.
Day 10: Amboseli to Nairobi and Departure
- Final early morning game drive to catch the best light on Kilimanjaro
- Leisurely breakfast overlooking the plains
- Return drive to Nairobi (4-5 hours) with scenic stops
- Optional lunch at Tamambo Karen Blixen Coffee Garden
- Afternoon visit to the Giraffe Centre and Kazuri Beads workshop (time permitting)
- Use of dayroom facilities before your evening flight
- Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for departure
Wazimba Travel Enhancement: For those with evening flights, we can arrange a shopping expedition for last-minute souvenirs at quality craft markets in Nairobi.
14-Day Comprehensive Kenya: The Complete Experience
This two-week journey provides a well-paced exploration of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and cultural landscapes, balancing iconic highlights with lesser-known gems.
Days 1-2: Nairobi Introduction
- Airport arrival with VIP service and transfer to your hotel
- Full-day exploration of Nairobi’s highlights:
- Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage (including a private visit for elephant adopters)
- Giraffe Centre for close encounters with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes
- Karen Blixen Museum, former home of the “Out of Africa” author
- Kazuri Beads workshop, supporting single mothers through craft production
- Nairobi National Park for an introduction to Kenyan wildlife just minutes from the city center
- Overnights at Hemingways Nairobi or similar
Wazimba Travel Tip: Breaking up your Nairobi activities over two days allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper appreciation of each experience. Most visitors are surprised by how much they enjoy Kenya’s capital when not rushing through.
Days 3-5: Samburu National Reserve
- Morning flight to Samburu in Kenya’s northern frontier (approximately 1 hour)
- Three days exploring this distinctive arid ecosystem, home to the “Samburu Special Five” (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx)
- Cultural interactions with Samburu people, cousins to the Maasai but with distinctive traditions
- Night game drive to spot nocturnal species not seen during daytime safaris
- Guided walking safari with armed ranger (subject to local conditions)
- Sundowners overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River, watching elephants come to drink
- Overnights at a riverside lodge or luxury tented camp
Wazimba Travel Tip: Samburu offers a completely different landscape and wildlife experience from southern Kenyan parks. The striking scenery, unique wildlife adaptations, and authentic cultural experiences make it worth the journey north.
Days 6-7: Aberdare Mountains/Mount Kenya Region
- Road transfer from Samburu through changing landscapes (approximately 3-4 hours)
- Exploration of Kenya’s central highlands, with misty forests and mountain streams
- Nature walks focusing on birds, primates, and smaller forest creatures
- Visit to a tea or coffee plantation to learn about these important Kenyan crops
- Optional trout fishing in crystal-clear mountain streams
- Overnights at a historical lodge or mountain retreat
Wazimba Travel Tip: This region offers a refreshing climate change from the warmer safari areas, with crisp mountain air and cozy fireplaces in the evenings.
Days 8-10: Masai Mara National Reserve
- Morning flight to the Masai Mara (approximately 1 hour)
- Three full days exploring this wildlife paradise with your expert Wazimba guide
- Game drives focusing on the remarkable predator populations
- Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise
- Bush meals in scenic locations throughout the reserve
- Visit to a Maasai village and local school supported by Wazimba Travel
- Overnights at a premium tented camp carefully selected for location and quality
Wazimba Travel Tip: Three full days in the Mara allows for unhurried exploration of different reserve sectors, including less-visited areas away from tourist concentrations.
Days 11-13: Diani Beach Relaxation
- Flight from Masai Mara to Ukunda (Diani) via Nairobi
- Three days of coastal relaxation on Kenya’s finest beach
- Optional activities including:
- Snorkeling or diving excursions to coral reefs
- Traditional dhow sailing cruise with sundowner drinks
- Visit to the sacred Kaya forests with a local guide
- Dolphin watching expedition
- Water sports from kayaking to kitesurfing
- Pure relaxation on pristine white sands
- Overnights at a beachfront boutique hotel or resort
Wazimba Travel Tip: After the early mornings of safari, we purposely avoid scheduling too many activities during your beach stay. Your Wazimba representative remains available to arrange excursions based on your energy levels and interests.
Day 14: Departure
- Morning at leisure on the beach
- Afternoon flight from Ukunda to Nairobi
- Use of dayroom facilities to refresh before your evening flight
- Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure
Wazimba Travel Enhancement: For those with more time, this itinerary extends beautifully with additional nights in Diani or by adding Tsavo National Park between the Mara and coast.
21-Day Ultimate East African Adventure: Kenya and Beyond
This comprehensive three-week journey combines Kenya’s highlights with extensions into neighboring Tanzania and Uganda, creating the ultimate East African experience.
Days 1-12: Kenya Exploration
- Begin with our 14-day Comprehensive Kenya itinerary (Days 1-10)
- After Masai Mara, continue to Lake Nakuru National Park for rhino viewing and stunning flamingo flocks (2 days)
Days 13-17: Tanzania Extension
- Cross the Kenya-Tanzania border at Isebania
- Explore the Serengeti ecosystem, connecting with wildlife that migrates between Kenya and Tanzania
- Visit Ngorongoro Crater, the “eighth wonder of the world” and remarkable wildlife sanctuary
- Cultural experiences with local Tanzanian communities
- Flying back to Nairobi on Day 17
Wazimba Travel Tip: Combining the Masai Mara and Serengeti provides unparalleled insight into the greater ecosystem that supports the Great Migration—seeing both sides of this natural wonder offers a more complete understanding of this remarkable wildlife spectacle.
Days 18-21: Uganda Gorilla Experience
- Flight from Nairobi to Entebbe, Uganda
- Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Unforgettable gorilla trekking experience—an hour with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
- Nature walks focusing on forest ecology and primates
- Return to Nairobi on Day 21 for international connections
Wazimba Travel Tip: While gorilla permits require booking many months in advance, this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter pairs perfectly with a Kenyan safari. The emotional experience of sitting with these gentle giants creates the perfect finale to your East African adventure.
Special Events Worth Planning Around
Kenya’s calendar features several remarkable natural events and cultural celebrations that can elevate your journey from memorable to extraordinary:
Wildlife Birthing Season (January-March)
The early months of the year mark the calving season for many species across Kenya’s parks and reserves. In the Masai Mara and surrounding conservancies, witness tender moments as wildebeest, zebra, and antelope welcome their newborns. This period offers exceptional predator viewing as lions, cheetahs, and other carnivores take advantage of vulnerable young animals. The lush green landscapes following the short rains provide a stunning backdrop for photography and create a markedly different safari experience from the dry season.
Great Wildebeest Migration (July-October)
While wildebeest and zebra remain in the greater Mara-Serengeti ecosystem year-round, the dramatic river crossings typically occur between July and October when herds move from Tanzania into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Witnessing thousands of animals braving crocodile-infested waters creates unforgettable safari moments.
Elephant Concentration in Amboseli (June-October)
During the dry season, Amboseli’s elephant herds concentrate around reliable water sources, creating spectacular photography opportunities with dozens of elephants against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro.
Lake Nakuru Flamingos (Varies by Water Levels)
While flamingo numbers fluctuate with changing water chemistry, the most reliable months for stunning pink displays are generally January-March and July-August.
Rhino Conservation Day (September)
Held annually at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, this celebration of rhino conservation efforts includes behind-the-scenes access to conservation work and special presentations by wildlife experts.
Lamu Cultural Festival (November)
This vibrant celebration of Swahili culture includes dhow races, traditional dance performances, donkey races, and culinary events—offering unparalleled cultural immersion.
Whale Shark Season (January-March)
These gentle ocean giants visit Kenya’s coast during the early months of the year, offering snorkeling opportunities alongside the world’s largest fish.
Turkana Festival (April/May)
This vibrant three-day cultural celebration in northern Kenya brings together the region’s diverse ethnic communities including the Turkana, Samburu, El Molo, Rendille, Pokot, and Gabra peoples. Held annually near Lake Turkana, the world’s largest permanent desert lake, the festival features traditional dances, music performances, distinctive beadwork displays, and age-old cultural ceremonies. This immersive experience offers rare insights into the resilient cultures of Kenya’s arid northern frontier.
Maralal International Camel Derby (August)
Set in the northern county of Samburu, this unique event attracts both professional and amateur camel racers from around the world. Beyond the exhilarating races, visitors enjoy vibrant displays of local culture, traditional markets, and the opportunity to experience Kenya’s rugged northern landscapes.
Rusinga Festival (December)
Celebrated on Rusinga Island in Lake Victoria, western Kenya, this colorful two-day festival showcases the rich heritage of the Suba and Luo communities. Visitors experience traditional music, dance performances, boat races, wrestling competitions, and exquisite local cuisine, all against the beautiful backdrop of Africa’s largest lake.
Wazimba Travel Tip: When planning your journey, share any special interests with our team. We often adjust itineraries by just a few days to incorporate seasonal wildlife events or cultural celebrations that align with your travel dates.
Resources for Further Research and Inspiration
While our Wazimba Travel consultants provide comprehensive planning assistance, we encourage travelers to explore these trusted resources for additional Kenya inspiration:
Wildlife and Conservation
- Kenya Wildlife Service (kws.go.ke): Official information about national parks and reserves
- Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (sheldrickwildlifetrust.org): Details about elephant conservation and the fostering program
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (lewa.org): Information about rhino conservation in northern Kenya
Cultural Insights
- National Museums of Kenya (museums.or.ke): Background on Kenya’s cultural heritage sites
- Maasai Association (maasai-association.org): Community-led information about Maasai culture
Practical Planning
- Kenya Tourism Board (magicalkenya.com): Official tourism information
- Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov): Updated health recommendations for Kenya travel
Wazimba Travel Advantage: Unlike general online booking platforms, our specialists provide nuanced advice based on firsthand experience—from the specific tent location with the best views to which side of the vehicle offers optimal photography during certain routes. This detailed knowledge transforms good itineraries into exceptional journeys.
Final Thoughts: The Kenya That Changes You
As we conclude our Kenya travel guide series, we want to share a perspective we’ve witnessed repeatedly over decades of arranging Kenyan adventures: this country changes people.
Beyond the spectacular wildlife photography and stunning landscapes to share on social media, Kenya offers something deeper—encounters that shift perspectives and touch hearts. It might be the moment a Maasai elder’s weathered face breaks into a smile as you master a few words of greeting. Perhaps it’s watching elephant families protect their young with the same devotion human parents show. Or maybe it’s simply experiencing the immensity of star-filled skies over the savannah, reminding you of your place in the universe.
Whatever form these moments take, they’re the true souvenirs of Kenya—the ones that remain vivid long after photographs fade and gifts gather dust. At Wazimba Travel, we don’t just plan safaris; we create space for these transformative experiences to unfold naturally.
Kenya isn’t merely a destination to check off a bucket list. It’s a place that invites you to return, each visit revealing new layers of understanding and connection. From first-time safari-goers to seasoned Africa enthusiasts, Kenya continues to surprise, delight, and inspire all who embrace its magic.
We look forward to helping you discover your Kenya story.
Kwaheri na safari njema—Goodbye and safe travels, until Kenya calls you back again.
—The Wazimba Travel Team
