8-Days: Kenya Safari Big Cats
Safari Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day/7-night Kenya Safari, immersing yourself in the captivating world of big cats. Explore the remarkable Samburu National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, and the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve. Witness the raw power and grace of lions, leopards, and cheetahs in their natural habitats. Experience the thrill of game drives, guided by expert rangers, as you encounter Kenya’s diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This safari promises an extraordinary adventure, where you’ll create cherished memories amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of Kenya’s big cat kingdom.
Tour Features
DAY TO DAY ACTIVITIES
Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
In the morning at 07:00Hrs, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Nairobi or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and embark on a scenic drive to Samburu National Reserve, which is approximately a 5-hour journey from Nairobi. Upon arriving at Samburu National Park, you’ll be greeted by its breathtaking landscapes. The park is characterized by vast stretches of savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and meandering rivers that attract a rich variety of wildlife. After settling in at your accommodation, embark on your first game drive. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll have the chance to spot the famous Samburu Five, which include the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the gerenuk. Keep an eye out for the big cats, as they are known to roam this area.
Day 2: Full Day Exploring Samburu
Rise early and set out for a morning game drive. As you explore the park, you’ll come across the Ewaso Ng’iro River, a lifeline for the animals that inhabit the region. Here, you might spot bathing elephants, crocodiles, and hippos. Your experienced guide will navigate through the reserve in search of the big cats. Lions are often seen lounging in the shade, leopards may be spotted in the trees, and cheetahs can be seen gracefully sprinting across the open plains. Enjoy thrilling game drives in search of these magnificent creatures and witness their impressive hunting skills.
Day 3: Samburu to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Next, head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a vast wildlife sanctuary located in Laikipia region. Check into your camp and enjoy some leisure time. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to explore the conservancy’s diverse wildlife, including the opportunity to spot the endangered rhinos. Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for rescued orphaned chimpanzees. While exploring the conservancy, keep an eye out for lions and leopards, as they frequently roam the area.
Day 4: Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Ol Pejeta Conservancy after breakfast and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, a bird lover’s paradise and an excellent place to spot both black and white rhinos. The park is also home to a healthy population of lions, leopards, and other predators. Take a game drive along the lake’s shores, which are often adorned with thousands of pink flamingos.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
After a delicious breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Nakuru and proceed to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive itself is an adventure, as you traverse the scenic Rift Valley and witness the changing landscapes. Upon arriving at Masai Mara, you’ll be greeted by vast plains dotted with acacia trees, the quintessential African savannah setting. After settling into your accommodation, head out for an afternoon game drive in search of the big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. As the sun sets over the vast savannah, we return to the camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6-7: Masai Mara National Reserve - Exploring Big Cat Territory
Over the next two days, we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife-rich plains of the Masai Mara. With its high concentration of predators, this reserve offers unparalleled opportunities to witness thrilling big cat encounters. We venture out on morning and afternoon game drives, guided by our experienced wildlife experts who will share their extensive knowledge and help us track down the elusive felines. Be prepared to witness incredible hunts, dramatic displays of power, and tender moments of family bonding among these awe-inspiring creatures.
Day 8: Masai Mara to Nairobi
On your final day, savor a leisurely morning breakfast, bid farewell to this remarkable wilderness and start your journey back to Nairobi. Reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made during your safari, and perhaps stop at a local curio shop to pick up souvenirs before reaching Nairobi city. Arrive in the afternoon and transfer to the airport or your hotel, marking the end of your 8-day Kenya’s Big Cat Safari.