Classic Kenya Birding Safari – Lake Naivasha | Kakamega | Lake Nakuru | Samburu | Meru

Lake Naivasha – Kakamega National Park

(301 km, 5 - 6 hours)

Commencing your day with an early morning breakfast, you set forth on your journey to Kakamega Forest Reserve, reaching your destination around midday. Following a satisfying lunch, you venture into the depths of the forest in pursuit of avian sightings. Kakamega Forest stands as Kenya's sole remaining rainforest, teeming with a diverse array of bird species. Among the treasures that await are the Pranticole, the resplendent White-Crested TURACO, the vibrant Copper's Sunbird, the enchanting Bra-breasted Fire Finch, the melodious Yellow-throated Leaf love, and the elusive Senegal Coucal, exemplifying the rich avian population within this extraordinary habitat. As night falls, a delightful dinner beckons, followed by a restful overnight stay at a carefully selected hotel.

Experience the serene embrace of Kakamega National Park as you settle into your camp or lodge, where comfort and tranquility converge. Your day is thoughtfully bookended with nourishing meals - breakfast, lunch, and dinner - offering a culinary journey that complements your avian exploration. While drinking water is readily provided, additional beverages are available for purchase, ensuring your utmost refreshment throughout this exceptional adventure.

You'll spend the night in Kakamega Forest National Reserve

We have a variety of accommodations, which fits any type of budget

Standard options:

Rondo Retreat Centre

The Serene & tranquil Retreat Centre set in Kenya's only rainforest, the Kakamega Forest, complete with endemic species of flora and fauna, welcomes you to make it your home for a few memorable days, birding, hiking or whatever else catches your forest fancies.

Luxury Option

Rondo Retreat Centre

The Serene & tranquil Retreat Centre set in Kenya's only rainforest, the Kakamega Forest, complete with endemic species of flora and fauna, welcomes you to make it your home for a few memorable days, birding, hiking or whatever else catches your forest fancies.

Full Day bird watching in Kakamega National Park

Following your morning meal, embark on a thrilling exploration of the natural surroundings, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. This leisurely nature walk offers abundant opportunities to observe a wide spectrum of bird species exclusive to this distinctive region, along with a rich variety of plant life. Subsequently, proceed to your next destination, Kisumu city, nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria. Upon arrival at the Vic Hotel, a delectable lunch awaits.

As the day unfolds, immerse yourself in the avian wonders of the area. Engage in the captivating spectacle of African open bill storks, the graceful Swamp flycatcher, the resplendent Red chested sunbird, the enigmatic Hammerkop, and the charming Eastern grey plantain-eater, among other remarkable species. Enhancing this experience, a serene boat ride on the lake allows for closer encounters with these fascinating creatures. As twilight descends, relish a delightful dinner served at the Vic Hotel, culminating a day rich in exploration and avian marvels.

Your overnight haven lies within the embrace of Kakamega National Park, offering accommodations thoughtfully arranged in your chosen camp or lodge. The day's sustenance is impeccably catered for with inclusive meals - breakfast, lunch, and dinner - ensuring your culinary satisfaction. Essential drinking water is thoughtfully provided, while any additional beverages can be enjoyed at an extra cost, ensuring your utmost refreshment throughout this extraordinary journey.

Kakamega National Park – Lake Nakuru National Park

(208 km, 4 - 5 hours)

After breakfast, embark on a guided nature walk to observe a diverse range of exclusive bird species and lush plant life. Then, head to Kisumu city by Lake Victoria, where you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at the Vic Hotel. Immerse yourself in the avian wonders of the area, witnessing species like African open bill storks, Swamp flycatchers, Red chested sunbirds, Hammerkops, and Eastern grey plantain-eaters. A serene boat ride on the lake enhances the experience. Enjoy dinner at the Vic Hotel before retiring to your camp or lodge at Kakamega National Park. Meals and essential drinking water are provided, while additional beverages are available for an extra cost.

You'll spend the night in Lake Nakuru National Park

We have a variety of accommodations, which fits any type of budget

Standards/Budget options:

Flamingo Hill Camp

Flamingo Hill Camp, located within the renowned Lake Nakuru National Park in the stunning Great Rift Valley of Kenya, offers exceptional tented accommodation. Situated amidst the captivating "honeymoon hills," the camp can be reached in approximately 30 minutes by air or 2 hours by road from Nairobi.

Immersed in the natural beauty of its surroundings, Flamingo Hill Camp boasts landscaped grounds adorned with indigenous African plants and flowers, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. The camp takes pride in its eco-friendly practices, utilizing a portion of its earnings for environmental restoration and the preservation of endangered species.

With its cozy and inviting ambiance, Flamingo Hill Camp provides a personalized touch, ensuring that every traveler feels at home. It offers a sanctuary away from the ordinary, embracing guests with warmth and comfort during their stay.

Lake Nakuru Lodge

Located in the southeastern part of Lake Nakuru National Park, the Lake Nakuru Lodge is a sanctuary of comfort and exceptional hospitality. From its vantage point, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the lesser Flamingo mingling with the renowned Greater Flamingo, a sight that has made Lake Nakuru famous worldwide.

Designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, the lodge seamlessly blends into the environment. As a result, it is not uncommon to witness wild animals peacefully grazing in close proximity to the lodge, providing guests with a captivating and awe-inspiring experience. The serenity and beauty of the lodge's surroundings create an unparalleled sense of relaxation, making it an irresistible destination that should not be missed.

Luxury options:

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge

Nestled along the Lion Hill, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge offers a picturesque setting overlooking the breathtaking Lake Nakuru with its iconic flamingo-pink rim. This prime location provides guests with panoramic views of the lake and the stunning Lake Nakuru National Park. Whether you choose to drive from Nairobi, enjoying a scenic two-hour journey on well-maintained tarmac roads, or opt for a private charter to the Naishi airstrip followed by a short 30-minute drive through the park, the lodge's accessibility makes it a popular choice for both residents and visitors to Kenya.

The design of Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge is carefully planned to maximize the captivating views of the lake and park from most of its rooms and sitting areas. The lodge seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings, incorporating elements of the landscape such as tall acacia trees, meandering walkways, and lush greens adorned with bird feeders. This thoughtful integration of natural landscaping creates a serene and harmonious ambiance for guests to enjoy.

Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge Top of FormBottom of Form

Situated on a series of hills that mark the western boundary of the Great Rift Valley in Africa, the lodge provides breathtaking panoramic vistas that span across the expansive African landscape. From this vantage point, guests can marvel at the captivating sight of Lake Nakuru and its encompassing National Park. This park is a haven for both bird enthusiasts and wildlife enthusiasts, offering an abundance of diverse ecological features. Lake Nakuru National Park showcases a varied landscape, ranging from wooded areas to bushy grasslands, with distinct habitats that encompass the lake itself, as well as the surrounding escarpments and ridges.

Lake Nakuru National Park – Samburu National Reserve

(300 km, 5 to 6 hours)

Start your day with an early rise for a morning game drive, followed by a hearty breakfast back at the camp. Depart the park while enjoying an en-route game drive, making your way to the captivating and ruggedly beautiful Samburu National Reserve. After a satisfying lunch, embark on an exhilarating afternoon game drive that stretches into the sunset, culminating in a return to the lodge for well-deserved rest. Additionally, consider allocating time to engage with local villages and immerse yourself in the community's way of life.

Experience the night's embrace within the enchanting Samburu National Reserve, finding comfort in your chosen camp or lodge accommodation. Nourishment is well-provided throughout the day, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hydration is essential, and drinking water is thoughtfully supplied. For any extra beverages, there's the option to indulge at an additional cost, ensuring your refreshment needs are met during this memorable journey.

You'll spend the night at the Samburu National Reserve

We have a variety of accommodations, which fits any type of budget

Standard options

Samburu Sopa Lodge

Located inside the Samburu National Reserve in Northern Kenya, Samburu Sopa lodge is built atop high ground allowing panaromic views of the vastness of Samburu shrub land and the hills beyond.

Samburu Simba lodge

Watch the fiery sunset as you enjoy a cocktails by the pool and watch when nature plays the evening trumpets or close your eyes and drift off into the African dreamland. This is place where you can call a day unforgettable yet still realize its an understatement.

Luxury options:

Ashnil Samburu Camp

Ashnil Samburu Camp is a luxury tented set in the spectacular backdrop drop of the Mighty Ol Olokwe Mountain fronting Ewaso Nyiro River.

The 30 exclusive luxury Tents are spread out along the shady banks of the river under a thick stand of Doum Palms.

It features an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun lounges, a garden and a Lounge bar offering views of the African savannah. Each tent features a decked Terrance with views of the Ewaso Nyiro River. The restaurant offers views of the river and serves a variety of menus comprising of Oriental, traditional and international cuisines.

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge is located in a natural oasis in the heart of the Shaba Game Reserve or “Born Free Country” that Joy and George Adamson called home for many years.

The lodge is 314 km from Nairobi, a 45 minute flight from Nairobi to Shaba or Samburu airstrip or a picturesque 5 hour drive through the curving roads around Mt. Kenya crossing the equator at Nanyuki.

It is set along the bank of the Ewaso Nyiro River laid out around the natural springs that flow into the river. The Lodge has a virtual mini forest of indigenous trees, a fish pond and a large free form swimming pool

Full Day in Samburu National Reserve

Enjoy another exhilarating day at Samburu, indulging in morning and afternoon game drives within the park. The trio of Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs National Reserves is a vivid spectacle of contrasting colors. The serene blues of the encircling hills and boundless sky, the rich chocolate brown of the Uaso Nyiro River, the stark white dusty soils interspersed with vibrant green semi-desert flora, and the captivatingly ancient Doum palm, a distinctive palm tree adorned with branches amidst granite boulders and age-old black lava flows found in Shaba Reserve.

Nature's canvas is adorned with a stunning array of wildlife, showcasing somber blue-legged Somali ostriches, the chestnut hues of reticulated giraffes, the striking black and white patterns of Grevy's zebras, the unique form of gerenuk gazelles, and the cool, grey-green presence of Nile crocodiles that inhabit the Uaso Nyiro River flowing through Shaba and Samburu. Among these remarkable inhabitants, Samburu holds its reputation as a prime location for leopard sightings and boasts encounters with prides of lions and cheetahs.

As night descends, find solace within Samburu National Reserve, enveloped in the comfort of your chosen camp or lodge. The day's nourishment is generously provided, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hydration is a priority, with drinking water readily supplied. For additional beverages, a selection is available at an extra cost, ensuring your refreshment needs are met throughout this captivating journey.

Samburu National Reserve – Meru National Park

(225 km, 3 to 4 hours)

Following an early morning safari and a satisfying breakfast, we will bid farewell to Samburu and embark on a journey to Meru National Park. Arriving in time for lunch, a brief respite will be followed by engaging game drives within the park. Meru National Park stands as a testament to untamed beauty. Spanning the equator and crisscrossed by 13 rivers and a multitude of mountain-fed streams, it boasts an exquisite expanse of Kenyan wilderness. Its diverse landscape ranges from woodlands at an altitude of 3,400 feet (1,036 meters) on the slopes of the Nyambeni Mountain Range, northeast of Mount Kenya, to expansive plains adorned with winding riverbanks graced by the presence of doum palms. As the day draws to a close, we return for a delectable dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at your chosen camp.

Experience the embrace of Meru National Reserve as your camp or lodge accommodations ensure a comfortable night's rest. Meals are thoughtfully provided throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hydration is prioritized with supplied drinking water, while additional beverage options are available at an extra cost, ensuring you remain refreshed and replenished throughout this enriching expedition.

You'll spend the night in Meru National Park

We have a variety of accommodations, which fits any type of budget

STANDARD

Leopard Rock Lodge

A great choice for a stay in Meru National Park, Leopard Rock Lodge features a free airport shuttle. Guests indulge in deep-tissue massages, then grab a bite to eat at the restaurant. An outdoor pool, a bar/lounge and a terrace are other features.

Ikweta Safari Camp

Ikweta Safari Camp is small intimate safari camp located just 2 km from the Murera Gate into Meru National Park. It offers a large salt water swimming pool, satellite TV and free WiFi access.

Luxury options:

Rhino River Camp

hino River Camp is a collection of six luxury cottages built out of sumptuous caramel canvas and sustainable wood, raised on platforms above the gently flowing Kindani River will turn your stay at Rhino River Camp into a quiet, exclusive experience. Each room has its own private ‘zen’ area where you can meditate, re-read your favourite novel, or simply unwind. Our rooms have a contemporary design with a hint of Africa, is pleasant without being intrusive.

Add to that a swimming pool to dream of, a well-stocked bar and restaurant area, numerous nature trails for you to explore our private property on foot or bike, and this will make your perfect hideout. Situated in 80 acres of privately owned wilderness, our lodge offers the chance to connect with nature and to delight the senses in unspoiled bush and forest. Rhino River Camp offers endless opportunities for adventure and the perfect space for relaxation.

Deluxe options

Elewana Elsa’s Kopje Meru

Unashamedly romantic and beautifully styled, Elsa’s Kopje is sculpted into Mughwango Hill, above the site of George Adamson’s original camp where he raised and released orphan lions, long before conservation became fashionable.

Each cottage is crafted around the rocks, with a large bedroom, open sitting room, veranda and spacious bathroom, each with breathtaking views.

Guests can enjoy inimitable seclusion in the vast expanse of Elsa’s Kopje, boasting 870km² , the equivalent of 215,000 acres, of authentic African landscape. The park offers a thriving rhino sanctuary, and is famous for large elephant herds, hippo, lion, and birdlife; Meru National Park is recognised as having more diversity of animal species than any other park in East Africa.

Full Day in Meru National Park

After a hearty breakfast, a thrilling day of game drives unfolds in Meru National Park, renowned for its 300+ bird species. Notable avian residents include the Red-necked falcon, elusive Heuglins courser, vibrant brown-backed woodpecker, and more. Meru's significance as the backdrop for "Born Free" is highlighted, along with chances to spot lions, elephants, cheetahs, and unique antelopes like Lesser Kudu. Dik Dik, Africa's smallest antelope, adds to the sightings. Lion prides and sizable buffalo herds roam the landscape, while rivers host hippo and crocodile. As day turns to night, rest comfortably at Meru National Reserve, with meals provided and drinking water available. Additional beverages can be purchased for your utmost enjoyment.

Meru National Park – Nairobi

(290 km, 5 to 6 hours)

Following breakfast, a transition through the Mount Kenya region awaits – a captivating journey through Kenya's highlands. As you traverse this terrain, temperatures will gradually ascend, and the lush foliage will transform from broad, fresh leaves to the delicate beauty of thinner leaves.

Lunch will be enjoyed en-route as we make our way back to Nairobi. Upon reaching Nairobi, we'll ensure your seamless transfer to either your place of residence or the airport, ensuring you're well-prepared for your onward journey.

Please note, there is no accommodation provided on this day, as it marks the conclusion of the tour. Your culinary needs for the day are met with a hearty breakfast and satisfying lunch (dinner not included). Essential drinking water is thoughtfully provided, and additional beverages can be acquired for an extra charge, ensuring your utmost comfort throughout this concluding phase of your adventure.