Mara and Laikipia Safari

Your journey begins in Nairobi, where you’ll arrive and settle into a boutique hotel. After a long flight, you’ll have the chance to unwind and explore Kenya’s capital. Depending on your time of arrival, consider visiting the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum to get an early taste of the country’s wildlife and history. For dinner, you might explore Nairobi’s vibrant food scene, with fresh local produce and unique flavours. This day is about easing into the rhythm of Kenya, preparing you for the safari adventure ahead.

After breakfast, you’ll take a scenic flight to the Lolldaiga Hills in Laikipia, arriving at The Safari Series camp. This intimate, owner-run camp, with only five tents, offers personalized service and immediate immersion into the wilderness. After settling in, head out for an afternoon safari, tracking elephants or spotting reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s zebra in the varied landscapes that define Laikipia.

You’ll begin your next day with a morning walking safari, led by Maasai guides who will share traditional tracking techniques and knowledge of the local flora and fauna. The afternoon offers more opportunities for exploration—choose from a game drive or a relaxing afternoon at camp, soaking in the views.

Spend the next two days delving deeper into Laikipia’s wildlife and community experiences. A walking safari with Maasai elders offers a fascinating insight into ancient traditions and a strong connection to the land. Alternatively, head out on a game drive to search for elusive species like wild dog or look for the impressive birdlife in the area.

Your time at The Safari Series also includes opportunities to engage with local conservation projects. Visit the nearby community to see how safari tourism supports education and local livelihoods. You can also take part in fly camping, where you’ll sleep under the stars in the heart of the wilderness, experiencing the true essence of the bush.

Fly to the Masai Mara, where you’ll be welcomed at Instinct of the Mara, located in the remote Olderkesi Conservancy. This tranquil area offers incredible wildlife viewing with few other vehicles in sight. Settle into your luxury lodge before embarking on an afternoon game drive through the conservancy, looking for lion, cheetah, and elephant.

The next morning, set out early for a game drive or opt for a walking safari accompanied by an experienced guide and ranger. The conservancy’s varied landscapes provide habitats for an array of species, from big cats to hyena. In the afternoon, relax at the lodge or take a scenic drive to explore more of the Masai Mara National Reserve, returning for sundowners in the bush.

Spend your final days exploring the Olderkesi Conservancy, an area known for its peaceful wildlife experiences and commitment to conservation. Start the day with a game drive, where you’ll likely encounter herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle grazing in the plains. The lack of crowds means more intimate wildlife encounters, whether you’re watching a lioness hunt or observing elephant crossing the savannah.

In the afternoons, you can visit a nearby Maasai village to learn more about their traditional lifestyle and how they coexist with wildlife. Alternatively, take a walking safari or relax at camp, enjoying the stunning scenery. The lodge offers bush meals and the chance to soak in the beauty of your surroundings before you depart, knowing your stay has contributed to conservation and local communities.

This trip combines the best time to visit Kenya safari with thoughtfully selected lodges, giving you an in-depth experience of Kenya’s iconic landscapes. Whether you seek thrilling game drives, peaceful nature walks, or meaningful cultural exchanges, each element of this itinerary is designed to connect you with the spirit of Kenya while supporting its people and wildlife. We can extend this trip by adding on more time on safari or heading to the beach for some relaxation.

Image credits – Safari Series and Secluded Africa