Walking Safaris in Laikipia, Northern Kenya

A walking safari in Africa is a special and unique experience. Once you have ventured into pristine wilderness, slept under the stars, heard nightjars calling and listened to the distant singing of Samburu warriors you will have unforgettable memories of being close to nature in the wilds of Africa.

We offer private walking safaris in Kenya spending two or more nights in the bush in comfortable mobile camps, with supplies and equipment carried by camels. These exhilarating walks in the bush are escorted by Samburu and Maasai guides with an intimate knowledge of the wildlife, people and landscape.

The walks take place in stunning landscape starting from an unspoilt 3000 acre ranch dedicated exclusively to the management and conservation of wildlife. With 360 degree sweeping views of Mount Kenya to the South and the vast Frontier District to the North, the ranch is a window onto the romantic wilds of northern Kenya and has good numbers of resident game and predators. An evening walk on the ranch typically will turn up Gerenuk, Impala, Steinbuck, Common Zebra, Grevy's Zebra, Elephant, Grant's Gazelle and Dikdiks. Several days spent in the area will likely find the less common species such as Lesser Kudu, Eland, Hyena, Bat-eared Fox, Reticulated Giraffe or Hartebeest. Occasionally visitors may catch sight of the local Lions or Wilddogs.

A walking safari can be added to many of our Kenya safari itineraries and is the perfect excursion from Porini Rhino Camp.

What to Expect on a Walking Safari

Walking safaris usually involve walks of between 8 and 15km per day but since our tours operate just for your booked group the exact route can be tailored to suit your ability. The walks are perfect for families – even those with young children (minimum age just 4 years).

A departure from camp may be around 6 to 7am, ending at the next camp before lunch. Walks are generally 4 to 5 hours including many stops for refreshments and for viewing wildlife, insects and flowers etc. (Longer itineraries and wilderness treks for higher levels of fitness can also be arranged – please ask us for more details).

Pack camels carry the camp and equipment and some riding camels may accompany the party to carry guests. The camels tend to take shorter routes in order that the camps can start being set up before guests reach them.

Healthy, delicious meals are all expertly prepared each day with fresh fruit and vegetables, and afternoon / evening walks often end with drinks at a beauty spot to watch the sun go down.

All of our walking safaris include comfortable sleeping arrangements with private w.c. tent and shower tent (bucket shower with hot water).

Conservation

The walking safaris are dedicated to conservation in Kenya and specifically in the particular areas where they operate. Since conservation and people are directly linked, the safaris actively support the communities by employing local people, paying conservation fees to the communities and purchasing local goods whenever possible. For many years the owners of the ranch have supported and encouraged sustainable, traditional honey production by buying raw honey from the local Samburu and Laikipia Maasai people and processing it, employing many local people. The honey is then sold in Nairobi, allowing the honey gatherers to sell their product to a much larger market.

Types of Walking Safari

Each of our Kenya walking safari itineraries can be booked as one of three different versions – “Expedition”, “Samburu-Led Luxury” or “Expert-Led Luxury”. Each has the same itinerary, but inclusions vary.

Expedition versions include simple camps with comfortable light-weight mountain tents each with ground mat, king-size mattress, bedding, towels, a small table and solar lamps. Walks are hosted by expert Samburu or Laikipia Maasai guides who will share their knowledge on the flora and fauna and local customs. Meals are of great quality with breakfast and dinner served to the table and an informal buffet-style lunch. Alcoholic drinks are not included but these can be brought along by guests or purchased at an optional supplement. Expedition safaris are perfect for budget-conscious travellers for whom the experience is more important than luxuries.

Luxury versions of the walking safaris offer a little more extravagance such as larger traditional safari tents and the addition of carpet, chairs and a basin on the veranda. They also have a king-size mattress and plush bedding (duvet, sheets, blankets and 2 pillows per person) and even dressing gowns. Beer, wine and spirits are also included.

Expedition and Samburu-Led Luxury walks are hosted by English-speaking Samburu or Laikipia Maasai guides.

Expert-Led Luxury walks are guided by eminent safari experts Kerry Glen, James Christian or a specialist guide (subject to availability).

Walking Safaris Include

• Transfers from and back to Nanyuki (or Porini Rhino Camp)
• Full Board on safari (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• Mineral Water
• Beer, Wine & Spirits (for Luxury options)
• Samburu and Laikipia Maasai camp staff and trackers
• Expert English-speaking guide (Wilderness First Aid trained)
• 8 to 25 camels (depending on number of guests in your party)
• Mountain tent with king-size mattress, bedding and towels (Expedition option)
• Large safari tent with king-size mattress, bedding and towels (Luxury options)
• Tents with carpet, table, mirror
• Camping stools (Expedition option)
• Chairs and dressing gowns (Luxury options)
• Private w.c. tent with long-drop toilet and comfortable seat
• Private shower tent with bucket shower (plenty of hot water on request)
• Flashlight and low-output solar lights in tents (limited output)
• Headlamps (for Luxury options)
• Radio / Mobile & Satellite Phone communication for Security / Emergency back-up
• Laundry

• Transfers from and back to other locations (available at a supplement)
• Champagne and Luxury Spirits
• Gratuities to camp staff
• Kenya Visa
• Travel Insurance / Flying Doctor Membership (required)

Please contact us for up-to-date Walking Safari prices.