8 Day Kenya Escapes Safari – Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara

Q: What destinations are included in the Kenya Escape Value Safari?

This safari includes Samburu Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park and the Maasai Mara in Kenya’s premier wildlife regions. It also includes one night in Nairobi at the start or end of the trip.

Discover the best of Kenya on an 8-day road safari. Travel by customised 4×4 safari vehicle with an experienced guide, enjoying game drives, full-board accommodation and some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife, including elephants, rhinos and big cats.

Our Kenya Escapes itinerary offers a well-balanced introduction to Kenya’s most recognised wildlife regions, combining Samburu Reserve’s unique northern species, the ecological richness of Lake Nakuru National Park, and the predator-filled plains of the Maasai Mara.

Travelling by 4×4 vehicle with an experienced guide, the Kenya Escapes Safari prioritises consistent wildlife viewing, varied landscapes, and a smooth logistical flow from start to finish.

Accommodation is thoughtfully selected to provide comfort and proximity to key habitats, while the inclusion of park fees, game drives, and full-board stays ensures clarity and value. This is a practical, well-paced safari suited to first-time visitors or those seeking a comprehensive overview of Kenya without the need for internal flights.

All game drives are in a shared customised 4×4 safari vehicle with our experienced driver-guide, giving a better safari experience than travelling in a minibus or van.

SUMMARY

HIGHLIGHTS

PRICE INCLUDES

BENEFITS

SUMMARY

1 night at The Tamarind Tree Hotel (Bed & Breakfast basis).
2 nights at Elephant Bedroom Camp (Full Board basis).
2 nights at Mbweha Safari Camp (Full Board basis).
2 nights at Tipilikwani Mara Camp (Full Board basis).

This is a set departure safari, that starts every Saturday of each week.

HIGHLIGHTS

Diverse Wildlife Encounters

Explore Samburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park and the Maasai Mara, offering opportunities to experience Kenya’s rich wildlife diversity, including both rare and iconic species.

Comfortable Accommodations

Stay at well-regarded camps and lodges each offering a comfortable base in key wildlife locations.

Expert Guided Safaris

Travel in a custom 4×4 safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide who enhances your wildlife viewing through knowledge of the landscapes and animal behaviour.

Natural Wonders and Scenic Experiences

Experience the varied landscapes of Lake Nakuru National Park, home to lions, rhinos and leopards, and enjoy a guided nature walk at Mbweha Safari Camp.

Weekly Departures with Flexible Travel

This tour operates on a weekly basis, departing on Saturdays, with a minimum of just two guests required, making it a flexible option for small group travel.

PRICE INCLUDES

Price Includes

Accommodation & board basis as stated.
All park & conservancy fees.
Transport and Game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
Emergency Flying Doctors medical evacuation cover
Gamedrives, sundowners.

Price Excludes

Hot air ballooning
Tips & gratuities
Visa
International Flights
Travel Insurance
Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Safari Pricing Guide (PDF)

For a detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details, see our safari pricing guide pdf

BENEFITS

Benefits of our Set Departure Road Safaris:

All road transport in 4×4 safari vehicle
Fully escorted by friendly, professional safari guides (minimum of Kenya Professional
Safari Guide Association Silver Level)
Full Board Accommodation in superb quality, well-located lodges / camps
All shared game activities included in the price
All Park / Reserve fees included in the price
Maximum 7 guests per vehicle – guaranteed window seat
Start / End in Nairobi – pick up from a hotel or straight from the airport
Optional beach add-ons (supplements apply)

LENGTH

7 Nights I 8 Days

PRICE GUIDE

Download

FROM

US$ 3,855

Itinerary in Detail

DAY BY DAY

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (NEW)

URL

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Full Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Your Country of Residence(Required)

Contact Number

Please provide some more information here to help us to assist you.

CAPTCHA

Tour Experiences

Cheetah lying in tall dry grass during African safari, predator in natural habitat

Family of elephants walking in natural environment, African safari wildlife photography

Cheetah standing alert on grassy plains in African savannah

Wild cheetah with spotted coat in natural habitat during safari

Day 1 - Saturday

You’ll be met on arrival at Nairobi International Airport by our friendly Gamewatchers representative and transferred to the Tamarind Tree Hotel for 1 night (Bed & Breakfast).

Days 2 & 3 - Sunday & Monday

After breakfast we depart Nairobi by 4×4 safari vehicle (with expert guide) and head North to Samburu National Reserve – checking in to Elephant Bedroom Camp where we will spend 2 nights (Full Board basis). Lunch en route or at camp. This exclusive camp of just 12 luxury tents has a lovely setting within the Reserve, on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River surrounded by doum palms and indigenous trees and shrubs. Enjoy morning & afternoon / early evening game drives.
Dinner and overnight at Elephant Bedroom Camp.

Days 4 & 5 - Tuesday & Wednesday

After breakfast we set off towards the stunning scenery of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Check in to Mbweha Safari Camp for 2 nights (Full Board basis). This is a high quality safari camp set on the private 6400 acre Congreve Conservancy near the southern border of Lake Nakuru National Park and has spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. We will take an escorted nature walk from camp for a close-up view of the local flora and fauna and game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park with a picnic lunch.
Dinner and overnight at Mbweha Safari Camp.

Days 6 & 7 - Thursday & Friday

After an early breakfast we continue our safari by heading to the world-famous Maasai Mara Reserve, arriving at Tipilikwani Mara Camp for lunch where we will stay for 2 nights (Full Board). Tipilikwani Mara Camp has 20 luxury riverfront tents located on the banks of the Talek River overlooking the iconic Mara plains. Enjoy morning & afternoon / early evening game drives in the Maasai Mara Reserve. Dinner and overnight at Tipilikwani Mara Camp.

Day 8 - Saturday

After breakfast we depart the Maasai Mara and make our way back to Nairobi (arriving approx. 1.30pm to 2pm). Drop off at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to check in for your onward flight.

NB depending on your international flight times, the night in Nairobi (shown here at the start) could be moved to the end (Saturday). Or additional nights can be added (at a supplement).

Alternative Option: For those wishing to extend their adventure, you may choose to fly directly from the Maasai Mara to the stunning Kenya coast. Enjoy a few days of relaxation on the beach in one of Kenya’s Beach Resorts before returning to Nairobi (this option is available at an additional cost).

Tour Experiences

Day 1 - Saturday

You’ll be met on arrival at Nairobi International Airport by our friendly Gamewatchers representative and transferred to the Tamarind Tree Hotel for 1 night (Bed & Breakfast).

Days 2 & 3 - Sunday & Monday

Days 4 & 5 - Tuesday & Wednesday

Days 6 & 7 - Thursday & Friday

Day 8 - Saturday

NB depending on your international flight times, the night in Nairobi (shown here at the start) could be moved to the end (Saturday). Or additional nights can be added (at a supplement).

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (NEW)

X/Twitter

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Full Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Your Country of Residence(Required)

Contact Number

Please provide some more information here to help us to assist you.

CAPTCHA

What Our Clients Say About Us...

In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback from Gamewatchers Safaris Clients posted on Trip Advisor.

What Our Clients Say About Us...

In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback posted on Trip Advisor.

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Yvette W 
 30 September 2026
 
 
 Verified Excellent safari with an emphasis on sustainability and ecotourism
Another excellent safari from Gamewatchers safaris.Exceptional and professional service from the time of booking to the final farewell at the end of the trip. The warm and personal welcome from the office staff to greet us on our arrival into Kenya sets the tone for the trip. Knowledgeable, friendly and experienced guides to support us on game drives and trips between lodges. Gamewatchers is an ethical company with an emphasis on eco tourism and sustainability which is also an important element to us , when booking a safari to ensure conservation is at the heart of our visit.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Kate H 
 15 September 2026
 
 
 Verified Incredible safari experience and everything was taken care of
Gamewatchers looked after us so well, and everything was fantastic, from the booking experience with Tom, to the quality of the lodges. We only had time for a short (three-day) safari in Nakuru and the Masai Mara, and it was incredible. From the moment he picked us up from Nairobi, our guide Antony was incredible - welcoming, patient and kind, and his love for the animals and the landscape was clear. He made us feel so comfortable and we didn't want to leave. We couldn't have wished for a better experience. Gamewatchers even organised a few days for us by the coast after the safari, and transferred us back to Nairobi. We will definitely be back!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Brett D 
 3 September 2026
 
 
 Verified Amazing Safari Experience
Gamewatchers team designed the most amazing holiday and looked after us every inch of the way...lovely people, camps and food not to mention excellent game drives and very knowledgeable game spotters and drivers. 5 star service at affordable prices.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   monicasteinolson 
 20 August 2026
 
 
 Verified An Unforgettable Maasai Mara Safari with Gamewatchers
We had an absolutely incredible safari experience in the Maasai Mara with Gamewatchers. From beginning to end, the whole trip was beautifully organized, and the team made our time in Kenya truly unforgettable. A huge thank you to Wycliffe, Wayne, Sammy, James, Stanley, Joseph and Anthony. Everyone was warm, knowledgeable, professional and genuinely passionate about the Mara and its wildlife. The game viewing was spectacular. We saw so many cats — lions, cheetahs and leopards — and every drive seemed to bring another amazing encounter. One of the biggest highlights was witnessing the wildebeest crossing, an experience we will never forget. What really made the safari special, though, were the people. Their knowledge, patience and enthusiasm added so much to every sighting and every day. Thank you, Gamewatchers, for an extraordinary Maasai Mara adventure. We came hoping for a great safari and left with memories that will stay with us forever. Highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mandy M 
 13 August 2026
 
 
 Verified Seamless
We had an absolutely seamless trip. Every single member of staff we met from Gamewatchers Safaris were superb. I would highly recommend using Gamewatchers to plan your trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dr V A 
 8 August 2026
 
 
 Verified Best family safari experience we’ve had
From the very beginning, Gamewatchers exceeded our expectations. Rick McIntyre listened to exactly what I wanted for this trip with my children and built an itinerary that balanced adventure, wildlife, comfort, and authentic experiences. Every camp—Nairobi Tented Camp, Elewana Tortilis in Amboseli, Porini Rhino Camp, and Porini Mara Camp—was excellent in its own way. What impressed me most was the logistics. Transfers, flights, guides, luggage, arrivals, departures—everything was handled for us. I could completely let go, stop managing details, and simply enjoy Kenya with my kids. Even when plans changed unexpectedly, the team immediately found solutions and made sure we were taken care of. Every guide, driver, and staff member was warm, professional, and genuinely kind. My son said it best: “This is the best vacation we’ve ever had.” We travel a lot, so that says everything. I would absolutely recommend Gamewatchers and would travel with them again.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   FarAway42686665765 
 28 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Second trip as a great as the first!
This is the second time we have used Gamewatchers on a visit to Kenya. Both times we were very pleased. Everyone who planned our trips were patient and kind and even changed our itinerary when asked. Both time we stayed at the Porini Camps as well as other hotels that were recommended by Gamewatchers The drivers we had on excursions were professional and always flexible. We had wonderful guides and drivers at the Porini Camps who are very knowledgeable and friendly. The food at the camp is delicious and the camp managers and staff did a great job of making sure we were comfortable. If we are lucky enough to return, we will be using Gamewatchers for our travel needs. I highly recommend them!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Linae D 
 27 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Amazing Safari experience with Gamewatchers Safaris
It was an amazing experience that words just cannot justify. The staff was amazing at both Porini Rhino Camp and Porini Mara Camp. Our guides at Rhino Camp, Fred and Alfred, were excellent. So full of knowledge and information. The food was excellent as was the accommodations. I highly recommend using Gamewatchers to book a safari as they were excellent in all ways.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   David J 
 26 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Extremely professional company
We have travelled with Gamewatchers and Porini Camps a number of times and the fact that we keep going back speaks for itself I think. Using one of their dedicated booking agents makes the whole process very easy as you are able to plan your safari and are not restricted to a set itinerary . This safari we stayed at Porini Amboseli and Porini Cheetah.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   familytraveler318 
 26 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Amazing experience - Big 5 and wild dogs so much more!!
Our 10 day trip with Gamewatchers was amazing! Our travel consultant, Rick, was super helpful and knowledgeable in planning our two safari camp experience (Porini Rhino and Porini Mara) followed by a few days at Diani Beach. The family tent worked out great for us. The staffs at both camps were friendly and very accommodating to dietary restrictions. We felt very special having Porini Mara camps to ourselves, with no other guests. Likewise, Porini Rhino had only one other family. What an absolute wonderful vacation! The guides (Alfred and Fred) at Porini Rhino were excellent. They were very knowledgeable about animals, flora and fauna and went above and beyond. We were very fortunate to see the wild dogs at Porini Rhino camp. We knew it was a special event to see the wild dogs when the guides pulled out their phones to take pictures! We would highly recommend GameWatchers Safaris! They took excellent care of us from our arrival flight to departure flight!

Talk to a Specialist

Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.

Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari.

Kenya

North America & Canada

North America

UK & Europe

South America

Australia

India

Kenya

North America & Canada

North America

UK & Europe

South America

Australia

India

Looking to unwind after your safari?

A stay at one of Kenya’s beach resorts is the ideal add-on to your wildlife safari.

Discover our recommended beach hotels and complete your journey with the perfect coastal escape.

FAQs — 8 Day Kenya Escapes Value Safari

The safari includes Samburu Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park and the Maasai Mara in Kenya’s premier wildlife regions. It also includes one night in Nairobi at the start or end of the trip.

The itinerary is 8 days and 7 nights, including game drives and wildlife activities across three iconic Kenyan wildlife destination.

Guests may see elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes and a variety of plains game and birdlife during game drives in Samburu, Nakuru and the Maasai Mara.

Travel is by customised 4×4 safari vehicle with an experienced guide, providing shared game drives throughout the itinerary.

Yes — this safari is well suited for first-time visitors and value-focused travellers looking for an authentic Kenya safari experience across multiple ecosystems.