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8 Day Paka Kubwa Safari

Named after the Swahili words for “Big Cat,” our thrilling 8-day adventure designed for wildlife lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and curious travellers seeking an authentic safari experience. This safari takes you deep into the heart of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife conservancies.

Lioness lying on sandy ground with two playful cubs climbing on her in warm golden light

Named after the Swahili words for “Big Cat,” the Paka Kubwa Safari is a thrilling 8-day adventure designed for wildlife lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and curious travellers seeking an authentic safari experience. This journey takes you deep into the heart of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife conservancies — pioneering models of community-based conservation where wildlife and people thrive together.

Guided by expert Maasai safari guides, you’ll encounter some of Africa’s most iconic species — including lions, leopards, and cheetahs — in their natural habitat. The safari route spans across renowned conservation landscapes including Selenkay Conservancy (Amboseli ecosystem), Ol Pejeta Conservancy (Laikipia), and the wildlife-rich plains of Ol Kinyei and Naboisho Conservancies as well as the legendary Mara Reserve.

Along the way, guests stay at eco-friendly Porini Camps, awarded Gold Eco-Rated status by Ecotourism Kenya, and explore two of Kenya’s three IUCN Green List-certified destinations — Ol Kinyei and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

More than just a safari, Paka Kubwa offers a meaningful connection with local communities, an unforgettable immersion into untamed African wilderness, and a chance to contribute directly to conservation efforts.

Cheetah Cub - photo credit Kristy Thomson
Authentic Wilderness Experience

Stay in small, exclusive safari camps set in unspoiled natural environments. Each camp offers spacious guest tents with private bathrooms and solar-powered lighting—providing comfort without losing touch with the wild.

Effortless Travel Between Parks

Enjoy the convenience of scenic flights between camps—maximizing your time on safari and minimizing hours on rough roads. From the moment you land, you’re immersed in wildlife-rich landscapes.

Expert-Led Game Drives

Explore Kenya’s premier conservancies and parks in open-sided 4×4 vehicles guided by Maasai Guides. Shared or private, each drive enhances your chance of spotting Africa’s iconic wildlife.

Meaningful Cultural Connections

Walk with Maasai warriors, visit an authentic Maasai village, and enjoy exclusive access to private conservancies where you can also join night game drives—offering a deeper, more personal connection with Kenya.

Eco-Conscious Travel

Stay at Porini Safari Camps,  committed to sustainability, community partnerships, and low-impact design.

Price Includes
  • Meet and greet on arrival and transfer for 1 night at Nairobi Tented Camp
  • 2 nights in Porini Amboseli Camp with daily Selenkay Conservancy fees and one day Amboseli National Park entrance fee.
  • Maasai village visit
  • Internal flights Nairobi-Selenkay-Nanyuki-Meru-Mara-Nairobi.
  • 2 nights at Porini Rhino Camp with daily Ol Pejeta Conservancy fees.
  • Visit to Chimpanzee Sanctuary
  • 2 nights at  Porini Mara Camp with daily Ol Kinyei & Naboisho Conservancy fees
  • One day Masai Mara Game Reserve entrance fee included from 1st July to 30th September ONLY
  • All camps are based on full board basis including soft drinks, Beer, House wine, Gin & tonic, Mineral water
  • Day & night shared game drives in 4×4 safari vehicle with qualified guide
  • Sundowners
  • Walks with Maasai warriors.
  • Emergency evacuation cover.
  • Wildlife Habitat Trust Payment 
Price Excludes
  • Private game drives/vehicles
  • Hot air ballooning
  • Maasai Mara National Reserve park fees
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Visa
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Safari Pricing Guide (PDF)

For more information, view the Safari Pricing Guide (PDF) – a detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details.

Free Airport Transfer On Arrival in Nairobi
  • Stay 6 nights or more at Porini Camps and receive a free airport transfer on arrival in Nairobi to any hotel in Nairobi booked by us, or to Wilson airport.
Porini Camps: No Single Supplement
  • Solo travelers staying at any of the Porini Camps will enjoy staying in a single tent at no additional cost (No Single Room Supplement charged).
    Valid for stays between:
    January 3rd to May 31st, 2027
    November 1st to December 15th, 2026 & 2027.
Porini Camps Honeymooners Offer
  • Bride saves 50% when staying 4 or more nights at any Porini Camp. Valid all year except in Aug & Sep when the discount is 25%.
    *Proof of wedding required. Offer valid for stays within 12 months of wedding.
Add Extra Nights At Reduced Price
  • Add on extra nights to any two of the Porini Camps or to Porini Lion Camp and get a reduced price. For a quote contact one of our Safari Specialists today!

LENGTH

7 Nights I 8 Days

PRICE GUIDE

FROM

Itinerary in Detail

DAY BY DAY

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Tour Experiences

Day 1

You will be picked up from Nairobi Airport or central Nairobi and transferred to Nairobi Tented Camp, an exceptional alternative to conventional hotel stays in the bustling city center.  Nestled within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally located for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions.

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2

Your adventure begins with an early breakfast before heading to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for a scenic 40-minute flight over the Great Rift Valley to the private airstrip at Selenkay Conservancy, part of the greater Amboseli ecosystem. Upon landing, your Maasai guide will meet you for your first game drive — a thrilling introduction to Kenya’s wildlife — as you make your way to Porini Amboseli Camp, your home for the next two nights.

After settling in and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch, you’ll set out on an escorted walk to a nearby Maasai village. This is a rare opportunity to step into the daily rhythm of the community, learning first-hand about their traditions, stories, and deep connection to the land.

As the afternoon unfolds, you’ll venture back into Selenkay Conservancy — a protected haven known for its thriving populations of big cats, elephants, giraffes, zebra, and antelopes. Keep an eye out for the conservancy’s rarer residents too, including the elegant gerenuk, elusive lesser kudu, and the African wildcat.

As the sun dips behind the iconic silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, pause for a classic safari sundowner at a breathtaking viewpoint. The day doesn’t end there — once darkness falls, you’ll embark on an exciting night game drive, offering a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife rarely seen by day. Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for a delicious dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the African night.

Day 3

Awake to the noisy calls of the birds. After an early breakfast, we drive through the bush on our private track into Amboseli National Park, for a full morning of game viewing. Following a picnic lunch in the park, we return to camp later in the afternoon. In the evening you will go on a game drive in Selenkay Conservancy, stopping for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, followed by a night game drive.

Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 4

After an early breakfast, we will drive through the Selenkay Conservancy to the airstrip for your flight back to Wilson Airport.  From there, you will connect to your scheduled flight to Nanyuki. Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be met and transferred to Porini Rhino Camp, situated in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy at the foothills of Mount Kenya.

Enjoy lunch and afternoon tea at Porini Rhino Camp  before embarking on an exciting game drive with your driver-guide in the camp’s 4×4 safari vehicle to explore the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. After a day of wildlife adventure, you will return to Porini Rhino Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5

Enjoy a full day of exploration in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, featuring game drives and walking activities directly from the camp. 

Optional activities available at an additional cost include a visit to the Endangered Species Boma, home to the world’s last two remaining Northern White Rhinos, as well as Lion Tracking experiences. 

After a day filled with wildlife encounters, return to Porini Rhino Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6

Early morning game drive and breakfast, then transfer to the airstrip for the flight to the Masai Mara. You will be met and transferred to Porini Mara Camp, arriving for lunch. In the afternoon you will have a game drive with a sundowner at a scenic spot followed by a night game drive with spotlights to search for nocturnal animals, including the elusive leopards which are resident in Ol Kinyei Conservancy, before heading back to camp for dinner.

Overnight at Porini Mara Camp.

Day 7

Enjoy a full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy and neighbouring Naboisho Conservancy at your leisure, or opt for an exhilarating game drive in the renowned Masai Mara.  Should you choose the latter, a picnic lunch will be provided in the park before returning to camp in the late afternoon.

In the evening, unwind with a sundowner in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy, followed by a night game drive to discover the nocturnal wildlife. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Porini Mara Camp.

Note: From July 1 to September 30, a one-day fee to view the Migration in the Reserve is already included in your package.

Day 8

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy, returning to Porini Mara Camp for breakfast. You will transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to either the international airport or a Nairobi hotel.

(please note that hotel accommodation is not included but can be arranged for an additional fee).

You may choose to add extra nights at any of the Porini Camps. Alternatively, consider extending your stay by flying to the Kenya Coast or the  Island of Zanzibar, where you can unwind on the pristine white beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Tour Experiences

Day 1

You will be picked up from Nairobi Airport or central Nairobi and transferred to Nairobi Tented Camp, an exceptional alternative to conventional hotel stays in the bustling city center.  Nestled within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally located for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions.

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2

Your adventure begins with an early breakfast before heading to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for a scenic 40-minute flight over the Great Rift Valley to the private airstrip at Selenkay Conservancy, part of the greater Amboseli ecosystem. Upon landing, your Maasai guide will meet you for your first game drive — a thrilling introduction to Kenya’s wildlife — as you make your way to Porini Amboseli Camp, your home for the next two nights.

After settling in and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch, you’ll set out on an escorted walk to a nearby Maasai village. This is a rare opportunity to step into the daily rhythm of the community, learning first-hand about their traditions, stories, and deep connection to the land.

As the afternoon unfolds, you’ll venture back into Selenkay Conservancy — a protected haven known for its thriving populations of big cats, elephants, giraffes, zebra, and antelopes. Keep an eye out for the conservancy’s rarer residents too, including the elegant gerenuk, elusive lesser kudu, and the African wildcat.

As the sun dips behind the iconic silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, pause for a classic safari sundowner at a breathtaking viewpoint. The day doesn’t end there — once darkness falls, you’ll embark on an exciting night game drive, offering a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife rarely seen by day. Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for a delicious dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the African night.

Day 3

Awake to the noisy calls of the birds. After an early breakfast, we drive through the bush on our private track into Amboseli National Park, for a full morning of game viewing. Following a picnic lunch in the park, we return to camp later in the afternoon. In the evening you will go on a game drive in Selenkay Conservancy, stopping for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, followed by a night game drive.

Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for dinner and overnight.

 

Day 4

After an early breakfast, we will drive through the Selenkay Conservancy to the airstrip for your flight back to Wilson Airport.  From there, you will connect to your scheduled flight to Nanyuki. Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be met and transferred to Porini Rhino Camp, situated in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy at the foothills of Mount Kenya.

Enjoy lunch and afternoon tea at Porini Rhino Camp  before embarking on an exciting game drive with your driver-guide in the camp’s 4×4 safari vehicle to explore the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. After a day of wildlife adventure, you will return to Porini Rhino Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5

Enjoy a full day of exploration in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, featuring game drives and walking activities directly from the camp. 

Optional activities available at an additional cost include a visit to the Endangered Species Boma, home to the world’s last two remaining Northern White Rhinos, as well as Lion Tracking experiences. 

After a day filled with wildlife encounters, return to Porini Rhino Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6

Early morning game drive and breakfast, then transfer to the airstrip for the flight to the Masai Mara. You will be met and transferred to Porini Mara Camp, arriving for lunch. In the afternoon you will have a game drive with a sundowner at a scenic spot followed by a night game drive with spotlights to search for nocturnal animals, including the elusive leopards which are resident in Ol Kinyei Conservancy, before heading back to camp for dinner.

Overnight at Porini Mara Camp.

Day 7

Enjoy a full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy and neighbouring Naboisho Conservancy at your leisure, or opt for an exhilarating game drive in the renowned Masai Mara.  Should you choose the latter, a picnic lunch will be provided in the park before returning to camp in the late afternoon.

In the evening, unwind with a sundowner in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy, followed by a night game drive to discover the nocturnal wildlife. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Porini Mara Camp.

Note: From July 1 to September 30, a one-day fee to view the Migration in the Reserve is already included in your package.

Day 8

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy, returning to Porini Mara Camp for breakfast. You will transfer to the airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to either the international airport or a Nairobi hotel.

(please note that hotel accommodation is not included but can be arranged for an additional fee).

You may choose to add extra nights at any of the Porini Camps. Alternatively, consider extending your stay by flying to the Kenya Coast or the  Island of Zanzibar, where you can unwind on the pristine white beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (NEW)

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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 Tripadvisor
Saurabh S profile picture
Saurabh S
13 October 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A very memorable experience My partner and I visited in late September/early October of 2026. We had a really wonderful time and the entire trip surpassed all our expectations. We are greatly appreciative of the warmth, kindness and hospitality we received and will certainly plan to come back again. Thank you for the memories!
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Meander231878 profile picture
Meander231878
12 October 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Epic adventure! Our experience at both the Nairobi Tented Camp and Giraffe camp were outstanding! Africa has been on my bucket list for some time and it did not disappoint! From our initial inquiries to Gamewatcher Safaris with our rep here in Ontario, to all of the well executed pickups etc., to the lovely, friendly and professional staff at both camps, the delicious food and lovely accommodations, the totally amazing game drives and seeing soo much wildlife up close(even the great migration), to getting to know our Maasai guides and being so very well taken care of…it was truly an experience of a lifetime! And, now that Kenya has gotten under our skin we are hoping to return in 2 years to experience more of Kenya and likely Tanzania!
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gcherian13032 profile picture
gcherian13032
12 October 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
What a great experience This was a wonderful experience for us (first-time safari-goers) - everything from the moment we landed in Nairobi was handled in the most professional way, and the stay at both the camps (Rhino camp and Mara camp) was beyond exceptional. The amount of opportunities to view wildlife was endless, and we saw everything that we were dreaming about seeing and beyond. There were zero surprises - everything was included, and the scheduling and logistics were done with zero issues. The camp food was the most surprising part - every day we had great food and drink options. Beyond all this, it was the staff, their dedication and friendliness, that made this trip memorable for us. Thank you, Gamewatchers and Porini team. We will be back soon to enjoy your hospitality.
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Fearless68500445745 profile picture
Fearless68500445745
6 October 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Highly recommend Game watchers safari Our first trip to Africa was with Gamewatchers safari and it was to Masai Mara. We absolutely loved the way our trip was organized. Everything was taken care of and there were zero issues to complain about. Special shout to out Pranay who was very patient in addressing all our queries. He used to call us during the trip to check if things were going as per plan. We enjoyed the first time experience very much and choose game watchers safari again for our next trip to Botswana. Needless to say, this was also exceptionally handled. Highly recommend Game watchers safari
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Yvette W profile picture
Yvette W
30 September 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
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Kate H profile picture
Kate H
15 September 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
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Brett D profile picture
Brett D
3 September 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
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monicasteinolson profile picture
monicasteinolson
20 August 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
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Mandy M profile picture
Mandy M
13 August 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
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Dr V A profile picture
Dr V A
8 August 2026
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.

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 to Africa.

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