Kenya North & South Safari
This one week Kenya safari is perfect for those wanting to see the best of Kenya but on a budget. Starting from Nairobi, this itinerary heads to the rugged landscape surrounding Mount Kenya, then to the open plains of Samburu, through the lakeland interior to Lake Nakuru National Park before ending in the Masai Mara, an area renowned for its big cats.
Travel is by private vehicle just for your group (minimum 2 people) and with an expert driver-guide.
Flexible departures (any day).
2 nights at Samburu Sopa Lodge in the Samburu National Reserve giving the chance to see a wide variety of big game including some less common species not seen elsewhere.
1 night at The Ark in the foothills of Mount Kenya, overlooking a waterhole visited by elephants, buffalo and other forest animals.
1 night at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge in Lake Nakuru National Park, where there is an excellent chance of seeing rhino as well as a rare species of Giraffe and other wildlife.
2 nights at Keekorok Lodge in the Maasai Mara Reserve, famous for lions, cheetahs and leopards.
- Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Experience 3 game drives in Samburu National Reserve, where you can spot a wide variety of big game, including some rare species not found elsewhere.
- Unique Overnight at The Ark: Spend a night at The Ark, nestled in the foothills of Mount Kenya, overlooking a waterhole visited by elephants, buffalo, and other forest animals.
- Lake Nakuru’s Rich Wildlife: Enjoy 1 night at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge in Lake Nakuru National Park with a game drive along the lake shore, offering excellent chances to see rhinos, rare giraffes, and other fascinating wildlife.
- Maasai Mara’s Big Cats: Immerse yourself in the Maasai Mara for 2 nights at Keekorok Lodge, famous for its lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Experience 3 game drives in this renowned area.
- Budget-Friendly Safari: This 7-day safari provides an opportunity to explore the best of Kenya’s natural beauty and wildlife without breaking the bank, all while traveling in a private vehicle with an expert driver-guide.
- Meet & greet at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Transport and game drives in a Minivan safari vehicle.
- Experienced driver guide.
- Accommodation and meals as mentioned on the itinerary and an extra meal at The Carnivore Restaurant
- Park and reserve fees
For more information view the Safari Pricing Guide (PDF) – A detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details.
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
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Tour Experiences
Day 1
Begin your journey with an early morning pickup from Nairobi as we set off for Samburu National Reserve. This pristine and less-frequented destination promises an exceptional game viewing experience, away from the usual tourist crowds.
Upon arrival, you will check in at Samburu Sopa Lodge in time for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating game drive through the stunning landscapes of Samburu Reserve. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 2
Start your day with an early breakfast at Samburu Sopa Lodge, followed by a morning game drive in Samburu National Reserve. This immersive experience will focus on spotting elephants, big cats, and the unique wildlife that Samburu is renowned for, including the endangered Grevy’s Zebra and the Reticulated Giraffe.
Return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch, and in the afternoon, continue your exploration of Samburu with another game drive, deepening your connection with the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife. After a rewarding day, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge where you can unwind and share stories of your adventures.
Day 3
Begin your day with breakfast at Samburu Sopa Lodge before checking out. You will then embark on a drive to Aberdare National Park, a breathtaking part of the Aberdare Mountain Range characterized by its rugged peaks reaching heights of up to 3,930 meters and deep ravines that carve through lush forested slopes.
Arrive in time for lunch at The Aberdare Country Club, where you can enjoy a meal amidst stunning surroundings. Afterward, transfer to The Ark, where you will spend the night engaged in exciting game viewing from the lodge’s precincts. The Ark features several viewing decks and balconies that overlook a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, attracting a variety of wildlife both day and night.
Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at The Ark, offering a unique opportunity to observe the wonders of nature in comfort.
Day 4
Following breakfast, we will depart for the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, you will arrive in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, we will embark on an exploration of Lake Nakuru National Park, where the surrounding woodland and grassland are teeming with diverse wildlife, including black rhinos, white rhinos, hippos, leopards, lions, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. We will then return to Sarova Lion Hill Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, offering a perfect end to a day filled with adventure.
Day 5
After an early breakfast, we will continue our safari by heading to the renowned Maasai Mara. Upon arrival, you will check in at Keekorok Lodge and enjoy a delightful lunch.
While at the lodge, you can take advantage of the scenic views from the Elephant Deck or relax at the Hippo Bar, which overlooks a nearby waterhole, providing opportunities to observe wildlife. For those looking for leisure, the lodge also features a swimming pool and offers optional activities (available at an additional cost), including spa treatments and nature walks.
In the afternoon, embark on an exciting game drive in the Maasai Mara Reserve, where you will have the chance to encounter an array of wildlife in their natural habitat. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Keekorok Lodge, ensuring a memorable experience in this iconic landscape.
Day 6
Optional Activity: Experience the thrill of a Balloon Safari, followed by a luxurious champagne breakfast.
Start your day with an early breakfast at Keekorok Lodge, after which you will embark on a morning game drive in the Maasai Mara. Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the late afternoon, you will set out for another exhilarating game drive in the Maasai Mara Reserve. This is an excellent opportunity to encounter a diverse array of Kenya’s wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various plains game, as well as the iconic big cats for which the Mara is renowned.
Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Keekorok Lodge, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures in this extraordinary landscape.
Day 7
After breakfast, we will transfer back to Nairobi, where you will have lunch at carnivore restaurant before drop off at the international airport for your flight home.
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
Begin your journey with an early morning pickup from Nairobi as we set off for Samburu National Reserve. This pristine and less-frequented destination promises an exceptional game viewing experience, away from the usual tourist crowds.
Upon arrival, you will check in at Samburu Sopa Lodge in time for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating game drive through the stunning landscapes of Samburu Reserve. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 2
Start your day with an early breakfast at Samburu Sopa Lodge, followed by a morning game drive in Samburu National Reserve. This immersive experience will focus on spotting elephants, big cats, and the unique wildlife that Samburu is renowned for, including the endangered Grevy’s Zebra and the Reticulated Giraffe.
Return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch, and in the afternoon, continue your exploration of Samburu with another game drive, deepening your connection with the captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife. After a rewarding day, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at Samburu Sopa Lodge where you can unwind and share stories of your adventures.
Day 3
Begin your day with breakfast at Samburu Sopa Lodge before checking out. You will then embark on a drive to Aberdare National Park, a breathtaking part of the Aberdare Mountain Range characterized by its rugged peaks reaching heights of up to 3,930 meters and deep ravines that carve through lush forested slopes.
Arrive in time for lunch at The Aberdare Country Club, where you can enjoy a meal amidst stunning surroundings. Afterward, transfer to The Ark, where you will spend the night engaged in exciting game viewing from the lodge’s precincts. The Ark features several viewing decks and balconies that overlook a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, attracting a variety of wildlife both day and night.
Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at The Ark, offering a unique opportunity to observe the wonders of nature in comfort.
Day 4
Following breakfast, we will depart for the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, you will arrive in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, we will embark on an exploration of Lake Nakuru National Park, where the surrounding woodland and grassland are teeming with diverse wildlife, including black rhinos, white rhinos, hippos, leopards, lions, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. As the day draws to a close, we will pause for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, allowing you to soak in the stunning views. We will then return to Sarova Lion Hill Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, offering a perfect end to a day filled with adventure.
Day 5
After an early breakfast, we will continue our safari by heading to the renowned Maasai Mara. Upon arrival, you will check in at Keekorok Lodge and enjoy a delightful lunch.
While at the lodge, you can take advantage of the scenic views from the Elephant Deck or relax at the Hippo Bar, which overlooks a nearby waterhole, providing opportunities to observe wildlife. For those looking for leisure, the lodge also features a swimming pool and offers optional activities (available at an additional cost), including spa treatments and nature walks.
In the afternoon, embark on an exciting game drive in the Maasai Mara Reserve, where you will have the chance to encounter an array of wildlife in their natural habitat. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Keekorok Lodge, ensuring a memorable experience in this iconic landscape.
Day 6
Optional Activity: Experience the thrill of a Balloon Safari, followed by a luxurious champagne breakfast.
Start your day with an early breakfast at Keekorok Lodge, after which you will embark on a morning game drive in the Maasai Mara. Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the late afternoon, you will set out for another exhilarating game drive in the Maasai Mara Reserve. This is an excellent opportunity to encounter a diverse array of Kenya’s wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various plains game, as well as the iconic big cats for which the Mara is renowned.
Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Keekorok Lodge, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures in this extraordinary landscape.
Day 7
After breakfast, we will transfer back to Nairobi, where you will be dropped off at the international airport for your flight home.
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).
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Posted on Sayak Ghosh17 January 2026Verified A well curated vacation into Kenya Gamewatchers are to be commended for their professionalism and attention to details. I travelled with my mother to Kenya, it was the first trip to Africa for the both of us, and Gamewatchers took very good care of us. The local point of contact in India, Mr. Chandra, was wonderful and helped us throughout. No request was turned down. The whole trip was curated as per our liking. I would definitely recommend Gamewatchers.Posted on Eric A16 January 2026Verified Always fantastic...third time customer not finished yet. I have used Gamewatchers for my Kenyan safaris three times now and can not see any reason to use anyone else. My experience with them has always been excellent. The experience of staying in tented camps really allows one to become emersed in the land and wildlife of Kenya. Always a special time when I'm in the Porini Camps of Gamewatchers.Posted on Christine M12 January 2026Verified Amazing safari We had an exceptional holiday. Seen huge amounts of animals, with very knowledgible guides answering all our questions. Staff were wonderful, meals great. Loved every minute. Want to go againPosted on nicolelK9025UD11 January 2026Verified Best Safari Experience Planning this trip was very easy with the help of my advisor, Rachel. She was the best. Super friendly, always quick to answer all of my questions and concerns. I really wanted an eco-friendly camp, who gives back to the local community and limits the number of tours and people that have access to the area. This delivered in all areas. Camps were beautiful, staff were amazing, safaris were incredible. We loved every minute. I've thought of nothing else since my return. I miss it every day and can't wait until I return.Posted on Sherry H11 January 2026Verified Highly Recommended! I would definitely go with Gamewatchers again on my next trip to Africa! Everyone did a great job and we're very kind to us.Posted on Luis11 January 2026Verified Excellent We live in Kenya and have experienced many safaris over the years, and Porini Cheetah Camp remains among the very best. We are repeat guests.What sets it apart is the privacy, the warm, personal welcome from the hosts, and the exceptional quality of the game drives. The conservancy setting allows for uncrowded, respectful wildlife viewing, and the lodge is particularly ideal for lion sightings.Posted on Curious2689802063611 January 2026Verified Perfect African safari adventure A perfect combination of luxury tented camps, experienced and friendly staff and guides, extraordinary animal sightings. All in the most beautiful and dramatic settings. A truly amazing African safari experience.Posted on Doria R4 January 2026Verified Great Solo experience Amazing all amazing seen many animals and i love the tented accommodations. The food was also very good they give you so much food lol. I loved rhino and mara camp the most. Giraffe did not see the animals I wanted to maybe was just off time but the rhino camp and mara amazing the mangers at all the camps treated me very well im going back to other camps next nov and i can't wait to see Craig the super tusker ;-) he's 54 so i need see him my fav are the Elephants so amboseli is known for that. I love porini camps great food and g n ts at sundown was all nice.Posted on Ak J4 December 2025Verified Top drawer service and personalised safari. We had the pleasure of using game watchers to book our safari at Porini Cheetah Camp which was exceptional. However what was also exceptional was the service we received from Wayne in the gamewatchers team. Thorough, quick and responsive to our needs and sorted everything from the room, flights and transfers seamlessly.I would highly recommend using game watchers to anyone that wants eco friendly, ethical and personalised safaris.Posted on Robert S25 November 2025Verified Great Experience Wayne Hammond and the Gamewatchers team organized and delivered a wonderful safari for our family. Wayne was responsive and gave great advice leading up to the trip and the team on the ground was first rate. It is hard to find the right company to narrow in on the right price and pacing -- they did it very well. Rob
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Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.

Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!
You can contact me at rae@gamewatchers.com

Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.
Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom. My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent. I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects. Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps. Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa. If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or by phone at +91 801 788 5256
Kristy Thomson
I’m Kristy Thomson, your Australia-based Safari Expert, with 25 years in wildlife conservation and a deep love for Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and communities. I specialise in authentic, conservation-focused safaris across East and Southern Africa, creating experiences you’ll never forget.
With hands-on knowledge of Kenya’s private conservancies, National Parks, Porini Camps, and like-minded properties, I’ll help you plan your ultimate safari adventure. I also lead our small-group safaris — Porini with Purpose and Maarifa Kusudi — which are a guaranteed way to immerse yourself in Kenyan culture while getting behind-the-scenes insights into the wildlife and wild places we explore. Every Porini safari I plan supports local conservancies and the people who protect them. Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call +61 419 175 672
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Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.

If you are based in UK and you are ready to embark on your own African adventure, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Safari Specialists based in Nairobi on info@gamewatchers.com or give our office a call at +254 (0)712 345 678

Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Let’s connect and embark on a journey through Africa’s wild wonders together.
Andrea Landaeta

Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendors of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges. I’m based in Bangalore, India, and you can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or reach me by phone at +91 801 788 5256, including WhatsApp. Let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the beauty and conservation of our natural world together.
Pranay Chandra

I’m Kristy Thomson, your Australia-based Safari Expert, with 25 years in wildlife conservation and a deep love for Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and communities. I specialise in authentic, conservation-focused safaris across East and Southern Africa, creating experiences you’ll never forget.
With hands-on knowledge of Kenya’s private conservancies, National Parks, Porini Camps, and like-minded properties, I’ll help you plan your ultimate safari adventure. I also lead our small-group safaris — Porini with Purpose and Maarifa Kusudi — which are a guaranteed way to immerse yourself in Kenyan culture while getting behind-the-scenes insights into the wildlife and wild places we explore. Every Porini safari I plan supports local conservancies and the people who protect them. Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call +61 419 175 672
Kristy Thomson
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