Rhinos, Bigcats & Lemurs – Kenya & Madagascar
10 NIGHTS / 11 DAYS
Rhinos, Big Cats & Lemurs - Kenya & Madagascar
Discover the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Kenya and Madagascar on this expertly guided multi-country safari.
Starting in Kenya, you’ll visit three distinct ecosystems—Meru National Park, the Ol Kinyei Conservancy, and the Maasai Mara—each offering unique wildlife encounters and spectacular scenery. From tracking rhinos in Meru to observing big cats on the open plains of the Mara, this itinerary combines iconic safari experiences with high-quality accommodation and the expertise of professional driver-guides throughout.
The journey continues to Madagascar, where you’ll explore one of the world’s most biodiverse and unusual environments. With expert local guides, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of lemurs, chameleons, and endemic bird species in their natural habitats. This extension offers a complete contrast to the savannahs of Kenya, with lush rainforests, striking geology, and a unique cultural backdrop.
This itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a comprehensive safari experience that goes beyond the usual. With all logistics handled, including seamless travel arrangements between countries, you can focus on enjoying the wildlife, landscapes, and local knowledge that make this journey so memorable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Africa or returning for a deeper exploration, this safari offers variety, comfort, and exceptional wildlife viewing in some of the continent’s most important conservation areas.
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
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Tour Experiences
Day 1: Nairobi - Meru
Approximate flight time 1hr
Fly from Nairobi Wilson Airport on the morning flight to Meru. You will be met on arrival by your Driver & Guide from Rhino River Camp who will transfer you to camp, with a game drive en route. After lunch enjoy your new home, take a swim or relax on your deck before you depart for a late afternoon game drive. The open plains are dotted with acacias and mighty baobabs, which provide much needed reprieve to the elephants, from the harsh African sun. Meru National Park is home to a wide variety of animals and more than 400 recorded species of birds. . The park is well known for its fauna and natural beauty and as the home of Elsa, the beloved Lioness made famous in the award winning movie BORN FREE and the best selling book written by Joy Adamson with the same title.
Overnight at at Rhino River Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 2: Meru
Wake up early and see the sleeping hyraxes huddled together as you make your way for an early morning game drive. Watch as the sun rises and the savanna takes on a rosy hue, the nocturnal game looking for shelter and the plains game celebrate another night of survival. Explore through the various habitats, along the many rivers, forests and open plains of Meru National Park. Other range of activities in the camp includes bush walks, or visiting the nearby rhino sanctuary.
Overnight at at Rhino River Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 3: Meru - Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Approximate flight time 2hrs
Early morning game drive and breakfast, then transfer to the airstrip for the flight to the Maasai Mara. You will be met at the airstrip by your Driver Guide and transfer to Porini Mara Camp, with a game drive en route. In the afternoon head out on 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 at Porini Mara Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 4: Ol Kinyei Conservancy
A full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy on the lookout for elephants, buffalo, giraffe, plains game and the big cats. Wake up at dawn and enjoy an early game drive in the conservancy, returning to camp for a late breakfast followed by an escorted nature walk and then lunch. In the afternoon enjoy another game drive in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy with a night drive as you head back to camp driving in the dark with a spotlight for the chance to see the nocturnal animals.
Overnight at at Porini Mara Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 5: Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Enjoy a full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy at your leisure, or opt for a game drive in the renowned Masai Mara Reserve. If you choose the latter, a picnic lunch will be provided in the park before returning to camp in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, unwind with a sundowner in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy followed by a night game drive. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Porini Mara Camp.
NB: for 1 July to 30 September we have already included a one day fee to view the Migration in the Reserve. Maasai Mara Reserve fees will be applicable for any visit outside the dates mentioned above.
Day 6: Ol Kinyei Conservancy - Nairobi National Park
Approximate flight time 1hr
Early morning game drive in the conservancy returning for breakfast. Mid- morning transfer to the airstrip for the 11 am flight back to Nairobi Wilson airport (arriving 12.20 pm). You will be met on arrival and transfer to Nairobi Tented Camp, arriving in time for lunch. Nairobi Tented Camp is located within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally situated for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions. Afternoon at your leisure where you may wish to just relax in the camp grounds or enjoy one of the excursions on offer in Nairobi.
Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Full Board & Drinks)
Day 7: Nairobi - Antananarivo
Approximate flight time 3hrs 20 mins
After breakfast you will transfer to Nairobi international airport for your flight to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. You will be met and welcomed on arrival off your flight at the international arrival hall. Please look out for a sign with your name after you exit the restricted area with your luggages. You will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer to Maison Gallieni. Settle into your room and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Maison Galliéni (Breakfast)
Day 8: Antananarivo - Andasibe
Distance +/-150km – Approximate journey time 4 hours
Today you will visit the Old city and upper town of Antananarivo. The majestic Rova ( The Queen’s palace ) overlooks the capital from the highest point of the city. The Rova of Antananarivo is a royal palace complex that served as the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as of the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. The historic boroughs around the Rova ( The Queen’s palace) offer panoramic views of downtown Antananarivo. You will drive or walk the neighbourhood with your guide to enjoy the picturesque ambience of the noblemen residence area, with both well-kept traditional houses, the colonial houses, palaces, cathedrals, the charm of the narrow, curved, upslope cobblestoned streets and ensemble of cute traditional Malagasy houses built entirely of wood.
You will then begin your journey towards the Eastern part of the island. After leaving the busy and colourful city of Antananarivo, you reach the Route Nationale 2, the main commercial road of the country which leads to the East coast of Madagascar and its main harbour. During the journey, you will observe various landscapes from small traditional villages perched on hill sides to rice fields. A twisty, steep and lush portion of the road will announce that we are entering another region of Madagascar and you will arrive in Andasibe, known for its National Park, home of the primary and secondary forest.
The Peyrieras Butterfly Farm: On your way you will make a stop at Madagascar Exotic. This private reserve is also known as the Peyrieras Butterfly Farm, Peyrieras Nature Farm and Mandraka Reptile Farm. It is a small privately run reserve (or zoo) and was founded and owned by the French entomologist and naturalist André Peyriéras. The collection includes many reptiles (chameleons, iguanas, geckos, frogs), Batraciens (Bats), crocodiles, papillons (Butterflies). The adjacent forest area supports families of relocated and habituated Verreaux’s Sifaka and Common brown lemur which provide opportunities to photograph them close up at feeding times.
The Mitsinjo Reserve: is a community initiative started by a Malagasy NGO which works in conservation, nature-based tourism and development which includes the agriculture and health. Being one of the biodiversity hotspots of the eastern Madagascar rainforest corridor, it integrates the protection of prime habitat and the generation of sustainable income for the local population living in and around Andasibe. According to that, you will definitely contribute to the development of all the area by visiting the reserve and understanding the project. During the night walk you will have the opportunity to discover the nocturnal wildlife of the Andasibe Rainforest.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 9: Andasibe - Mantadia National Park
Today offers a full day to explore the Mantadia Park and the Andasibe Village.
The Mantadia Park: Located about 1 hour drive from your lodge, the primary forest of the Mantadia Park spreads over 15 000 hectares and is a fascinating area for nature lovers. 108 species of birds are known in the park, of which some play a role in the survival of plants like Terpsiphone mutata. There are also 14 species of lemurs, a number of species of reptiles, among them includes the Boa Manditra snake and 84 species of amphibian. Mantadia is also a kingdom of the orchids. Cymbidiellas falcigera and Bulbophyllum ameleni are the most enigmatic species, because in addition to be rare and magnificent plants, they maintain the balance of the forest’s ecosystem. This hike requires medium to good physical conditions as there are some steep slopes and dense vegetation.
Andasibe Village: You will also have the opportunity to visit the village of Andasibe which has a population of around 5000 people. Through this visit, you will witness the daily life of this calm and colourful village. With your guide, walk in the narrow and unpaved cobbled streets along the small stalls. You will have several chances to interact with local villagers and see how they make a living and occupy their free time. The walk starts or end at the old colonial train station with its alpine architecture which was home to the once very fashionable restaurant “Buffet de la Gare” in the 1930s . The market is centrally located and busiest on Saturdays.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 10: Andasibe
An early start this morning, leaving at around 07:30hrs to reach the entrance of the Analamazaotra Special Reserve, where you will have the opportunity to look for the biggest lemur of Madagascar’s famous “Indri Indri.” This lemur is endemic to the site and made his emblem. Through an easy hike lasting about 2 to 3 hours seeking out the Indri Indri, you will also find other species of lemurs, birds, chameleons as well as endemic flora including orchids and medicinal plants.
You also have the opportunity today to visit the Vakona Reserve, which has an island surrounded by fresh water and is home to various species of lemurs: common brown lemurs, bamboo lemurs, ruffed lemurs, diademed sifakas. This will be a rare opportunity to get up close and interact with these primates as well as offering the chance for some wonderful photographic opportunities. The numerous crocodiles, which used to belong to a former farm, can also be found in one of the small lake of the property.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 11: Andasibe - Antananarivo
Distance +/-150km – Approximate journey time 4 hours
Depart the region of Andasibe and begin the ascent towards the highlands and the capital. This journey will give you an impressive perspective about the difference of altitude between the two regions. This elevation is exploited by the hydroelectric power station which you will drive by.
You will transfer to the international terminal, on time for your departure flight or we can arrange overnight accommodation in Antananarivo.
Tour Experiences
Day 1: Nairobi - Meru
Approximate flight time 1hr
Fly from Nairobi Wilson Airport on the morning flight to Meru. You will be met on arrival by your Driver & Guide from Rhino River Camp who will transfer you to camp, with a game drive en route. After lunch enjoy your new home, take a swim or relax on your deck before you depart for a late afternoon game drive. The open plains are dotted with acacias and mighty baobabs, which provide much needed reprieve to the elephants, from the harsh African sun. Meru National Park is home to a wide variety of animals and more than 400 recorded species of birds. . The park is well known for its fauna and natural beauty and as the home of Elsa, the beloved Lioness made famous in the award winning movie BORN FREE and the best selling book written by Joy Adamson with the same title.
Overnight at at Rhino River Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 2: Meru
Wake up early and see the sleeping hyraxes huddled together as you make your way for an early morning game drive. Watch as the sun rises and the savanna takes on a rosy hue, the nocturnal game looking for shelter and the plains game celebrate another night of survival. Explore through the various habitats, along the many rivers, forests and open plains of Meru National Park. Other range of activities in the camp includes bush walks, or visiting the nearby rhino sanctuary.
Overnight at at Rhino River Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 3: Meru - Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Approximate flight time 2hrs
Early morning game drive and breakfast, then transfer to the airstrip for the flight to the Maasai Mara. You will be met at the airstrip by your Driver Guide and transfer to Porini Mara Camp, with a game drive en route. In the afternoon head out on 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 at Porini Mara Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 4: Ol Kinyei Conservancy
A full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy on the lookout for elephants, buffalo, giraffe, plains game and the big cats. Wake up at dawn and enjoy an early game drive in the conservancy, returning to camp for a late breakfast followed by an escorted nature walk and then lunch. In the afternoon enjoy another game drive in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy with a night drive as you head back to camp driving in the dark with a spotlight for the chance to see the nocturnal animals.
Overnight at at Porini Mara Camp (Full Board, Drinks & Activities)
Day 5: Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Enjoy a full day to explore the Ol Kinyei Conservancy at your leisure, or opt for a game drive in the renowned Masai Mara Reserve. If you choose the latter, a picnic lunch will be provided in the park before returning to camp in the late afternoon. Later in the evening, unwind with a sundowner in the Ol Kinyei Conservancy followed by a night game drive. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at Porini Mara Camp.
NB: for 1 July to 30 September we have already included a one day fee to view the Migration in the Reserve. Maasai Mara Reserve fees will be applicable for any visit outside the dates mentioned above.
Day 6: Ol Kinyei Conservancy - Nairobi National Park
Approximate flight time 1hr
Early morning game drive in the conservancy returning for breakfast. Mid- morning transfer to the airstrip for the 11 am flight back to Nairobi Wilson airport (arriving 12.20 pm). You will be met on arrival and transfer to Nairobi Tented Camp, arriving in time for lunch. Nairobi Tented Camp is located within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally situated for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions. Afternoon at your leisure where you may wish to just relax in the camp grounds or enjoy one of the excursions on offer in Nairobi.
Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Full Board & Drinks)
Day 7: Nairobi - Antananarivo
Approximate flight time 3hrs 20 mins
After breakfast you will transfer to Nairobi international airport for your flight to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. You will be met and welcomed on arrival off your flight at the international arrival hall. Please look out for a sign with your name after you exit the restricted area with your luggages. You will then be led to your vehicle for your private transfer to Maison Gallieni. Settle into your room and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Maison Galliéni (Breakfast)
Day 8: Antananarivo - Andasibe
Distance +/-150km – Approximate journey time 4 hours
Today you will visit the Old city and upper town of Antananarivo. The majestic Rova ( The Queen’s palace ) overlooks the capital from the highest point of the city. The Rova of Antananarivo is a royal palace complex that served as the home of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Imerina in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as of the rulers of the Kingdom of Madagascar in the 19th century. The historic boroughs around the Rova ( The Queen’s palace) offer panoramic views of downtown Antananarivo. You will drive or walk the neighbourhood with your guide to enjoy the picturesque ambience of the noblemen residence area, with both well-kept traditional houses, the colonial houses, palaces, cathedrals, the charm of the narrow, curved, upslope cobblestoned streets and ensemble of cute traditional Malagasy houses built entirely of wood.
You will then begin your journey towards the Eastern part of the island. After leaving the busy and colourful city of Antananarivo, you reach the Route Nationale 2, the main commercial road of the country which leads to the East coast of Madagascar and its main harbour. During the journey, you will observe various landscapes from small traditional villages perched on hill sides to rice fields. A twisty, steep and lush portion of the road will announce that we are entering another region of Madagascar and you will arrive in Andasibe, known for its National Park, home of the primary and secondary forest.
The Peyrieras Butterfly Farm: On your way you will make a stop at Madagascar Exotic. This private reserve is also known as the Peyrieras Butterfly Farm, Peyrieras Nature Farm and Mandraka Reptile Farm. It is a small privately run reserve (or zoo) and was founded and owned by the French entomologist and naturalist André Peyriéras. The collection includes many reptiles (chameleons, iguanas, geckos, frogs), Batraciens (Bats), crocodiles, papillons (Butterflies). The adjacent forest area supports families of relocated and habituated Verreaux’s Sifaka and Common brown lemur which provide opportunities to photograph them close up at feeding times.
The Mitsinjo Reserve: is a community initiative started by a Malagasy NGO which works in conservation, nature-based tourism and development which includes the agriculture and health. Being one of the biodiversity hotspots of the eastern Madagascar rainforest corridor, it integrates the protection of prime habitat and the generation of sustainable income for the local population living in and around Andasibe. According to that, you will definitely contribute to the development of all the area by visiting the reserve and understanding the project. During the night walk you will have the opportunity to discover the nocturnal wildlife of the Andasibe Rainforest.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 9: Andasibe - Mantadia National Park
Today offers a full day to explore the Mantadia Park and the Andasibe Village.
The Mantadia Park: Located about 1 hour drive from your lodge, the primary forest of the Mantadia Park spreads over 15 000 hectares and is a fascinating area for nature lovers. 108 species of birds are known in the park, of which some play a role in the survival of plants like Terpsiphone mutata. There are also 14 species of lemurs, a number of species of reptiles, among them includes the Boa Manditra snake and 84 species of amphibian. Mantadia is also a kingdom of the orchids. Cymbidiellas falcigera and Bulbophyllum ameleni are the most enigmatic species, because in addition to be rare and magnificent plants, they maintain the balance of the forest’s ecosystem. This hike requires medium to good physical conditions as there are some steep slopes and dense vegetation.
Andasibe Village: You will also have the opportunity to visit the village of Andasibe which has a population of around 5000 people. Through this visit, you will witness the daily life of this calm and colourful village. With your guide, walk in the narrow and unpaved cobbled streets along the small stalls. You will have several chances to interact with local villagers and see how they make a living and occupy their free time. The walk starts or end at the old colonial train station with its alpine architecture which was home to the once very fashionable restaurant “Buffet de la Gare” in the 1930s . The market is centrally located and busiest on Saturdays.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 10: Andasibe
An early start this morning, leaving at around 07:30hrs to reach the entrance of the Analamazaotra Special Reserve, where you will have the opportunity to look for the biggest lemur of Madagascar’s famous “Indri Indri.” This lemur is endemic to the site and made his emblem. Through an easy hike lasting about 2 to 3 hours seeking out the Indri Indri, you will also find other species of lemurs, birds, chameleons as well as endemic flora including orchids and medicinal plants.
You also have the opportunity today to visit the Vakona Reserve, which has an island surrounded by fresh water and is home to various species of lemurs: common brown lemurs, bamboo lemurs, ruffed lemurs, diademed sifakas. This will be a rare opportunity to get up close and interact with these primates as well as offering the chance for some wonderful photographic opportunities. The numerous crocodiles, which used to belong to a former farm, can also be found in one of the small lake of the property.
Overnight at Mantadia Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 11: Andasibe - Antananarivo
Distance +/-150km – Approximate journey time 4 hours
Depart the region of Andasibe and begin the ascent towards the highlands and the capital. This journey will give you an impressive perspective about the difference of altitude between the two regions. This elevation is exploited by the hydroelectric power station which you will drive by.
You will transfer to the international terminal, on time for your departure flight or we can arrange overnight accommodation in Antananarivo.
Send An Enquiry
Short Contact Form (NEW)
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 from Gamewatchers Safaris clients posted on Trip Advisor.
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Choose a Travel Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made trip to Madagascar.
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Choose a Travel Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made trip to Madagascar.
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