18-Day Kenya Adventure: Epic Safaris & Blissful Beaches

Dreaming of sweeping savannahs, iconic wildlife, and golden beaches? This 18-day adventure through Kenya delivers it all! From thrilling safaris across nine national parks to relaxing on the white sands of Diani, this journey blends wild encounters with serene escapes.

Start your adventure in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where endangered rhinos and African wild dogs roam freely. Then head to Samburu National Reserve, home to elephants and the unique Samburu Special Five. In Solio Game Reserve, get another up-close look at majestic rhinos and other classic African animals.

Your next stop is Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its vibrant birdlife and the shimmering lake at its heart. Keep an eye out for rare tree-climbing lions during your game drive.

The journey continues to the world-renowned Masai Mara, where the Big Five and the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal) await. Then unwind by Lake Naivasha, where pods of hippos greet you from the water.

Next, marvel at elephants marching across the plains of Amboseli National Park, with Mount Kilimanjaro as your dramatic backdrop. Wrap up your safari with a visit to Tsavo West and Tsavo East, two vast and wild parks where the Big Five make a final appearance.

Finally, soak in the sun, surf, and Swahili culture on the beaches of Diani—the perfect end to a perfect journey.

18-Day Kenya Safari & Beach Escape – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Gateway to Adventure
Touch down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where your Kenyan adventure begins. You’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Into the Wild – Ol’ Pejeta Conservancy
Begin your journey north to the Ol' Pejeta Conservancy, a renowned wildlife sanctuary and rhino haven. Experience close encounters with endangered black and white rhinos, as well as African wild dogs, lions, and chimpanzees. Enjoy your first thrilling game drive and soak in the scenic beauty of Mount Kenya in the background.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path – Samburu National Reserve
Drive further north to the semi-arid Samburu National Reserve, home to the rare Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, and gerenuk. In the afternoon, enjoy a game drive and discover this lesser-known gem rich in wildlife and cultural heritage.

Day 4: Explore Samburu’s Hidden Treasures
Spend the day fully immersed in the raw beauty of Samburu. With morning and evening game drives, you’ll track elephants, big cats, and unique wildlife species. Optional cultural visits to local Samburu villages offer a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people.

Day 5: Rhinos & Rolling Hills – Solio Game Reserve
Head south to Solio Ranch, a private wildlife conservancy known for its successful rhino breeding program. Enjoy a game drive across its open grasslands, where you’ll spot large herds of rhinos, buffalo, zebras, and elegant antelope species.

Day 6: Flamingo Paradise – Lake Nakuru National Park
Journey to the picturesque Lake Nakuru National Park, famed for its flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and over 400 bird species. Keep an eye out for tree-climbing lions, leopards, and both black and white rhinos as you explore this compact yet diverse park.

Day 7: Into the Wild Heart – Masai Mara & Zebra Plains Walking Safari
Drive to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations. Settle in at accommodations just outside the park before enjoying a guided walking safari at Zebra Plains, offering an intimate look at the bush. In the evening, head into the Mara for your first game drive.

Day 8: Big Cats & Great Migration – Full Day in Masai Mara
Spend a full day on safari in the Masai Mara, famous for the Big Five and, seasonally, the Great Wildebeest Migration. Traverse golden savannahs and river crossings, spotting prides of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly elusive leopards.

Day 9: Water & Wildlife – Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island
Drive to Lake Naivasha for a tranquil boat ride among hippos and birds. Later, walk freely among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest on Crescent Island, a unique sanctuary where animals roam without predators.

Day 10: Kilimanjaro Views – Tulia Sundowner & Amboseli National Park
Arrive in Amboseli National Park, known for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kick off your evening with a sundowner experience at Tulia, sipping drinks as the sun sets behind the mountain. Game drive through Amboseli’s elephant-rich plains.

Day 11: Giants of the Savannah – Full Day in Amboseli
Spend the day exploring Amboseli, a photographer’s dream with its vast landscapes, large elephant herds, and dramatic mountain backdrops. Look out for lions, cheetahs, buffalo, and over 400 bird species.

Day 12: Lava Landscapes – Tsavo West National Park
Head east to Tsavo West, a rugged park known for its volcanic landscapes, underground springs, and the Mzima Springs hippo pools. Game drive en route to your lodge nestled within this wild terrain.

Day 13: Into the Red Earth – Tsavo East National Park
Venture into Tsavo East, one of Kenya’s largest and oldest parks. Known for its red-dust elephants and wide-open plains, Tsavo is a land of raw wilderness and classic safari encounters. Enjoy your final full game drive in this untamed park.

Day 14: From Safari to Sea – Train to Mombasa & Diani Beach Escape
Board the scenic SGR train to Mombasa, then transfer to the pristine Diani Beach. Settle into your beach resort and unwind after days of adventure. If time allows, visit Chale Island, a private paradise perfect for honeymooners and snorkelers.

Day 15: Coastal Bliss – Diani Beach & Chale Island
Relax on the powder-white sands of Diani or go snorkeling, diving, or kite surfing. Optional boat trips to Wasini Island or marine park tours are available. Explore coral gardens or simply soak up the sun by the Indian Ocean.

Day 16: More Paradise – Diani Leisure Day
Continue enjoying Diani’s laid-back vibes. Pamper yourself with a Swahili spa treatment, stroll local craft markets, or savor fresh seafood by the sea.

Day 17: Final Day in Paradise – Diani Beach
Take this day to reflect on your journey. Enjoy your last beach moments with optional yoga by the ocean, sunset dhow cruise, or romantic dinner on the beach.

Day 18: Farewell Kenya – Departure from Mombasa
Transfer to Moi International Airport in Mombasa for your international flight home (flight not included in the tour price). Depart with unforgettable memories of Kenya’s wildlife, landscapes, and culture.