8-Day Kenya Wildlife & Luxury Safari Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day Kenyan adventure, a luxurious exploration of the nation’s diverse landscapes and iconic wildlife. Your journey begins at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), whisking you away to the slopes of Mount Kenya and the pristine wilderness of Meru National Park. Here, amidst lush forests and rolling plains, encounter a plethora of wildlife, from majestic elephants and elusive leopards to a rich tapestry of birdlife. Next, experience the exclusive sanctuary of Lewa Conservancy, a haven for rhinos and other endangered species, where conservation and luxury intertwine.

Continue your safari to Lake Nakuru, a flamingo paradise, witnessing thousands of these vibrant birds painting the lake pink. Cross the Equator and marvel at the cascading Thompson Falls, a breathtaking spectacle of nature’s power. Conclude your journey at the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha, where boat safaris offer close encounters with hippos, giraffes, and a symphony of waterbirds. Before returning to Nairobi, enjoy a heartwarming visit to the Giraffe Centre, getting up close and personal with these gentle giants. This 9-day safari is a seamless blend of luxury and adventure, showcasing the very best of Kenya’s wildlife and scenic wonders.

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi and Flight to Meru National Park

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), your safari guide will greet you and transfer you to Wilson Airport for a scenic flight to Meru National Park. This remote and untouched gem, famously known as the setting for Born Free, offers breathtaking landscapes of wooded grasslands, rivers, and doum palm forests. Upon landing at Kinna Airstrip, a short transfer takes you to your lodge, where you’ll check in and enjoy a delicious lunch. The afternoon kicks off with your first game drive, introducing you to elephants, lions, buffalos, giraffes, and antelopes roaming freely in the park’s diverse habitats. The Tana River and Rojewero River provide excellent wildlife sightings, including hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. As the sun sets, unwind with sundowners overlooking the stunning wilderness, followed by a hearty dinner and an overnight stay in the heart of the park.

Luxury Option: Elsa’s Kopje
Mid-range Option: Rhino River Camp
Budget Option: Ikweta Safari Camp

Day 2: Full-Day Exploration of Meru National Park

Awaken to the sounds of the wild and set out for an early morning game drive, when predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are most active. The cool morning air enhances wildlife activity, offering breathtaking encounters with Grevy’s zebras, elands, hartebeests, and impalas. After breakfast back at the lodge, the day continues with a visit to the Meru Rhino Sanctuary, home to both black and white rhinos under strict conservation efforts. A stop at Adamson’s Falls, named after George and Joy Adamson, provides insight into their conservation legacy. After a picnic lunch by the river, the afternoon game drive focuses on the park’s rich birdlife, including Somali ostriches, hornbills, and kingfishers. Conclude the day with a guided nature walk, learning about medicinal plants and tracking wildlife footprints. Enjoy a relaxed evening around the campfire, sharing safari stories under the star-lit sky.

Luxury Option: Elsa’s Kopje
Mid-range Option: Murera Springs Eco Lodge
Budget Option: Leopard Rock Lodge

Day 3: Sunrise Safari and Drive to Lewa Conservancy

Rise early for a final morning game drive, catching the last glimpses of Meru’s thriving wildlife before enjoying breakfast. After check-out, embark on a scenic drive to Lewa Conservancy, a journey that showcases the stunning transition from Meru’s lush landscapes to Lewa’s open plains and rolling hills.

The 4-5 hour drive includes stops for breathtaking photo opportunities along the way. Arriving at Lewa, check in to your lodge and enjoy a sumptuous lunch with panoramic views of Mount Kenya. The afternoon brings an exciting walking safari, led by expert rangers who will introduce you to Lewa’s rhino conservation programs and anti-poaching initiatives. Encounter black and white rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and cheetahs, with the chance to spot the elusive wild dogs. End the day with a relaxed sunset drive, followed by dinner under the African night sky.

Luxury Option: Lewa Wilderness Lodge
Mid-range Option: Lewa Safari Camp
Budget Option: Il Ngwesi Lodge

Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Lewa Conservancy

Start your day with a sunrise game drive, the best time to witness predators on the hunt and large elephant herds moving gracefully through the plains. After breakfast, dive deeper into Lewa’s conservation efforts, visiting the anti-poaching unit and rhino tracking programs. This community-driven conservancy is a model for sustainable wildlife protection, offering a rare chance to see endangered species thriving in their natural habitat. A midday bush picnic offers breathtaking views over the vast conservancy before continuing with an afternoon horseback or camel safari, an immersive way to get close to wildlife without the sound of a vehicle. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a private bush dinner, a perfect end to an adventurous day.

Luxury Option: Sirikoi Lodge
Mid-range Option: Lewa Safari Camp
Budget Option: Tassia Lodge

Day 5: Scenic Drive to Lake Nakuru via the Equator and Thompson Falls

After breakfast, bid farewell to Lewa and embark on a scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, stopping at the Equator Crossing for a quick photo session and an engaging demonstration of the Coriolis effect. A brief stop at Thompson Falls in Nyahururu offers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking 74-meter waterfall cascading into a gorge, before continuing the journey. Arrive in Nakuru in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos, rhinos, and rare Rothschild’s giraffes. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Luxury Option: The Cliff
Mid-range Option: Flamingo Hill Camp
Budget Option: Lake Nakuru Lodge

Day 6: Morning Safari and Transfer to Lake Naivasha

Wake up to an early morning game drive, catching the first light over Lake Nakuru’s shimmering waters. After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, reaching in time for a boat safari on the lake, where you will glide past hippos, fish eagles, and cormorants. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with optional activities like a guided walk on Crescent Island, a wildlife haven with zebras, giraffes, and antelopes roaming freely. A quiet evening by the lake offers a peaceful retreat before dinner.

Luxury Option: Chui Lodge
Mid-range Option: Naivasha Sopa Lodge
Budget Option: Fish Eagle Inn

Day 7: Drive to Nairobi, Visit Giraffe Center, and Carnivore Dinner

After breakfast, take a leisurely drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon. A visit to the Giraffe Center allows you to feed and interact with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes while learning about conservation efforts. Later, check in to your hotel before heading to Carnivore Restaurant, a Nairobi landmark known for its all-you-can-eat barbecue feast featuring game meats. After an exciting evening, settle into your accommodation for a relaxing night.

Luxury Option: Giraffe Manor
Mid-range Option: The Boma Nairobi
Budget Option: Eka Hotel

Day 8: Departure from Nairobi

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy your final morning in Kenya before being transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your outbound flight, marking the end of an unforgettable Kenyan safari adventure.

This luxury, adventure-filled itinerary combines wildlife-rich destinations, conservation experiences, and scenic beauty, ensuring a truly immersive and memorable safari through Kenya’s top wilderness locations.