Highlights
- See some of Kenya's over 1,000 bird species on wildlife tours
- Embark on safaris and glimpse Big Five animals, like Tsavo's red elephants
- Stay at comfortable lodges deep within protected national parks
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Nairobi, Transfer to Amboseli, Afternoon Game Drive | Amboseli National Park |
| Day 2 | Amboseli Safari & Cultural Activities | Amboseli National Park |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Tsavo West National Park, Afternoon Game Drive | Tsavo West National Park |
| Day 4 | Tsavo West Safari Activities & Game Drives | Tsavo West National Park |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Nairobi, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi, Transfer to Amboseli, Afternoon Game Drive
Welcome to Kenya! With dozens of national parks, reserves, and wildlife conservancies, this East African nation is an animal lover's dream. And though you only have five days to spare, that's enough time to experience Kenya's famous safari highlights. Besides the exotic mammals, you'll also get to do some birding, as this country is home to over 1,000 avian species, including hornbills and secretary birds.
Your itinerary starts in Nairobi, where a driver will pick you up for the three-hour drive south toward the border with Tanzania. Your destination is Amboseli National Park, which encompasses the foothills of mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa (19,340 ft/ 5,895 m). Besides views of Kilimanjaro's snowcapped table, this 151 square mile (392 sq km) park features abundant wildlife. Amboseli is famous mainly for its large herds of elephants. The park's open plains make it easy to spot these majestic creatures as they move across the savanna.
Upon arrival, you'll check into the beautiful Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, which sits in the heart of the park and offers sweeping views toward Kilimanjaro. After settling in, enjoy a late lunch followed by an afternoon game drive. You'll be pleased to know that the most common animals in the park are the African Big Five: lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and rhinos. Afterward, you'll return to the lodge in time for dinner.
Day 2: Amboseli Safari & Cultural Activities
Leave at dawn today for a day of safari game drives and nature tours. These excursions will take you to vast savannas plus wetland ecosystems with dried lake beds and sulfur springs (where you're likely to spot elephants). In between viewing the park's mammals, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse birdlife on show. Marabou storks, kingfishers, African fish eagles, Lanner falcons, and the endemic golden weaver are just a few of the 400 avian species that thrive in Amboseli's diverse ecosystems.
In between game drives and walks, you can also opt to visit a nearby Maasai community for a cultural exchange. Don't be surprised if Maasai warriors invite you to join in a ceremonial jumping dance!
Day 3: Transfer to Tsavo West National Park, Afternoon Game Drive
Rise and shine for another gorgeous day on the African plains. The morning kicks off with breakfast, followed by a pickup from your driver. Then, head south for two hours to Tsavo West National Park. Your destination is Kilguna Serena Safari Lodge, which sits among the rolling volcanic landscapes of the park and overlooks its own watering hole for prime wildlife viewing from the comfort of your room. After settling in, you'll have the rest of the day free to relax or explore more of Tsavo on an afternoon game drive.
One of the most evocative destinations in the country, this massive protected area (it spans 3,500 sq mi/ 9,065 sq km) is known for its almost mythical landscapes and creatures. These include ancient lava flows, natural springs, peculiar rock formations, and vast open plains where elephants tinged red with volcanic soil roam free. Bird-watchers will find rare specimens like the threatened corncrake and Basra reed warbler, as well as colorful vulturine guineafowl and iridescent Tsavo sunbirds.
Day 4: Tsavo West Safari Activities & Game Drives
It's another early start as you hop in a 4WD vehicle for a full day of safari fun, this time in Tsavo. Your day will feature both morning and afternoon game drives, where you'll explore the park's acacia woodlands and freshwater springs and spot wildlife ranging from lions and leopards to elephants, giraffes, hippos, and more. Birders should keep an eye out for the Verreaux's eagle-owl, which hunts the park's dry savannas, and the many flocks of flamingoes that frequent the riverbanks and swamps. Your driver will also take you to panoramic lookout points to admire the park scenery and large animal herds below.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Transfer to Nairobi, Depart
More Great Kenya Itineraries
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