6 days Kenya: Samburu and more

The drive from Nairobi to Ol’ Pejeta Conservancy takes 5 hours, departing around 7:30 AM, with a memorable crossing of the equator along the way and views of Mount Kenya in the distance. You typically arrive in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive where you may spot your first rhino.

The Ol' Pejeta Conservancy is a protected area set up for endangered species. For rhino lovers, this is a pure heaven on earth with a population of more than 100 black rhinos, almost 40 southern white rhinos AND the last two remaining northern white rhinos worldwide. These white rhinos can even be visited up close! Besides rhinos, the conservancy hosts endangered species like the African wild dog, the oryx, Jackson's hartebeest and Grévy’s zebra, and houses a sanctuary for abused or orphaned chimpanzees.

The road north from Ol' Pejeta's green Laikipia highlands takes 4 hours, crossing the equator and descending into increasingly arid, sun-baked terrain that signals the beginning of Kenya's northern frontier. Samburu's rugged, semi-desert landscape (home to rare species found nowhere else in Kenya) feels like a different country entirely by the time you arrive at Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu National Reserve is a great place the first half of your safari adventure, with a dry semidesert and savannah landscape that allows for far sights and lots of animals. It is home to the Northern Five also called the Samburu Special Five - five rare animals that can only be spotted together in Samburu. The central Ewaso Nyiro River makes for a great spot to see all these animals, while just outside the park you can meet the fascinating Samburu tribe, and observe their special way of living.

Buffalo Springs National Reserve, just south of Samburu in northern Kenya and features varied landscapes from volcanic plains to riverine forests. The reserve is home to elephants, lions, Grevy’s zebras, giraffes, and over 390 bird species, with the Ewaso Nyiro River providing the best wildlife viewing, especially from June to October. Visitors can also spot hippos and crocodiles near the water. With three natural springs at its heart, this reserve flows with the spirit of classic safari exploration!

Located in central Kenya, Aberdare National Park is a natural paradise brimming with diverse wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and the awe-inspiring mountains of the Aberdare mountain range. Home to elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rare species like the bongo antelope, this park offers thrilling game drives. What's more, its dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity make Aberdare a wonderful place to get out of a car and embark on adventurous hikes.

This is your last day! Unfortunately, it's time to drive back to Nairobi to catch your flight home from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Sad to leave...? Then don't worry! We can easily add a few days of safari to your holiday or a few days on one of Kenya's stunning beaches along the coast!