13-Day Safari And Beach Holiday in Kenya
13-Day Safari And Beach Holiday in Kenya
Tour Overview
Your adventure begins in Amboseli, where you’ll go on safari and see elephants, zebras, and giraffes with the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. Then you’ll head to the world-famous Masai Mara, one of the best places in Africa to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, and huge herds of wildebeest and other animals. Along the way, you’ll also visit the beautiful Lake Naivasha. Here, you can take a peaceful boat ride to see hippos and birds or go biking or hiking through the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, surrounded by cliffs and wildlife.
After your safari adventures, it’s time to slow down and enjoy the beach. You’ll travel by scenic train to Kenya’s coast and spend the last days of your trip at Diani Beach—known for its soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and warm, clear sea. All the places you stay have been carefully chosen for their great locations, comfort, and personal charm. One special accommodation option is the Karen Blixen Camp in the Masai Mara, where you can relax in style, enjoy delicious meals, and take a swim in the pool while watching animals in the wild. This trip is the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and tropical relaxation.
Trip Highlights
- Safari in Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro views
- Elephants, lions, and wildlife in Masai Mara
- Great Migration spectacle in Masai Mara
- Boat safari on Lake Naivasha
- Mountain biking in Hell’s Gate National Park
- Scenic train journey from Nairobi to Mombasa
- Relaxing on the white sands of Diani Beach
- Snorkeling at Kisiti Marine Park and Wasini Island
- Visiting Nairobi’s Kazuri Beads Factory
- Feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Center
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Karibu Kenya!
Welcome to Kenya! As soon as you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a friendly driver will be there to greet you. From the airport, you’ll take a short 30-minute drive to your hotel in Nairobi, where you can relax after your journey. Get ready to begin your unforgettable adventure—Karibu sana Kenya! (You are very welcome in Kenya!)
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Hotel Rudi (Breakfast)
Semi-luxury: Karen Blixen Cottages (Breakfast)
Luxury: Nairobi Serena (Breakfast)
Exclusive: Ololo Safari Lodge (Breakfast)
Day 2: View of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
Your adventure truly begins today! After breakfast, you’ll leave Nairobi and drive toward the beautiful Amboseli National Park. Along the way, you can stop at a colorful Maasai market or a local supermarket for snacks and souvenirs. Once you arrive and check in at your lodge, it’s time for your first exciting safari in the park.
Amboseli National Park
Located in southeastern Kenya near the border with Tanzania, Amboseli is one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations. It sits at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for wildlife viewing. The landscape here is a mix of open savanna, acacia trees, and lush wetlands. The park is especially known for its large herds of elephants—about 600 in total—some with enormous tusks.
Afternoon Jeep Safari
In the late afternoon, you’ll head out into the park in a 4×4 safari vehicle. This is a great time to see animals, as the heat of the day begins to fade and wildlife becomes more active. You may spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many types of birds, all with the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro in the background. If the skies clear, you might even get that perfect photo of elephants walking across the plains beneath the mountain. After your safari, return to your lodge to relax and enjoy the sunset with a refreshing drink in hand.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Sentrim Amboseli Lodge (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Kibo Safari Camp (Full Board)
Luxury: Satao Elerai Amboseli (Full board)
Exclusive: Tortilis Camp Amboseli (Full Board)
Day 3: Elephants, giraffes and various bird species during the safari
Today is all about exploring the rich wildlife and landscapes of Amboseli. You’ll head out on two exciting safaris—one in the early morning and another in the afternoon. Between drives, you’ll return to your lodge for a delicious lunch and some time to relax.
Full-Day Jeep Safari in Amboseli
Your day begins with a morning game drive, the perfect time to see animals waking up and starting their day. With the soft morning light and cooler temperatures, predators like lions or hyenas may still be active. You’ll have a great chance of spotting elephants wandering across the plains, giraffes browsing on acacia trees, and countless bird species soaring overhead.
Later in the day, after some rest at your accommodation, you’ll set off again for an afternoon safari. This is when the clouds often clear, revealing the breathtaking sight of Mount Kilimanjaro behind the golden savanna. Don’t miss the swamps, where elephants love to cool off and where other animals come to drink. It’s a picture-perfect day filled with wildlife, wide-open landscapes, and unforgettable views of Africa’s tallest mountain.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Sentrim Amboseli Lodge (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Kibo Safari Camp (Full Board)
Luxury: Satao Elerai Amboseli (Full board)
Exclusive: Tortilis Camp Amboseli (Full Board)
Day 4: Drive to Lake Naivasha National Park
After breakfast, you will leave the wide-open plains of Amboseli behind and begin your scenic journey to Lake Naivasha. As you drive through the changing landscapes, you’ll descend into the dramatic Great Rift Valley, with its towering cliffs and sweeping views. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at your lodge on the shores of the lake, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful evening with dinner.
Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by rich wildlife and lush greenery. It sits at 1,884 meters above sea level, making it the highest lake in Kenya. In the early days of flight, it even served as Kenya’s main airport during colonial times, with flying boats landing on its calm waters. Right next to the lake is Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its striking scenery, deep gorges, towering rock formations, and dramatic cliffs. This area was shaped by two extinct volcanoes, which formed the park’s famous gorge and lava towers. Lake Naivasha is also home to hippos, many bird species, and playful monkeys, making it a perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and relaxation.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Elsamere Conservation Center & Lodge (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Naivasha Sopa Lodge (Full Board)
Luxury: Enashipai Resort & Spa (Full Board)
Exclusive: Chui Lodge (Full board with drinks)
Day 5: Activities around Lake Naivasha
Today is all about enjoying the natural beauty and exciting activities around Lake Naivasha. You have the whole day to explore the area at your own pace, with optional adventures that bring you closer to Kenya’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Lake Naivasha Boat Safari
In the afternoon, take a peaceful boat ride across the calm waters of Lake Naivasha. As you glide along, you’ll see hippos bobbing in the water, flocks of birds flying overhead, and possibly even animals like giraffes or antelope stopping by the shore for a drink. It’s a relaxing way to experience the lake’s rich wildlife and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Optional Mountain Biking in Hell’s Gate
For those who want a more active experience, head to nearby Hell’s Gate National Park for a mountain biking adventure. Ride through dramatic landscapes filled with deep gorges, towering cliffs, and open plains. You may see zebras, giraffes, and antelope grazing nearby as you cycle through this wild and beautiful park. Riding a bike through such a unique setting is a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore the Kenyan wilderness.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Elsamere Conservation Center & Lodge (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Naivasha Sopa Lodge (Full Board)
Luxury: Enashipai Resort & Spa (Full Board)
Exclusive: Chui Lodge (Full board with drinks)
Day 6: On to the Masai Mara Nature Reserve
In the morning, you’ll pack your bags and set off for one of Africa’s most famous and wildlife-rich parks—the Masai Mara Nature Reserve. This incredible place is known around the world for its amazing animals and stunning landscapes.
Masai Mara Nature Reserve
The Masai Mara is a vast and breathtaking wilderness, split by the legendary Mara River. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras make an epic migration across this river, creating one of nature’s most spectacular events. The reserve lies in a wide valley formed by the Great Rift Valley and is surrounded by hills and mountains that add to its dramatic beauty. It shares a border with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, together forming one of the largest and richest ecosystems in Africa, where the famous Great Migration passes through.
Afternoon Jeep Safari in Masai Mara
This afternoon, you’ll begin your first safari in the Masai Mara as the sun starts to set. On this exciting drive, you’ll spot a wonderful variety of wildlife—prides of lions resting or hunting, playful hyenas, elegant giraffes, quick-footed impalas, and perhaps even rare rhinos. Along the Mara River, watch for elephants, baboons, buffalo, and elusive leopards hiding in the forest. You might even see massive Nile crocodiles lurking in the river, sometimes clashing with hippos. After a thrilling afternoon, you’ll return to your camp or lodge, tired but happy, and ready to relive the day by looking through the amazing photos you’ve taken.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Malaika Camp (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Karen Blixen Camp (Full Board)
Luxury: Elephant Pepper Camp (Full Board)
Exclusive: Naboisho Camp (Full board with drinks)
Day 7: Safari spectacle in the Masai Mara
Today is all about experiencing the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Masai Mara. You’ll work with your guide to plan the perfect day, whether you prefer a full-day safari with a packed lunch to maximize your time in the wild, or a more relaxed start with a leisurely brunch at your accommodation. Exploring the reserve at different times of the day gives you the best chance to see a wide variety of animals and behaviors—from early morning predators on the hunt to herds grazing in the golden afternoon light.
If you’ve chosen the luxury or exclusive option, your safaris will be led by expert guides with a private vehicle from your camp. Sometimes you may share the vehicle with a few other guests, creating a friendly and social safari experience without losing the personal touch. It’s a day full of wildlife wonders and unforgettable moments.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Malaika Camp (Full Board)
Semi-luxury: Karen Blixen Camp (Full Board)
Luxury: Elephant Pepper Camp (Full Board)
Exclusive: Naboisho Camp (Full board with drinks)
Day 8: Travel to Nairobi
Today you’ll leave the stunning Masai Mara and head back to Nairobi. On the way, you’ll travel through the beautiful Masai land, with the chance to stop at local markets if you’d like to pick up some unique souvenirs or gifts.
Nairobi
Kenya’s capital city has much more to offer than just being a safari gateway. Nairobi is full of vibrant culture and interesting places to explore. You can visit fascinating museums, browse colorful Masai markets, or stop by the Kazuri Beads Factory. These small, hand-painted ceramic beads are true works of art, with hours of careful work behind each one. Your visit helps support many local mothers who make these beads. If you’re still eager to see animals after your safaris, the Giraffe Center is a must-visit. Founded by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Kenya, the center offers a chance to learn about giraffes up close and even feed these gentle giants. It’s a wonderful way to end your day in Nairobi with a special wildlife experience.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Hotel Rudi (Half Board)
Semi-luxury: Karen Blixen Cottages (Half Board)
Luxury: Nairobi Serena (Half Board)
Exclusive: Ololo Safari Lodge (Half Board)
Day 9: Train journey across Kenya to the coast
To complete your Kenyan adventure, you’ll travel the final leg by train! This historic railway, built in 1901 during the colonial era, now runs on a modernized network managed by the Chinese. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way to the coast. Upon arrival in Mombasa, a Greenway Nature Tours representative will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation. The next few days are all about relaxing and soaking up the tropical beauty of Diani Beach.
Diani Beach
Located south of Mombasa, Diani Beach stretches for 20 kilometers with soft, powdery white sand that has drawn travelers since the early days of Kenyan tourism. Despite its popularity, Diani retains a laid-back vibe. While the nearby town of Ukunda has grown with its airport and urban development, the roads closer to the ocean offer a peaceful setting with a mix of shops, restaurants, shopping malls, and even a golf course. The real star is the beach itself, fringed with swaying palm trees and backed by lush tropical forests. These forests are home to several monkey species, including the striking black-and-white colobus monkeys. Thanks to local conservation efforts, bridges have been built over roads so these elegant primates can safely travel through the treetops. It’s a beautiful place to unwind and connect with nature after your exciting safari journey.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Eleven Pearl Boutique Hotel & Spa (Breakfast)
Semi-luxury: Asha Boutique Hotel (Breakfast)
Luxury: Waterlovers (Breakfast)
Exclusive: The Sands at Nomad (Breakfast)
Day 10 to 12: Tropical afterglow at the Indian Ocean
These days are all about enjoying the beauty and calm of Diani Beach. Whether you want to lounge on the soft white sand, swim in the clear blue waters, or explore the surrounding area, there’s something for everyone. Your accommodation can help you book a variety of exciting excursions to make the most of your time here.
Optional Diani Beach Excursions
There are many wonderful activities to choose from around Diani Beach. You can take a ride on a traditional dhow sailboat, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs at Wasini Island and Kisiti Marine Park, and keep an eye out for playful dolphins along the way. A fresh seafood lunch on Wasini Island adds a delicious touch to the adventure. For a taste of history and culture, take a guided walk through the charming streets of Mombasa’s old town, and enjoy a meal at the famous Tamarind restaurant, known for its authentic Swahili flavors. If you prefer, simply relax at your accommodation, soaking up the sun and reflecting on your incredible safari experiences in the Masai Mara.
Accommodation Options:
Middle class: Eleven Pearl Boutique Hotel & Spa (Breakfast)
Semi-luxury: Asha Boutique Hotel (Breakfast)
Luxury: Waterlovers (Breakfast)
Exclusive: The Sands at Nomad (Breakfast)
Day 13: Return flight from Mombasa
Depending on your flight schedule, you will have some free time to enjoy the peaceful beauty of Diani Beach one last time. In the afternoon, you’ll be comfortably transferred to Mombasa Airport, where you’ll catch your flight home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your amazing Kenyan adventure. Safe travels!
What Is Included
- Overnight stays and associated meals (see itinerary)
- Almost all excursions unless labeled as optional
- All entrance fees to the national parks
- Suitable vehicle
- Transfers as stated
- Train journey Nairobi – Mombasa 1st class
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver
What Is Excluded
- Intercontinental flights
- Other meals, drinks
- Visa costs
- Optional excursions
- Tips
- Travel insurance
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