Kenya highlights

SAMBURU + LAIKIPIA + MAASAI MARA & GIRAFFE MANOR

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HANDCRAFTED EXPERIENTIAL SAFARIS

Trust us to find you the rarest animals, the most spectacular wildlife events, the remotest landscapes and deeply meaningful cultural encounters!

Embark on a thrilling African wildlife expedition in Kenya's most pristine wildlife areas, including Samburu and Maasai Mara National Reserves, and Solio Game Reserve (Laikipia). Encounter Giraffe Manor's herd of rare Rothschild's/Nubian giraffes up close, see endangered species like majestic black and white rhinos, find the Big Five, unwind in luxurious accommodation amidst breathtaking landscapes, find the Samburu Special Five, and engage in a range of activities ranging from hiking, to horseback riding, bush picnics, camel riding, and bush walks. For the adventurous at heart, delve into the bush for a thrilling fly-camping experience under the stars. This luxury African safari will allow you to witness the awe-inspiring circle of life unfold against the backdrop of the vast Mara plains.

A luxury African safari offering an unforgettable introduction to the stunning beauty of Kenya's diverse landscapes and endangered species

Overview

Length: 8 days / 7 nights
Group Size: Flexible – you tell us how many in your party
Location: Nairobi - Samburu National Reserve - Solio Game Reserve (Laikipia) - Maasai Mara National Reserve
Lodges Visited: Giraffe Manor, Sasaab, Solio Lodge and Sala's Camp

from US$ 11,120 per person sharing (8 days)

Highlights:

  • Encounter the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant buffalo and rhino) & Samburu Special Five (Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx) and a myriad of indigenous bird species

  • Interact with rare Rothschild's/Nubian giraffes at Giraffe Manor – a truly unique experience

  • Venture to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to mingle with orphaned elephants and visit the Karen Blixen Museum – dedicated to the renowned author of "Out of Africa"

  • Immerse yourself in Samburu culture – and experience Samburu traditions and way of life

  • Witness rhino conservation in action (black and white rhinos)

  • Fly-camping under the stars

  • A range of activities, including camel rides, guided game drives, horseback riding, trekking or trout fishing

  • Experience the unforgettable Maasai Mara in all seasons – whether during the Great Wildebeest Migration or Secret Season – both of which offer prime wildlife viewing

Prices and dates

Lodges visited: Giraffe Manor, Sasaab, Solio Lodge, Sala's Camp

2025 Rates

Savings season: 06 Jan-31 May, Nov-15 Dec

Per person sharing

US$ 11,120

THE season: 01-05 Jan, Jun-Oct, 16-31 Dec

Per person sharing

US$ 14,485

Includes:

  • All airport meet and greets

  • All scheduled internal flights

  • All transport between destinations and to/from activities including 4×4 safari vehicle

  • Full board accommodation

  • Meals and drinks

  • Activities including game drives, sundowners and bush picnics. Horse riding and mountain biking at Solio Lodge, camel riding and walking at Sasaab

  • Day room at The Retreat at Giraffe manor, including all amenities, meals and refreshments

  • Park and conservation fees

  • 24/7 Office support


Excludes:

  • International flights, unless otherwise stated.

  • Airport departure tax, if applicable.

  • Excess weight charges for luggage.

  • Visa or entry permits.

  • Telephone calls.

  • Travel, cancellation, and medical insurance (recommended for safaris).

  • Optional safari extensions and unspecified activities.

  • Personal expenses and any charges not specified in the itinerary.

  • Tips and gratuities.

  • Specific exclusions such as meals, drinks, activities, and laundry. (give details)

Nairobi

The capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, is the main arrival hub for most tourists. Nairobi also offers many unique tourism experiences, from a national park within the city limits to wildlife rehabilitation centres, museums, markets, shops and restaurants. It is the ideal starting point for an African safari.

You'll stay at Giraffe Manor, an exclusive boutique hotel set on 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in a peaceful suburb of Nairobi. This elegant hotel is famous for its resident herd of Rothschild's/Nubian giraffes, who visit the hotel each morning and evening. Read more about Giraffe Manor here.


Samburu National Reserve

Samburu, in Kenya’s remote and arid far north, features the iconic and rarely seen ‘Samburu Five’ – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich. These unique and rare animals are relatively common in Samburu, making your safari here extremely rewarding. You can also expect to see elephants, cheetahs, lions, leopards, buffalos, hippos, and various antelope species. Samburu was the home of Joy and George Adamson, who famously raised and released into the wild several lions, made famous by the movie ‘Born Free’, featuring Elsa the Lioness.

You will stay at Sasaab, overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River in the heart of Samburu National Reserve. This spectacular lodge blends wildlife, adventure, relaxation and culture for the ultimate safari experience in northern Kenya. Immerse yourself in Samburu culture at this luxurious tented camp, and enjoy breathtaking views across the arid landscape towards the jagged peaks of Mount Kenya. Read more about Sasaab here.


Solio Game Reserve

One of Africa’s finest wildlife reserves, Solio Game Reserve, also called Solio Ranch, is a privately owned wildlife conservancy. It rests in the southern fringes of Laikipia. Best known as Kenya's oldest rhino sanctuary, it is renowned for its major role in the breeding and protection of black rhinos in Kenya.

Nestled in the valley between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, almost on the equator, Solio Lodge offers boundless opportunities for wildlife sightings, encapsulating the essence of Kenya's safari experience. Read more about Solio Lodge here.


Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara in the southeast corner of Kenya is the country’s premier tourism showpiece. It forms part of the vast unfenced Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, including neighbouring private conservancies in Kenya and the larger Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Species to look out for include the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), many antelope species, zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and good populations of cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs, as well as smaller species such as serval and bat-eared fox.

You will stay at Sala's Camp, nestled along the Sand River in Maasai Mara National Reserve. With panoramic vistas extending toward Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, Sala’s Camp is a tented camp that combines tradition with comfort and is a model of understated, intimate luxury. Read more about Sala's Camp here.

Itinerary

Our team will be on standby to extend a warm welcome as you arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Your private transfer to Giraffe Manor marks the commencement of an unforgettable safari journey.

Your luxury Kenya safari commences on arrival at Giraffe Manor where you'll be greeted by the resident Rothschild’s Giraffes that roam freely in the grounds surrounding this timeless manor. Interacting with these majestic creatures as they gracefully wander and enjoy feeding from guests is a truly unique encounter. Following lunch, explore the Giraffe Centre within the estate's premises or venture to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to mingle with endearing orphaned elephants. The Karen Blixen Museum offers insight into the life of the renowned author of "Out of Africa". En route, indulge in shopping for locally crafted gifts from talented designers and artisans.

Overnight at Giraffe Manor

*Please note that the giraffes at Giraffe Manor are wild - interaction cannot be guaranteed at all times.

Following a delightful breakfast with the giraffes of Giraffe Manor, you'll enjoy a scenic transfer to Wilson Airport. After an 80-minute flight, your epic journey commences in Samburu National Reserve and Sasaab, just in time for a sumptuous lunch.

Nestled within the undulating landscapes of Samburu, Sasaab offers a distinct experience. Encounter the Samburu Special Five – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx – amidst the rugged terrain of northern Kenya. At our luxurious tented camp, immerse yourself in Samburu culture, gaining insight into Samburu traditions and way of life. Venture into the wilderness for outdoor fly camping, embark on camel rides through the rugged terrain, or simply unwind at the lavish spa, embracing the tranquility of the surroundings.

Overnight at Sasaab

A scenic 20-minute private charter flight from the Sasaab airstrip seamlessly whisks you away to Solio Lodge in Laikipia.

Nestled in northern Kenya, Solio Lodge boasts a renowned population of both black and white rhinos, harmoniously coexisting with majestic big cats, wildebeest, and a myriad of indigenous bird species. The reserve offers boundless opportunities for wildlife sightings, encapsulating the essence of Kenya's safari experience. Engage in a plethora of activities, including horseback riding, trekking, or trout fishing in the Aberdare National Park. Gaze upon breathtaking views of Mount Kenya from the lodge or opt for a scenic helicopter ride.

Overnight at Solio Lodge

A scheduled flight from Nanyuki Airstrip whisks you away to Sala’s Camp, your Maasai Mara National Reserve sanctuary. Enjoy a thrilling game drive en route to your lodge, setting the stage for your unforgettable holiday.

Delve into the heart of the Maasai Mara, Africa's most renowned safari destination, from the comfort of Sala’s Camp. Immerse yourself in an authentic safari experience guided by seasoned experts, ensuring an unparalleled adventure. Nestled along the Sand River with panoramic vistas extending toward Tanzania's Serengeti, Sala’s Camp offers a haven of tranquility. Rise early for exhilarating morning game drives and indulge in bush lunches as you venture deeper into the wilderness to uncover the park's hidden gems. Return to camp to unwind with leisurely walks and volleyball matches, or simply bask in the serene ambience from the comfort of a hammock. Conclude your perfect day with sunset drives accompanied by refreshing sundowners. While the wildebeest migration from July to October marks an ideal time to visit, the dry season offers prime conditions for wildlife viewing with sparse vegetation, ensuring unforgettable encounters.

Overnight at Sala's Camp

As your Kenyan adventure draws to a close, savour a hearty breakfast at Sala’s Camp before embarking on your flight back to Nairobi's Wilson Airport. Our team will eagerly await your arrival to drive you to The Retreat at Giraffe Manor, where a day of tranquility awaits. Nestled within the serene embrace of nature yet conveniently located near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, The Retreat offers the perfect sanctuary to conclude your safari odyssey or to recharge before your onward travels. Indulge in blissful relaxation within your luxurious day room suite, complete with all-inclusive amenities such as delectable homegrown cuisine, refreshing beverages, access to spa and fitness facilities, and a captivating infinity pool overlooking the enchanting giraffe sanctuary. Rest assured, our team will ensure seamless airport transfers tailored to your international flight departure schedule, ensuring a relaxing journey home

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Kenya highlights

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