KENYA SAFARI

9 Days Kenya Exploration Bird watching Safari

9 Days Kenya Exploration Bird watching Safari

Duration  :9 days 8 nights
itinerary  : Nairobi, Samburu, Aberdare, Lake  Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara, Nairobi

Nairobi • Samburu • Aberdare • Rift Valley Lakes • Maasai Mara

Package Introduction

Embark on a 9-day birding journey through Kenya’s most diverse habitats, from dry northern savannahs to lush highlands and Rift Valley lakes. This safari is designed for avid birders seeking both endemic species and migratory highlights, combined with iconic wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Explore the semi-arid plains of Samburu National Reserve, the misty forests of Aberdare National Park, the bird-rich alkaline lakes of Lake Nakuru National Park, the freshwater habitats of Lake Naivasha, and the iconic grasslands of Maasai Mara National Reserve.

With expert local birding guides, private 4×4 transport, and carefully selected lodges, this safari combines productive birding with comfort and scenic beauty.

Birding Highlights

  • Northern Rift Valley specials in Samburu (e.g., Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx-associated species)
  • Forest endemics in Aberdare (e.g., Hartlaub’s Turaco, White-starred Robin)
  • Flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants at Lake Nakuru
  • Papyrus specialists and African Fish Eagle at Lake Naivasha
  • Grassland and riverine species in Maasai Mara (e.g., Secretary Bird, Rufous-naped Lark, raptors)
  • Over 350 species possible depending on season

Safari Birding Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Nairobi & Nairobi National Park

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle game drive at Nairobi National Park, which offers a unique birding experience within the city’s skyline.

Look for Secretary Birds patrolling the open plains, Kori Bustards, and a variety of raptors. Wetland areas may host herons, egrets, and waterfowl. Evening at leisure with a briefing on upcoming birding highlights.

Travel north to Samburu National Reserve. The semi-arid landscape hosts species unique to northern Kenya.

Enjoy an afternoon birding game drive along the Ewaso Nyiro River. Watch for northern Rift Valley specialties including Somali Ostrich, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, Gabar Goshawk, and Red-throated Wryneck. Large herds of elephants, giraffes, and oryx add scenic diversity. Overnight at a bird-friendly lodge or luxury camp.

Spend the full day exploring Samburu’s diverse habitats. Early morning drives focus on raptor activity, while riverine and woodland zones reveal barbets, sunbirds, and endemic passerines.

Highlights include Beisa Oryx-associated species, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, and rare northern woodland birds. Afternoon sessions allow for photography and relaxed observation by the Ewaso Nyiro River.

After breakfast, descend south to the misty Aberdare National Park. The cooler montane forests host highland forest bird species rarely seen elsewhere.

Take a guided forest walk targeting Hartlaub’s Turaco, White-starred Robin, Mountain Buzzard, African Emerald Cuckoo, and montane sunbirds. Forest streams and waterfalls attract Malachite Kingfishers and various barbets. Overnight at a forest lodge or luxury camp.

Drive toward Lake Nakuru National Park. Spend the afternoon birding the lakeshore and surrounding acacia woodlands.

Lake Nakuru is famous for its flamingos, but other highlights include Great White Pelican, Grey Crowned Crane, African Fish Eagle, African Jacana, and raptors over the lake. Woodland edges reveal woodpeckers, barbets, and sunbirds. Optional evening drive for wildlife photography.

Drive south toward Maasai Mara National Reserve. Arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon birding game drive.

Open grasslands host Secretary Birds, Rufous-naped Larks, Long-tailed Widowbirds, and diverse raptors. Riverine forests along the Mara River attract kingfishers, bee-eaters, storks, and herons. Overnight in a luxury camp or lodge.

Spend the entire day exploring Mara habitats. Early morning drives maximize sightings of grassland and raptor species, while afternoon sessions focus on riverine and woodland birds.

Big mammals complement your birding experience — lions, elephants, buffalo, and hippos provide a full African safari ambiance. Optional balloon safari for aerial perspectives and bird photography.

After a final morning birding drive, return to Nairobi. Depending on timing, brief stops along the Rift Valley escarpment may provide additional species.

Transfer to your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for departure.

Let's plan your safari

Mid-luxury hotels

Price on request

Luxury hotels

Price on request

Premium hotels

Price on request

 

Total cost inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • 8 nights accommodation in lodges & luxury camps
  • Full board during safari
  • Private 4×4 vehicle with birding guide
  • Boat ride on Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island entry
  • Park and reserve entrance fees
  • Bottled drinking water during drives
  • Government taxes and levies

Package Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities

Important Notes

  • Best birding months: October–April (Palearctic migrants present)
  • Early morning departures recommended for maximum sightings
  • Binoculars and spotting scopes highly recommended
  • Wildlife and bird sightings are seasonal and vary with habitat
  • Optional extensions: Kakamega Forest or Lake Baringo for additional endemic species

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Malindi & Watamu Coastal Escape Package (5 days 4 nights)  Airport, Malindi Watamu hotels,  Airport

Lamu Island Cultural & Beach Escape Package (5 Days 4 nights)  Airport, Lamu Hotel, Airport

Zanzibar Island Escape Package (7 days 6 nights) Airport, Zanzibar Hotel, Airport

 
 

 

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