7 Days Kenya safari parks off beaten track destinations
This 7-day Kenya safari itinerary highlights key less popular and less visited Kenya parks like Aberdare National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Samburu National Reserve, and Meru National Park best for second comers to Kenya who have already explore the popular destination like Masai Mara. Each of these destinations showcases the rich diversity of Kenya's wildlife and stunning landscapes. Aberdare features dramatic mountains, dense forests, and waterfalls, making it a haven for various bird species and mammals like elephants and bushbucks. Ol Pejeta is renowned for its commitment to wildlife protection, being home to the last two northern white rhinos and a sanctuary for chimpanzees.
Samburu National Reserve, characterized by its semi-arid environment, offers a unique opportunity to see wildlife that thrives in harsher conditions. Here, you can spot the "Samburu Special Five," which includes Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Meru National Park, less traveled by tourists, is celebrated for its pristine wilderness and diverse habitats, featuring riverine forests, open plains, and rolling hills.
This 7-day Kenya safari explores these lesser-known destinations, providing an enriching adventure filled with wildlife encounters, cultural interactions, and breathtaking views, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic experience in the heart of Kenya.
Tour highlights
Day 1: Nairobi to Aberdare National Park
Day 2: Aberdare to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Day 3-4: Ol Pejeta to Samburu National Reserve
Day 5-6: Samburu to Meru National Park
Day 7: Meru to Nairobi
Price Includes:
- All airport pick up and transfers in private car
- Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser
- Services of a professional English speaking safari guide
- Drinking water
- Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority
Price Excludes:
- International Flights
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities for safari guide and lodge staff ( please tip separately)
- Travel insurance if needed
- Visa fee ( 50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival)
- Drinks and beverages in lodges
Itinary in details
- Day1Nairobi to Aberdare National Park
Depart from Nairobi early in the morning, heading to Aberdare National Park, located about 150 kilometers north of the city. The park is part of the Aberdare Mountain Range and is characterized by dense forests and waterfalls. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk to spot birds like the African fish eagle and Jackson's francolin, or go on a game drive to see elephants, buffalo, and bushbucks. As evening falls, relax at your lodge, where you can observe wildlife at the waterhole, marking a great start to your safari.
- Day2Aberdare to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Aberdare before traveling to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located on the Laikipia Plateau. This conservancy is notable for its wildlife efforts and is home to the only two remaining northern white rhinos. Arrive in time for lunch, then visit the chimpanzee sanctuary to learn about rehabilitation efforts. In the late afternoon, take a game drive to spot diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, and giraffes. End your day with a night drive to see nocturnal animals such as bush babies and servals.
- Day3-4Ol Pejeta to Samburu National Reserve
On Day 3, head to Samburu National Reserve, about 200 kilometers away. Upon arrival, enjoy a packed lunch before your first game drive. Samburu is famous for its distinct wildlife, including the "Samburu Special Five": Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, and reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Spend the next two days exploring the reserve with morning and afternoon drives to maximize wildlife sightings. Visit a local Samburu village to learn about their traditions and lifestyle. In the evenings, relax at your lodge, sharing stories of the day's adventures under the stars.
- Day5-6Samburu to Meru National Park
On Day 5, leave Samburu and travel to Meru National Park, approximately 200 kilometers away. Known for its diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes, Meru is less frequented by tourists, allowing for a more intimate wildlife experience. After settling into your accommodation, take an afternoon game drive to explore the park's biodiversity, including elephants, lions, hyenas, and various antelope species like waterbuck and oryx. The following day, enjoy full-day game drives, where you can encounter both common and rare species, such as the African golden cat and numerous bird species. Visit the park's varied habitats, including riverine forests and open plains, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Day7Meru to Nairobi
After an early breakfast, take one last morning game drive in Meru to capture any final wildlife sightings. Look for birds like the African fish eagle and lilac-breasted roller. Depart for Nairobi, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Kenyan cuisine. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon, where your safari concludes. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories created during your time in Kenya's hidden gems, leaving with a deeper appreciation for its wildlife and natural beauty.