Experience Masai Mara - Kenya

Day 1 Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi and make your way to the hotel. Attend a pre-departure group meeting with your tour leader scheduled for the evening.

Day 2 Naru Moru
Depart Nairobi at 0800hrs and drive north through the farmlands of the Kikuyu people, eventually reaching Naro Moru in time for lunch. This village sits at the foot of Mount Kenya, Africa's second highest mountain (5199m). It is interesting to note that the Kikuyu people deified Mount Kenya and actually built all of their houses with doors facing the majestic peak. Enjoy optional activities during your free afternoon such as fishing, swimming, or learning the history of the nearby Mau Mau caves. (B L D)

Day 3-4 Samburu Game Reserve
After breakfast on Day 3, continue north to Samburu Game Reserve, arriving at the campsite in time for lunch. Samburu lies 325km north of Nairobi and harbours a number of wildlife species rarely found elsewhere. Enjoy afternoon game viewing in search of northern species of game not seen south of the equator, such as the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich. Another creature unique to these areas is the long-necked gerenuk (meaning 'giraffe neck'), a graceful antelope that stands upright on its hind legs to feed on tall bushes. Spend day 4 game viewing in the park. (2B 2L 2D)

Day 5 Lake Nakuru
Depart after an early breakfast and drive past the northern tip of the Aberdare Mountains, then descend into the Great Rift Valley where Lake Nakuru is located. Arrive at Nakuru town (Kenya's fourth largest town) in time for lunch. Lake Nakuru is a shallow soda lake, renowned for its huge concentration of flamingos. Spend the afternoon game viewing in the park. (B L D)

Day 6-7 Masai Mara
After breakfast on Day 6, depart for the world famous Masai Mara Game Reserve. With its vast open plains and distinctive flat-topped acacia trees, no visit to Kenya would be complete without a visit here. With fantastic game viewing en route, arrive at Masai Mara in the late afternoon. Settle back to view game on day 7, as there is an excellent chance you may see some, or all, of the "Big 5" - lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino. (2B 2L 2D)

Day 8 Nairobi
Before breakfast, enjoy one last morning game drive. Return to the lodge for breakfast and then depart for the journey back to Nairobi. Arrive in Nairobi by approximately 1700 hrs. Prepare to be dropped off at the hotel for your final night. Please note: This night is unaccompanied. (B L)

Day 9 Nairobi
Tour ends at approximately 0800hrs.

Please note: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. On Day 1 of your tour you will be advised of any amendments. (B)

Highlights
- This safari offers fantastic insight into the diverse nature and landscape of Kenya. With visits to the forested highlands, the semi-arid north, the Great Rift Valley and the savannah grasslands, this trip is an excellent all-encompassing introduction to East Africa. Virtually unlimited wildlife experiences and encounters with indigenous tribes make this a trip to remember.
- Tour leader, driver, local guides.
- Accommodation: Simple hotel (2 nts), participation camping (7 nts)
- Transport: Overland vehicle (4WD vehicle will be used during the rainy season Nov-Mar)
- 8 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 6 dinners (D)

Tour by http://www.hirolasafaris.com