9-Day 8 Nights Affordable Kenya Family Safari
Overview
This is a private 4x4 safari. A family safari experience in Kenya is a captivating adventure that combines wildlife exploration, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments. Travelling with family must be made special, with a well-curated itinerary, to ensure optimal satisfaction for the whole family. In this safari major considerations are the ages of the children, room-sharing options, dining options, child-oriented services and fun fitting the family’s holiday interests and budget limits.
Day 1: Arrival & Overnight in Nairobi
Upon arriving in Nairobi for a family safari, guests experience a seamless transition from the bustling Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to the welcoming atmosphere of Hotel Boulevard. The hotel is known for its tranquil setting and modern amenities, making it an ideal base for families. A optional visit to Giraffe Center and David Sheldrick Animal Orphanage is highly recommended.
Day 2: Amboseli National Park
After breakfast, depart for Amboseli National Park, best known for its unrivalled views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the local elephant population. There are over 1000 elephants in the parks eco-system, featuring some of the largest in Africa. Our driver guide will take you to Amboseli Sentrim Tented Camp.The lodge overlooks the flat-topped, umbrella thorn tree, and is situated in one of Amboseli’s areas of Acacia tree woodland. With the majestic backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, and the World’s highest free-standing mountain, snow-capped Kilimanjaro. The tents are all large and spacious, with king or twin beds and elegant en suite bathrooms. The lodge features two family houses designed specifically for families. Each house includes two bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchenette, providing ample space and comfort for family members to relax together.Lunch at the camp followed by a late afternoon private game viewing drive. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Sentrim Tented Camp.
Day 3: Exploring Amboseli National Reserve
This day the family will enjoy full day private game viewing and sightseeing in Amboseli National Park. Cheetah and lion are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. There is a dedicated playground for kids, allowing them to play and socialize in a safe environment.The marshlands are feeding grounds for the largest population of elephant in Kenya, while buffalo and hippo wallow in the shallow swamps. The backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro makes for spectacular photography at both sunrise and sunset. The peak of the mountain is usually visible in the early morning and late afternoon.The lodge also offers in-house cultural experiences that may include storytelling or crafts related to Maasai culture, providing educational opportunities for children to learn about local traditions.
Day 4: The Ark, Aberdare National Park
A family experience at The Ark in Aberdare National Park offers a unique and memorable safari adventure, especially for those traveling with children. The Ark features 60 en-suite rooms designed to resemble ship cabins, providing a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for families. There are options for triple-bed or family rooms, accommodating various family sizes.Floodlit Waterhole: The Ark overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, attracting a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and occasionally more elusive animals like leopards. Families can enjoy wildlife watching from multiple viewing decks and lounges without leaving the lodge.Bunker Hide: A unique feature of The Ark is the ground-level bunker, where families can observe animals up close through slits in the walls. This safe vantage point allows for an intimate wildlife experience, making it exciting for children to see animals just a few feet away.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru National Park
A family safari experience at Lake Nakuru National Park offers a fantastic blend of wildlife viewing, bird watching, and educational opportunities, making it ideal for families traveling with children.Activities for Families
Game Drives: Morning and afternoon game drives allow families to explore the park's diverse ecosystems. Guides engage children with fun facts about the animals they encounter.Makalia Waterfalls: Families can enjoy a short hike to the picturesque Makalia Waterfalls, which is especially beautiful after rains. This offers a chance for kids to stretch their legs while enjoying nature.Baboon Cliff and Lion Hill: Visiting these viewpoints provides stunning panoramic views of the park and opportunities for family photos against beautiful backdrops.Family Rooms: The lodge provides a range of room options, including family rooms that can comfortably accommodate parents and children. This ensures that families have enough space to relax together during their stay.
Day 6: Masai Mara National Reserve
Sentrim Mara offers family rooms that can comfortably accommodate parents and children, featuring a king-size bed and twin beds, along with a living area. This setup ensures ample space for families to relax together.Families can enjoy thrilling game drives in the Masai Mara National Reserve, where they can witness diverse wildlife, including the Big Five and the famous wildebeest migration (if visiting during the migration season). Guides are knowledgeable and can engage children with interesting facts about the animals.
Day 7: Exploring Masai Mara
The family is at liberty to discuss with the driver guide about this day's activities. That can include an optional visit to a Maasai Cultural Village or a hot air balloon safari which can be very exhilarating for children. However, a child must be at least 1.2 meters (approximately 4 feet) tall to participate in the hot air balloon rides. This height ensures that they can safely see over the edge of the basket and hold onto the safety handles during the ride.During migration period Masai Mara Game Reserve attracts millions of wildebeests and zebras that cross the crocodile infested Mara River while closely followed by pride of lions making the kill be the highlight of your visit. Masai Mara is known as the Africa's Leading Park and is guaranteed to offer a thrilling game exploration for the entire family.
Day 8: Another Day at Masai Mara
Another day here for a family safari in the Masai Mara which is filled with adventure, education, and unforgettable moments. With its rich wildlife, engaging activities tailored for children, and opportunities for cultural immersion, it provides an enriching experience that families will cherish for years to come.
Day 9: Nairobi
After breakfast, the family checks out of Sentrim Mara Camp for a drive back to Nairobi. Drop off at airport.