Overview

World Travel Awards are universally recognized benchmark of global travel excellence and cannot be ignored. In years 2020, 2022 & 2023 Diani's Baobab Beach Resort & Spa Crowned Africa's Leading Family Resort. In the years 2017-2019 Leopard Beach Resort & Spa bagged the same award dominating this category for 3 consecutive years. Pride Inn Paradise, Shanzu have won Kenya's Leading Family Resort in 2021 and 2022, with Enashipai Resort & Spa bagging 2023 Kenya award.

WTA has no award for other family based accommodations except for the obvious coastal resorts. In this article, we attempt to profile 'other' types to combine while on a family safari holiday in Kenya resulting in well curated and crafted Kenya family safari itineraries to consider.

Detailed Itinerary for Suggested Kenya Family Safari Holiday

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to a B&B hotel in Nairobi

Tamarind Tree Hotel, Nairobi

Ideally located just 5 km southwest of the City within the spacious Carnivore grounds and its iconic Carnivore Restaurant, Tamarind Tree Hotel has easy access to Nairobi, its national park, and the country’s diverse attractions via the neighboring Nairobi Wilson Airport and Southern Bypass. Family-friendly rooms and freedom to explore.

Booking into the Family Suite.

Day 2: Family Activities in Nairobi

Today the family will have the opportunity to visit The Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Trust where their baby elephant orphanage thrives. The sight of caretakers feeding and playing with them is a joy-bringer.

Later visit the AFEW Giraffe Center to have an encounter with these graceful animals, feeding them hand and hearing their laughter. A visit to the Animal Orphanage and Nairobi Safari Walk is also recommended.

Day 3 & 4: Solio Ranch, Laikipia - 3 hrs drive

Today we leave after breakfast for Solio Lodge in Solio Ranch, Laikipia. This is a classic family adventure destination with a touch of luxury. Many activities to choose from e.g. horse riding etc.

A game drive can also be fitted into the Aberdares National Park on the second day

Solio Lodge, Near the Aberdare National Park – 2 Nights

At Solio Lodge you will see an abundance of game from black and white rhino, to lions and herds of buffalo. You can enjoy a massage in your room by the fire or go horse riding with your family across the plains. 

Day 5: Olpejeta Conservancy - 1 hour drive

Olpejeta Conservancy – 2 Nights

Olpejeta is in South Laikipia and is a Northern Kenya tourism circuit highlight that offers a great offbeat wilderness holiday experience for families, special life moments like a first family visit to Kenya, or a simple out-of-hustles-and-bustles serene holiday destination.

This destination is a favorite with children and adults alike. There rhino sanctuary, the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and lots to see of the efforts of a great conservation team.

Laikipia Wilderness Camp

Laikipia Wilderness is an authentic, classic safari camp in Northern Kenya. The place offers a huge range of activities providing an adventurous experience for those who wish to do more than just look at Africa through a window. In this most beautiful corner of northern Kenya, families can experience a truly off-beat holiday in a remote, and serene location.

A family Treat

The freedom of this area means you can discover Africa in a more connected way than just witnessing it out of a moving vehicle. Explore rocky outcrops, and walk along the river that carves its way through this part of Laikipia with an experienced guide. Venture through valleys and on top of escarpments with endless views of wilderness. Stop and listen and watch for a while. The place has guides, activities, and a sense of adventure geared toward families of all ages

Day 7 & 8: Samburu National Reserve - 3 hrs drive

Samburu is a northern frontier highlight for visitors in Kenya. The emphasis on game-drive exploration begins here in this family safari. A visit to Samburu cultural village with lots of child-friendly activities at the camp.

Samburu Intrepids – 2 Nights

Samburu Intrepids is a lush oasis on the banks of the great Uaso Nyiro River in Samburu Game Reserve. The tented luxury camp is a delight to be in – deliciously cooled by the river breeze and the forest. The camp sits on raised decks overlooking the brown river where the elephants sometimes make an appearance or the crocodiles come out to lounge by the river's banks.

Day 9: Lion Hill Lodge, Lake Nakuru National Park - 5 hrs drive

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge is set along "The Lion Hill" in Lake Nakuru National Park. Concealed amidst lush vegetation, the safari lodge features a classic aesthetic and timeless design with a sense of calm and relaxation. It offers the most scenic and spectacular views of the Lake and the National Park from 67 chalet-style rooms, each with its own terrace. Beyond the stunning views and amazing wildlife, the lodge offers world-class cuisine, a panoramic bar terrace, an organic garden, a swimming pool, an outdoor spa, and several activities ideal for the family.

Depart Samburu National Reserve for Lake Nakuru National Park with a brief stop at Thompson's Falls. Lunch will be ready at Lion Hill. Relax for an afternoon game drive while children can choose to be left at play at the Kids Club. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 10 & 11: Naivasha - 1 hour drive

A stay at Elsamere. Visit Mvuke Spa, go on a sightseeing adventure at Hell's Gate National Park, and enjoy boat rides at Lake Naivasha. A picnic lunch by the shores of Lake Oloiden

Day 12, 13 & 14: Masai Mara National Reserve - 6 hrs drive

Mara Intrepids

Overlooking the Talek River, at the very confluence of Mara's four game-viewing areas, Mara Intrepids Camp enjoys one of the most spectacular locations for a family game-viewing experience in Masai Mara. A family-friendly camp allows kids to engage in their activities or join the rest on game drives.

The crest of our family adventure is here at the legendary Mara and at the Intrepids. A place with kid-friendly staff, guides, and a listening management.

3 nights here to give ample time for family to tour wild Africa, interact with residents, and just get tickled.

Day 15: Return to Nairobi or Extend to Beach

Lunch or Dinner at Carnivore with the safari ending with a drop-off at the airport

Information about a Kenya Family Beach Extension

We recommend Pride Inn Paradise, Mombasa for a suitable family beach extension for 4 nights. The additional cost will involve a flight, transfers, and accommodation in a family suite facing the garden or the sea. Other resorts are Diani's Baobab Beach Resort, Leopard Beach Resort & Spa.

Price Guide

Prices for a holiday are determined by:-

• Cost of accommodation facility desired
• Children's ages and room-sharing options
• Type of vehicle to use of safari (a safari minivan or a 4x4 jeep/cruiser)
• Travel season i.e. mid (Jan-Mar, June, Nov-Dec 15), low (April & May), or peak season (July to October)
• Festive season (Easter holidays and Dec 16 to January 3)
• Number of persons in the travel party. Some costs are shared. Single travelers pay a single supplement way close to the price of two travelers.
• Optional activities like a balloon safari or others not exclusively mentioned are not included in the travel package at the appointed destinations.
• Time of booking. Early bookings have attractive cost-saving discounts.

This 4 Day - 3 Nights Masai Mara, Nakuru Safari gives you 1 great night at beautiful and comfortable lodge or camp (within Lake Nakuru National Park), and 2 amazing nights in Masai Mara National Reserve. This is a popular and fulfilling short Kenya safari in two areas known to be some of the world's best game spotting parks. A traveller cannot ignore the 400+ different species of birds in each of these parks that find life and survival up the skies of a true wilderness.

This 4 Day - 3 Nights Masai Mara, Nakuru Safari gives you 1 great night at beautiful and comfortable lodge or camp (within Lake Nakuru National Park), and 2 amazing nights in Masai Mara National Reserve. This is a popular and fulfilling short Kenya safari in two areas known to be some of the world's best game spotting parks. A traveller cannot ignore the 400+ different species of birds in each of these parks that find life and survival up the skies of a true wilderness.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world, located in southwestern Kenya. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the Great Migration. The mighty Masai Mara remains one of Kenya's best loved game reserve. 1,510 sq. kms/ 583 sq. miles of wide savannah, rolling hills and riverine forest with huge grazing herds, bountiful birdlife and Africa's 2nd largest mammal population and species after the Democratic Republic of Congo (according to The Mammal Diversity Database of the American Society of Mammalogists (ASM)). Kenya lion population is estimated recently to be over 2,500, the 4th largest in Africa and about 6.8% of in the entire world. This simply tells how easily, quickly and frequency of spotting them

9-Day 8 Nights Fly over Kenya Safari

Overview

This safari spans 9 days, with the 8 nights allowing travelers to explore three iconic national parks with the convenience of air travel. Traversing the parks of Amboseli, Samburu and Masai Mara on the road covers slightly above 1000km (621 miles). This sky safari significantly reduces travel time allowing you to make your experience more immersive and fulfilling.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Overnight Stay in Nairobi

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, guests embarking on a safari in Kenya are greeted by the vibrant atmosphere of one of Africa's busiest airports. After clearing customs and immigration, they are met by a representative from Topcats Safaris, who assists with luggage and provides a warm welcome to the adventure ahead.Guests are then escorted to a comfortable vehicle for a short transfer to the Nairobi Serena Hotel, located approximately 30 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. This five-star hotel is nestled in lush gardens and offers a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city.Nairobi Serena Hotel combines comfort with excellent service, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to unwind before this safari adventure in Kenya. 

Day 2: Domestic Flight to Amboseli National Park

After breakfast, transfer to Wilson Airport (WIL) in time to connect Airkenya's flight to Amboseli National Park departing at 0730hrs to arrive at 0805hrs.You will be met upon arrival in Amboseli by Elewana Tortilis Tented Camp in a Lodge shared jeep, proceed with a morning game drive, thereafter check in at Elewana Tortilis Tented Camp in time for lunch. During lunch time you will be briefed on the timing of your game drives.Afternoon further game viewing in a lodge shared jeep, followed by dinner and overnight at Elewana Tortilis Tented Camp.

Day 3: Amboseli National Park

Morning and afternoon game viewing in Amboseli National Park in a lodge shared jeep. Amboseli National Park situated at the footsteps of the magnificent Africa’s highest mountain, and the World’s highest free-standing mountain, snow-capped Kilimanjaro.
It’s best known for its local elephant population. There are over 1000 elephants in the parks eco-system, featuring some of the largest in Africa. All your meals; breakfast, lunch, dinner and overnight stay at Elewana Tortilis Tented Camp.

Day 4: Domestic Flight to Samburu National Reserve

After breakfast transfer to Amboseli Airstrip in time to connect Airkenya's flight from Wilson Airport departing at 0815hrs to arrive at 0850hrs. Remain in transit at Wilson domestic airport and connect flight to Samburu Game Reserve departing at 1000hrs to arrive at 1100hrs.You will be met upon arrival in Samburu by Samburu Intrepids driver guide in a lodge shared jeep and transfer to the camp arriving in good time for lunch.Samburu Game Reserve is great country to see the special five – the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, Beisa Oryx and the long-necked Gerenuk, as well as the big cats. Afternoon further game viewing followed by dinner and overnight at Samburu Intrepids.

Day 5: More of Samburu

Enjoy full day in Samburu Game Reserve, with morning and late afternoon game drives in a lodge shared jeep with guaranteed window seats.This Game Reserve has varying vegetation; primarily dry scrub, however the Uaso Nyiro River, which flows through the reserve, nourishes the riverine forested area along the river banks that make great hiding places for lion, while the fallen palm trees are ideal perches for the elusive leopard.This reserve is also home to large herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, eland and impala. The doum palms and acacia trees are beautiful against the stark arid background.

Day 6: Domestic Flight to Masai Mara

After breakfast transfer to Samburu airstrip in time to connect flight to Masai Mara Game Reserve departing at 1015hrs to arrive at 1215hrs.You will be met upon arrival in Masai Mara by Mara Intrepids driver guide in a lodge shared jeep and drive to Mara Intrepids Tented Camp arriving in good time for lunch.Late afternoon game viewing drive in the Masai Mara Game Reserve followed by dinner and overnight at Mara Intrepids Tented Camp.

Day 7: Game Drives in Masai Mara

Full day exploring Masai Mara Game Reserve, your game viewing activities will be arranged by Mara Intrepids Tented Camp driver guide in a lodge shared jeep.Early morning and late afternoon game viewing drives are a must, although a full day game viewing is also very intriguing. The Masai Mara has the largest population of lions in Kenya, including the majestic black mane lion. The Mara River is home to hippo and some of the world’s largest crocodile. There are large herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, eland, impala and hartebeest.The cool morning hours bring out the cheetah and leopard, in search of prey. The setting sun provides spectacular photography opportunities of the rolling savannah plains. All your meals; breakfast, lunch, dinner and overnight Mara Intrepids Tented Camp.

Day 8: Exploration in the Epic Masai Mara National Reserve

The day begins early with a morning game drive after breakfast, departing at dawn to catch the wildlife at their most active. As the sun rises over the savannah, guests can witness herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing on the fresh grass, while predators like lions and cheetahs stalk their prey. The cool morning air enhances the excitement as guests capture stunning photographs of the vibrant landscape and its inhabitants.The afternoon drive resumes as temperatures cool down. This is prime time for witnessing dramatic river crossings, where massive herds attempt to navigate treacherous waters filled with crocodiles. Observing these crossings is often considered one of the highlights of a safari. Guests may spend several hours at strategic vantage points along the river, waiting for the thrilling moment when wildebeest leap into the water. This typically takes place between July and October.

Day 9: Nairobi

Return to Nairobi via flight to Wilson Airport departing Masai Mara at 1115hrs to arrive at 1300hrs. On arrival in Nairobi you will be met by our driver guide who will transfer you to Nairobi Serena Hotel where your day room awaits you for freshening up and rest strictly till 1800hrs.Your farewell dinner this day is at the famous Carnivore Restaurant, thereafter drop off at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Safari Title: 7-Day 6 Nights, Amboseli, Lake Elementaita, Mara Safari

Overview

This 7-day, 6-night 4x4 Kenya safari takes you to some of the country's most iconic wildlife destinations. Amboseli National Park is for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds. Lake Elementaita is equally a charming destination offering a unique and relaxed safari experience. Finally to Masai Mara, Africa's Leading Park (WTA Awards 2013-2019). This special trip appoints accommodation in Serena Lodges in strategic locations.

Day 1

Arrival & Overnight in Nairobi City

You are met at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and transferred to Nairobi Serena Hotel booked on a Bed & Breakfast basis. The Nairobi Serena Hotel is an upscale hotel with a spa, a restaurant, and two cafes. It also has indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel is located in the heart Nairobi City, Kenya about 18Km from the airport, a journey of less than 20 minutes on the Nairobi Expressway. Nairobi Serena is praised for its comfortable rooms and friendly, welcoming, and helpful staff.

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 Serena Safari Lodge.The charm of Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a graceful blend of stark beauty and lavish comfort in the heart of Kenya's Amboseli National Park. The lodge is nestled in an acacia grove by a gentle mountain spring and features a Maasai-inspired design, a garden restaurant, and a palm-shaded swimming pool.This lodge is lively, beautiful, clean, and charming. There you will find some cute monkeys that tumble among the people. The décor borrows heavily from the local Maasai culture, exuding warmth and African hospitality.Lunch at the lodge followed by a late afternoon private game viewing drive. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Day 3

Amboseli National Park

This day you will enjoy full day private game viewing and sightseeing in Amboseli National Park. You are at liberty to discuss with your knowledgeable driver guide about the days activities and schedule.Cheetah and lion are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. 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. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge.

Day 4

Lake Elementaita

Lake Elementaita is a unique safari destination because of its stunning scenery by the lake shores, plethora of wildlife, and the charm of traditional Kenyan culture. It is home to over 400 bird species, including the famous flamingos, and is a protected area to help conserve the birdlife. Guests enjoy an optional range of outdoor activities, including bird watching, and a visit to the natural warm spa that flows into the lake.Guests find Serena Lake Elementaita Lodge suitable for a variety of reasons. The lodge offers refined luxury tents with lake views and private verandas. Guests also enjoy the beautiful central restaurant, bar, and lounge. The lodge also has a doctor on call 24 hours and offers laundry services. Guests also rave about the attentive staff and complimentary breakfast. The lodge is located in a beautiful setting and offers a variety of activities, including bird watching and swimming.

Day 5

Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast drive to Masai Mara Game Reserve proceeding through the picturesque floor of the Great Rift Valley to arrive in time for lunch at Mara Serena Safari Lodge.Afternoon embark on a late afternoon game drive in this iconic park with one of the highest concentrations of wild game in the world. Bird lovers will be thrilled seeing and identifying among 400+ bird species in diverse habitats.Praised as the authentic home of the 'Africa Safari', Masai Mara guarantees a fulfilling adventure for wildlife enthusiasts. In the evening retire to the lodge for dinner and overnight.Mara Serena Lodge is a popular choice for a stay in the Masai Mara because it offers a luxurious experience with five-star amenities and gracious service. The lodge is designed in the style of a traditional Maasai Manyatta (hut) and offers comfortable rooms with private views of the Masai Mara. Guests also enjoy the complimentary breakfast and the buffet food at the lodge

Day 6

Masai Mara National Reserve

You are at liberty this day to discuss with your driver guide whether to take picnic lunches and spend the full day in the game reserve or return to your lodge for a hot lunch.During this 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.Cool morning hours bring out the cheetah and leopard, in search of prey. The setting sun provides spectacular photography opportunities of the rolling savannah plains. Your meals this day include breakfast, lunch and dinner at Mara Serena Safari Lodge.

Day 7

Nairobi City

After breakfast drive back to Nairobi and drop off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Options for lunch in Nairobi can be discussed and agreed upon or need for a day room.