7-Day Kenya Safari: Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha & Maasai Mara
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Light to moderate — you’ll spend most days in vehicles with short walks and optional bike rides; be able to walk 1–2 miles on uneven ground.
Overview
A seven-day loop from Nairobi through Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha and the Maasai Mara that mixes intimate northern species with classic Big Five viewing. Expect long drives, early starts, and varied terrain from semi-arid plains to Rift Valley gorges.
7-Day Kenya Safari: Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Naivasha & Maasai Mara
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The Land Cruiser crunches over a crusted track as dawn breaks over Samburu — dust lifts, acacias sharpen into silhouettes, and a reticulated giraffe step-cuts across the plain as if rehearsing for the day. The air smells of dry grass and diesel; the guide points to a cluster of Grevy's zebras, their narrow stripes like brushstrokes. Here, in northern Kenya’s semi-arid pocket, species you won’t see on the savannahs further south appear with casual insistence: gerenuk browsing high on thornbushes, oryx standing like small, armored ships on the horizon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start at dawn
Book early-morning game drives — wildlife is most active in the first two hours after sunrise and again late afternoon.
Hydrate & carry water
Long drives and dusty air make bringing at least 2–3 liters per person per day essential between lodge refills.
Sun and dust protection
Use high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and a buff or bandana to block dust during open-vehicle drives.
Sturdy shoes for Hell’s Gate
Closed-toe shoes are required for the 7 km bike section and the short walk into the gorge—expect rocky, uneven ground.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Grevy's zebra
- Reticulated giraffe
History
The route crosses Maasai grazing lands and former colonial ranches in Laikipia; many modern conservancies grew from negotiated land-use between communities and lodge operators.
Conservation
Ol Pejeta is a stronghold for rhino protection and community revenue-sharing; visitors support anti-poaching and habitat programs through park fees and lodge partnerships.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars (8x–10x)
Essential for picking out distant species in Samburu and the Mara.
Light technical daypack
Carries water, sunscreen, camera, and layers for short walks and bike sections.
Dust-proof sunglasses and Buff
Protects eyes and face on open-road transfers and vehicle drives.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Needed for Hell’s Gate cycling, short hikes and lodge grounds.