7 Days - Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara
This itinerary includes Samburu National Reserve (2N), a semi-arid region home to the Special 5, including rare northern species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe; followed by a transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (1N), a leading conservation area that hosts the last two northern white rhinos and offers both Big Five and chimpanzee sightings; then a transfer to Lake Nakuru (1N), famous for its pink-hued flamingos and as a sanctuary for black and white rhinos; then a transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve (2N), Kenya’s premier safari destination, renowned for the Big Five, big cat sightings and the Great Migration (July-October), before transferring back to Nairobi.
Short Itinerary
Day 1 (May 01, 2026) - Nairobi to Samburu. Evening game drives in Samburu
Day 2 (May 02, 2026) - Full day game drives in Samburu
Day 3 (May 03, 2026) - Transfer to Ol Pejeta for afternoon game drives
Day 4 (May 04, 2026) - Transfer to Lake Nakuru for afternoon game drives
Day 5 (May 05, 2026) - Transfer to Masai Mara for afternoon game drives
Day 6 (May 06, 2026) - Full day game drives in Masai Mara
Day 7 (May 07, 2026) - Transfer from Masai Mara (No game drives) to Nairobi
Notes
- Morning game drives in Masai Mara can be added on the last morning at the park by paying additional park fees.
- If the accommodation chosen is at Samburu, game drives will be done in Samburu and if accommodation chosen is at Buffalo Springs or Shaba National Reserve, game drives will be done at Buffalo Springs+Shaba National Reserve.
Choose Date
Safari tour prices vary depending on the starting date, your group size, and the choice of stay.
Ensuite Accommodation Packages
Below are packages with a few popular ensuite options for your tour, starting on May 01, 2026, in a group of two adults
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Ensuite hotels are tented camps/lodges that can be inside/around national parks.
You will have a private room with attached bathroom. Meals are provided by hotels.
Click to know more about safari accommodations (ensuite camps/lodges)
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- Stay at Samburu Simba Lodge, Buffalo Springs from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sweet Waters Serena Camp - Standard Wing Tent, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Eagle Palace Hotel - Superior, Lake Nakuru (Outside the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Simba + Oryx Nature Camp, Masai Mara (Outside the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [Full Board]
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Safari with Safari Van
- Adult:
($2,201)$1,814 per person (18% discount)
- Adult:
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Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($2,428)$2,021 per person (17% discount)
- Adult:
- Stay at Samburu Simba Lodge, Buffalo Springs from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sweet Waters Serena Camp - Standard Wing Tent, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Ziwa Bush Lodge - Executive Room, Lake Nakuru (Outside the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at PrideInn Mara Camp & Cottages - Savannah Tents, Masai Mara (Bordering the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [Full Board]
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Safari with Safari Van
- Adult:
($2,309)$1,885 per person (18% discount)
- Adult:
-
Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($2,536)$2,092 per person (18% discount)
- Adult:
- Stay at Ashnil Samburu Camp, Buffalo Springs from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sweet Waters Serena Camp - Waterhole View Tent, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Olive Bush Camp, Masai Mara (Within the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [Full Board]
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Safari with Safari Van
- Adult:
($2,863)$2,260 per person (21% discount)
- Adult:
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Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($3,090)$2,467 per person (20% discount)
- Adult:
- Stay at Elephant Bedroom Camp - Luxury Tents, Samburu from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sweet Waters Serena Camp - Morani Wing Tent, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Mbweha Safari Camp, Lake Nakuru (Outside the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Neptune Mara Rianta Luxury Camp - Luxury Tent, Masai Mara (Outside the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [All Inclusive]
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Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($4,673)$3,506 per person (25% discount)
- Adult:
- Stay at Sasaab Samburu, Samburu from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sanctuary Tambarare, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at The Cliff, Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [All Inclusive]
- Stay at Elewana Sand River Mara - Safari Tent, Masai Mara (Within the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [Full Board]
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Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($8,059)$5,879 per person (27% discount)
- Adult:
- Stay at Sasaab Samburu, Samburu from May 01, 2026 to May 03, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at Sanctuary Tambarare, Ol Pejeta (Within the Park) from May 03, 2026 to May 04, 2026 [Full Board]
- Stay at The Cliff, Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) from May 04, 2026 to May 05, 2026 [All Inclusive]
- Stay at Naibor Camps - Main Naibor, Masai Mara (Within the Park) from May 05, 2026 to May 07, 2026 [Full Board]
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Safari with Land Cruiser
- Adult:
($8,447)$6,173 per person (27% discount)
- Adult:
A detailed list of inclusions is shared below. We have many more accommodations and addon tours to offer. Please share with us your requirements by clicking on the "Request Quote" button below, and our reservations team will get in touch with you.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Nairobi to Samburu
Your tour starts with pick up at 7:00 AM from your Nairobi hotel or Airport and drive to Samburu. This drive will take about 6 to 7 hours with diverse views ranging from the raw country side, the central highlands of Kenya, the equator line and views of Mt Kenya. Arrive in Samburu by lunch time and check into your lodge/camp, have a hot lunch and then depart for an afternoon game drive. After the game drive, we head back to lodge/camp to reach by around 5:30 or 6:00 PM, freshen up and enjoy a freshly prepared Dinner. Overnight at your lodge.
Note: Samburu eco system consists of 3 national reserves. Samburu National reserve, Buffalo springs National reserve, Shaba National reserve. Entry fees is common for Buffalo springs and Shaba but it is different for Samburu. If your accommodation is in Samburu, your game drives are included in Samburu. If you are accommodation is in Buffalo springs or Shaba, your game drives are included in Buffalo springs + Shaba. In case, your accommodation is in Buffalo springs or Shaba and if you wish to enter Samburu reserve, park fees of USD 80 per adult and USD 45 per child applies.
Day 2 - Samburu
We depart at 6:30 AM after breakfast on an early morning game drive (This is the best time to see the animals and a good chance to witness a hunt/kill). Later around 10:30 AM, return to accommodation for a break and relax for a bit and after lunch, depart on an afternoon game drivea round 3:00 PM till around 6:00 PM. Return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3 – Samburu to Ol Pejeta
Wake up early in the morning and proceed for game drives around 6:15 AM. Continue with game drives till around 9:00 AM and then head back to camp for breakfast. After breakfast, check out from camp and proceed to Ol Pejeta which is about 2 to 2.5 hours drive passing through scenic landscapes of central Kenya. Arrive at Ol Pejeta Conservancy shortly before noon and check into your lodge or camp, have hot lunch and then depart for an afternoon game drive. Ol Pejeta is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. You can focus on spotting elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes while enjoying the varied landscapes. After the game drive, we head back to lodge/camp, freshen up and enjoy a freshly prepared Dinner. Overnight at your lodge.
Day 4 – Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru
Wake up early in the morning and proceed for game drives around 6:15 AM. Continue with game drives till around 9:00 AM and then head back to camp for breakfast. After breakfast, check out from camp and depart to Lake Nakuru National Park with packed lunch which is about 3.5 hours drive from Ol Pejeta. Upon reaching Nakuru lodge check in, have dinner and relax for the day.
Day 5 - Nakuru to Masai Mara
Start your day early with morning game drives by 6.30 am followed by breakfast, check out and transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve. This drive usually takes around 5-6 hours. Upon reaching Masai Mara check in, have dinner and relax for the day.
Day 6 - Masai Mara
Today's itinerary is flexible and you can discuss with your guide on the previous evening and plan for today's schedule. You can either have a relaxed breakfast and depart for full day game drives around 9:00 AM with packed lunch and return back to lodge late afternoon around 6:00 PM. Or you can depart at 6:00 AM on an early morning game drive (This is the best time to see the animals and a good chance to witness hunt/kill).
Later return to accommodation for breakfast and relax for a bit and depart on an afternoon game drive with packed lunch. you will stop at a picnic spot for having packed lunch and later depart on a game drive till the park is closed. Around 6:00 PM return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7 - Masai Mara to Nairobi
After a relaxed breakfast head back to Nairobi. On reaching Nairobi in the evening, you will be dropped of at the airport or your hotel.
Note 1. Effective from 1st November 2023, our 2024 prices have been updated to reflect the revised park fees for Masai Mara (USD 100 from Jan to Jun and USD 200 from July to Dec).
Note 2. Morning game drives in Masai Mara can be added on the last morning at the park by paying additional park fees.
Maps
Weather Information
In May, Ol Pejeta, Kenya experiences the tail end of the long rainy season. Historical averages indicate that this month is characterized by mild temperatures and considerable rainfall.
Typical daytime temperatures range from about 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). May is known for its frequent rainy days, with an average rainfall of approximately 100 to 200 mm (4 to 8 inches) throughout the month. The lush greenery and vibrant wildlife during this period make it a beautiful time to visit, albeit with the likelihood of wet weather.
In May, the Masai Mara region of Kenya typically experiences its long rainy season. Historical averages indicate that temperatures in May usually range from about 10°C (50°F) at night to around 24°C (75°F) during the day. Rainfall can be substantial, with May often receiving around 150-250 mm (5.9-9.8 inches) of rainfall throughout the month.
The weather is generally characterized by overcast skies and frequent afternoon showers. While it can be wet, the landscape is lush and vibrant, making it a beautiful time for photography and observing wildlife, though some areas may become muddy and challenging for travel. This time of year also marks the beginning of calving season for many animals, attracting predators and enhancing wildlife viewing opportunities.
In May, the Shaba Game Reserve in Kenya typically experiences mild to warm temperatures with an increase in rainfall as it falls within the long rainy season. Historical averages show daytime highs around 25-30°C (77-86°F) and nighttime lows around 15-20°C (59-68°F). May can receive significant rainfall, often with humidity levels rising, making it one of the wetter months of the year. This lush environment can enhance wildlife sightings, although the wet conditions may also affect accessibility in some areas. Overall, expect warm temperatures and a good chance of rain.
In May, Lake Nakuru, Kenya, typically experiences mild and wet weather. Historical averages indicate that temperatures usually range from around 10°C (50°F) at night to about 20°C (68°F) during the day. May is part of the long rainy season in this region, so you can expect significant rainfall, with average monthly precipitation often exceeding 100 mm (about 4 inches). The landscape becomes lush and vibrant during this time, making it a beautiful period to visit. However, be prepared for possible overcast conditions and rain showers throughout the month.
In May, Buffalo Springs, Kenya typically experiences mild to warm weather. Historical averages indicate that daytime temperatures generally range from about 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F).
May is also part of the long rainy season in Kenya, so Buffalo Springs often sees increased rainfall during this month. It's common to expect periodic showers, contributing to higher humidity levels. The area remains lush and green due to the rainfall, making it a vibrant time for the local flora and fauna. Overall, May can be characterized by a mix of warm days and cooler nights with significant rainfall.
In Samburu, Kenya, May typically falls within the wet season. Historically, you can expect moderate to heavy rainfall during this month, with average precipitation around 100-150 mm (4-6 inches). This period often features cooler temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 26-30°C (79-86°F) and nighttime lows dropping to about 14-18°C (57-64°F). The humidity levels are generally higher due to the rains, contributing to a lush and green landscape. Overall, May is a time of renewal in the region, as the vegetation thrives and wildlife is often more visible.
Pre & Post Tour Hotels
Nairobi is the base for safari tours in Kenya. If you need accommodation in Nairobi before/after your safari tour, you can check some popular hotel prices on bed and breakfast basis below (Prices are per person).
Single room:
- 67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room - USD 78 per person
- ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands - USD 109 per person
- The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room - USD 152 per person
- Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room - USD 178 per person
- Fairmont the Norfolk - Fairmont Room - USD 244 per person
Double sharing room:
- 67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room - USD 50 per person
- ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands - USD 65 per person
- The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room - USD 88 per person
- Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room - USD 100 per person
- Fairmont the Norfolk - Fairmont Room - USD 139 per person
Triple sharing room:
- 67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room - USD 39 per person
- ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands - USD 51 per person
- The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room - USD 72 per person
- Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room - USD 82 per person
- Fairmont the Norfolk - Deluxe Room - USD 119 per person
All of the above prices are on per person per night on bed and breakfast basis. More hotel options can be shared upon request.
Transfers
This tour starts from Nairobi. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is the nearest international airport and Wilson Airport (WIL) is the nearest domestic airport.
Airport Pickup/Drop
Pickup or drop off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on the day of safari: No extra charge
Pickup or drop off at Wilson Airport on the day of safari: No extra charge
Airport to Hotel transfers
Transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Nairobi hotel or vice versa: USD 30 per vehicle
Transfer from Wilson Airport to Nairobi hotel or vice versa: USD 30 per vehicle
Transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Wilson Airport or vice versa: USD 30 per vehicle
Meals
Day 1 (May 01, 2026) - Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 (May 02, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 (May 03, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 (May 04, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 (May 05, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 (May 06, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 (May 07, 2026) - Breakfast & Lunch
Transfer Times
Day 1 (May 01, 2026) - Nairobi to Samburu takes about 6 to 7 hours (315 km)
Day 2 (May 02, 2026) - No transfers
Day 3 (May 03, 2026) - Samburu to Ol Pejeta takes about 2 to 2.5 hours (129 km)
Day 4 (May 04, 2026) - Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours (158 km)
Day 5 (May 05, 2026) - Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara takes about 5 to 5.5 hours (250 km)
Day 6 (May 06, 2026) - No transfers
Day 7 (May 07, 2026) - Masai Mara to Nairobi takes about 5.5 to 6 hours (284 km)
Note: These are estimated drive times. Because of the traffic, location of the accommodations, and several other factors, actual drive times may vary. Driving distances are approximate and do not account for exact places.
Inclusions
Meals as per itinerary.
Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day).
All Taxes and VAT.
4x4 Land Cruiser or Safari Van.
A professional English speaking driver/ guide.
Park Fees (for Non-Residents).
Daily game drives while on Safari.
Exclusions
Government imposed increase of Taxes and or Park Fees.
International flights.
Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Airport Transfers (Unless mentioned otherwise).
Personal Items (Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, Visa Fees, etc.).
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour (Unless mentioned otherwise).
Tips (Tipping guidelines).
Payment Policy
Deposit Payment
- Deposit is 50% of the total booking amount.
- Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges). This is non-refundable.
- We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfers.
- Once you make the deposit payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
- Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment or with cash
- Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior)
- Card payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior)
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges). This is non-refundable.
- Cash can be paid on arrival (US Dollars printed in or after the year 2009)
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy
- 120 days before departure date: 5% of the tour amount is charged as cancellation fees
- Within 119 to 90 days before departure date: 10% of the tour amount is charged as cancellation fees
- Within 89 to 60 days before departure date: 20% of the tour amount is charged as cancellation fees
- Within 59 to 31 days before departure date: 30% of the tour amount is charged as cancellation fees
- Within 30 to 0 days before departure date: 50% of the tour amount is charged as cancellation fees
Note 1: In all refund cases, card processing fees (5%) or wire transfer ($25) fees will be deducted.
Partial Cancellation Policy
- If the group size reduces, the above cancellation policy applies to the canceling clients.
- In addition, the price per person for remaining clients might change as applicable based on the new group size.
Note 2: Our cancellation policy may differ for some packages based on the accommodations included, particularly for E3, E4, and E5 packages, to match the respective accommodation providers’ policies.
Addons
Add-on tours in Samburu
Samburu Village Visit (1 hour): USD 25 per person
Add-on tours in Ol Pejeta
Lion Tracking (2 hours): USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Meet the Northern White Rhinos: USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Guided Bush Walk (2 hours): USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Guided Bird Walk (2 hours): USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Dog Tracking: USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Night Game Drives (2 hours): USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Northern White Rhinos Visit/Riding with Rhinos: USD 70 per person for adult/USD 70 per child
Add-on tours in Lake Nakuru
Boat Ride (upto 3 hours): USD 150 per adult/USD 80 per child
Add-on tours in Masai Mara
Hot Air Balloon Ride (1 hour): Starting from USD 460 per person for adult/USD 330 per child
Masai Village Visit (1 hour): USD 25 per person
Sundowner: USD 35-100 per person depending on hotel
Please note that children's rates are applicable to specific age groups. For details on child policies for each activity, please contact us directly.
7 Days - Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara
This itinerary includes Samburu National Reserve (2N), a semi-arid region home to the Special 5, including rare northern species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe; followed by a transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (1N), a leading conservation area that hosts the last two northern white rhinos and offers both Big Five and chimpanzee sightings; then a transfer to Lake Nakuru (1N), famous for its pink-hued flamingos and as a sanctuary for black and white rhinos; then a transfer to Maasai Mara National Reserve (2N), Kenya’s premier safari destination, renowned for the Big Five, big cat sightings and the Great Migration (July-October), before transferring back to Nairobi.
We use equipment of international standards & our guides are trained in First aid & personal protection equipment
We reward our staff based on your feedback & that results in all of us working towards making your trip memorable
Our guides are trained to pay attention to each clients requirements & situation & customize the program accordingly
Once a tour is booked, its guaranteed to go, even if there is only single client for the entire trip
Book by paying advance by card on our website. Balance can be paid upon arrival, before the tour
Our minimum requirement for operation is only one client. So we can offer the tour any day of the year for you
Our Reviews
"Phenomenal"
"Yes, that was the word on loop this trip.Letaloi planned perfect safari drives for the 3 days.He is informative & trained with a natural instinct to track;he came across genuinely warm, patient......"
Dr. Simon & Swapna
Read Full ReviewTrip of a lifetime
"My wife and I came for our honeymoon and monkey could not have been better or more responsive. They arranged great places, even on short notice in the high season. It was such an exceptional......"
Alexander P
Read Full ReviewMagical Experience!
"Monkey Adventures were very professional from start to finish. I was recommended the perfect itinerary and luxury accommodation for the length i was staying in Kenya. The communication from the......"
Abraham L
Read Full ReviewAbsolutely fantastic!
"The process of booking the Safari was easy and communication was great. We did a lot of travelling from Nairobi to Masai and Lake Nakuru, but always felt very safe and very interesting seeing......"
Sandra H
Read Full ReviewWonderful safari!
"We had an amazing 6 days safari to Masai Mara, lake Nakuru, lake Navasha and Amboseli in late October, and it was our best travel experience ever. We booked through Mojhi.com and the process was......"
Sue Chen
Read Full ReviewSafari of a Lifetime
"If you want the trip of a lifetime, you have to book with Monkey Adventures with Dennis as your guide! You get to spend 5 days with the guide and let me tell you by the end of the trip we felt we......"
Yehia E
Read Full ReviewAn Amazing Experience
"We had a great great and another great experience in our safari in Masai Mara, Naivasha Lake and Nakuru Lake. This experience wouldn't have been this great without Dennis our guide. I would highly......"
Kamal Elsoueni
Read Full ReviewA flawless, 5-star experience
"The office team of Monkey Adventures were flexible, very responsive, and had good knowledge of the various parks. They took time to understand what we were really after and tailored the trip......"












