20 Days Kenya Safari & Diani

Your 20 Days Kenya Safari & Diani holiday begins when you arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. After completing immigration procedures and collecting your luggage, meet our representative in the arrivals area. You will then transfer privately to your Nairobi hotel.

The first day is intentionally relaxed because many international flights arrive after long overnight journeys. After check-in, you can rest, enjoy the hotel facilities and prepare for the safari. If your flight arrives early, optional Nairobi activities can be arranged according to your interests and available time.

Your safari representative may also provide a briefing covering the route, wildlife destinations, expected driving times, accommodation arrangements and the transition from safari to Diani Beach later in the holiday. This is also a good opportunity to discuss practical questions concerning luggage, photography equipment, local currency and safari clothing.

Destination: Nairobi

Activities: Airport pickup, hotel transfer and safari briefing

Accommodation: Nairobi hotel

Meal Plan: Depending on arrival arrangements

Samburu Safari

After breakfast, meet your professional safari driver-guide and begin traveling north toward Samburu National Reserve. The journey provides an interesting introduction to Kenya's geographical diversity. Leaving Nairobi, you travel through the central highlands before gradually descending toward the warmer and drier northern regions. The landscape changes noticeably, and green agricultural country eventually gives way to acacia scrub, rocky hills and semi-arid plains.

Arrive at Samburu and check into your lodge or tented camp. After lunch and a short rest, depart for your first game drive. Samburu is crossed by the Ewaso Nyiro River, which acts as an important wildlife lifeline. During dry periods, many animals concentrate around the river and associated woodland. Possible sightings include: Elephant, Reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Gerenuk, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Impala, Dik-dik, Waterbuck, Baboon.

Return to your lodge or camp in the evening.

Destination: Samburu National Reserve

Activities: Transfer and afternoon game drive

Accommodation: Safari lodge or tented camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Wake early and head into Samburu for a morning wildlife drive. The cooler morning hours can be particularly productive. Elephants may be moving toward the river, while predators may still be active after nighttime hunting. One of the main reasons for including Samburu is the opportunity to encounter species associated with northern Kenya.

Grevy's Zebra

Grevy's zebra is larger than the more common plains zebra and has narrower stripes and distinctive rounded ears.

Reticulated Giraffe

Reticulated giraffes have striking geometric coat patterns and are among the most photogenic animals of northern Kenya.

Gerenuk

The long-necked gerenuk is adapted to dry environments and may stand upright on its hind legs to browse vegetation.

Beisa Oryx

The Beisa oryx is another distinctive northern species characterized by long, straight horns.

Somali Ostrich

This large bird is another species strongly associated with the region.

Together these animals give Samburu an identity quite different from southern Kenya's wildlife reserves. Return to the lodge during the hotter middle part of the day for lunch and relaxation.

In the afternoon, head back into the reserve. The game drive may focus on the Ewaso Nyiro River where elephants and other animals gather to drink, and your guide may also search riverine woodland for leopards. Return to camp before nightfall.

Destination: Samburu National Reserve

Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Spend another complete day exploring Samburu. The extra day provides time to follow wildlife rather than simply completing a quick circuit of the reserve. If elephants were particularly active around the river yesterday, your guide may explore another area this morning in search of cats. Samburu supports: Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Spotted hyenas, Jackals.

Leopards are particularly sought after. These secretive cats sometimes use trees and dense vegetation near the river. Birdwatching can also be excellent, as northern Kenya supports many species adapted to dry conditions while the river attracts additional water-associated birds.

After your morning drive, return for breakfast or lunch depending on the schedule. The afternoon provides another extended wildlife drive. This slower pace is one of the advantages of a twenty-day itinerary.

Destination: Samburu National Reserve

Activities: Full-day wildlife safari

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Ol Pejeta and Rhino Conservation

After breakfast, leave Samburu and travel south toward Ol Pejeta Conservancy. As you approach the Laikipia region, the environment becomes greener and cooler. Ol Pejeta is one of Kenya's most important wildlife conservation areas and provides an excellent complement to the national parks.

After arrival, check into your lodge or camp and have lunch. Later, head out for a game drive. Rhinos are among the principal attractions, and both black and white rhinos occur within the conservancy. Other wildlife may include: Elephants, Lions, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras, Warthogs, Hyenas, Elands, Impalas.

Ol Pejeta also provides opportunities to learn about practical wildlife conservation. Certain specialist activities may be available by advance arrangement and may carry additional charges. Return to your accommodation for dinner.

Destination: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Activities: Transfer and afternoon game drive

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Begin with an early wildlife drive in Ol Pejeta. Morning provides another opportunity to search for rhinos and other animals before continuing toward the Great Rift Valley. After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park. The drive takes you into one of Kenya's most distinctive geographical regions.

Upon arrival, enter the national park and begin wildlife viewing. Lake Nakuru is relatively compact compared with the Masai Mara or Samburu, but it supports impressive wildlife diversity. The park is particularly important for rhinos. Possible wildlife includes: White rhino, Black rhino, Rothschild's giraffe, Buffalo, Waterbuck, Zebra, Baboon, Warthog, Lion, Leopard.

The lake and surrounding wetlands also support diverse birds. Flamingo numbers fluctuate according to ecological conditions, but numerous waterbirds can often be seen. Arrive at your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park

Activities: Morning Ol Pejeta safari, transfer and Lake Nakuru game drive

Accommodation: Safari lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha

Wake early for a game drive through Lake Nakuru National Park. Your guide may search open grassland for white rhinos before exploring woodland and lakeshore habitats. The park's Rothschild's giraffes are another important attraction, and buffaloes can sometimes be seen in large groups. Predators are present, although sightings require patience.

After the game drive and breakfast, leave Lake Nakuru and travel toward Lake Naivasha. Arrive at your lakeside accommodation and enjoy lunch. The afternoon can include an optional or prearranged boat safari on Lake Naivasha. Boat trips provide opportunities to see: Hippos, African fish eagles, Pelicans, Cormorants, Kingfishers, Herons, Egrets.

Lake Naivasha provides a welcome change of pace because the main wildlife experience takes place on water rather than from a safari vehicle. Return to the lodge and enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting.

Destination: Lake Naivasha

Activities: Lake Nakuru game drive, transfer and optional boat safari

Accommodation: Lakeside lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner depending on package

Amboseli Safari

After breakfast, depart Lake Naivasha and drive south toward Amboseli National Park. Amboseli is one of Kenya's most famous wildlife destinations. Its international reputation is closely linked to two extraordinary features: large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro itself stands in neighboring Tanzania, but the mountain dominates the skyline from parts of Amboseli when conditions are clear.

Arrive at your lodge or camp, have lunch and relax. In the afternoon, depart for a game drive. Elephants are likely to become an immediate focus, and Amboseli's wetlands provide permanent water and attract impressive wildlife concentrations. Possible animals include: Elephants, Buffaloes, Wildebeest, Zebras, Giraffes, Hippos, Lions, Cheetahs, Hyenas, Gazelles, Warthogs.

Return to your accommodation in the evening.

Destination: Amboseli National Park

Activities: Transfer and afternoon game drive

Accommodation: Safari lodge or tented camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Wake before or around sunrise. Early morning offers one of the best chances of seeing Mount Kilimanjaro clearly, although views are never guaranteed. Clouds frequently build around the mountain later in the day, so photographers should have their cameras ready during the first game drive.

Amboseli is one of Africa's great elephant destinations. Large family groups may move across the plains or feed in the park's wetlands. You may observe:

• Mothers with calves.
• Bulls.
• Elephant families crossing open plains.
• Elephants bathing.
• Elephants feeding in marshes.
• Social interaction between herd members.

The park's wetlands also support buffaloes, hippos and abundant birds. Depending on your preferred schedule, return to the lodge for lunch or remain in the park with a packed meal. The afternoon game drive may focus on predators. Lions and cheetahs are present, although sightings are never guaranteed. Return for dinner.

Destination: Amboseli National Park

Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Spend another full day exploring Amboseli. Including a second complete day significantly improves the chances of favorable Kilimanjaro views, though clear skies can never be promised. Wildlife conditions also change daily, so your guide may explore different sections of the park according to elephant movements and recent predator sightings.

Birdwatchers can enjoy the productive wetlands. Possible birds include: Pelicans, Herons, Egrets, Storks, Cranes, Raptors, Kingfishers.

One of the pleasures of a longer safari is being able to spend meaningful time observing wildlife. Instead of leaving an elephant herd after a few photographs, you may remain nearby and watch social behavior unfold. Return to your accommodation after the afternoon drive.

Destination: Amboseli National Park

Activities: Full-day wildlife safari

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Masai Mara Safari

Enjoy a final morning drive in Amboseli before breakfast. If Kilimanjaro is clear, this provides another opportunity for photographs. After breakfast, leave the park and travel to Nairobi.

This overnight acts as a practical break between Amboseli and the Masai Mara. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing. You can also use the stop for laundry, shopping or repacking before the next stage.

Destination: Nairobi

Activities: Final Amboseli game drive and transfer

Accommodation: Nairobi hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast and other meals depending on arrangement

After breakfast, begin the journey toward the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve. Alternatively, travelers who prefer to reduce driving time can request a domestic flight. The Masai Mara is the northern continuation of Tanzania's Serengeti ecosystem and supports one of Africa's most impressive concentrations of large mammals.

Upon arrival, begin wildlife viewing. Even the first afternoon can produce extraordinary encounters. Possible animals include: Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Elephant, Buffalo, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebra, Topi, Impala, Thomson's gazelle, Spotted hyena, Jackal.

Continue to your lodge or tented camp for dinner.

Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve

Activities: Transfer and game drive

Accommodation: Safari lodge or tented camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Wake early and begin your first complete day in the Masai Mara. Morning is an excellent period for searching for predators. Lions that hunted during the night may still be feeding, cheetahs may be scanning the plains for prey, hyenas can be active around carcasses or returning toward den areas, and leopards may be moving between hunting areas and daytime resting locations. Your guide will decide where to concentrate according to current wildlife information.

The Masai Mara supports large numbers of herbivores throughout the year. These include: Wildebeest, Zebras, Topis, Gazelles, Impalas, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Elephants.

The abundance of prey supports the reserve's famous predator population. A packed lunch can be carried so you can remain in the reserve throughout the day, which makes it possible to explore areas farther from your accommodation. Return to camp in the evening.

Destination: Masai Mara

Activities: Full-day game drive

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, picnic lunch and dinner

Today provides another full day to explore the Masai Mara. The additional day is extremely valuable because wildlife experiences cannot be scheduled. A pride of lions that spent yesterday sleeping may be active today, a leopard may appear along a river, a cheetah may begin hunting, and elephants may move into an area that was empty the previous afternoon. Your guide may therefore adjust the day's route according to wildlife movement.

Great Wildebeest Migration

During portions of the migration season, large numbers of wildebeest and zebras may enter the Masai Mara from the Serengeti. The spectacle can transform the landscape, with huge herds covering open plains while predators take advantage of the abundance of prey. If the herds are near one of the major rivers, you may spend time observing their movements. River crossings are dramatic but completely unpredictable, and no operator can guarantee a crossing.

Optional Hot-Air Balloon Safari

An optional hot-air balloon flight can be arranged for this morning, subject to weather and availability. Ballooning provides spectacular aerial views of the Mara at sunrise. The activity carries an additional cost and should generally be booked in advance.

Destination: Masai Mara

Activities: Full-day wildlife viewing; optional balloon safari

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Your third complete Mara day allows you to concentrate on wildlife not yet seen or revisit particularly interesting animals. Predator enthusiasts may choose to focus on cats.

Lions

The Masai Mara supports numerous lion prides. Possible behavior includes:

• Cubs playing.
• Females hunting.
• Males patrolling.
• Pride interaction.
• Feeding.
• Drinking.
• Territorial behavior.

Cheetahs

The open grasslands provide excellent cheetah habitat. Cheetahs may use termite mounds and other elevated areas to scan for prey.

Leopards

Leopards often inhabit riverine woodland. Sightings can be more difficult because of their secretive behavior, making an experienced guide especially valuable.

Hyenas

Spotted hyenas are frequently underestimated by first-time safari visitors. They have complex social systems and are highly effective hunters. Watching interactions between hyenas and lions can be particularly fascinating.

The day may also include an optional cultural visit to a Maasai community if requested. Return to camp for your final evening in the Mara.

Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve

Activities: Full-day game viewing; optional cultural experience

Accommodation: Same lodge or camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

From Safari to the Indian Ocean

Today marks one of the most dramatic transitions of the entire holiday. After breakfast, leave the Masai Mara. Depending on the confirmed package, you may fly from the Mara toward the Kenya coast or connect through Nairobi before continuing to Diani Beach. Flying is particularly attractive because it avoids spending a full day on long road transfers. As you leave the savannah behind, the scenery changes toward the tropical Indian Ocean coast.

Upon arrival, transfer to your selected Diani Beach resort or hotel, check in and settle into your room. After more than two weeks of wildlife travel, the first afternoon at the coast can simply be dedicated to relaxation. You can:

• Walk along the beach.
• Swim.
• Enjoy the hotel pool.
• Order a drink.
• Watch the Indian Ocean.

There is no need for a scheduled activity unless you want one.

Destination: Diani Beach

Activities: Transfer or flight from safari to coast; beach relaxation

Accommodation: Beach resort or hotel

Meal Plan: According to selected beach package

Diani Beach Holiday

Wake without an early safari alarm. Enjoy breakfast overlooking tropical gardens, swimming pools or the Indian Ocean depending on your selected resort. Today is completely flexible, and you can spend the entire day relaxing or add optional activities.

Beach Relaxation

Diani is famous for its long stretch of white sand. The warm tropical setting makes it ideal for:

• Swimming.
• Sunbathing.
• Beach walks.
• Reading.
• Relaxing beside the pool.
• Spa treatments.

Optional Water Activities

Depending on sea and weather conditions, activities may include:

• Snorkeling.
• Diving.
• Kayaking.
• Stand-up paddleboarding.
• Boat excursions.
• Kite surfing.
• Other water sports.

Some activities are seasonal or depend on local sea conditions. Return to your resort for dinner.

Destination: Diani Beach

Activities: Beach relaxation and optional marine activities

Accommodation: Same beach resort

Meal Plan: According to selected package

Spend another full day at the coast. Travelers interested in marine environments may arrange a boat excursion. Depending on the specific excursion selected, the day can involve snorkeling, island visits, sailing or marine wildlife observation. Marine wildlife sightings vary according to season and conditions and should never be guaranteed.

Guests preferring a quieter holiday can simply remain at the resort. This is one of the benefits of the beach portion: there is no requirement to participate in activities. After an intensive safari, doing very little can be exactly what makes the day enjoyable. You may spend the afternoon at the pool before walking along the beach around sunset.

Destination: Diani Beach

Activities: Free day; optional marine excursion

Accommodation: Same beach resort

Meal Plan: According to selected package

Your final complete day is intentionally left open. Possible choices include:

• Relaxing on the beach.
• Swimming.
• Spa treatments.
• Diving.
• Snorkeling.
• Water sports.
• Shopping.
• Local excursions.
• Romantic private dining.
• Photography.
• Simply enjoying the resort.

Couples and honeymooners may choose to arrange a special dinner, while families may spend the day enjoying the beach and resort facilities. After almost three weeks of travel, this final unscheduled day provides time to absorb the entire experience.

One of the pleasures of a safari-and-beach holiday is the contrast between the two halves. Only a few days earlier, your attention may have been completely focused on the movement of a lion or leopard. Now the biggest decision may simply be whether to swim in the ocean or remain beside the pool. Enjoy your final night at Diani.

Destination: Diani Beach

Activities: Leisure and optional activities

Accommodation: Same beach resort

Meal Plan: According to selected package

Enjoy breakfast at the resort and perhaps one final walk along Diani Beach. Check out according to your flight schedule and transfer to the appropriate airport for your domestic flight to Nairobi, depending on the confirmed arrangement. Upon arrival in Nairobi, connect with your international departure from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Sufficient connection time should always be allowed between domestic and international flights. If your international flight leaves late at night, additional Nairobi arrangements can be made where required. Your 20 Days Kenya Safari & Diani holiday concludes after an extraordinary combination of wildlife, wilderness, conservation, savannah landscapes and Indian Ocean relaxation.

Safari Destinations on the 20 Days Kenya Safari & Diani

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu introduces travelers to northern Kenya. Its dry landscapes and unusual wildlife provide a dramatic contrast with later destinations. The reserve is especially important for travelers hoping to see species such as: Grevy's zebra, Reticulated giraffe, Gerenuk, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich.

Elephants are another major attraction. The Ewaso Nyiro River provides a vital source of water and often creates excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta provides an important conservation component, and rhinos are the major highlight. The conservancy allows travelers to understand that modern safari tourism is closely connected to wildlife protection, habitat management and anti-poaching work. General game viewing is also excellent.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru is an important Rift Valley destination. Rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes and birds are among the major attractions. The lake creates a very different landscape from Samburu or Amboseli.

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha provides an opportunity to leave the safari vehicle and explore by boat. Hippos and birds are principal attractions. The relaxed lakeside environment also provides a useful break between longer wildlife-driving days.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is famous for elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the itinerary's strongest destinations for landscape photography. The combination of wetlands, dry plains, wildlife and Africa's highest mountain creates an extraordinary safari setting.

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara is the wildlife climax of the safari. The reserve is internationally famous for: Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Elephants, Buffaloes, Wildebeest, Zebras, Giraffes, Hyenas.

During portions of the migration season, large migratory herds may enter the ecosystem. However, resident wildlife makes the Mara rewarding well beyond the migration months.

Diani Beach – Kenya's Safari and Beach Finale

After extensive game viewing, Diani Beach provides the perfect change of pace. Located on Kenya's south coast, Diani is famous for its long sandy shoreline, tropical climate and Indian Ocean setting. Accommodation ranges from comfortable beach hotels to luxurious resorts and boutique properties. The destination works particularly well after safari because domestic flight connections can reduce travel time.

What Can You Do at Diani Beach?

Swimming

Diani's tropical setting makes swimming one of the simplest pleasures of the beach stay. Guests should always pay attention to local sea conditions and hotel guidance.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling excursions may provide opportunities to explore marine habitats. Conditions and visibility vary according to weather and season.

Scuba Diving

Certified divers can explore selected dive sites through established operators. Beginners may also find introductory options depending on operator requirements.

Kite Surfing

Diani is known for wind-based water sports during suitable seasonal conditions.

Boat Trips

Different boat excursions may be available. Options vary according to season, operator and weather.

Spa Treatments

Many beach resorts provide massage and wellness treatments. These can be particularly welcome after multiple days in safari vehicles.

Beach Walks

Sometimes the best activity is the simplest. Walking along the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Diani.

How Many Safari Days and Beach Days Are Included?

This sample twenty-day itinerary dedicates approximately fifteen days to the inland journey before transitioning to Diani around Day 16. The exact balance is customizable. For example, travelers can request:

More Safari

A wildlife enthusiast might prefer:

• 17 safari days.
• 2 beach nights.
• Departure on Day 20.

Balanced Safari and Beach

A common structure is:

• Approximately 14–15 days inland.
• Approximately 4–5 nights at the coast.

More Beach

Travelers prioritizing relaxation may reduce the safari and spend:

• 11–12 days on safari.
• 7–8 nights at Diani.

The final itinerary should reflect your travel style rather than following a rigid formula.