3-Day Wildlife Excursion and Adventure at Northern Kenya

Witness the pride of Kenya

Witness majestic views in Africa

Spot majestic elephant herds crossing river

View the towering playful giraffes

Spot unique artefacts in Africa

Show all 7 photos

Highlights

Marvel at game drives, nature walks and bird watching

Partake in a visit to cultural village at Sarova Shaba

Experience the Samburu Dance Dinner

Visit and explore the Desert Museum

Learn about the Discovery of Human Fossils at Koobi Fora National Reserve

Drive along the scenic and expansive Chalbi Desert

Samburu, Nairobi

nature, cultural, sightseeing

Group Tour

3 Days

Easy

English

Description

Embark upon a 3-day adventure through Northern Kenya, discovering the region’s rugged beauty and unique wildlife. Begin with a scenic drive along the Great North Highway to Samburu National Reserve, where you’ll encounter the rare “Samburu Five” on thrilling game drives. Delve into local culture with a village visit, capture Mt. Ololokwe’s majestic silhouette, and journey through the prehistoric wonders of Sibiloi National Park. Conclude with an exhilarating drive across the Chalbi Desert.

Itinerary

Day 1- Nairobi – Isiolo – Samburu National Reserve

Highlights:
- Drive through the Great North Highway: Embark on a scenic 5-hour drive covering approximately 273 km from Nairobi to Isiolo, the gateway to Northern Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes.
- Samburu National Reserve: Discover the unique “Samburu Five” wildlife, including the Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk, Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, and Beisa Oryx.
- Evening Game Drive: Capture the stunning arid landscape as you spot Samburu’s unique wildlife during an evening game drive.
Main Experiences:
- Game drives for rare wildlife sightings
- Scenic photo stops along the Great North Highway
- Evening relaxation at your lodge near Samburu
Accommodation: Sarova Shaba Game Lodge or similar
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2- Samburu National Reserve – Marsabit – Mt. Ololokwe

Highlights:
- Morning Nature Walk or Game Drive: Join a sunrise nature walk or game drive to spot more of Samburu’s unique species and enjoy early morning bird-watching.
- Cultural Village Visit: Experience the rich culture of Northern Kenya with a guided visit to a Samburu village.
- Marsabit Scenic Drive: Journey further north to Marsabit, a scenic town that offers panoramic views and a chance to witness Mt. Ololokwe, one of the most photographed natural landmarks in Northern Kenya.
Main Experiences:
- Cultural immersion in a traditional Samburu village
- Drive through Marsabit’s scenic landscapes
- Photography of Mt. Ololokwe’s breathtaking silhouette at sunset
Accommodation: Marsabit Lodge or a similar accommodation in Marsabit
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3- Marsabit – Sibiloi National Park – Chalbi Desert – Nairobi

Highlights:
- Sibiloi National Park and Koobi Fora: Start your day with an unforgettable drive to Sibiloi National Park, also known as the "Cradle of Humankind." Explore fossil sites at Koobi Fora, where ancient human fossils have been uncovered.
- Chalbi Desert Adventure: Experience the vastness of the Chalbi Desert on a drive through the expansive, sun-drenched landscapes, dotted with mirages and unique rock formations.
- Return to Nairobi: Wrap up your adventure and return to Nairobi with lasting memories of Northern Kenya’s hidden gems.
Main Experiences:
- Exploration of prehistoric fossil sites at Koobi Fora
- Drive through the Chalbi Desert for scenic photography
- Learn about Northern Kenya’s geology and ancient human history
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

What's Included

Accommodations

Meals

Transportation

Park Entry Fee

All activities unless labelled as optional

What's Excluded

Accommodations before and after safari

Personal Expenses

Souvenirs

Tips

Know Before You Go

1. Weather and Climate

Hot and Dry Conditions: Northern Kenya is generally arid, with high daytime temperatures and cooler nights, especially in desert areas. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and bring layers for the evening.

Seasonal Considerations: The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October) when wildlife viewing is optimal. The roads can be challenging in the rainy seasons (April-May and November), so it's essential to check weather forecasts and road conditions.

2. Road and Travel Conditions

Long Drives: Prepare for long drives, as distances between towns and attractions in Northern Kenya are significant. This itinerary involves hours on the road each day, so bring snacks, water, and activities for downtime.

Off-Road Driving: Some areas, especially near the Chalbi Desert and Marsabit, may require off-road driving. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, and it's best to travel with an experienced driver or guide familiar with the region’s rugged terrain.

3. Health and Safety

Vaccinations: Ensure you’re up to date with standard vaccinations. Some areas may also require a yellow fever vaccine. Consult with your healthcare provider before the trip.

Malaria Precautions: Certain areas, especially near the northern national parks, may have a malaria risk. Pack insect repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening, and consider malaria prophylaxis.

First Aid Kit: Carry a personal first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, hand sanitizer, and any personal medications, as medical facilities are limited in remote areas.

4. Essential Packing List

Clothing: Lightweight, sun-protective clothing for the day, plus warm layers for the evening. A hat, sunglasses, and a good sunscreen are essential.

Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes for walking, plus comfortable shoes for travel days.

Other Essentials: A reusable water bottle, binoculars, a flashlight or headlamp, a power bank, and camera gear.

Camping Gear (if needed): For those opting for desert camping, some items like sleeping bags and portable chargers may be useful.

5. Cultural Etiquette and Local Communities

Respect for Local Customs: Northern Kenya is home to various communities, including the Samburu, Rendille, and Turkana people. Respect local customs, seek permission before taking photos of people, and be mindful of dress, especially in traditional villages.

Cultural Experiences: The trip may include visits to Samburu villages. These provide opportunities to learn about local customs, but travelers should approach such experiences with cultural sensitivity.

6. Connectivity and Communication

Limited Connectivity: Expect limited phone signal and internet access in remote areas, especially in the Chalbi Desert and parts of Marsabit. Notify family or friends of your itinerary beforehand.

Power Sources: Electricity may not always be available in remote lodges or campsites, so bring a power bank or solar charger for phones and cameras.

7. Wildlife and Outdoor Precautions

Wildlife Safety: The region is home to the "Samburu Special Five" and other wildlife. Follow the guidance of your guide or park rules, stay inside the vehicle during game drives, and avoid feeding or approaching animals.

Outdoor Awareness: Be prepared for encounters with insects, particularly in arid and desert areas. Carry insect repellent and keep a safe distance from any potentially dangerous wildlife.

8. Travel Documents and Permits

Identification: Carry your passport or national ID at all times, as some regions may have security checkpoints.

Park Fees and Permits: Entry fees are required for parks like Samburu, Shaba, and Sibiloi National Park. Ensure these are pre-arranged or discuss with your tour operator about inclusive packages.

9. Currency and Payments

Cash Needs: ATMs are rare in remote areas, so carry enough cash in Kenyan shillings for meals, tips, and souvenirs. Major lodges accept credit cards, but smaller vendors may not.

Tipping: Tipping is generally appreciated for guides, drivers, and hotel staff, so keep some smaller denominations available.

10. Eco-Friendly Travel

Leave No Trace: Northern Kenya is an environmentally sensitive area. Avoid littering, respect the environment, and minimize your waste.

Water Usage: Water is scarce in this region, so try to conserve it whenever possible. Refill a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles.

11. Insurance and Emergency Plans

Travel Insurance: Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellations. Check that your policy includes adventure activities if you plan on trekking or camping.

Emergency Contact: Have a local emergency contact, such as your tour operator or lodge management, and share it with someone back home.

A trip along the famed Great North Highway that cuts across five counties will get you to the edge of Northern Kenya arid lands but a hidden Gem. Touted by many to be the most scenic and photographed destination in the northern hemisphere of the equator.

The Northern part of the equator is famed as the home of the Special Five also known as the Samburu Five – The Gerenuk, The Reticulated Giraffe, The Grevy Zebra, The Somali Ostrich and the Beisa.

The 5-hour drive covering approximately 273 Kms takes you to the middle/central point of Kenya – Isiolo. Isiolo Town is the entry point of the Northern Tourism Circuit and gives you a glimpse of the scenic Northern region.

What To Bring

Clothing

Vaccination certificate

Camera

Binoculars

Sunglasses

Mosquito repellants

Meeting Point

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport(JKIA) (NBO), Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -

Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price

Adult
1 to 1	/person
2 to 100	/person
Child
1 to 1	/person
2 to 100	/person
This is a group tour

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

/person

Adult

Child

Total

0.00

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

3-Day Wildlife Excursion and Adventure at Northern Kenya

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1- Nairobi – Isiolo – Samburu National Reserve

Day 2- Samburu National Reserve – Marsabit – Mt. Ololokwe

Day 3- Marsabit – Sibiloi National Park – Chalbi Desert – Nairobi

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

Choose Currency

3-Day Wildlife Excursion and Adventure at Northern Kenya

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1- Nairobi – Isiolo – Samburu National Reserve

Day 2- Samburu National Reserve – Marsabit – Mt. Ololokwe

Day 3- Marsabit – Sibiloi National Park – Chalbi Desert – Nairobi

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

Choose Currency Close modal

Cookie icon We use cookies!

Choose Currency