Ultimate 7-Day Kenya Flying Safari: Samburu to Masai Mara Adventure
detail informations
A Brief Description
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Discover the magic of Kenya’s legendary wilderness on this exclusive 7-day Kenya flying safari adventure. This carefully crafted journey takes you from the dramatic landscapes of Samburu National Reserve to the world-famous Masai Mara, traveling in comfort aboard scheduled light aircraft while staying at premium safari camps.
Skip the long dusty drives and maximize your wildlife viewing time with scenic flights that offer breathtaking aerial perspectives of Kenya’s diverse ecosystems. From rare northern species to the iconic Big Five, this safari delivers unforgettable encounters with Africa’s most magnificent wildlife.
Days 1-4: Samburu National Reserve Discovery
Departure & Arrival Your adventure begins at Wilson Airport in Nairobi with a scenic flight to Samburu airstrip. Upon touchdown, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your luxury camp, arriving perfectly timed for a delicious lunch overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Afternoon Wildlife Exploration After settling in, venture out on your first game drive through Samburu’s distinctive landscape. The reserve’s arid beauty provides a dramatic backdrop for wildlife photography as you begin searching for the famous “Samburu Special Five.”
Days 2-3: Full Samburu Immersion
Wake to the sounds of the African bush and embark on morning game drives when animals are most active. The golden morning light creates perfect conditions for photography while temperatures remain comfortable.
Enjoy leisurely midday breaks at camp before heading out again for afternoon adventures. Evening drives offer opportunities to witness predator behavior as the day cools.
Samburu Wildlife Highlights
The Legendary “Samburu Special Five”
These rare species are found nowhere else in Kenya, making Samburu a truly unique destination:
- Reticulated Giraffe: Distinguished by their intricate geometric patterns
- Grevy’s Zebra: Larger than plains zebras with distinctive narrow stripes
- Beisa Oryx: Elegant antelopes perfectly adapted to arid conditions
- Gerenuk: Graceful “giraffe gazelles” that stand on hind legs to feed
- Somali Ostrich: Blue-necked ostriches native to northern Kenya
Additional Wildlife Encounters Samburu hosts elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and over 400 bird species, including colorful bee-eaters, kingfishers, and birds of prey.
Exclusive Samburu Experiences
Sundowner Cocktails with a View Ascend to an elevated viewing platform as the sun sets behind the Koitogo Hills. Sip premium cocktails while enjoying gourmet canapés and watching the landscape transform in golden light.
Specialized Birdwatching Expeditions Join expert local ornithologists along the Ewaso Nyiro riverine forest. With over 400 recorded species, including northern specialties like Somali bee-eaters and palm-nut vultures, Samburu offers exceptional birding opportunities.
Cultural Interactions Meet local Samburu communities and learn about traditional pastoralist lifestyles perfectly adapted to this challenging environment.
Days 4-7: Masai Mara Magnificence
Flight to the Mara Board your scheduled aircraft for a scenic flight over Kenya’s Great Rift Valley to the world-renowned Masai Mara. Touch down at your luxury migration camp positioned along the Mara River for optimal wildlife viewing.
Afternoon Game Drive Introduction Explore the Mara’s rolling grasslands as afternoon light bathes the savanna in warm tones. This initial drive provides orientation to the reserve’s layout and wildlife distribution patterns.
Days 5-6: Complete Mara Exploration
Experience the full majesty of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserve through morning and afternoon game drives. Professional guides position you for optimal viewing of the Big Five while sharing fascinating insights about animal behavior and ecosystem dynamics.
Masai Mara Wildlife Spectacles
The Legendary Big Five
- African Lions: Pride dynamics and hunting strategies
- African Elephants: Family structures and communication
- Cape Buffalo: Massive herds grazing across the plains
- Leopards: Elusive cats in riverine forests
- Black Rhinoceros: Rare sightings of critically endangered species
The Great Migration (July-October) Witness over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River in one of nature’s most spectacular events. Crocodile encounters and dramatic river crossings create unforgettable photographic opportunities.
Year-Round Wildlife Beyond migration season, the Mara hosts resident populations of cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, hippos, and hundreds of bird species.
Premium Masai Mara Experiences
Bush Dining Under the Stars Enjoy a multi-course gourmet dinner in the wilderness, surrounded by the sounds of nocturnal Africa. Professional chefs prepare exceptional meals using fresh local ingredients while you dine under star-filled skies.
Photographic Opportunities The Mara’s diverse landscapes provide endless subjects: acacia-dotted plains, dramatic escarpments, meandering rivers, and stunning sunrises over vast grasslands.
Hot Air Balloon Safari (Optional) Float silently over the Mara at dawn for a bird’s-eye perspective of wildlife movement patterns and landscape features.
Luxury Accommodation Details
Soroi Larsens Camp – Samburu
Located along the Ewaso Nyiro River with stunning views of the Koitogo Hills. Luxury safari tents feature:
- Private verandas overlooking the river
- En-suite bathrooms with hot showers
- Comfortable beds with quality linens
- 24-hour solar lighting
Soroi Luxury Migration Camp – Masai Mara
Strategically positioned along the Mara River for front-row migration viewing:
- Spacious river-view tents with premium furnishings
- Private decks for wildlife watching
- Gourmet dining with international and local cuisine
- Professional spa services available
Complete Package Inclusions
Accommodation & Dining
- 3 nights luxury tent accommodation at Soroi Larsens Camp
- 3 nights luxury river tent at Soroi Luxury Migration Camp
- All meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Premium beverages: local beers, selected wines, spirits, soft drinks
- Fresh filtered water, tea, and coffee throughout
Transportation & Transfers
- Return scheduled light aircraft: Nairobi/Samburu/Masai Mara/Nairobi
- All ground transfers between airports and camps
- Custom-built 4×4 safari vehicles for game drives
Activities & Experiences
- Twice-daily shared game drives with professional guides
- Sundowner cocktail experience in Samburu
- Bush dinner under stars in Masai Mara
- All park fees and conservation charges
- English-speaking certified safari guide
Accommodation & Meals
- Two nights at comfortable bush camp with full board dining.
- Traditional African cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary requirements accommodated.
Transportation & Equipment
- Private safari vehicle with pop-up roof hatches for photography.
- Professional-grade UHF radio communication system.
- Fuel, parking fees, and all transportation costs covered.
- Comfortable seating with ample legroom for long drives.
Professional Guiding Services
- Certified English-speaking driver-guide with extensive Mara experience
- All guide expenses, allowances, and accommodation included.
- Local wildlife expertise and cultural insights shared throughout.
Park Access & Activities
- All National Reserve entry fees for entire party.
- Three private game drives with flexible timing.
- 24-hour backup support for emergency situations.
- International airfare and Kenya visa processing.
- Personal expenses: tips, alcoholic. beverages, laundry, phone calls.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional cultural village visits or hot air balloon safaris.
- Credit card processing fees (5-7%) or bank transfer charges ($50).
Travel Tips for Your Flying Safari
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June-October): Excellent wildlife viewing, Great Migration
- Green Season (November-May): Fewer crowds, spectacular scenery, bird breeding
What to Pack
- Neutral-colored clothing for game drives
- Warm layers for early morning flights
- Quality camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
Health & Safety
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended
- Yellow fever vaccination required
- Travel insurance strongly advised