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Overview

Experience classic East Africa on a Kenya Custom Safari with Boundless Journeys

Sitting astride the equator, Kenya is home to some of the most iconic national parks and game reserves in Africa.

With its good year-round climate and a variety of excellent accommodation options in hotels, lodges, and luxury camps in prime wildlife locations, you can participate in an amazing range of activities, including walking, biking, hot-air ballooning, and camel or horse-riding safaris.

Kenya is also host to the annual wildebeest migration of East Africa. One of nature’s most impressive displays of wildlife, the migration can be seen in the Masai Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, where it is estimated that over 2,000,000 animals migrate in a year-round pattern, following the rain in search of greener pastures. Come explore this fascinating landscape on a custom Kenya safari with Boundless Journeys.

Why Trust Your Custom Kenya Safari to Boundless Journeys?

To develop a collection of truly unique safaris, Boundless Journeys has partnered with some of the best safari outfitters in Africa. In addition to experienced guides, first-class vehicles, and a diverse selection of camp and lodge options, our partners’ conservation efforts and community-mindedness are great matches for Boundless Journeys’ core philosophy.

Boundless Journeys specializes in all-inclusive small group and private tours around the world. Discover your next adventure abroad among our Africa guided tours.

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

What a Privilege!

★★★★★
5 5 1
Boundless Journeys went way beyond the call of duty to get our daughter back on track with us after her international flight was suddenly canceled. Their team was awesome and arranged a tour that took care of each one of us—parents, 2 adult daughters, and a teenage son. Each of us felt so well taken care of and will carry the most amazing memories from this truly awesome wildlife reserve.

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Suggested Itineraries

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES FOR KENYA

Based on our years of designing custom safaris to Kenya, we believe that the combinations below deliver the best experiences in each region. Our Boundless Journeys trip specialists can further customize these options to match the interests of your group, and can mix and match the experiences below. Don't worry: If you don't see what you are looking for, there are many more options to explore! Give us a call at 1-800-941-8010 to start the conversation.

Essential Kenya

Regions Visited:

Laikipia Plateau

Stretching from the slopes of Mount Kenya to the wild deserts of the north, the Laikipia region is a broad swath of game-rich grasslands and hills, with vast areas that have been transformed into private game reserves and conservancies (such as the renowned Lewa Conservancy). Game viewing here is exceptional and can be seen via custom-built safari vehicles, on foot, by horseback, or even on a camel. Other activities include scenic flights, cultural visits to community development projects, or spending a night under the stars in a luxurious private camp.

Amboseli National Park

With the snowcapped peak of Kilimanjaro as its incredible backdrop, Amboseli National Park lies south of Nairobi at the foot of Africa’s highest mountain. Amboseli has five main wildlife habitats – open plains, rocky thornbush area, swamps, acacia woodland, and marsh – which naturally attract a spectacular display of wildlife including lion, rhino, elephant, cheetah, leopard, buffalo, and a host of plains game. For birding enthusiasts, there is also Lake Amboseli, which attracts an amazing variety of birds, while the nearby Chyulu Hills are ideal for activities such as hiking and horseback riding.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Located in the northern part of the vast Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, the famed Masai Mara National Reserve is home to Maasai villages, rich cultural heritage, and an amazing array of wildlife and big game – especially between July and September, when the grasslands are covered by a mass of moving wildebeest as far as the eye can see. One of the world’s most impressive displays of wildlife, it’s estimated that over two million animals migrate in a year-round pattern within Kenya and Tanzania, drawing a large number of hungry predators to the region.

Discover the diverse wildlife in Kenya's top parks and game reserves, with the option to extend to Tanzania, or for a gorilla tracking experience in Rwanda.

Amboseli | Masai Mara | Laikipia Plateau

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Day 2: Bush flight to Amboseli National Park; afternoon safari activity
Days 3 & 4: Game drives before the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 5: Bush flight to Masai Mara; afternoon safari activity
Days 6 & 7: Game drives and cultural encounters with Maasai tribes; optional hot air balloon safari
Day 8: Bush flight to safari camp in Laikipia Plateau; afternoon safari activity
Days 9 & 10: Game drives, guided bush walks, and optional camel-back or horse-back safaris in private areas
Day 11: Bush flight to Nairobi for departure

Where to Stay

Amboseli National Park

With the snowcapped peak of Kilimanjaro as its incredible backdrop, Amboseli National Park lies south of Nairobi at the foot of Africa’s highest mountain. Amboseli has five main wildlife habitats – open plains, rocky thornbush area, swamps, acacia woodland, and marsh – which naturally attract a spectacular display of wildlife including lion, rhino, elephant, cheetah, leopard, buffalo, and a host of plains game. For birding enthusiasts, there is also Lake Amboseli, which attracts an amazing variety of birds, while the nearby Chyulu Hills are ideal for activities such as hiking and horseback riding.

Tortilis CampDeluxe

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Tortilis Camp is set away from other Amboseli lodges, on the pristine southwest border, with the best mountain views and full access to both Amboseli and an exclusive private conservancy, where game walks, bush breakfasts and off-road driving are allowed. 16 spacious tents, each consisting of a main bedroom, elegant ensuite bathroom, private veranda, and glorious view of the mountain are complemented by a family tent and private villa. A lounge, bar and dining area, exquisitely built with natural materials and thatched roofs, provide a place to catch up after safari activities.

Laikipia Plateau

Stretching from the slopes of Mount Kenya to the wild deserts of the north, the Laikipia region is a broad swath of game-rich grasslands and hills, with vast areas that have been transformed into private game reserves and conservancies (such as the renowned Lewa Conservancy). Game viewing here is exceptional and can be seen via custom-built safari vehicles, on foot, by horseback, or even on a camel. Other activities include scenic flights, cultural visits to community development projects, or spending a night under the stars in a luxurious private camp.

Borana LodgeDeluxe

Laikipia Plateau, Kenya

Borana Lodge offers luxury and comfort in eight unique cottages, each with an open fireplace, bathroom, and views of the valley below. The property is set on a hillside with verdant gardens, and a small infinity pool with veranda overlooking a lake, where guests can watch elephants at the watering hole. The main lodge features a dining room serving meals family-style, and a sitting room with sofas and armchairs, and a huge open fireplace.

Laragai HouseLuxury

, Kenya

Laragai House is an exclusive eight-bedroom luxury villa offering unparalleled seclusion and comfort in a breathtaking setting. Accommodation consists of two opulent master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and extraordinary views; three beautiful double rooms and one twin room, each with ensuite bathrooms; and two children’s rooms with a shared bathroom. The property features a custom-built deck and heated swimming pool; pool house with bar, kitchen and bathroom; tennis court; gym and yoga center. A full staff is provided, making Laragai House an ideal family retreat.

Lewa Wilderness LodgeDeluxe

Laikipia Plateau, Kenya

In a private reserve teeming with rare species, including rhino, Lewa Wilderness Lodge features nine spacious ensuite stone cottages, each with a private veranda. A family-run retreat in a spectacular setting with sweeping views across the Laikipia Plateau to Mount Kenya, Lewa Wilderness employs expert guides, many of whom hail from the Samburu tribe. Activities include game drives, horse and camel safaris, nature walks, and scenic flights in the Craig family’s open cockpit airplane – a true "Out of Africa" experience.

Segera RetreatLuxury

, Kenya

Segera Retreat lies at the heart of the Laikipia Plateau, nestled between glorious Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley. Six private timber-and-thatch villas are built on elevated wooden platforms, each with its own deck with lounge chairs and swinging beds, and private outdoor hot tub. A private home and honeymoon villa are also available. A spa, state-of-the-art gym, salt-water pool, unique "Wine Tower", and horse stables are among many features of Segera.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Located in the northern part of the vast Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, the famed Masai Mara National Reserve is home to Maasai villages, rich cultural heritage, and an amazing array of wildlife and big game – especially between July and September, when the grasslands are covered by a mass of moving wildebeest as far as the eye can see. One of the world’s most impressive displays of wildlife, it’s estimated that over two million animals migrate in a year-round pattern within Kenya and Tanzania, drawing a large number of hungry predators to the region.

Bateleur CampDeluxe

Masai Mara, Kenya

Bateleur Camp reflects vintage safari elegance of early 20th-century explorers. Located near the location of the final scene from ‘Out of Africa,’ Bateleur Camp boasts sweeping views of a quintessential African landscape. 18 elegant tents split into seperate camps offer exceptional personalized service, comfortable furnishings, ensuite bathroom with stone shower, and a veranda with deep leather chairs. Guest areas boast views of the vast open spaces and feature intriguing hand-crafted artifacts, polished leather chairs, and a sparkling lap pool.

Cottar’s 1920's CampDeluxe

Masai Mara, Kenya

An authentic 1920s-style safari camp in a private game concession, Cottar’s accommodates up to 28 guests in 10 ensuite canvas tents—including four family tents, each with two bedrooms sharing a veranda, living room with fireplace, and dining room; and one honeymoon tent. A tented lounge area offers fine dining, and there is a pool and spa area. A five-bedroom private house—complete with staff—features a magnificent viewing deck and exclusive swimming pool.

Elephant Pepper CampDeluxe

Masai Mara, Kenya

Located in the Mara North Conservancy in the heart of the Masai Mara ecosystem, and set underneath a grove of fig and elephant pepper trees, 8 private safari tents are large, bright, and elegant, with spacious ensuite bathroom area, veranda and hammock. Honeymoon and family tents are also available, all offering spectacular views over the savannah. Day and evening game drives in open vehicles, guided walks, and cultural interactions with local Maasai are all offered here.

Kichwe TemboClassic

Masai Mara, Kenya

An expansive camp in the Masai Mara, Kichwe Tembo offers Maasai-inspired suites that are simple yet contemporary in style, with ensuite bathroom facilities and secluded private veranda. Spacious guest areas incorporate intimate spaces for relaxing, and a swimming pool boasts sweeping views across the acacia-dotted plains.  Day and night game drives, bush walks along the Mara River or Oloololo Escarpment and optional early morning hot air ballooning are all available here.

Olonana CampDeluxe

, Kenya

Set in a private conservancy just beyond the western Masai Mara, Olonana is an award-winning camp featuring 14 luxury tents with ensuite bathrooms and private verandas overlooking the river, offering the perfect spot for guests to relax and watch the resident hippos in the water. A traditional library, secluded pool and mini-spa are among the many amenities. The camp offers game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, sundowners, scenic flights and balloon rides.

Nairobi

Nairobi is Africa’s 4th largest city and while most only stay briefly en route to their safari, there are some fascinating highlights, notably the Karen Blixen Museum and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Center, often referred to as the ‘Elephant Orphanage.’

Giraffe ManorLuxury

Nairobi, Kenya

This unique 10-room historic stone mansion is renowned for the rare Rothschild giraffes which inhabit the 12-acre private estate in the outskirts of Nairobi. There is an impressive entrance hall, classic dining room, breakfast sunroom (where the giraffes often come to say hello) and comfortable sitting room. Rooms (including one family suite) feature four-poster beds, large windows, spacious ensuite baths and terraces for greeting the giraffes. From here it is possible to visit the Giraffe Center, an elephant orphanage, and the nearby Karen Blixen Museum.

HemingwaysLuxury

Nairobi, Kenya

A mid-sized colonial-style lodge, surrounded by gardens and offering views of the Ngong Hills on the outskirts of Nairobi. Chic, plantation-style rooms are bright, light and airy, with private balconies gazing over the lush gardens to the dreamy Ngong Hills – ideal for relaxing after a long flight. The restaurant serves fusion cuisine, light bites and hearty breakfasts; and there is also Hemingways bar, a spa, and small swimming pool.

Ole SereniDeluxe

Nairobi, Kenya

A large, business class hotel set conveniently between the international airport and downtown Nairobi. A swimming pool, and spacious terrace, bar, and restaurant areas all overlook Nairobi National Park, making for a comfortable and convenient stopover en route to safari destinations.

What To
Expect

What To Expect

We Take Care of the Details

From providing accommodation options based on your budget, to recommendations on pre- or post-safari travels, assisting you with booking regional air, and meeting you at the airport when you arrive: Boundless Journeys can help you with each step in planning your custom safari. We will seamlessly guide you, so that you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime in Kenya.

The Safari Experience

A variety of activities are included on our custom safaris in Kenya, but the primary activity is game driving. The wildlife is typically most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon (these times also provide the best light for photography), and therefore we plan our activities accordingly.

Typically, one of the camp staff will knock at your tent door early in the morning, and the group will gather for a quick, light breakfast and coffee or tea before departing camp as the sun rises. We move slowly, and even when animals are not present, the landscape and sounds of the bush are entrancing. We spend a few hours exploring and observing animals at watering holes or on the move from one region to another.

As we come upon groups of animals, we allow plenty of time to simply observe and also take photographs. Our guides are experienced naturalists and will add greatly to your understanding of the animals. We keep a respectful distance - although the same cannot always be said about the animals and it is not unusual to come nose-to-car with baboons, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, and elephants. By mid-late morning, we return to camp where a delicious midday meal awaits.

In the afternoon, we enjoy a few hours of down time, enjoying the amenities of camp, resting, bird watching, taking photos, or perhaps reading about the region you are visiting.

Later on, we gather for hors d'oeuvres and drinks before heading out for the afternoon activity. Some days this will be another game drive, while other times we may explore the area on foot in the company of our guide and a ranger.

"Sundowners," a light snack and cocktails served in the bush, are an African safari tradition, and a great way to enjoy unforgettable sunsets. We then make our way back to camp, sometimes driving with a spotlight to look for nocturnal animals.

In the evenings, dinner is enjoyed as a group, and will vary from seated meals ordered from the daily menu, to dining in the camp "boma" with a feast of traditional African foods and entertainment by the camp staff. These are joyful performances where it is often difficult to tell who is having more fun - the staff or the camp guests!

Weather

In January and February, it is hot and dry. March to May is the green season; the rain usually falls in short showers with bursts of sunshine in between, making everything refreshingly beautiful and green. July, August, and September are the country's coolest months. October to January is also a delightful time to visit Kenya and compares to springtime, the days are warm and the evenings cool. Short, scattered rains fall in November to freshen up the country and reduce dust.

You may obtain other regional weather information at www.weatherbase.com.

When to Go

Kenya is a year-round destination and has many highlights to offer visitors throughout the year. In January and February the animals gather around water sources, making for easy game viewing. Migratory bird species also arrive around this time, making the already plentiful birdwatching even more so. From July to September the famous wildebeest migration is present in the Masai Mara. Around this time, the grasslands of the Masai Mara are often covered by massive herds of migrating wildebeest as far as the eye can see.

For those who want to extend their safari with some time at the beach, October to January is also a good time for snorkeling and diving off the coast.

Cuisine

In the camps, continental-style cuisine is served, although there is often an Indian or traditional African influence (curries, for example, are popular, or chicken stewed in tomatoes and coconut milk). Breakfast and lunch in the lodges are often served buffet-style, while dinner is usually á la carte. Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice, though choices tend to be more limited.

Guides

Featured Guides

About Our Guides

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

Price on Request
Suggested: 6-10 Days
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Kenya Custom Safaris

Sitting astride the equator, Kenya is home to some of the most iconic national parks and game reserves in Africa. With its good year-round climate and a variety of excellent accommodation options in hotels, lodges, and luxury camps in prime wildlife...

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