6 Days Kenya Wildlife Private Safari: Ol Pejeta, Lake Elmenteita, and Maasai Mara Adventure

Your Kenyan adventure begins with a pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, as you head toward the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, nestled in Central Kenya’s Laikipia County. This stunning conservancy lies between the slopes of the Aberdare Range and the majestic snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Sweet waters Serena Camp, followed by an afternoon of relaxation. You can unwind on the patio, take a dip in the swimming pool, or observe wildlife drinking from the waterhole, which is constantly teeming with animals.

Today, you’ll explore the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a vital refuge for orphaned chimpanzees and those rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. This sanctuary, a collaborative effort with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Jane Goodall Institute, is home to chimps originally from West and Central Africa. It’s the only place in Kenya where you can see these fascinating apes. You will view them from an elevated walkway, providing a panoramic view of their natural enclosures, which are divided by the EwasoNyiro River.

Later, embark on a thrilling lion tracking experience. Accompanied by specialized lion trackers, you’ll search for the radio-collared lions of Ol Pejeta, and spend time with the pride once they’re located. After a day of unforgettable encounters, enjoy dinner at Sweet waters Serena Camp while reflecting on the day’s wildlife experiences.

Following breakfast, depart for the scenic Lake Elmenteita, located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, enjoy a lakeside lunch at your charming camp or lodge. Lake Elmenteita is a soda lake, famous for its abundant birdlife. Keep your binoculars ready to spot migratory species such as white pelicans and great crested grebes among over 350 bird species. Giraffes, zebras, gazelles, elands, and warthogs frequent the lake shore.

In the afternoon, enjoy a game drive in the nearby Lake Nakuru National Park, home to both black and white rhinos, rare Rothschild giraffes, and various antelope species such as gazelle, waterbuck, and impala. Lions and leopards are commonly spotted, and the cliff-top viewpoints offer excellent chances to see playful baboons and vervet monkeys. Afterward, return to your camp at Lake Elmenteita for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

After breakfast, journey to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, named after the Maasai people, the area’s original inhabitants. Arrive in time for lunch at your camp or lodge, then head out for an afternoon game drive. Keep an eye out for large herds of herbivores like waterbuck, zebras, and gazelles. Depending on the season, you may witness the remarkable wildebeest migration, when millions of these creatures move from the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing land in the Mara. Return to your camp or lodge for a delectable buffet dinner.

After an early breakfast, head out with packed lunches for a full day of thrilling game viewing. On the Mara’s grassy plains and rocky kopjes, search for the big cats – the Mara is renowned for its impressive lion and cheetah prides. You may also encounter other predators like jackals, hyenas, and bat-eared foxes during the early morning hours. The acacia woodlands shelter giraffes, elands, impalas, topis, and hartebeests. Along the Mara River, you’ll find hippos basking in the water and crocodiles lurking in the shallows.

For an additional adventure, you can opt for a hot air balloon safari for US$425 per person, offering a bird’s-eye view of the plains at dawn, while observing the wildlife below. Alternatively, you may visit a Maasai village for US$20 per person and learn about the semi-nomadic Maasai people’s culture and their deep connection with the land and wildlife of the Mara. Overnight stays in a Maasai village can also be arranged.

On your final day, enjoy one last early morning game drive in the Maasai Mara, taking in the breathtaking wildlife before breakfast at your camp or lodge. Afterward, reflect on your incredible safari experiences as we head back to Nairobi. You will be dropped off at your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight.