Conservation, Culture & Rift Valley Beauty

Duration: 11 Days

Overview

This journey celebrates the heart of Kenya’s conservation story, weaving through the cultural landscapes of Samburu, the rhino-strongholds of Laikipia, and the freshwater ecosystems of the Great Rift Valley. It’s an itinerary that blends wildlife, culture, adventure, and ecological depth—perfect for travelers who want their safari to be meaningful, immersive, and connected to community-led conservation.

Expect dramatic northern scenery, guided wildlife tracking, horseback or camel safaris, lakeside sunsets, and rich encounters with both people and place.

Trip Highlights

Connect with Samburu culture and explore remote northern landscapes

Visit rhino-focused conservancies at the forefront of conservation

Enjoy walking safaris, horseback riding, and camel treks in Laikipia

Experience the Great Rift Valley’s lake ecosystem by boat

Perfect for families, photographers, and travelers seeking depth, not just big cats

Ideal For

Families • Conservation-minded travelers • Photographers • Repeat safari-goers
Anyone who wants culture + nature + community impact woven through their journey

Preferred Properties

Samburu: Saruni Samburu • Sasaab

Laikipia: Lewa Wilderness • Ol Malo • Loisaba Tented Camp

Lake Naivasha: Loldia House • Chui Lodge

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Days 1–2 — Nairobi (Wildlife Foundations & Cultural Warm-Up)

Arrive in Nairobi with a private airport concierge and settle into a boutique hotel in Karen. Spend the following day easing into the journey with relaxed wildlife encounters and cultural touchpoints: meet orphaned elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, feed giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, and browse local artisan markets.
Overnights: Hemingways Nairobi or similar

Days 3–5 — Samburu (Northern Frontier, Culture & Dramatic Landscapes)

Fly north over the Rift Valley into Samburu country—one of Kenya’s most striking, arid, and culturally rich landscapes. Spend your days exploring with Samburu guides, learning about traditional tracking, and searching for the “Samburu Special Five” (reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx). Enjoy rocky outcrop hikes, red-rock panoramas, golden-hour photography, and optional scenic helicopter flights over the rugged Matthews Range.
Overnights: Saruni Samburu or Sasaab

Days 6–8 — Laikipia (Rhino Conservation & Multi-Activity Adventure)

Continue to Laikipia, the heart of Kenya’s modern conservation movement. Join expert trackers to learn about rhino protection and community conservancies. Explore varied landscapes through guided walks, rhino tracking, horseback or camel safaris, mountain biking, and night drives for nocturnal wildlife. Optional helicopter tours offer access to untouched northern horizons.
Overnights: Lewa Wilderness; Ol Malo; or Loisaba Tented Camp

Days 8–10 — Lake Naivasha & Rift Valley (Lakeside Wildlife & Family-Friendly Exploration)

Travel south into the Great Rift Valley, settling along the shores of Lake Naivasha. Enjoy peaceful boat rides among hippos and prolific birdlife, then spend a full day exploring Hell’s Gate National Park with hiking, cycling, geothermal scenery, and lakeshore viewpoints. This is an ideal region for families and relaxed adventuring.
Overnights: Loldia House or Chui Lodge

Day 11 — Return to Nairobi & Depart

Fly or drive back to Nairobi for your onward international flight. Optional lunch or shopping stop depending on schedule.

Pricing

Beginning at $9,000 per person