Summary

This guide provides a detailed itinerary for an 8-day family safari adventure in Kenya, including Nairobi, Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara, and Diani Beach. It offers advice on accommodations, game drives, cultural visits, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

🌍 Day One: Arrival and Amboseli Safari

The journey starts with arrival in Nairobi, followed by a flight to Amboseli National Park for an unforgettable game drive.

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🏨 Acacia Tree Hotel

The Acacia Tree Hotel is conveniently located for travelers, ideal for those catching early flights from Wilson Airport. Situated just 30 minutes from Nairobi Airport and 15 minutes from Wilson Airport, it offers a strategic base for a seamless transition to the next leg of your safari adventure.

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Tips

Book in advance to secure a stay, especially if you have an early morning flight.

🦁 Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is renowned for its stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and rich wildlife, including elephants and lions. The park offers a captivating backdrop of the snow-capped Kilimanjaro, providing a picturesque setting for game drives and wildlife encounters.

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Tips

Opt for a morning flight to avoid long drives and start your safari adventure right away. Additionally, plan your visit during the dry season for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

🦒 Day Two: Lake Naivasha Exploration

A day dedicated to experiencing Lake Naivasha, including a boat safari and a walking safari on Crescent Island.

🏨 Lake Naivasha Country Club

The Lake Naivasha Country Club, nestled in the heart of nature, offers clean and comfortable rooms in charming duplex homes, each with its own veranda. The serene environment provides a perfect retreat after a day of adventure.

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Tips

Take advantage of the hotel's expansive green spaces, where children can run and play freely. The club also offers a variety of kid-friendly activities, including a trampoline, swing set, and a soccer field, ensuring that the little ones are entertained and engaged throughout the stay.

🦁 Day Three: Maasai Mara Adventure Begins

  • Travel to Maasai Mara for a three-night glamping experience and an evening game drive to spot the Big Five.

🏕️ Sarova Mara Game Camp

Nestled in the heart of Maasai Mara, Sarova Mara Game Camp offers a luxurious glamping experience amidst the breathtaking wilderness. The camp provides a unique opportunity to witness the majestic '5 Brothers' cheetahs in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories for wildlife enthusiasts.

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Tips

Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in the evening activities offered by the camp. Engage in a cultural walk, witness a traditional Maasai dance, or delve into the rich history of the Maasai tribes, all of which are complimentary for guests, adding a deeper dimension to your safari experience.

🌍 Day Four: Maasai Village and Game Drives

A culturally enriching day visiting a Maasai village and enjoying morning and evening game drives.

🏞️ Maasai Village

Immerse yourself in an authentic experience learning about the Maasai culture, traditions, and way of life. Witness the vibrant singing and dancing rituals, explore their unique homes made of cow dung, and gain insight into their daily activities.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "A different way of life / Visiting a real Maasai Village", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikLvW6oT4P4", "channel": { "name": "Dave Mani"}, "published_date": "Dec 16, 2020", "length": "10:05" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting a REAL Maasai Village in Masai Mara, KENYA. Is it ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j__xD0mQPU", "channel": { "name": "KenyaTravelSecrets"}, "published_date": "Jun 4, 2022", "length": "12:24" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting a Maasai village", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R9j4x8bMQ4", "channel": { "name": "HI Travel Tales"}, "published_date": "Dec 16, 2021", "length": "4:45" }</div>

Tips

Carry cash for the village visit fee and be sure to respect local customs during your visit. Engage with the villagers respectfully and ask for permission before taking photographs.

🦁 Day Five: Mara River and Bush Lunch

Explore the Mara River, witness the Kenya/Tanzania border, and enjoy a unique bush lunch experience.

🌊 Mara River

The Mara River is renowned for its pivotal role in the Great Migration, providing breathtaking views of hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. The river serves as a vital crossing point for wildebeest and zebras during their annual migration from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "There is straight line drawn through the Masai Mara and the ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89BqnFGOLqs", "channel": { "name": "Traveltomtom"}, "published_date": "Aug 7, 2023", "length": "0:45" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "\ud83e\udd9b Mara River and Giant Hippos | Kenya-Tanzania Border", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Dcfqt9L7xk", "channel": { "name": "The Art of Travel"}, "published_date": "Jun 29, 2020", "length": "2:07" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Adventure Awaits at the Mara River! \ud83c\udf0a", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r28NLz1Kgfo", "channel": { "name": "Tanzania Unforgettable"}, "published_date": "Jun 16, 2023", "length": "0:53" }</div>

Tips

Visit during the migration season, particularly in July, for a heightened chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of animals crossing the river in a dramatic display of nature's raw power. The sheer magnitude of the migration is a sight to behold, making it a must-see experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

🌍 Day Six: Farewell Maasai Mara & Diani Beach

Conclude the safari experience with a morning game drive in the Maasai Mara, then fly to Diani Beach for relaxation.

🏨 Swahili Beach Resort

The Swahili Beach Resort in Diani Beach is a luxurious haven nestled along the Kenyan coast, offering a plethora of activities and beautiful pools for relaxation. The resort's opulent rooms and spacious layout provide a serene escape, while the vibrant entertainment staff hosts various activities throughout the day, including salsa lessons, beach volleyball, zumba, and karaoke.

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Tips

Take advantage of the resort's diverse activities to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the stunning beachfront setting. Whether it's learning to dance salsa, engaging in a friendly game of beach volleyball, or simply unwinding by the pool, the resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

🌴 Day Seven: Relaxation at Diani Beach

A day to unwind at Swahili Beach Resort's pools and enjoy the warm waters of Diani Beach.

🏖️ Diani Beach

Diani Beach, located on the southern coast of Kenya, is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls along the shore. The warm Indian Ocean waters provide an ideal environment for swimming and water activities, making it a haven for beach enthusiasts.

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Tips

Explore the beach during low tide to witness the expansive shoreline and intriguing tidal pools. As high tide approaches, take the opportunity to revel in the refreshing ocean waters, with temperatures averaging around 75 degrees, creating an inviting environment for a rejuvenating swim.

🐘 Day Eight: Nairobi City Tour & Departure

Before departure, explore Nairobi's attractions including the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center.

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🐘 David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage serves as a sanctuary for orphaned elephants, providing a heartwarming opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. Visitors can observe the elephants during feeding and mud bath time, gaining insight into the conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable animals.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "A Must Visit In Nairobi Kenya: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust | Full ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6wKuVpYY9k", "channel": { "name": "Have Clothes, Will Travel"}, "published_date": "Feb 25, 2022", "length": "7:21" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center // THE BEST THING ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBrsKGosjxs", "channel": { "name": "The Awkward Tourists"}, "published_date": "Feb 12, 2023", "length": "12:04" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Rescue of Orphaned Elephant Doldol | Sheldrick Trust", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yvNkP6FBi4", "channel": { "name": "Sheldrick Trust"}, "published_date": "Nov 29, 2022", "length": "2:39" }</div>

Tips

Arrive early to secure the best vantage points during the feeding and mud bath sessions, allowing for an intimate and unforgettable experience with the orphaned elephants.

🦒 Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Center is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Rothschild Giraffes, offering visitors the chance to interact with these graceful creatures. Guests can partake in the unique experience of feeding the giraffes, fostering a deeper understanding of their conservation and the importance of preserving their natural habitat.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "I made some really tall friends! | Giraffe Centre in Nairobi ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjahtFx8sjU", "channel": { "name": "Eunice Tusiimire"}, "published_date": "Nov 26, 2023", "length": "9:09" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting the Giraffe Centre, Nairobi Kenya | Things to do in ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DU6AEjhOOTY", "channel": { "name": "Ivy Miricho"}, "published_date": "Jun 10, 2022", "length": "16:21" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "FEEDING GIRAFFES AT THE GIRAFFE CENTRE", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fY-_ISuhgr8", "channel": { "name": "Adventure Singh"}, "published_date": "Mar 6, 2018", "length": "5:55" }</div>

Tips

Purchase food at the center to engage in the extraordinary opportunity of feeding the giraffes, creating lasting memories and contributing to the center's conservation efforts.