From the arid frontier to alpine forests and legendary plains. This 11-day expedition is the comprehensive “Great Loop” of Kenya, designed for travelers who want to see it all. You will traverse the equator, moving from the red-earth wilderness of Samburu (home of the Special Five) to the cool, dense rainforests of the Aberdare Mountains. The journey descends into the Great Rift Valley to witness the pink waters of Lake Nakuru before culminating in the twin jewels of Kenyan safaris: the wildlife-dense Maasai Mara and the elephant kingdom of Amboseli at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. This is a journey through every climate, culture, and ecosystem Kenya has to offer.
Why Choose This “Great Loop” Itinerary?
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Ecological Diversity: You will experience three distinct climate zones: the semi-desert North, the cool Alpine Highlands, and the Savannah Grasslands. Packing a fleece jacket is just as important as your swimsuit!
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Double Cultural Immersion: Most safaris only visit the Maasai. This trip introduces you to both the Samburu people (in the north) and the Maasai (in the south). You’ll see the distinct differences in their beadwork, architecture, and traditions.
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The Complete Wildlife Checklist: By combining Samburu and the Mara, you maximize your chances of seeing the “Big Five” (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino) plus the “Special Five” (Grevy’s Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Gerenuk, Beisa Oryx).
Your 11-Day Safari Narrative
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – The Safari Capital Karibu Kenya. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a Giben Adventures representative will welcome you. We transfer you to your hotel to relax after your flight. If time permits, we can arrange a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum or the Giraffe Centre to start your interaction with Kenya’s wildlife immediately.
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Accommodation: (Hotel Name)
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Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Nairobi to Samburu – Crossing the Equator Into the Northern Frontier. We depart Nairobi early, heading north past the pineapple plantations of Thika and crossing the Equator near Nanyuki. As we descend towards Samburu National Reserve, the air turns dry and hot, and the soil turns a deep ochre red. We arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Ng’iro River, the lifeline of this arid region.
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Travel Time: Approx. 6 hours
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Accommodation: (Lodge/Camp Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Full Day in Samburu – The Special Five Wilderness Untamed. Samburu is famous for its unique species. Today, we hunt for the Samburu Special Five. Watch for the Gerenuk standing on its hind legs to reach acacia leaves and the Reticulated Giraffe with its stunning geometric patterns. We will also visit a local Samburu Village to learn about their nomadic lifestyle, which differs significantly from the Maasai in the south.
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Activity: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives + Cultural Visit
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Accommodation: (Lodge/Camp Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Samburu to Aberdare National Park – The Cloud Forests Ascend into the mist. We leave the heat of Samburu and climb into the cool, lush Aberdare National Park. The landscape shifts to dense rainforests and waterfalls. We check into a unique “Tree Lodge” (like The Ark or Treetops), where you can watch elephants and hyenas visit the floodlit waterhole directly from the deck of the lodge throughout the night.
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Travel Time: Approx. 4 hours
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Accommodation: (Tree Lodge Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Aberdare to Lake Nakuru – Birds & Rhinos Into the Rift. We descend from the mountains into the Great Rift Valley floor. Our destination is Lake Nakuru National Park, a sanctuary for the endangered Black and White Rhinos. The lake is often fringed with pink flamingos. In the afternoon, we explore the acacia forests, looking for tree-climbing lions and the elusive leopard.
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Travel Time: Approx. 3-4 hours
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Accommodation: (Lodge Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara – The Big Cats The Main Event. We drive along the Rift Valley floor towards the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. We arrive in time for lunch and an introductory afternoon game drive. The sheer density of animals here is overwhelming—expect to see herds of elephants, giraffes, and zebras within minutes of entering the gate.
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Travel Time: Approx. 5 hours
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Accommodation: (Tented Camp/Lodge)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 & 8: Maasai Mara – The Great Migration & Culture Endless Plains. Two full days are dedicated to the Mara. We will track the resident Big Cat prides and, if in season (July-Oct), drive to the Mara River to witness the Great Migration crossings. We also include a visit to a Maasai Manyatta (village), where you can join the warriors in their traditional jumping dance and learn how they coexist with lions.
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Activity: Unlimited Game Drives
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Accommodation: (Tented Camp/Lodge)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Picnic, Dinner
Day 9: Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha – Boat Safari A lakeside breather. We leave the Mara and head to Lake Naivasha. This freshwater lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise. We take a relaxing boat ride to see hippos up close and walk on Crescent Island, where you can hike safely among giraffes and zebras without predators.
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Travel Time: Approx. 4 hours
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Accommodation: (Lodge Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli – The Royal Court The Giants of Kilimanjaro. We drive to Amboseli National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. The afternoon game drive offers the classic “postcard shot” of elephants with the snow-capped mountain in the background.
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Travel Time: Approx. 5 hours
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Accommodation: (Lodge/Camp Name)
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Amboseli to Nairobi – Departure The final morning. After a sunrise game drive to catch the mountain free of clouds, we enjoy breakfast and begin our journey back to Nairobi. We drop you off at the airport or your hotel, marking the end of an unforgettable 11-day odyssey.
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Travel Time: Approx. 4 hours
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Meal Plan: Breakfast
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why do we visit Aberdare National Park? A: Aberdare breaks the journey between the hot north (Samburu) and the Rift Valley. It offers a completely different ecosystem—cool mountain rainforests and waterfalls—providing a refreshing contrast to the dusty savannahs.
Q: How much driving is involved? A: This is a road-based safari covering a lot of ground. Average drive times between parks are 4-5 hours. We use customized 4×4 Land Cruisers to ensure comfort, but be prepared for some bumpy African roads, which are part of the adventure!
Q: What is the difference between Samburu and Maasai people? A: While related, they are distinct tribes. The Samburu live in the arid north and are often called the “Butterfly People” due to their colorful adornments. The Maasai live in the south. Visiting both gives you a complete picture of Kenya’s pastoralist heritage.
Q: What clothes do I need for 11 days? A: You need variety. Samburu and Mara are hot (shorts/t-shirts), but Aberdare and morning drives in Amboseli can be very cold (5°C – 10°C). Bring a warm fleece, long trousers, and layers.
Ready for the Ultimate Kenya Adventure?
Book your 11-Day Wilderness to Mountains Safari. Chat with us on WhatsApp to customize your itinerary.
