Explore lesser-known parks teeming with diverse wildlife, unique landscapes, and rich conservation history.
Discover Kenya’s Hidden Gems – 10-Day Eastern Circuit Safari
Overview
The Eastern Circuit Kenyan Safari offers an immersive exploration of some of Kenya’s lesser-known, yet rich wildlife and scenic destinations. The safari begins with a visit to Samburu National Reserve, known for its unique wildlife, including the ‘Samburu Five’ (Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx). Nearby, the Shaba National Reserve and Buffalo Springs provide further wildlife experiences, with diverse habitats and large populations of elephants and predators. In Meru National Park, explore lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, including rhinos and lions. The safari continues through the Mwea National Reserve, known for birdwatching and serene river views, before heading to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, where you can enjoy hiking, scenic views, and unique wildlife in a lesser-crowded setting.
Next, explore Mwingi National Reserve, a tranquil and remote area ideal for spotting diverse species in a peaceful environment. Kora International Reserve, renowned for its conservation efforts, is home to historical sites and wildlife, including the famous lions of the area. The safari culminates at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a premier conservation area housing endangered species such as the northern white rhino and offering close-up wildlife encounters.
This circuit showcases a variety of ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural experiences, offering a unique, off-the-beaten-path safari through Kenya’s Eastern region.”
Safari Highlights
- Samburu Five – Unique Wildlife Sightings
- Big Cats & Elephants in Meru & Buffalo Springs
- Flamingos & Birdwatching in Mwea
- Scenic Volcanic Landscapes of Ol Donyo Sabuk
- Endangered Rhinos & Conservation at Ol Pejeta
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi & Transfer to Samburu National Reserve
• Morning: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
• Afternoon: Meet your guide and drive to Samburu National Reserve (approx. 5-6
hours).
• Evening: Arrive and check-in at your lodge/camp. Relax and enjoy your first evening
game drive to explore the reserve.
• Overnight: Stay at a lodge/camp near Samburu.
Day 2: Samburu National Reserve
• Morning: Early morning game drive in Samburu National Reserve, known for its
unique wildlife such as the Somali ostrich, Grevy’s zebra, and the reticulated giraffe.
• Afternoon: Lunch at the lodge, followed by an afternoon game drive in search of
predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
• Evening: Return for dinner and overnight at your accommodation.
Day 3: Samburu to Shaba National Reserve
• Morning: After breakfast, drive from Samburu to Shaba National Reserve (approx. 1-
2 hours).
• Afternoon: Enjoy a game drive in Shaba, famous for its arid landscape and rare
wildlife, including the endangered Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
• Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Shaba National Reserve to Buffalo Springs
• Morning: Depart for Buffalo Springs Game Reserve (approx. 1 hour from Shaba).
• Afternoon: After lunch, explore Buffalo Springs, famous for its spring-fed waterholes
that attract a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and various
antelope species.
• Evening: Return to the lodge/camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Buffalo Springs to Meru National Park
• Morning: Depart for Meru National Park (approx. 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Meru and enjoy an afternoon game drive. Meru is rich in
wildlife, including the “Big Five” and is renowned for its picturesque landscapes,
diverse ecosystems, and large populations of elephants.
• Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge/camp in Meru.
Day 6: Full Day in Meru National Park
• Morning: Early morning game drive in Meru National Park, known for its stunning
scenery and wildlife diversity. Look for lions, leopards, rhinos, and rare birds.
• Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, enjoy
another game drive.
• Evening: Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 7: Meru National Park to Mwea National Reserve
• Morning: Depart for Mwea National Reserve (approx. 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Mwea and enjoy an afternoon game drive. Mwea is known for
its wetlands, which attract large numbers of birds, especially flamingos and herons,
alongside wildlife like buffalo and giraffes.
• Evening: Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 8: Mwea to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park
• Morning: After breakfast, head to Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park (approx. 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive at Ol Donyo Sabuk, famous for its volcanic hill and incredible views
of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is home to elephants, baboons, and a variety of
birds.
• Evening: Enjoy a guided walk or game drive. Return for dinner and overnight at a
lodge or camp.
Day 9: Ol Donyo Sabuk to Mwingi National Reserve
• Morning: Drive from Ol Donyo Sabuk to Mwingi National Reserve (approx. 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore Mwingi National Reserve, known for its dry landscape and acacia
woodlands, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and spotting wildlife
like giraffes, impalas, and gazelles.
• Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 10: Mwingi to Kora International Reserve & Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Morning: Depart early for Kora International Reserve (approx. 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore Kora Reserve, which holds a significant place in Kenya’s
conservation history, being the former home of conservationist George Adamson.
Spot elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.
• Late Afternoon: Drive to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (approx. 2-3 hours), famous for its
efforts to conserve endangered species like the northern white rhino and its
incredible wildlife diversity.
• Evening: Enjoy a final game drive and overnight stay at one of the luxurious lodges in
Ol Pejeta.
Day 11: Departure
• Morning: Enjoy a morning game drive in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, visiting the
sanctuary for rhinos, including the famous rhino viewing area.
• Afternoon: Drive back to Nairobi for your flight home or onward travel. (Approx. 3-4
hours)