Northern Circuit: Samburu & Laikipia

Overview

For those looking to escape the crowds and experience a wilder, more rugged side of Kenya, the Northern Circuit is unmissable. This safari focuses on the semi-arid landscapes of Samburu National Reserve and the private conservancies of Laikipia.

Samburu is famous for the "Samburu Special Five"—species found nowhere else in Kenya, including the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Laikipia, a vast plateau, is a model for community-based conservation, offering incredible sightings of black and white rhinos, and occasionally even wild dogs.

Sample Itinerary (6 Days)

• 1

  Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu

  Depart Nairobi early morning, driving north past Mount Kenya to the Samburu National Reserve. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch. Enjoy an afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Ng'iro River.

• 2

  Day 2: Full Day in Samburu

  A full day dedicated to exploring Samburu. Search for the Special Five, lions, and elephants along the riverbanks. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your afternoon game drive.

• 3

  Day 3: Samburu to Laikipia

  Depart Samburu after breakfast and drive south to the Laikipia plateau. Arrive at your conservancy lodge or camp. Afternoon activities can include a game drive, a guided bush walk, or a visit to a local community project.

• 4

  Day 4: Full Day in Laikipia

  Laikipia offers a diverse range of activities. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, tracking rhinos and other wildlife. You might also have the option of a night game drive or a visit to a rhino sanctuary.

• 5

  Day 5: Laikipia to Nairobi

  Enjoy a final morning activity in the conservancy, perhaps a leisurely breakfast in the bush. Then, begin your journey back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon.

* This is a 5-day sample of a 5-7 day itinerary. We can add extra days in either Samburu or Laikipia, or include a visit to Mount Kenya.

What's Included