9 Days Kenya Walking and Conservation Safari

Explore Kenya’s Wildlife With Unforgettable Safari Experience

Go on a 9-Days Kenya Walking & Conservation Safari that combines thrilling wildlife encounters with immersive conservation experiences. From lion tracking in Ol Pejeta Conservancy to visiting the northern white rhinos, this safari offers unique insights into Kenya’s wildlife protection efforts. Explore Samburu National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, and interact with local Kikuyu culture. Witness the Big Five and endangered species, while hiking through Kenya’s scenic landscapes. Travel with purpose, explore with heart, and support sustainable tourism.

Countries Visited

Kenya

Places Visited

Ol Pejeta, Samburu, Aberdare, Nairobi

Suggested Duration

9 Days

Customizable Itinerary

Arrival at Serena Sweetwaters Camp:

  • Arrive at Serena Sweetwaters Camp, located within the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, in time for lunch.
  • On arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted with check-in before being escorted to your room.
  • Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the camp’s restaurant, which overlooks a frequently visited waterhole.
  • From your table, you may spot elephants, buffalo, antelope, or even rhinos coming in to drink — a wonderful introduction to your Kenyan safari experience.
  • After lunch, take time at leisure to unwind from your journey.
  • You may choose to relax on your private veranda, enjoy the camp’s serene surroundings, or observe wildlife from the viewing deck as animals gather at the waterhole.

Afternoon Activity – Lion Tracking Experience:

  • In the mid-afternoon, meet your professional guide and conservancy ranger for an exclusive lion tracking experience within Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
  • This unique activity offers a behind-the-scenes look at predator conservation. Using radio telemetry equipment, you will assist in tracking collared lions while learning about:
    • Lion behavior and pride dynamics.
    • Human–wildlife conflict mitigation strategies.
    • Research and monitoring techniques used by conservationists.
    • The vital role Ol Pejeta plays in predator protection.
  • Your ranger will interpret tracks, movements and recent sightings, giving you a deeper understanding of how these apex predators are studied and protected.
  • As the sun begins to set, return to camp in time to freshen up before dinner.

Evening & Overnight:

  • Enjoy dinner at the camp restaurant, followed by a relaxed evening under the African night sky.
  • Overnight at Serena Sweetwaters Camp.

Morning Activity – Dog Tracking Experience:

  • Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and enjoy an early breakfast at the camp.
  • After breakfast, transfer to the Ol Pejeta Canine Unit headquarters for a fascinating behind-the-scenes conservation experience.
  • Meet the highly trained detection dogs and their handlers and learn about the critical role they play in protecting wildlife.
  • The canine unit is specially trained to:
    • Track poachers and illegal activity.
    • Detect wildlife products such as ivory and bush meat.
    • Assist in anti-poaching patrols across the conservancy.
  • During the session, you will observe a live demonstration of the dogs’ tracking skills and learn about the rigorous training process they undergo.
  • Rangers will also share insights into the daily realities of wildlife protection and the broader conservation efforts within Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
  • This experience offers a rare opportunity to see conservation in action and understand the frontline work that safeguards endangered species.

Mid-Morning Game Drive:

  • After the canine unit visit, continue into the conservancy for an extended game drive.
  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including:
    • The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinos and buffaloes).
    • Grevy’s zebra (an endangered species).
    • Jackson’s hartebeest.
    • Beisa oryx.
    • Large elephant herds.
  • Your guide will interpret animal behavior, track movements and share insights about the ecosystem as you explore open plains, acacia woodlands and riverine habitats.
  • Return to Serena Sweetwaters Camp in time for a relaxed lunch overlooking the waterhole.

Afternoon Game Drive:

  • In the mid-afternoon, head out once again to explore different sectors of the conservancy.
  • This drive focuses on areas not covered earlier in the day, increasing your chances of varied sightings.
  • The late afternoon light provides excellent photographic opportunities as wildlife becomes more active before dusk.
  • You may also visit scenic viewpoints within the conservancy, with Mount Kenya providing a dramatic backdrop on clear days.
  • Return to camp at sunset.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight at Serena Sweetwaters Camp.

Morning – Visit to the Northern White Rhino Sanctuary:

  • Enjoy an early breakfast at Serena Sweetwaters Camp while watching wildlife gather at the waterhole for their morning drink.
  • After breakfast, proceed to the secured sanctuary within Ol Pejeta Conservancy to meet the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world.
  • Accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger, you will be guided through this extraordinary conservation experience. During the visit, you will:
    • Learn about the history of the northern white rhino and the factors that led to its near extinction.
    • Understand the advanced scientific and reproductive technologies being used in global efforts to save the subspecies.
    • Gain insight into 24-hour armed protection measures safeguarding these iconic animals.
    • Hear the story of Sudan, the last male northern white rhino.
  • This is a deeply moving and educational encounter, offering a rare opportunity to witness conservation history in the making.
  • After the visit, return to camp for check-out.

Drive to Samburu Region:

  • Depart Ol Pejeta Conservancy and journey north toward the semi-arid landscapes of Samburu (Drive Time: 4–5 hours by road).
  • As you travel, notice the gradual change in scenery — from the lush highlands around Mount Kenya to the rugged, open plains and acacia-dotted terrain of northern Kenya.
  • Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and check-in.
  • Take a short rest before the afternoon activity.

Afternoon – Buffalo Springs National Reserve Game Drive:

  • Later in the afternoon, head out for your first exploration of Buffalo Springs National Reserve.
  • Buffalo Springs, together with Samburu National Reserve, forms part of a unique ecosystem sustained by the Ewaso Nyiro River. The landscape here is characterized by:
    • Palm groves and doum palms along the riverbanks.
    • Open savannah and rocky outcrops.
    • Natural springs that give the reserve its name.
  • Keep an eye out for the famous “Samburu Special Five,” species endemic to northern Kenya:
    • Grevy’s zebra.
    • Reticulated giraffe.
    • Beisa oryx.
    • Somali ostrich.
    • Gerenuk (the long-necked antelope known for standing on its hind legs to browse).
  • Predators such as lion, leopard and cheetah are also present, along with large elephant herds that frequent the river.
  • As the sun sets over the arid landscape, return to your lodge.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight in Samburu.

Rise early for breakfast at the lodge as the Samburu landscape begins to warm under the morning sun.

Full-Day Game Drive – Samburu National Reserve:

  • Depart with your guide for a full-day exploration of Samburu National Reserve, carrying a packed picnic lunch to maximize your time in the wilderness.
  • Samburu offers a strikingly different environment from the central highlands — characterized by dramatic rocky outcrops, open savannah plains, doum palm groves and the life-giving Ewaso Nyiro River.
  • Your morning game drive will focus on areas along the riverbanks, where wildlife gathers to drink and graze. The river is the heartbeat of the reserve and attracts:
    • Large elephant herds.
    • Buffalo and waterbuck.
    • Crocodiles basking along the shores.
    • A variety of birdlife including kingfishers and fish eagles.
  • Throughout the day, your guide will track and search for:
    • Lions resting in the shade of acacia trees.
    • The elusive leopard, often spotted draped over riverine branches.
    • Cheetahs scanning the plains.
    • The unique “Samburu Special Five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich and gerenuk.
  • Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at a designated safe site within the reserve, surrounded by the raw beauty of northern Kenya.
  • After lunch, continue exploring different sections of the park, including rocky kopjes and open plains where predators are often active in the cooler hours of the afternoon.
  • As the golden light begins to settle across the landscape, return to the lodge in the late afternoon.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight in Samburu.

Cedar Retreat Kenya (Edge of Aberdare National Park):

  • Enjoy breakfast at your lodge in Samburu while taking in the final views of the semi-arid northern landscape.
  • After breakfast, check out and begin your journey south toward the Aberdare region (approximately 4–5 hours by road).
  • As you travel, notice the dramatic change in scenery — from the dry savannah and acacia-dotted plains of Samburu to the lush farmlands and forested highlands of central Kenya.
  • The air grows cooler as you approach the Aberdare National Park region, known for its misty forests, waterfalls and moorlands.
  • Arrive at Cedar Retreat Kenya, located on the edge of Aberdare National Park, just in time for lunch.
  • Check in and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the property, surrounded by tranquil forest views and fresh mountain air.
  • After lunch, take some time to settle into your room, unwind, or enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.

Afternoon – Guided Forest Walk:

  • In the afternoon, set out on a guided forest walk around the property and its surrounding areas.
  • Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, explore the indigenous forest ecosystem and learn about:
    • Native tree species and medicinal plants.
    • Unique highland flora and moss-covered landscapes.
    • Birdlife common to the Aberdare region.
    • Small forest mammals and signs of wildlife activity.
  • The Aberdare environment offers a completely different safari experience — cool, misty and serene — making it ideal for nature immersion and soft adventure.
  • The walk is relaxed and interpretive, allowing guests to fully appreciate the sounds and textures of the forest.
  • Return to the lodge in the late afternoon to freshen up.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight at Cedar Retreat Kenya.

Full-Day Guided Highland Trek:

  • Begin your day with an early breakfast at the lodge, preparing for an adventurous day in the Aberdare highlands.
  • After breakfast, transfer to Aberdare National Park where you will meet your experienced guide and armed ranger for a full-day hiking excursion.
  • A safety briefing will be conducted before the hike begins.

Twin Peaks & Dragon’s Teeth Hike:

  • Today’s trek explores the dramatic Afro-alpine zone of the Aberdare range, leading toward the iconic Twin Peaks and the rugged Dragon’s Teeth rock formations.
  • The hike traverses:
    • Rolling moorlands.
    • Rocky ridgelines.
    • Open high-altitude plains.
    • Scenic escarpment viewpoints.
  • Along the way, your guide will interpret the unique ecosystem, including:
    • Giant lobelias and rare Afro-alpine vegetation.
    • High-altitude bird species.
    • Animal tracks from buffalo, antelope, or even hyena.
    • The geological formation of the Aberdare mountain range.
  • At higher elevations, enjoy sweeping panoramic views across the Great Rift Valley and surrounding landscapes.
  • The dramatic rock formations of Dragon’s Teeth provide a striking highlight and excellent photography opportunities.

Picnic Lunch in the Moorlands:

  • Pause at a designated scenic location for a packed picnic lunch, surrounded by vast open skies and mountain serenity.
  • After lunch, continue the hike back toward your starting point, descending through varied terrain while soaking in the cool mountain air.

Hike Details & Suitability:

  • Not Ideal For: Guests with mobility challenges or limited hiking experience.
  • Proper hiking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection and adequate hydration are essential due to changing mountain weather conditions.
  • Return to Cedar Retreat Kenya in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight at Cedar Retreat Kenya.

Full-Day Guided Highland Trek:

  • Begin your day with an early breakfast at the lodge, preparing for an adventurous day in the Aberdare highlands.
  • After breakfast, transfer to Aberdare National Park where you will meet your experienced guide and armed ranger for a full-day hiking excursion.
  • A safety briefing will be conducted before the hike begins.

Twin Peaks & Dragon’s Teeth Hike:

  • Today’s trek explores the dramatic Afro-alpine zone of the Aberdare range, leading toward the iconic Twin Peaks and the rugged Dragon’s Teeth rock formations.
  • The hike traverses:
    • Rolling moorlands.
    • Rocky ridgelines.
    • Open high-altitude plains.
    • Scenic escarpment viewpoints.
  • Along the way, your guide will interpret the unique ecosystem, including:
    • Giant lobelias and rare Afro-alpine vegetation.
    • High-altitude bird species.
    • Animal tracks from buffalo, antelope, or even hyena.
    • The geological formation of the Aberdare mountain range.
  • At higher elevations, enjoy sweeping panoramic views across the Great Rift Valley and surrounding landscapes.
  • The dramatic rock formations of Dragon’s Teeth provide a striking highlight and excellent photography opportunities.

Picnic Lunch in the Moorlands:

  • Pause at a designated scenic location for a packed picnic lunch, surrounded by vast open skies and mountain serenity.
  • After lunch, continue the hike back toward your starting point, descending through varied terrain while soaking in the cool mountain air.

Hike Details & Suitability:

  • Not Ideal For: Guests with mobility challenges or limited hiking experience.
  • Proper hiking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection and adequate hydration are essential due to changing mountain weather conditions.
  • Return to Cedar Retreat Kenya in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight at Cedar Retreat Kenya.

Cedar Retreat Kenya:

  • Wake up to the cool, crisp mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cedar Retreat Kenya before heading out for the morning activity.

Morning – Aberdare National Park Game Drive:

  • After breakfast, embark on a morning game drive in Aberdare National Park.
  • The cooler hours of the morning bring wildlife activity to life, offering opportunities to spot:
    • Elephants grazing in the moorlands.
    • Bushbucks and duikers in the bamboo and forested areas.
    • Birds such as sunbirds, hornbills and the rare Jackson’s francolin.
    • If lucky, the elusive leopard resting in the trees.
  • Drive through scenic landscapes including waterfalls, bamboo forests and open plains, with the Aberdare escarpment providing a stunning backdrop.
  • Your guide will provide insights into the park’s unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.
  • Return to Cedar Retreat Kenya in time for lunch and some leisure time.
  • Guests may enjoy a short rest, soak in the mountain views, or relax in the lodge’s serene environment.

Afternoon – Kikuyu Cultural Village Visit:

  • After lunch, transfer to a nearby Kikuyu cultural village for an interactive cultural experience.
  • At the village, guests will:
    • Explore traditional homesteads (manyika) and learn about their construction and symbolism.
    • Observe farming practices including crop rotation, animal husbandry and traditional food preparation.
    • Participate in storytelling and cultural performances, gaining insight into Kikuyu traditions, proverbs and music.
    • Engage with the community in hands-on activities, such as preparing local dishes or learning traditional crafts.
  • This visit provides a meaningful connection with Kenya’s local heritage, giving guests an authentic understanding of daily life and customs in the central highlands.
  • After the visit, return to Cedar Retreat Kenya in the late afternoon.
  • Guests can relax, enjoy the scenic surroundings, or reflect on the day’s experiences.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Dinner and overnight at Cedar Retreat Kenya.

End of Safari:

  • Enjoy your final breakfast at Cedar Retreat Kenya, surrounded by the serene mountain landscapes and the sounds of birdsong in the Aberdare highlands.
  • Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your walking and wildlife safari — from lion tracking and rhino encounters to cultural immersion in the Kikuyu village.
  • After breakfast, check out of the lodge and prepare for your transfer back to Nairobi.
  • The drive to Nairobi takes approximately 2.5–3 hours, passing through scenic highland farmland, rolling hills and small Kenyan towns.
  • Along the way, enjoy glimpses of rural life and the ever-changing landscapes as you descend from the Aberdare highlands into the bustling city.
  • Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be dropped at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for onward flights.
  • This marks the conclusion of your 9-day Kenya Walking & Conservation Safari, leaving you with lasting memories of wildlife, adventure and cultural experiences in the heart of Kenya.

Trip Highlights

  • Track wild lions alongside rangers in Ol Pejeta Conservancy using radio telemetry equipment.
  • Meet the last northern white rhinos and learn about groundbreaking conservation efforts firsthand.
  • Explore Samburu’s rare Special Five within Samburu National Reserve and Buffalo Springs ecosystems.
  • Experience guided forest walks and immersive nature exploration in Aberdare highlands.
  • Hike Twin Peaks and Dragon’s Teeth in Aberdare National Park moorlands.
  • Witness anti-poaching canine unit demonstrations protecting endangered wildlife across northern Kenya.
  • Engage in authentic Kikuyu cultural experiences connecting deeply with Kenya’s heritage communities.
  • Certified English Speaking Guide
  • Private airport transfers
  • Transport in a 4 x 4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
  • Park entry fees to all parks
  • Full-board accommodation and meals
  • Fees for Lion tracking
  • Fees for Dog tracking
  • Fees for visiting the Northern White Rhinos
  • 500ml drinking water per person per day
  • Government taxes and levies
  • Soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of personal nature (tips, souvenirs)
  • Optional activities not mentioned
  • Travel Insurance

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Serena Sweetwaters Safari Camp + Surana Buffalo Springs + The Cedar Retreat Kenya $3525 P.P $4195 P.P $4570 P.P
9 Days Kenya Walking & Conservation Safari

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