This breathtaking 9-day flying safari combines the dry and savagely beautiful bush country of Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve and Shaba National Park in northern Kenya with the open rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara plains.
Joy and George Adamson’s legendary adopted lioness, Elsa, roamed in many of these areas during her lifetime, while Shaba National Park is where Penny the famous leopard was released. This safari will allow you to follow in their footsteps.
The hand-picked accommodation included in this itinerary is full of character. Your stay at Elsa’s Kopje is a real treat. Hidden away amongst the rocky crags, the camp is built very near to the site of George Adamson’s original campsite. There is a sense of space and style which encourages pure relaxation. The ultimate ‘pool with a view’ looks out across the plains, perfect for chilling out after a game drive or guided walk in the bush.
Your Safari kicks off in the capital for an overnight at Hemingways Nairobi, before heading off into the wilderness. This is a refined contemporary hotel in Nairobi’s tranquil and upscale neighborhood of Karen. It offers a regal and elegant atmosphere, as well as a superb spa and wellness Centre. If there is time, fit in a visit to the nearby Elephant Sanctuary and Giraffe Centre, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this famous hotel as you relax after your journey
On the second day you will be driven to Wilson Airport for your flight to The Samburu Game Reserve, a dramatic and rugged landscape which is truly rewarding. A three nights stay at Soroi Larsens Camp guarantees close encounters with Samburu’s animals, including elephants, leopards and Samburu’s famous ‘big five’. Perched serenely on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Soroi Larsens Camp boasts an intimate selection of twelve opulent tents, two family units, and two deluxe luxury tented suites, each offering private terraces with exclusive river frontage. Relish the breathtaking vistas while nestled in our lavish accommodations, designed to immerse you in the untouched beauty of Samburu.
Situated on the banks of Uaso Nyiro River is the luxurious Larsen Camp in Samburu National Park.
Your safari ends in the Masai Mara with a stay at the unique Cottars 1920’s. Situated in an exclusive and extensive concession, this area is private. The camp recalls an era of romance and adventure. Book early to secure one of only a handful of tents, each made of authentic white canvas and luxuriously furnished. A stay here is truly a unique experience.
Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi
Touching down in Nairobi, you’ll be met by our driver who will take you straight to the Hemingways Hotel, so you can catch up on some sleep before your adventure in Kenya begins in the morning.
The baggage allowance for your flight to the Meru is strictly 15kgs in soft bags inclusive of hand luggage and cameras. We recommend storing your excess luggage at the hotel and we will organize to have it delivered at the airport on your last day from the Mara.
Day 2: Meru National Park
After early breakfast, transfer to Wilson Airport for your scheduled morning flight to Meru which takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. On arrival at the Airstrip you will be met by a resident guide from Elsa Kopje Camp. Enjoy a short drive to the camp.
After lunch, there is time to unwind and relax before heading out for a late afternoon game drive in an open safari vehicle.
Dinner and overnight at Elewana Elsa Kopje Camp
Day 3 and 4: Meru National Park
Depending on your preference, there are a couple of options in regards to how your days will be structured. At an extra cost, you can book and pay for a Hot air balloon safari or a walking safari which offers you the opportunity to focus on the smaller details and ecosystems of the bush while at the same time achieving the thrill of stalking larger game on foot.
Despite sharing a vehicle on game package, the camp will do everything to make sure that your ideal structure is met.
All meals and overnight at Elewana Elsa Kopje Camp
Day 5 -7: Samburu Game Reserve
After a samptuos breakfast catch your flight to Samburu Airstrip (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes). On arrival you’ll be met and transferred with game drive en-route to Soroi Larsens Camp where you’ll settle in have a lunch then proceed for a late afternoon game drive. Enjoy game viewing and interacting with the colorful Samburu people. The Reserve has a dramatic and rugged landscape which is truly rewarding. A host of plains game along with the ‘big five’ are accompanied by a variety of exotic birds including eagles, falcons and bateleurs.
All meals and overnight at Soroi Larsens Camp
Day 8: Maasai Mara’s Olderkesi Conservancy
This morning you will catch yet another flight to the Maasai Mara. On arrival at the local airstrip, you will be warmly met by a driver guide from Cottars Camp and driven to the camp. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch followed by an afternoon game drive in search of the Big 5. Return to the camp just in time to freshen up for dinner.
Overnight at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp
Day 11: Nairobi – Wilson Airport
Enjoy an early morning game drive followed by breakfast at the camp. Depart camp and make your way to the Airstrip. Here you will bid your guide farewell as you board your scheduled flight to Wilson Airport.
On arrival at Wilson Airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight back home.
