Kenya Safari: 5 Days Through Samburu, Aberdares and Naivasha

This Kenya safari takes you from the green canopy of Ngare Ndare to Samburu’s dry riverbeds, the misty Aberdares and the volcanic landscapes around Lake Naivasha. In one trip, you move from forest pools to open plains, highland waterfalls and a Rift Valley lake.

Ngare Ndare is a cool forest in central Kenya with an elevated walkway through the treetops. You can look down through the canopy, learn about the forest from a local ranger and swim in the natural pools below the waterfalls. It is a very different start to a safari and a good introduction to Kenya’s changing landscapes.

Samburu and the wildlife of northern Kenya

Samburu feels far removed from the greener parts of the country. The land is dry and red, acacia trees grow between the rocky hills and the Ewaso Nyiro River draws wildlife into the reserve.

One of Samburu’s best-known features is the Samburu Special Five. The name refers to five species associated with the dry northern region: the reticulated giraffe with its sharply marked coat, the Grevy’s zebra with its fine stripes, the long-necked gerenuk, the straight-horned Beisa oryx and the Somali ostrich.

You will also have the chance to see elephants, lions and other familiar safari animals. Early mornings bring cool air and active wildlife. Later in the day, the heat softens and the reserve takes on a different rhythm. A full day here gives you time to follow the river, search the thicker vegetation for predators and watch the light change across the open ground.

The Aberdares, from forest to waterhole

The Aberdares bring a complete change of mood. Dry northern plains give way to cool mountain forest, bamboo and waterfalls. The air is fresher and the roads wind through dense vegetation where buffalo and elephants can appear between the trees.

At The Ark Lodge, you can watch the waterhole from your room or from the lodge’s viewing areas. Elephants and buffalo often come down to drink after dark. The occasional leopard may pass through the trees. You are not simply visiting a lodge near the park. The wildlife comes to you.

The forest also opens onto waterfalls and quiet walking routes. Chania Falls drops through the woodland while Karuru Falls cuts through the highland landscape with several tiers of falling water.

Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley

Around Lake Naivasha, the landscape opens into water, volcanic cliffs and wide views towards Mount Longonot. A sunset boat ride brings you close to hippos and pelicans while fish eagles call across the lake.

Hell’s Gate adds a more active side to the trip. You can cycle through the park or take a game drive between the red cliffs and open plains. Zebras and giraffes move through the landscape while steam rises from the volcanic ground. A walk into Ol Njorowa Gorge takes you between the rock walls and gives you a closer look at the Rift Valley’s volcanic character.

Choosing between Kenya safari routes

If you have less time and want a more classic game-drive safari in one of Kenya’s best-known parks, our 4-day Amboseli National Park safari focuses on elephants, open plains and Kilimanjaro views.