Kenya's Laikipia & Mara Hidden Gems

Itinerary information

Welcome to Nairobi! Your driver will greet you at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for a comfortable transfer to Nairobi National Park. A reserve right on the city’s doorstep and the perfect alternative to a city hotel overnight. Set amongst indigenous acacia trees and quintessential African grassy plains is your home for the night, The Emakoko.

An elegant, owner-run lodge stylishly designed in a tasteful fusion of contemporary and authentic African style with all the comforts required for a restful stay after a long flight. Should you arrive early enough, you can either relax at the lodge pool or head out into Nairobi to enjoy the city’s attractions such as a visit to the Giraffe Centre, the Karen Blixen Museum, and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage. Head back to camp for a taste of safari on a leisurely game drive, sundowners and a scrumptious dinner. Let the warm and welcoming staff ensure your stay is restful and memorable.

Itinerary information

Enjoy a fresh breakfast before a road transfer to Wilson Airport for a flight north to Lewa Airstrip. A game drive from the airstrip to Borana Private Conservancy leads to Borana Lodge just in time for a delicious lunch. With a range of activities, including game drives, horse riding, camel rides and walks with rhino, Borana Lodge will ensure you have the best introduction to an African safari.

Created as a vital sanctuary for endangered species and non-profit organisation, the Borana Conservancy is home to the endangered black and white rhino species, but is also home to big cat species, elephant and animals only found in northern Kenya such as Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. The lodge is perched on a hillside above a dam where wildlife regularly gathers. Its widespread views of dramatic landscapes include a beautiful view of the snow-capped Mount Kenya – perfect views for that first sip of a steaming cup of fresh coffee at sunrise before embarking on a morning game drive.

Itinerary information

Indulge in a delicious breakfast made with fresh ingredients from Borana’s organic farm before departing for your flight to the Matthews Mountain Range. Enjoy a game drive to your next stop, Sarara Camp in the remote Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy. Spanning 850,000 acres of pristine and unique wilderness and home to Kenya’s beautifully adorned Samburu people, who practice age-old traditions, such as unique pastoral songs to call cattle to drink at the ‘singing wells’ in the dry season. You also have the opportunity to visit the community-run Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, a well-known elephant orphanage.

Start your day with a guided walking safari and packed breakfast or game drive accompanied by a Samburu guide. Return to camp for a scrumptious lunch and take some time to relax and take in the views from the lounge or pool, or enjoy a rejuvenating massage. Your afternoons will be filled with exciting adventures, including game drives and traditional beading workshops with Samburu women. Witness the setting sun with a beverage of choice and a spread of snacks prepared by the chef before returning to camp for a welcoming campfire and delicious dinner.

Itinerary information

After a scenic breakfast at Sarara overlooking the Matthews Range, a game drive takes you to the airstrip for a flight to the fabled Masai Mara to begin the last leg of your Kenyan safari adventure. From here, it’s straight on to another game drive where your Maasai guide will introduce you to the magic of the Mara. Nestled within a private conservancy, Cottar’s 1920’s Camp is a hidden gem that will be your home for the next three nights. Enjoy uncrowded game drives and flexible activities, such as walking safaris, night drives, fishing, and community visits. For an unforgettable bucket-list experience, we recommend adding a hot-air balloon safari to your itinerary. Float silently over the Mara plains at sunrise and witness the breathtaking beauty of Kenya’s landscape.

Cottar’s aims to transport you to a bygone era with their traditional explorer-style safari camp. The personalised and intuitive service ensures your every need is met, just as it would have been in the golden age of safari exploration. Immerse yourself in the timeless wilderness as you savour delicious meals, lounge by the pool with your favourite beverage, or indulge in a soothing massage. In season, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the annual wildebeest and zebra migration that has been occurring for over a millennium.

Itinerary information

Bid farewell to Kenya on your final day as you depart Cottar’s Camp and fly back to Wilson Airport. A driver will meet you to transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey. Take with you unforgettable memories from nine days of unique experiences – walking with rhinos, immersing in soul-stirring cultural traditions, and tracking big game through stunning landscapes.