Giraffe in Samburu National Park
Northern Kenya

Northern Kenya Joining Safari: Aberdare, Samburu and Ol Pejeta

6 Days / 5 Nights|From USD 1,730|Nairobi → Aberdare National Park (1 Night) → Samburu National Reserve (2 Nights) → Meru National Park (1 Night) → Ol Pejeta Conservancy (1 Night) → Nairobi|Solo Travellers Couples & Friends Small-Group Safari Travellers Rare Wildlife & Samburu Special Five Enthusiasts Rhino & Wildlife Conservation Enthusiasts Wildlife & Nature Photographers Repeat Kenya Safari Visitors Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure Seekers Nature & Wilderness Lovers Travellers Seeking Scheduled Kenya Safari Departures

per person sharing

About this journey

Beyond the Ordinary – Discover Northern Kenya's Rare Wildlife & Untamed Wilderness

Not every Kenyan safari follows the familiar path to the Masai Mara. Some journeys lead you further, into spectacular highland forests, dramatic semi-arid landscapes and extraordinary wildlife conservation areas. Our 6-day Northern Kenya small-group joining safari takes you through four remarkably different destinations. Experience the atmospheric forests and wildlife-rich surroundings of the Aberdares, search for Samburu's rare Special Five, discover Meru National Park's remote wilderness and encounter the inspiring rhino conservation efforts of Ol Pejeta Conservancy. What makes this safari special is its combination of unusual wildlife species, contrasting ecosystems and meaningful conservation experiences. With a maximum of six guests per shared 4x4 Land Cruiser, you'll enjoy personalised game drives, professional local guiding and the opportunity to share memorable discoveries with fellow explorers. Whether you're a solo traveller, a wildlife photography enthusiast or a returning visitor seeking a different Kenya safari experience, this journey invites you to explore beyond the familiar and connect with the country's extraordinary natural heritage. Come Travel Kenya – Experience with a Difference.

Part of our wider Discover More Kenya Joining Safaris & 2027 Scheduled Departures collection.

Highlights

What You Will Experience

  • Four Extraordinary Kenya Safari DestinationsExperience the contrasting landscapes of Aberdare National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Meru National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy on one unforgettable six-day wildlife adventure.
  • Discover Samburu's Rare Special FiveSearch for five remarkable wildlife species: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich, found in Kenya's northern wildlife ecosystems.
  • The Ark Lodge Wildlife ExperienceSpend a night at the iconic Ark Lodge in Aberdare National Park, renowned for its unique forest setting and wildlife-viewing opportunities around its floodlit waterhole.
  • Two Nights in Samburu National ReserveExplore the rugged beauty of northern Kenya, with exciting game drives along the Ewaso Ng'iro River and opportunities to encounter elephants, lions, leopards and diverse birdlife.
  • Explore Meru National Park's Untamed WildernessDiscover one of Kenya's less-crowded safari destinations, celebrated for its scenic rivers, diverse habitats, wildlife and fascinating conservation heritage.
  • Ol Pejeta Rhino Conservation ExperienceVisit Ol Pejeta Conservancy, renowned for its protection of endangered black rhinos and the world's last two northern white rhinos.
  • Meet the Rescued Chimpanzees of SweetwatersDiscover Ol Pejeta's Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and learn about chimpanzee rescue, rehabilitation and conservation, subject to the scheduled visit and sanctuary access arrangements.
  • Exceptional Wildlife PhotographyCapture unforgettable moments across four distinctive ecosystems, from the misty forests of the Aberdares to Samburu's dramatic semi-arid landscapes and Ol Pejeta's sweeping plains.
  • Small-Group 4x4 Safari AdventureEnjoy professionally guided game drives in a shared 4x4 Land Cruiser with a maximum of six guests per vehicle, offering comfortable wildlife viewing and a personalised safari experience.
  • Perfect for Solo Travellers & CouplesJoin a scheduled 2027 Northern Kenya safari without organising a private group, sharing the adventure with like-minded travellers.
  • Authentic Wildlife & Conservation DiscoveriesExperience more than traditional game viewing through encounters with rare species, protected wildlife habitats and meaningful conservation stories.
  • A Different Kenya Safari ExperienceVenture beyond the traditional Masai Mara and Amboseli circuits to discover Northern Kenya's remarkable wildlife, spectacular landscapes and lesser-explored wilderness.
Six Days of Rare Wildlife, Wild Landscapes & Conservation

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1

Nairobi to Aberdare National Park – Into Kenya's Enchanted Highlands

Your Northern Kenya safari begins in Nairobi, where you'll meet your fellow travellers and professional safari driver-guide at the designated central joining point. Set off towards the beautiful Aberdare highlands, passing through fertile countryside, rolling hills and lush landscapes.

Arrive at Aberdare Country Club for lunch before transferring to the remarkable Ark Lodge, nestled deep within Aberdare National Park's forested wilderness.

Unlike a traditional safari lodge, The Ark provides a fascinating wildlife-viewing experience from its decks overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick. Spend the afternoon observing the forest surroundings and watching for elephants, buffaloes and other animals drawn to the waterhole.

As darkness falls, settle into the lodge's peaceful atmosphere and enjoy the possibility of wildlife encounters after sunset.

Accommodation
The Ark Lodge
Meals
Lunch and Dinner
Activities
Scenic transfer from Nairobi, forest wildlife viewing and lodge waterhole experience
Travel note
Pack a small overnight bag for The Ark. Main luggage is normally kept at Aberdare Country Club during your overnight stay. Approximate Travel Time: 3–4 hours, excluding stops and the lodge transfer
Day 2

Aberdares to Samburu National Reserve – Discover the Wild North

After breakfast, leave the cool mountain forests behind and travel north towards Samburu National Reserve, where the landscape transforms into dramatic semi-arid wilderness.

Enjoy the scenery as you pass through Kenya's central highlands and descend into the rugged northern region.

Arrive at Samburu Sopa Lodge for lunch and some relaxation, depending on travel conditions.

Later in the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in Samburu. Explore the reserve's distinctive scenery and the wildlife habitats surrounding the Ewaso Ng'iro River, keeping watch for elephants, reticulated giraffes, lions, leopards and other fascinating species.

Return to the lodge as evening approaches, followed by dinner and overnight.

Accommodation
Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activities
Scenic journey to Samburu and afternoon wildlife game drive
Travel note
Approximate Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Day 3

Samburu National Reserve – The Special Five & Samburu Culture

Wake up to the beautiful wilderness of Samburu, ready for a day dedicated to discovering Northern Kenya's remarkable wildlife and cultural heritage.

Set out on an exciting morning game drive in search of the famous Samburu Special Five: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich.

These distinctive species are among the reasons Samburu is such a rewarding destination for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Along the way, watch for elephants, big cats, antelopes and an extraordinary variety of birds.

Your experience also includes a Samburu cultural encounter, offering an opportunity to learn about the community's traditions, heritage and relationship with the surrounding environment.

Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation before heading out for another afternoon game drive.

As the day draws to a close, return to Samburu Sopa Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation
Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activities
Morning and afternoon game drives, Samburu Special Five wildlife viewing and cultural encounter
Day 4

Samburu to Meru National Park – Journey into the Untamed Wilderness

After breakfast, bid farewell to Samburu's rugged landscapes and continue southeast towards Meru National Park, one of Kenya's remarkable yet lesser-explored wildlife destinations.

As you travel, watch the scenery change from Samburu's dry plains to Meru's beautiful combination of open grasslands, acacia woodlands, riverine forests and winding streams.

Meru holds a special place in Kenya's wildlife conservation history. It is closely associated with Elsa the lioness and the internationally celebrated Born Free story of George and Joy Adamson.

Arrive at your safari camp for lunch and an opportunity to relax, depending on travel conditions.

Later, explore Meru's wilderness on an afternoon game drive. Look out for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, predators and an impressive variety of birdlife as your guide introduces you to the park's diverse habitats.

With its expansive landscapes and quieter safari atmosphere, Meru offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature away from the busier safari circuits.

Return to camp for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation
iKWETA Safari Camp
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activities
Scenic transfer, Meru National Park afternoon game drive and discovery of its Born Free conservation heritage
Travel note
Approximate Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Day 5

Meru to Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Rhinos, Chimpanzees & Conservation

After breakfast, depart Meru and journey towards Ol Pejeta Conservancy, set within the spectacular Laikipia region near Mount Kenya.

Today, your adventure takes on a special conservation focus as you discover one of Kenya's leading wildlife conservancies, internationally recognised for its work protecting endangered species.

Arrive at Sweetwaters Serena Camp for lunch and check-in, subject to travel conditions.

In the afternoon, head out on a game drive across Ol Pejeta's beautiful plains, searching for black and white rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and other wildlife.

Where arrival times and sanctuary opening hours permit, visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which provides a safe refuge for rescued chimpanzees. Discover the important work undertaken to care for these animals and support their welfare.

Ol Pejeta is also home to the world's last two northern white rhinos, Najin and Fatu. The conservancy's conservation efforts offer a powerful insight into the challenges of protecting endangered wildlife. A visit to see these particular rhinos requires separate arrangements and confirmation.

As evening approaches, return to Sweetwaters Serena Camp, where you can relax and reflect on your extraordinary Northern Kenya adventure.

Enjoy dinner and overnight.

Accommodation
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activities
Ol Pejeta game drive, rhino conservation experience and Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary visit, subject to confirmed arrangements
Travel note
Approximate Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Day 6

Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Nairobi – Farewell to Kenya's Northern Wilderness

Wake up to the peaceful surroundings of Ol Pejeta and enjoy your final breakfast in the African wilderness.

After breakfast and check-out, begin your scenic return journey to Nairobi, passing through the beautiful landscapes of Central Kenya. On clear days, you may enjoy distant views of Mount Kenya as you travel south.

This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the remarkable experiences of the past six days — from wildlife viewing at The Ark Lodge and searching for Samburu's Special Five to exploring Meru's untamed wilderness and discovering Ol Pejeta's important conservation work.

Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon, depending on road and traffic conditions. Your safari concludes at the designated central Nairobi drop-off point, where you'll say goodbye to your professional driver-guide and fellow adventurers.

Take home unforgettable wildlife photographs, new friendships and memories of a different side of Kenya.

Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Scenic return road journey to Nairobi
Travel note
Approximate Travel Time: 3½–4½ hours Drop-off: Designated central Nairobi drop-off point
Departures

Fixed departure dates

  • Fri, 22 Jan 2027AvailableUSD 1,915 per person sharingUSD 2,345 single occupancy
  • Fri, 19 Feb 2027AvailableUSD 1,915 per person sharingUSD 2,345 single occupancy
  • Fri, 19 Mar 2027AvailableUSD 1,915 per person sharingUSD 2,345 single occupancy
  • Fri, 23 Apr 2027AvailableUSD 1,730 per person sharingUSD 2,050 single occupancy
  • Fri, 21 May 2027AvailableUSD 1,730 per person sharingUSD 2,050 single occupancy
  • Fri, 18 Jun 2027AvailableUSD 2,200 per person sharingUSD 2,630 single occupancy
  • Fri, 23 Jul 2027AvailableUSD 2,200 per person sharingUSD 2,630 single occupancy
  • Fri, 20 Aug 2027AvailableUSD 2,200 per person sharingUSD 2,630 single occupancy
  • Fri, 17 Sep 2027AvailableUSD 2,200 per person sharingUSD 2,630 single occupancy
  • Fri, 22 Oct 2027AvailableUSD 2,200 per person sharingUSD 2,630 single occupancy
  • Fri, 19 Nov 2027AvailableUSD 1,975 per person sharingUSD 2,480 single occupancy

Departures are confirmed once the minimum group size is reached. Please wait for our written confirmation before booking non-refundable flights.

Rates

Seasonal rates

Travel datesPer person sharingSingle occupancy
1 Jan to 31 Mar 2027USD 1,915USD 2,345
1 Apr to 31 May 2027USD 1,730USD 2,050
1 Jun to 16 Jun 2027USD 1,930USD 2,360
17 Jun to 31 Oct 2027USD 2,200USD 2,630
1 Nov to 22 Dec 2027USD 1,975USD 2,480
23 Dec to 31 Dec 2027USD 2,020USD 2,525
Included

What Is Included

  • Five Nights' Safari Accommodation – One night at The Ark Lodge in Aberdares, two nights at Samburu Sopa Lodge, one night at iKWETA Safari Camp in Meru and one night at Sweetwaters Serena Camp in Ol Pejeta.
  • Full-Board Safari Meals – Breakfast, lunch and dinner as indicated in the day-by-day itinerary, beginning with lunch on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 6.
  • Shared 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser – Return safari transport from the designated Nairobi joining point, with a maximum of six guests per vehicle.
  • Professional English-Speaking Driver-Guide – Services of an experienced Kenyan safari driver-guide throughout the journey.
  • Scheduled Wildlife Game Drives – All game drives specified in the itinerary across Samburu National Reserve, Meru National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
  • National Park & Reserve Entry Fees – Applicable entry fees for Aberdare National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Meru National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
  • The Ark Lodge Wildlife Experience – Wildlife viewing from the lodge's observation decks overlooking the forest waterhole and salt lick.
  • Samburu Cultural Encounter – The cultural experience featured in the scheduled safari itinerary.
  • Safari Driver & Vehicle Charges – Driver-guide allowance and applicable driver and vehicle park entry fees.
Not included

What Is Excluded

  • International flights to and from Kenya.
  • Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), where applicable.
  • Personal expenses, including laundry, telephone calls, shopping and souvenirs.
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and other drinks not expressly included in the itinerary.
  • Tips and gratuities for the safari driver-guide, lodge staff and other service providers.
  • Optional activities and experiences not expressly included in the confirmed safari programme.
  • Additional conservation fees or special-access charges not included in the package, as detailed in the final quotation
Common questions

Before you plan

What destinations are covered in the 6-day Northern Kenya joining safari?

This six-day Kenya joining safari explores four remarkable destinations: Aberdare National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Meru National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The itinerary combines forest wildlife encounters, rare northern species, spectacular wilderness landscapes and conservation experiences. It is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a different Kenya safari beyond the traditional Masai Mara and Amboseli circuits.

What is special about a Northern Kenya safari compared to a Masai Mara safari?

Northern Kenya offers distinctive wildlife species, dramatic semi-arid landscapes and opportunities to explore less-frequented national parks. While the Masai Mara is famous for its big cats and the Great Migration, Northern Kenya is particularly celebrated for Samburu's Special Five, beautiful riverine habitats, unique conservation experiences and the remarkable wilderness of Meru National Park.

What are Samburu's Special Five animals?

The Samburu Special Five are five distinctive wildlife species associated with Kenya's northern ecosystems: Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx and Somali ostrich. These animals are among the main attractions of Samburu National Reserve. During guided game drives, guests have opportunities to search for these extraordinary species in their natural habitats.

Can I join the Northern Kenya safari as a solo traveller?

Yes. Come Travel Kenya's scheduled Northern Kenya joining safaris are ideal for solo travellers who want to explore Kenya without arranging a private safari. You can book an individual place and share a 4x4 Land Cruiser with other travellers. Single-room accommodation is available at the published single occupancy rate, subject to availability.

How many travellers are allowed on this small-group safari?

Each joining safari departure requires a minimum of four confirmed paying guests and accommodates a maximum of six guests per shared 4x4 Land Cruiser. This provides comfortable wildlife viewing, personalized guiding and opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.

What is special about staying at The Ark Lodge in Aberdare National Park?

The Ark Lodge offers a distinctive forest safari experience overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick that attract wildlife. Guests can observe animals from designated viewing areas, sometimes including elephants, buffaloes and other forest species. The lodge offers a memorable alternative to conventional savannah safari accommodation.

Is Meru National Park worth visiting on a Kenya safari?

Absolutely. Meru National Park is one of Kenya's remarkable wilderness destinations, known for its beautiful landscapes, rivers, diverse habitats and conservation history. It offers opportunities to observe elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, predators and numerous bird species. Including Meru adds a different ecosystem and a sense of exploration to this Northern Kenya safari.

Can I see endangered rhinos at Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Yes. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya's leading rhino conservation destinations and supports an important population of endangered black rhinos. It is also home to the world's last two northern white rhinos, which are protected through dedicated conservation programmes. Guests may encounter rhinos during game drives, although sightings depend on wildlife movements and access arrangements.

Does the Northern Kenya joining safari include a chimpanzee sanctuary visit?

The itinerary features Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which provides refuge for rescued chimpanzees. A sanctuary visit offers opportunities to learn about chimpanzee protection and conservation. Participation depends on the final scheduled activities, sanctuary operating arrangements and confirmed package inclusions.

How much does a 6-day Northern Kenya joining safari cost?

Our scheduled 2027 Northern Kenya joining safari has an advertised starting price of USD 1,730 per person sharing. The final cost depends on the departure season and whether you choose twin-sharing or single-room accommodation. Travellers should refer to the published seasonal rates and departure schedule for the applicable package price and inclusions.

What accommodation is included on this Northern Kenya safari?

The six-day itinerary includes five nights of safari accommodation: one night at The Ark Lodge in Aberdare National Park, two nights in Samburu National Reserve, one night in the Meru National Park area and one night at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The specific lodges and camps are detailed in the confirmed itinerary and booking quotation.

What is the best time of year to visit Samburu, Meru and Ol Pejeta?

Northern Kenya offers rewarding wildlife experiences throughout the year. The drier months, particularly January to March and June to October, are often favourable for wildlife viewing. The greener seasons bring beautiful landscapes, vibrant vegetation and excellent photographic opportunities. Come Travel Kenya offers scheduled 2027 departures, allowing travellers to choose dates based on their interests and preferred travel conditions.

Where does the Northern Kenya joining safari begin and end?

The safari begins and ends in Nairobi. Travellers meet at a designated central Nairobi joining point before departing for Aberdare National Park. The journey continues through Samburu, Meru and Ol Pejeta before returning to Nairobi on Day 6. The exact meeting location and departure time are communicated before travel.

Are the 2027 Northern Kenya safari departures guaranteed?

Scheduled departures are confirmed once a minimum of four paying guests have booked. A departure marked available does not necessarily mean it has reached the minimum group size. Our team will advise travellers of their preferred departure's confirmation status before finalising arrangements.

Is this Northern Kenya safari suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya?

Yes. Although this itinerary explores destinations beyond Kenya's most familiar safari circuit, it is suitable for first-time visitors who enjoy wildlife, nature and conservation. It is especially appealing to travellers interested in rare species, varied landscapes and a more exploratory safari experience. Guests are accompanied by professional safari guides throughout the journey.

What type of vehicle is used for the Northern Kenya safari?

Guests travel in a shared 4x4 safari Land Cruiser, operated by an experienced professional Kenyan driver-guide. Each vehicle accommodates a maximum of six travellers and is designed for wildlife viewing and photography across the different safari destinations.

Can I combine this Northern Kenya safari with the Masai Mara or a beach holiday?

Yes. Come Travel Kenya can arrange additional travel experiences before or after your scheduled Northern Kenya joining safari. Options include a private Masai Mara safari, extra nights in Nairobi or a relaxing beach holiday in Diani, Watamu or Zanzibar. Extensions are arranged separately and priced according to your preferred itinerary.

How do I book the 6-day Northern Kenya joining safari?

Select your preferred 2027 departure date from Come Travel Kenya's published schedule and submit an enquiry through our website. Our safari team will confirm availability, seasonal pricing, accommodation arrangements and booking terms. Once your reservation is accepted and the required payment is received, you'll receive written confirmation and information to prepare for your adventure.

Plan this journey

Interested in Northern Kenya Joining Safari: Aberdare, Samburu and Ol Pejeta?

Tell us your travel dates, group size and any questions. Our team will come back to you within 24 hours.