Great Rail Journeys · Escorted tour

Treasures of Kenya

Treasures of Kenya, a rail journey with Great Rail Journeys

Embark on unforgettable safaris in four top wildlife reserves and visit a Maasai village on this exploration of Kenya's highlights, experiencing its rich culture and iconic landscapes

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Nairobi

    Flying from London to Nairobi

    Your east African safari holiday begins at London Heathrow, meeting the Tour Manager before boarding a daytime flight to Nairobi. Landing in Nairobi this evening, you are met at the airport and transferred to the hotel in the city's popular Westlands district.

    Meals: Dinner

  2. Day 2overnight: Nairobi

    Time at leisure in Nairobi or morning safari

    After breakfast, you can choose to join an optional morning safari into Nairobi National Park (payable locally), less than five miles outside the city, with lunch at a local restaurant. Alternatively, enjoy a free day in Nairobi exploring the city at leisure, visit the Kenyatta International Convention Centre tower, Village Market, Uhuru Park or Karura Forest.

    Meals: Breakfast

  3. Day 3overnight: Aberdare National Park

    To the Treetops Lodge in Aberdare National Park

    After breakfast, transfer by private safari vehicle to Aberdare National Park in Kenya's Central Highlands. Arrive in time for lunch at the Aberdare Country Club on Mweiga Hill. Later, transfer to the Treetops Lodge, first opened in 1932, built around an ancient tree and famous as the site where Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne. Situated in front of a watering hole and along an elephant migratory path.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  4. Day 4overnight: Samburu National Reserve

    Across the equator to Samburu National Reserve

    Journey continues northwards after breakfast, with a possible view of Mount Kenya, the second highest peak in Africa. Cross the equator into the arid landscape of Samburu National Reserve. After checking in, enjoy lunch and free time. First afternoon game drive into Samburu to spot wildlife and view the rugged beauty of this remote wilderness. Return to the lodge for a sunset dinner overlooking the Buffalo Springs and Uaso Nyiro River.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  5. Day 5overnight: Samburu National Reserve

    Exploring Samburu National Reserve

    Early morning safari into the park, followed by breakfast at the lodge. Morning at leisure to relax by the pool or enjoy views from the terrace. Afternoon safari into Samburu to look out for the 'Special Five': Grévy's zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk and beisa oryx, as well as large numbers of elephants. Return to the lodge for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  6. Day 6overnight: Lake Nakuru

    To Lake Nakuru

    Drive south to the Nyahururu Falls, an impressive 230-foot waterfall. Enjoy lunch in this unique setting before continuing to Lake Nakuru National Park, with a safari drive en route to the hotel. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a protected area for black and white rhino and Rothschild's giraffe, with a 117-mile fenced area. Also possible to spot hyenas, lions, leopards, waterbuck, flamingos, African fish eagles, hoopoes and pelicans. Free time on arrival at Lake Nakuru Sopa Resort before dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. Day 7overnight: Maasai Mara

    The world-famous Maasai Mara Reserve

    Head to the renowned Maasai Mara, a diverse ecosystem of tropical grassland, acacia trees and patches of forest. Arrive in time for lunch at Mara Maisha Camp. Afternoon safari until dusk, home to Africa's Big Five, with possible sightings of buffalo, zebra, cheetahs, lions and enormous crocodiles in the Mara River. Return to the lodge for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  8. Day 8overnight: Maasai Mara

    Cultural visit to a Maasai village

    Meet with the village elder and members of the Maasai tribe on a visit to a traditional Maasai village (boma). Spend time in their circular village of mud and grass huts, hearing about the Maasai's deep connection to their land and cattle, and learning about their craftsmanship, culture and heritage. After lunch at the hotel, take an afternoon safari into the abundant wildlife led by a local guide. Return to the lodge for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  9. Day 9overnight: Nairobi

    Folklore of the Oloolua Forest and Giraffe Centre

    Depart Maasai Mara and head to the Oloolua Forest for lunch. Take a short walk under the canopy to a clearing where a storyteller shares folktales passed down through generations. Visit the Giraffe Centre, established in 1983 as a sanctuary for the Rothschild's giraffe, with the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes and watch warthogs. Continue to Nairobi and dine at the famous Carnivore restaurant.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  10. Day 10

    Homeward bound

    Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel, then the day is yours to spend as you please until the airport transfer this afternoon. Fly back to the UK.

    Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
  • 10 nights' 3, 4 & 5-star hotel accommodation
  • All coach and transport travel throughout the tour
  • Return flights from London Heathrow to Nairobi
  • Breakfast each day
  • 8 lunches
  • 9 dinners
  • All guided tours and excursions

Not included

  • Optional morning safari to Nairobi National Park (payable locally)
  • Flight upgrades (available at extra cost)
  • Personal expenses

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