THORN TREE SAFARI
THORN TREE SAFARI
Embark on a captivating 4-night guided safari. Discover the unique landscapes of the Aberdares, the refreshing shores of Lake Naivasha, and the unparalleled wildlife theatre of the world-famous Masai Mara.
This unforgettable curated tour showcases Kenya's diverse beauty, from the dramatic mountain scenery of the Aberdares to vast plains teeming with wildlife. Guided by your dedicated expert Somak driver-guide, you'll venture from the energetic pulse of Nairobi to the foothills of the Aberdare mountain range, experience the unique moment of crossing the Equator, and arrive at one of the Great Rift Valley Lakes, before culminating in your adventure amidst the endless vistas of the Masai Mara.
Start your adventure staying at a unique safari lodge positioned near a salt lick frequently visited by wildlife. Expect to see a range of species right from the comfort of your accommodation and take part in exciting night viewing opportunities. Your journey then continues with an overnight stay at Lake Naivasha, renowned for its breathtaking birdlife. The lake is home to over 1500 protected hippos, ensuring a high likelihood of spotting these magnificent creatures. From there, you will head to the iconic Masai Mara Game Reserve, Africa's premier safari destination, celebrated globally for its diverse wildlife, including the renowned 'big five' and the majestic big cats, and many other animals, from wildebeests and zebras, to giraffes and warthogs and buffaloes. While immersing yourself in Mara's wonders, consider elevating your experience with an optional thrilling balloon safari*, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the grasslands and the wildlife roaming below.*Extra supplement, payable in advance
Day 1 - Tuesday - Aberdares
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival at the airport, you'll be met by a friendly Somak representative for a comfortable transfer to a hotel in Nairobi where light refreshments await, allowing you to fi nd your feet before being introduced to your expert driver-guide and receiving a short safari briefi ng to prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Your safari begins as you leave the vibrant city of Nairobi and head for the majestic foothills of the Aberdare Range. This scenic drive will take you to a lodge in the Aberdare region, where lunch awaits. After lunch you will travel on to your accommodations for the night. The unique lodge you will be staying at is built in the shape of Noah's Ark. Strategically positioned near a salt lick and overlooking a bustling waterhole, it offers the best wildlife viewing experience. The waterhole attracts a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and numerous colourful bird species. A true highlight is the lodge's special night viewing feature, allowing you to observe the waterhole under the cover of darkness. For an enhanced experience, there is a buzzer system which is used to rouse you should you request to be notified if specific animal makes an appearance at the waterhole, ensuring you don't miss any nocturnal visitors.
Overnight : Ark Lodge
Meals : Lunch and Dinner
Overnight : Ark Lodge
Meals : Lunch and Dinner
Day 2 - Wednesday - Lake Naivasha
After breakfast you'll continue your safari journey. Stop for memorable photos as you cross the iconic Equator en route to your next lodge. Your expert driver-guide will share fascinating insights into the dramatic landscape as you enter the awe-inspiring Great Rift Valley and descend to the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha. This freshwater lake is brimming with life, boasting a significant hippo population and a remarkable diversity of over 450 bird species.
After settling into your lodge, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, with opportunities for a leisurely walk where you might spot giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and perhaps even elands or wildebeests.Overnight : Muthu Lake Naivasha Country Club
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3 - Thursday - Masai Mara
Today your day will begin early. After breakfast your vehicle will be ready to whisk you away to the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve. This drive of approximately 270 km takes you through varied Kenyan landscapes, building anticipation for the wildlife-rich plains ahead.
Arriving in the Masai Mara just in time for lunch, you'll soon set out on your very first game drive across this legendary reserve, spending the afternoon discovering its sweeping savannahs as the sun makes its way across the vast blue sky. Prepare to be captivated by your Somak driver-guide's profound understanding of Mara's ecosystem. They will lead you on an exhilarating journey in pursuit of Africa's iconic 'big five' - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos - alongside numerous other fascinating creatures, both large and small, in one of the world's most thrilling game viewing destinations. Arriving in the Masai Mara just in time for lunch, you'll soon set out on your very first game drive across this legendary reserve, spending the afternoon discovering its sweeping savannahs as the sun makes its way across the vast blue sky. Prepare to be captivated by your Somak driver-guide's profound understanding of Mara's ecosystem. They will lead you on an exhilarating journey in pursuit of Africa's iconic 'big five' - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos - alongside numerous other fascinating creatures, both large and small, in one of the world's most thrilling game viewing destinations. Somak's experienced driver-guide will ensure that you have the best chances to observe a diverse array of wildlife from the most advantageous viewpoints, guaranteeing that your photographs will be the envy of all your family and friends.Overnight : Muthu Keekorok Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 - Friday - Masai Mara
Awaken to the symphony of the African bush and immerse yourself in its wonders on an early morning game drive, a prime time to witness wildlife activity as the day begins. Afterwards, return to the lodge for breakfast and enjoy leisurely hours to relax and soak in the atmosphere. After lunch, venture out once more to explore the Mara's incredible tapestry of wildlife and its breathtaking landscapes.
Alternate option for this day (extra payable in advance):
Elevate your Mara experience with an unforgettable early morning hot air balloon fl ight. Drift silently above the endless plains as the African sunrise paints the sky in breathtaking colours, offering a unique perspective on the wildlife roaming below. Upon landing, indulge in a delightful 'bubbly' bush breakfast, creating a memorable start to your day. Continue your adventure with a scenic game drive as you make your way back to the lodge, where lunch awaits.
Overnight : Muthu Keekorok Lodge
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 - Saturday - Depart
Savour a final breakfast amidst the sights and sounds of the Masai Mara before beginning your onward journey.
By Road to Nairobi:You have the option of a scenic drive back to Nairobi (approx 300 km), allowing you to observe more of the Kenyan landscapes.
By Air to Nairobi: Alternatively, you can choose a convenient morning flight from the Masai Mara directly to Nairobi (price available on request), offering more time for your onward connections.
Direct Flight to the Coast:For those seeking a beach escape, direct flights from the Masai Mara to Mombasa are also available, including lunch in the Mara before your departure (price available on request).
Island Escapes via Nairobi: Connecting flights to the idyllic islands of Zanzibar, Mauritius, the Seychelles, or the Maldives, via Nairobi, can also be arranged (prices available on request), extending your African adventure to pristine shores.
From Nairobi, you will proceed with your onward travel arrangements.
Light aircraft baggage allowance - 15 kg
Children under 5 years of age are not permitted on this safari.
Meals : Breakfast
By Road to Nairobi:You have the option of a scenic drive back to Nairobi (approx 300 km), allowing you to observe more of the Kenyan landscapes.
By Air to Nairobi: Alternatively, you can choose a convenient morning flight from the Masai Mara directly to Nairobi (price available on request), offering more time for your onward connections.
Direct Flight to the Coast:For those seeking a beach escape, direct flights from the Masai Mara to Mombasa are also available, including lunch in the Mara before your departure (price available on request).
Island Escapes via Nairobi: Connecting flights to the idyllic islands of Zanzibar, Mauritius, the Seychelles, or the Maldives, via Nairobi, can also be arranged (prices available on request), extending your African adventure to pristine shores.
From Nairobi, you will proceed with your onward travel arrangements.
Light aircraft baggage allowance - 15 kg
Children under 5 years of age are not permitted on this safari.
Meals : Breakfast
Please Note:
Due to operational reasons, both accommodations and the itinerary may be subject to change.
Optional activities in Naivasha:
Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
Optional activities available in Masai Mara:
Hot Air Ballooning (payable in advance)
Extend your holiday to one of the hotels on the Kenyan Coast of Mombasa or to one of the fabulous Zanzibar beach hotels, for a relaxing end to this safari.
Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
Optional activities available in Masai Mara:
Hot Air Ballooning (payable in advance)
Extend your holiday to one of the hotels on the Kenyan Coast of Mombasa or to one of the fabulous Zanzibar beach hotels, for a relaxing end to this safari.
