12-DAYS
Day 1: Welcome to Nairobi – The Journey Begins
On arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a Twende Tours representative will greet you with a warm smile and assist you through immigration if needed. You’ll then transfer to the stylish Tamarind Tree Hotel for rest and recovery from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy dinner at the hotel or an optional evening visit to the Nairobi National Museum or local craft markets.
Accommodation: Tamarind Tree Hotel – Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Nairobi – Scenic Drive to Samburu Game Reserve
Distance: ~330km | Drive Time: 5.5–6 hours
After breakfast, head north past the coffee farms of central Kenya toward the dramatic landscapes of Samburu National Reserve. This arid, rugged region is home to “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich. Arrive in time for lunch at Ashnil Samburu Camp, followed by a late-afternoon game drive along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Accommodation: Ashnil Samburu Camp – Full Board
Day 3: Full Day Wildlife Experience in Samburu
Wake up early for sunrise game viewing while animals are most active. Enjoy breakfast at camp or out in the wild. You’ll spend the day exploring Samburu and Buffalo Springs, keeping your eyes peeled for predators like leopard and lion, and large elephant herds. The dry northern terrain is home to rare birds and scenic vistas that offer a true sense of wilderness. After lunch, relax or enjoy a cultural talk around the campfire in the evening.
Accommodation: Ashnil Samburu Camp – Full Board
Day 4: Samburu – Through the Desert to Marsabit
Distance: ~260km | Drive Time: 5–6 hours
After breakfast, drive deeper into the northern frontier through dusty plains and volcanic hills to the remote town of Marsabit. Stop for scenic views at Mt. Ololokwe and small towns along the way. After lunch in Marsabit, take an afternoon visit to Lake Paradise inside Marsabit National Park, a crater lake surrounded by ancient forest and a favorite for elephants and birdlife.
Accommodation: Sand & Rock Guest House – Full Board
Day 5: Marsabit – Desert Trek to Lake Turkana (Loiyangalani)
Distance: ~220km | Drive Time: 5–6 hours
Depart early across the Chalbi Desert, a hauntingly beautiful stretch of arid land with mirages and salt flats. Arrive at Loiyangalani by late afternoon, where the shores of Lake Turkana welcome you. After check-in at Palm Shade Camp, enjoy a relaxing evening walking by the lake and watching the sun set behind Mt. Kulal.
Accommodation: Palm Shade Camp – Full Board
Day 6 & 7: Lake Turkana Festival – Celebrate the Cultures of the North
Immerse yourself in two full days of culture, music, dance, and storytelling during the Lake Turkana Festival. This event unites 12+ tribes including the El Molo, Rendille, Turkana, Gabra, and Borana in a dazzling showcase of traditions. Photograph their unique attire, listen to traditional songs, and learn how these groups have survived for generations in one of Africa’s harshest regions. Optional boat trip to South Island National Park can be arranged if weather permits.
Accommodation: Palm Shade Camp – Full Board
Day 8: Loiyangalani – High Plateau to Maralal
Distance: ~290km | Drive Time: 6–7 hours
Depart early and journey south through rugged trails and remote communities to the forested hills of Maralal, a highland town known as the historical gateway to the north. Arrive in the afternoon, settle into the serene Ngari Hill Eco Lodge, and enjoy the sunset with views over the Laikipia Plateau.
Accommodation: Ngari Hill Eco Lodge – Full Board
Day 9: Maralal – Bird Haven at Lake Baringo
Distance: ~220km | Drive Time: 4–5 hours
After breakfast, descend into the Rift Valley toward the emerald waters of Lake Baringo, one of Kenya’s richest birding lakes. Arrive at Island Camp Baringo in time for lunch. Afternoon at leisure — enjoy a boat ride, go birdwatching, or visit the unique Njemps fishing community.
Accommodation: Island Camp Baringo – Full Board
Day 10: Lake Bogoria Excursion – Flamingoes & Geysers
Take a scenic morning boat ride on Lake Baringo, watching African fish eagles swoop for fish. Then drive to nearby Lake Bogoria Reserve to view hot geysers, thermal springs, and seasonal flocks of lesser flamingos. The alien-like terrain and steaming vents make for amazing photos. Return in the evening to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation: Island Camp Baringo – Full Board
Day 11: Lake Baringo – Safari in Lake Nakuru National Park
Distance: ~150km | Drive Time: 3 hours
After breakfast, drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya’s best-known parks for rhino conservation and flamingos. Check-in at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge and enjoy an afternoon game drive in search of black and white rhinos, lions, and the elusive leopard. Visit Makalia Falls and Baboon Cliff for panoramic views.
Accommodation: Sarova Lion Hill Lodge – Full Board
Day 12: Nakuru – Farewell Lunch in Nairobi – Departure
Distance: ~160km | Drive Time: 3 hours
Enjoy a final early morning game drive and return for breakfast. After check-out, depart for Nairobi, arriving around 1:00 PM. Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Carnivore Restaurant, Nairobi’s iconic meat haven. After lunch, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your evening flight home.
12-Day Northern Frontier & Lake Turkana Cultural Safari
Per Person Cost Estimate (USD):
Cost Component
Description
Price (USD) |
|---|
Accommodation
Mid-range lodges & camps, full board (11 nights)
$1,200
Transport & Transfers
4×4 Safari vehicle, airport transfers, fuel
$650
Samburu, Marsabit, Lake Turkana Festival, Baringo, Nakuru
$500
Guide & Driver
Professional English-speaking guide throughout
$400
Meals
Included in full board except Nairobi day 1 & 12
Included
Cultural Experiences
Lake Turkana Festival entry, village visits
$150
Boat Rides & Excursions
Lake Baringo boat rides, optional Island visits
$100
Miscellaneous
Park levies, conservancy fees, communication
$100
Total per person: approximately $3,100 USD
