The Northern Circuit of Kenya is a fascinating journey that takes you beyond the usual safari trails into some of the most unique and rewarding landscapes of East Africa. Unlike the more frequented southern parks, the northern reserves and highland sanctuaries offer an adventurous blend of raw wilderness, rare wildlife, and deep cultural experiences. This circuit is ideal for travelers seeking both authentic encounters and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Nestled along the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, Samburu is a semi-arid haven known for its stark beauty and unique wildlife. The rugged landscape, dotted with doum palms, acacia woodlands, and rocky hills, creates the perfect backdrop for safari drives. Samburu is home to the Samburu Special Five: the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk (the “giraffe gazelle”). The reserve also hosts lions, leopards, elephants, cheetahs, and over 450 bird species. Cultural visits with the proud Samburu people add depth to your experience.
Directly adjacent to Samburu, Buffalo Springs shares the same ecosystem but offers a quieter, less crowded safari. Named after an oasis of clear, fresh springs, the reserve features rolling grasslands, lava terraces, and acacia groves. Wildlife thrives here, with elephants, lions, crocodiles, and wild dogs frequently sighted. The area is especially rich in birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
A complete contrast to the arid north, the Aberdares are lush, green highlands filled with dense forests, moorlands, and waterfalls. The park is famous for its elevated lodges such as The Ark and Treetops, where guests can watch elephants, buffalos, and leopards gather at floodlit waterholes. Rare species like the bongo antelope and giant forest hog roam the forests, while the cool climate and mist-shrouded hills create an enchanting atmosphere.
Located on the Laikipia Plateau, Ol Pejeta is one of Kenya’s premier wildlife conservancies and a pioneer in conservation. It is home to the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the world’s last two northern white rhinos. Visitors can also enjoy sightings of the Big Five, as well as chimpanzees at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. With opportunities for both traditional game drives and conservation-focused experiences, Ol Pejeta blends wildlife adventure with education and impact.
After breakfast in Nairobi, begin your adventure with a scenic 6-hour drive north to Samburu National Reserve. Along the way, enjoy views of the changing landscapes as lush highlands give way to rugged semi-arid terrain.
On arrival at your lodge/camp, check in and enjoy lunch before immersing yourself in the rich Samburu culture through a cultural visit with the Samburu people, closely related to the Maasai.
In the afternoon, set out for your first game drive in Samburu National Reserve. Here, you’ll encounter the Samburu Special Five—Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, and the long-necked gerenuk. You may also spot elephants, lions, and leopards along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. End the day with dinner at your lodge.
Main Destination: Samburu National Reserve
Accommodation: Samburu Sopa Lodge (Mid-range, inside the reserve)
Meals & Drinks: Lunch & Dinner (Breakfast not included) | Drinking water provided
Rise early for a sunrise game drive, when wildlife is most active. Return to the lodge for breakfast, then relax by the river while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
Later, join a guided nature walk with a local expert to learn about Samburu traditions, medicinal plants, and the ecosystem. After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive, this time crossing into Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Known for its verdant landscapes, fresh springs, and abundant wildlife, this area provides excellent opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, lions, and an array of bird species.
Return to your lodge for a bush dinner under the stars, accompanied by Samburu traditional entertainment.
Main Destination: Samburu & Buffalo Springs
Accommodation: Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meals & Drinks: All meals included | Drinking water provided
Today you’ll dedicate your time to exploring Buffalo Springs National Reserve. Drive across its scenic plains, where riverine forests, lava terraces, and open savannah host a wide variety of wildlife. Look out for elephants bathing in the Ewaso Ng’iro River, graceful gazelles grazing on the plains, and predators such as lions and leopards lurking in the thickets.
With over 350 bird species recorded, Buffalo Springs is also a paradise for birdwatchers, offering chances to spot kingfishers, herons, and migratory birds.
Enjoy your evening at leisure back at the lodge.
Main Destination: Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Accommodation: Samburu Sopa Lodge
Meals & Drinks: All meals included | Drinking water provided
After breakfast, check out and begin your 6-hour drive to the lush, green highlands of the Aberdares. On arrival, enjoy lunch and relax amid the cool mountain air.
Later, proceed to the unique Ark Lodge, built overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick. Here, wildlife comes to you—spot elephants, buffalos, and perhaps even leopards from the comfort of the lodge’s viewing decks.
Enjoy a cozy dinner and an unforgettable night of game viewing from your lodge.
Main Destination: Aberdare National Park
Accommodation: The Ark Lodge (Mid-range, inside Aberdare NP)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included | Drinking water provided
Begin the morning with wildlife sightings from your lodge, followed by breakfast. You may opt for a short excursion to Karuru Waterfalls, one of the park’s highlights.
Then, descend from the misty forests of Aberdare into the open savannah plains of Laikipia, arriving at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling game drive across this conservation success story. Ol Pejeta is home to the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, the last two northern white rhinos on Earth, and the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Alongside these, you’ll encounter lions, giraffes, hyenas, zebras, elephants, and more.
Main Destination: Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Accommodation: Maisha Sweetwaters Camp (Mid-range tented camp)
Meals & Drinks: All meals included | Drinking water provided
Start your final safari day with a magical early morning game drive, when the conservancy comes alive with activity. After breakfast, you may opt to visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary or take part in other conservancy activities.
Later, depart for Nairobi with a packed lunch en route. On arrival, you’ll be dropped at your hotel or the airport for your onward journey.
Main Destination: Nairobi
Accommodation: None (End of tour, but can be arranged at extra cost)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & Lunch included | Drinking water provided
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