Overview
The Western Kenya Circuit and the Masai Mara offer two distinct but complementary experiences, often combined in a single safari itinerary. While the Masai Mara is a world-renowned safari destination, the Western Kenya Circuit is often called Kenya’s “best-kept secret,” providing a more off-the-beaten-path experience rich in culture and natural beauty.
Safari Highlights
- Two nights in the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Exciting Big Five game drives
- Scenic Lake Victoria experiences in Kisumu and Homa Bay
- Discover Mount Elgon National Park
- Explore Kakamega, Kenya's only tropical rainforest
- Visit Saiwa Swamp National Park and see the rare sitatunga antelope
- Tea plantation tour and tea tasting in Kericho
- Game drive in Ruma National Park
- Cultural encounters with local communities
- Diverse landscapes ranging from savannahs and forests to mountains and lakes
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Nairobi. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the city or relaxing at the hotel. Overnight in Nairobi.
Accommodation: Nairobi Hotel
After an early breakfast, depart for the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve via the scenic Great Rift Valley. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive in search of the Big Five and other iconic wildlife.
Accommodation: Maasai Mara Lodge/Camp
Spend the day exploring the vast plains of the Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. Visit the Mara River, home to hippos and crocodiles, and, during the Great Migration season (July–October), witness one of nature's greatest spectacles. An optional visit to a Maasai village can be arranged.
Accommodation: Maasai Mara Lodge/Camp
After breakfast, depart for Kisumu, the largest city in western Kenya, enjoying scenic views along the journey. Arrive in the evening and relax at your hotel overlooking the shores of Lake Victoria.
Accommodation: Kisumu Hotel
Visit the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, Dunga Beach, and the vibrant fish market. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Victoria, visit nearby fishing villages, and experience the region's rich Luo culture. End the day with a beautiful lakeside sunset.
Accommodation: Kisumu Hotel
Travel to Kakamega Forest, Kenya's only tropical rainforest and a biodiversity hotspot. Enjoy a guided nature walk through the forest, searching for unique bird species, butterflies, monkeys, and indigenous trees.
Accommodation: Kakamega Lodge
Spend the day exploring the forest trails with expert guides. Visit Isiukhu Falls, enjoy birdwatching, canopy viewpoints, and learn about the medicinal plants and traditional uses of the forest by local communities.
Accommodation: Kakamega Lodge
Depart for Mount Elgon National Park, located on Kenya's western border with Uganda. After checking in, enjoy an afternoon nature walk or visit nearby caves and waterfalls.
Accommodation: Mount Elgon Lodge
Spend the day hiking through montane forests, bamboo zones, caves, and waterfalls. Spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and a variety of bird species while enjoying the cool mountain climate.
Accommodation: Mount Elgon Lodge
Drive to Kitale and visit the Kitale Museum, one of Kenya's best regional museums showcasing the history and culture of western Kenya. Later, explore Saiwa Swamp National Park, home to the rare and endangered sitatunga antelope.
Accommodation: Kitale HotelDrive to Kitale and visit the Kitale Museum, one of Kenya's best regional museums showcasing the history and culture of western Kenya. Later, explore Saiwa Swamp National Park, home to the rare and endangered sitatunga antelope.
Drive to Kitale and visit the Kitale Museum, one of Kenya's best regional museums showcasing the history and culture of western Kenya. Later, explore Saiwa Swamp National Park, home to the rare and endangered sitatunga antelope.
Accommodation: Kitale Hotel
Journey south through picturesque tea plantations to Kericho, Kenya's tea capital. Visit a tea estate, learn about tea cultivation and processing, and enjoy tea tasting while overlooking the rolling green hills.
Accommodation: Kericho Hotel
After breakfast, drive to Ruma National Park, the only protected area in Kenya where the rare roan antelope can be found. Enjoy a game drive in search of roan antelope, Rothschild's giraffes, leopards, hyenas, and abundant birdlife before continuing to Homa Bay on the shores of Lake Victoria.
Accommodation: Homa Bay Hotel
Visit the beautiful Rusinga Island, explore local fishing communities, and learn about the area's archaeological significance. Enjoy optional boat excursions, birdwatching, or simply relax by the lake before returning to your accommodation.
Accommodation: Mbita/Homa Bay Hotel
After breakfast, depart for Nairobi, enjoying scenic countryside views along the way. Arrive in the late afternoon for your transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or your Nairobi hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable Western Kenya Circuit adventure.
Includes / Excludes
Cost Includes
- All applicable game Park Entrance fees.
- All Camping Fees
- Finest accommodation offered in tent.
- Three meals a day while on Safari.
- Airport picks up on arrival in Nairobi.
- Professional Safari Guide/Driver.
- Guaranteed departures for two or more passengers booking this safari.
- Round trip transport from Nairobi to the designated National Park.
- Pre–tour itinerary document.
- Extensive Game drives.
Cost Excludes
- Personal expense such as communication charges like emails, faxes, and phone calls
- Drinks like sodas, water, beer and wines
- Gratuity for the driver guide, waiter
- Laundry
- The cost of obtaining visa
- Pre- tour accommodation which can be arranged on request.
