6-Day Mount Kenya & Samburu Budget Birding Safari

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The 6-Day Mount Kenya & Samburu Budget Birding Safari combines two very different ecosystems — the lush forest slopes of Mount Kenya and the arid savannahs of Samburu National Reserve. Together, they offer an incredible mix of highland forest birds, dry-country specials, and big game sightings.

This is the perfect budget safari for bird lovers seeking Kenya’s endemics and range-restricted species without breaking the bank. Travel is by road in a well-equipped safari van, with accommodation in clean, comfortable budget lodges and camps.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi – Mount Kenya National Park

Drive north to Mount Kenya, stopping for highland birding.

Afternoon bird walk in montane forest — look for Narina Trogon and African Emerald Cuckoo.

Overnight: Naro Moru River Lodge (budget wing) or equivalent

Day 2: Full Day Mount Kenya Birding

Morning hike in the forested slopes for forest specials.

Afternoon birding around lodge gardens — sunbirds, weavers, and turacos.

Overnight: Naro Moru River Lodge (budget wing) or equivalent

Day 3: Mount Kenya – Samburu National Reserve

Scenic drive to Samburu, crossing the equator.

Evening game and birding drive — Somali Bee-eater, Vulturine Guineafowl.

Overnight: Samburu Riverside Camp or equivalent

Day 4: Full Day Samburu Birding Safari

Full-day game drives with focus on dry-country bird species and raptors.

Search for Rosy-patched Bushshrike, Lanner Falcon, and Secretary Bird.

Overnight: Samburu Riverside Camp or equivalent

Day 5: Samburu – Mount Kenya

Morning game drive before returning to Mount Kenya area.

Evening birding walk in forest fringes.

Overnight: Naro Moru River Lodge (budget wing) or equivalent

Day 6: Mount Kenya – Nairobi

Early birding before breakfast.

Return to Nairobi with birding stops en route.

Best Time to Go

Nov–Apr: Ideal for migrants and breeding plumage.

May–Oct: Great for residents and landscapes.

What’s Included

Budget accommodation on full board
Professional birding guide
All park entry fees
Safari van transport
Bottled water daily

Highlights

Search for Jackson’s Francolin, Tacazze Sunbird, and Hartlaub’s Turaco in Mount Kenya forests
Spot Vulturine Guineafowl, Somali Ostrich, and Golden-breasted Starling in Samburu
Guided bird walks and game drives
Affordable full-board accommodation
Scenic drives through Kenya’s central highlands and northern frontier