The 6-Day Mount Kenya & Samburu Luxury Birding Safari combines the lush montane forests of Mount Kenya with the rugged semi-arid beauty of Samburu National Reserve. This is your chance to tick off highland endemics like the Jackson’s Francolin and tropical dryland species like the Somali Ostrich, all while enjoying luxury lodges, fly-in transfers, and the guiding expertise of African Affarble Expedition Limited.
6-Day Mount Kenya & Samburu Luxury Birding Safari
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Mount Kenya National Park
Morning flight to Nanyuki or private road transfer (approx. 3 hours).
Check into Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club or equivalent.
Afternoon bird walk in forest edges — search for Tacazze Sunbird, Hartlaub’s Turaco, and Mountain Buzzard.
Overnight: Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club or equivalent
Day 2: Mount Kenya – Montane Forest Birding
Full-day birding in the highland forest and bamboo zone.
Target species: Jackson’s Francolin, Moorland Chat, Abyssinian Ground Thrush.
Optional visit to mountain streams for African Black Duck and Giant Kingfisher.
Overnight: Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club or equivalent
Day 3: Mount Kenya – Samburu National Reserve (Fly-in)
Early birdwatching session around the lodge gardens.
Fly to Samburu (approx. 45 mins).
Afternoon game drive and birding in Ewaso Nyiro River area — Somali Bee-eater, Vulturine Guineafowl, and Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill.
Overnight: Saruni Samburu Lodge or equivalent
Day 4: Samburu – Riverine & Dryland Birding
Morning birding drive targeting sandgrouse, sunbirds, and raptors.
Afternoon walking safari with local Samburu guide for ground-dwelling species.
Sunset photography session for endemic dryland species.
Overnight: Saruni Samburu Lodge or equivalent
Day 5: Samburu – Uaso Nyiro & Buffalo Springs
Explore Buffalo Springs for water-associated species like African Darter and Goliath Heron.
Afternoon birding and game viewing drive in Samburu plains.
Overnight: Saruni Samburu Lodge or equivalent
Day 6: Samburu – Nairobi
Final early birding session before fly-back to Nairobi.
Drop-off at your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Best Time to Go
Nov–Apr: Migratory species and lush landscapes.
Jun–Sep: Best for dryland species and comfortable weather.
What’s Included
- High-end lodge stays (full board)
- Private birding guide throughout
- All park and conservation fees
- Fly-in transfers between destinations
- Game drives, bird walks, and guided photography
Highlights
Birding in both montane forest and semi-arid savanna habitats
Stay in luxury lodges with stunning views and world-class service
Opportunity to spot over 300 species in just 6 days
Private professional birding guide throughout
Fly-in convenience for minimal travel time
