kenya
March 11 - 21, 2026
This Isn’t Your Grandma’s Safari Tour
For 11 days, we're ditching the tourist buses to experience Africa the way it's meant to be seen - up close and unfiltered. We're talking front-row seats to the Great Migration (picture hundreds of thousands of wildebeest thundering across the Maasai Mara), hanging with elephant families under Kilimanjaro's shadow, and watching flamingos turn Lake Nakuru into nature's version of a pink disco.
But here's where it gets really good: We've scored exclusive access to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, where you'll meet the world's last northern white rhinos (yes, really) and spend time with a blind rhino who will absolutely steal your heart.
Fair warning: This trip isn't about infinity pools and butler service. We're going full immersion - sleeping under stars so bright they'll make you question everything you thought you knew about night skies, waking up to lions roaring in the distance, and yes, helping set up camp because that's part of the adventure. (Don't worry, if glamping's more your style, we've got upgrade options.)
Between wildlife encounters that'll blow your mind and genuine connections with Maasai, Kikuyu, and Samburu communities, this is Africa stripped of tourist clichés. It's raw, it's real, and it's exactly what you've been looking for if standard tours make you want to claw your eyes out.
Ready to make your African dreams less Discovery Channel and more real life? Let's do this.
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We’ll come together as a group of strangers,
but leave with friends you’ll have for a lifetime.
We'll visit all the best places to experience the diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage of Kenya, including Nairobi, Samburu National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and the Maasai Mara.
Itinerary
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Pickup from Nairobi airport
Dinner at CultivaYour East African adventure begins in vibrant Nairobi. After airport pickup, settle in at the Boulevard Hotel before meeting your fellow travelers for an evening trip briefing. We'll celebrate the start of our journey with a welcome dinner at Cultiva, a farm-to-table restaurant showcasing Kenya's fresh flavors.
Dinner included
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Drive to Samburu
Visit Equator
Reserve explorationEmbark on a scenic drive north to the remarkable Samburu National Reserve. En route, we'll stop at the Equator for photos and fascinating demonstrations, plus a quick shopping break to stock up on essentials. After setting up camp, we'll head out for an evening game drive to spot some of Africa's most unique wildlife. Be amazed by the presence of rare species like the endangered Grevy's zebra, elegant reticulated giraffe, and if we're lucky, the elusive African wild dog. End this incredible day watching the African sun paint the sky in brilliant hues over the savannah.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Morning game drive along the Ewaso Ng'iro River
Visit Samburu village
School visit
Experience the magic of Samburu with morning game drives, spotting unique wildlife along the Ewaso Ng'iro River. In the afternoon, make a meaningful visit to a local school to donate supplies, followed by an authentic cultural experience at a Samburu village, where ancient traditions come alive.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Endangered species sanctuary
Rhino game drive
Chimpanzee sanctuary
Journey to the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a sanctuary for endangered species. Spend your afternoon on an unforgettable game drive spotting both black and white rhinos, and visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. This day perfectly blends wildlife conservation with extraordinary animal encounters.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Laku Nakuru exploration
Swim and bike at Punda Milias
Travel to Lake Nakuru, where the charming Punda Milias Camp awaits. Unwind with a refreshing swim or explore the area by bicycle, settling into the rhythm of the Kenyan wilderness in comfort and style.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Journey through Nakuru
Discover the natural wonders of Lake Nakuru National Park, a paradise for wildlife photographers. Witness the famous flamingo flocks painting the lake pink, spot tree-climbing lions, and encounter both black and white rhinos in this compact but stunning reserve.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Boat safari
Journey to the serene Lake Oloiden, a stunning freshwater lake and resort. Enjoy a peaceful boat safari among hippos and countless bird species, surrounded by pristine nature and comfortable accommodations.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Hell’s Gate National Park
Maasa visit
Start your day cycling through the dramatic landscapes of Hell's Gate National Park, visiting the iconic Pride Rock inspiration for the Lion King, then descend into its stunning gorge. Later, travel to the legendary Maasai Mara, checking into the exclusive Olakira Campsite for an authentic bush experience.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
4×4 land cruiser journey
Game drive
Wake to the sounds of the African bush before embarking on thrilling game drives in 4x4 land cruisers. Between wildlife encounters, visit an authentic Maasai village to experience their rich cultural heritage. Return to camp for starlit evenings accompanied by the distant calls of lions and elephants.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included -
Hot air balloon ride
Free time
Take an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Masaai Mara's endless plains, watching wildlife from above. Return to Nairobi with free time to relax and reflect on your safari adventures.
Breakfast and lunch included -
City tour
Departure
Conclude your journey with a unique city tour, visiting the Giraffe Centre and KobeTough, a bead center with products that support single mothers, orphans and widows in Kenya.
Experience local culture with lunch at Kienyejis and a ride in a vibrant matatu (local art-decorated bus).We’ll start doing airport transfers at 3 pm for your evening flight home.
Breakfast and lunch included
What is Overlanding?
Overlanding is what happens when you ditch the fancy lodges and hit the road with a crew of like-minded adventurers in a specially-equipped expedition vehicle. Think of it as the ultimate road trip meets summer camp for grown-ups—you'll pitch in with camp setup, share stories around the fire, and wake up to sunrises in places most tourists never see. It's about embracing the journey together, creating the kind of bonds that only come from shared adventures (and maybe that one time someone almost burned the chapati).
Here's what to expect:
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Sleep in 2-person tents with provided sleeping bags and pads (upgrades to single tents and luxury tents available)
Shared bathroom facilities at established campsites with showers
Set up and break down camp as a group
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Prepare fresh local dishes with our professionally trained private chefs (no instant ramen here–the food is phenomenal!)
Dine together at camp tables and roadside stops
Some camps will have a restaurant and bar available
Morning coffee/tea around the campfire
Evening storytelling under the stars
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Travel in custom 4x4 Land Cruisers
Vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for game viewing
Storage for camping gear and luggage
Regular stops for wildlife viewing, photos, and breaks
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Cool nights, warm days
Sleeping bags rated for local conditions
Camp chairs for relaxing
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WHAT’S INCLUDED
✓ 10 nights of accommodations
✓ 29 meals: 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 9 dinners
✓ Fully escorted tour with a trip leader, English-speaking guide, and professional chefs
✓ Local guides in every national park
✓ Professional safari photographer
✓ 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roof for some safaris
✓ Airport pickups and drop-offs on official trip dates
✓ Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and camp chairs
✓ All activities, sightseeing, park entrances as per itinerary
✓ WhatsApp chat support for the group three months prior to trip
✓ Pre-trip orientation call
✓ Trip guide with packing list and travel tips
✓ Photos and videos of the entire trip in a shared, downloadable album
NOT INCLUDED
X International flights to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
X Any activities not mentioned in itinerary
X Visa fee (Approximately $35)
X Any personal expenses and shopping (budget approximately $500)
X Meals not specified in itinerary
X Alcoholic beverages and beverages outside of specified tours/meals
X Tips and gratuities for guide and driver
X Travel insurance (a minimum of post-departure/travel medical is required. You can check out plans from my partner, Wanderwell.)
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Hot air balloon over the Masai Mara ($550)
Why Travel to Kenya With Me:
Kenya is a breathtaking destination known for its incredible wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage
You literally just have to show up.
Pack your bags (I'll tell you exactly what to bring) and book that flight (yep, got tips for that too). Everything else? That's my problem now. Your only job is to show up ready for adventure.
I've done the homework so you don't have to.
Visas? Vaccines? What to wear when you're meeting a Maasai elder? I've figured out all the annoying details and potential awkward moments ahead of time. Because I scout every trip first, you get to skip the tourist traps and rookie mistakes I've already made for you.
No more waiting on flaky friends.
We've all been there - that group chat that starts with "Let's plan a trip!" and ends in radio silence. Not here. The dates are set, the itinerary is locked in, and your adventure squad is ready to go.
Small group = Big experiences.
IForget those massive tour buses. We keep it intimate (10-15 people max) because you can't exactly have a heart-to-heart conversation with 40 strangers or get invited into someone's home for tea when you roll up with a small army.
Make an actual difference (not just Instagram stories about it).
This isn't about drive-by tourism or performative do-gooding. We're talking real connections with local communities, authentic cultural exchanges, and meaningful ways to give back that actually help rather than hurt.
Finally get photos you won’t hate in 5 years.
Let's be honest - we all want at least a few shots that make our friends jealous. I've got you covered with photos that capture the real you having the time of your life (not just awkward poses in front of landmarks). Check out some photos of past adventurers.
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“Meeting Laura has legitimately changed my life for the better. I went on her Morocco trip & it felt like a dream. Having everything pre-planned & details figured out made for a stress free experience that gave me the opportunity to really enjoy & immerse myself in every moment. I not only learned so much about a misunderstood culture, but I learned so much about myself. I daydream about the trip every day & find myself looking for excuses to talk to anyone about it. I cannot wait for my next Laura Ericson trip!”
-Amanda
Ready to reserve your spot? We’ve got some options for you.
Savanna Explorer - $5499
Our classic overlanding experience. Sleep under the stars in canvas tents and sleeping bags with a sleeping pad. Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic connection with Kenya's wilderness.
DEPOSIT DUE AT BOOKING:
$1,000
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT UPGRADE:
$200
Safari Comfort - $6599
Experience Kenya’s wildlife while enjoying luxury accommodations each night. Stay in a mix of lodges and permanent tented camps with beds, electricity, and additional amenities. Ideal for those wanting more comfort without losing the essence of safari.
DEPOSIT DUE AT BOOKING:
$1,000
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT UPGRADE:
$600
I offer a free payment plan, so you can spread the payment across 9 months. Or pay in full by April 1 for an extra $200 off using code PAYINFULL at checkout (only valid at time of booking).
Additional payment due dates are May 15 ($1000), July 1 ($1000), August 15 ($1000), October 1 ($1000), and November 15 (remaining balance).
All payments are non-refundable.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need a different payment arrangement.
I look forward to sharing this adventure with you!
FAQs
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You bet! I realize this is a large investment, so I try to make my trips as affordable as possible by offering payment plans.
There is an up front deposit of $1,000 due at the time of booking, and then payments due every 6 weeks beginning May 15 through November 15.
You are responsible for making payments on time, or you will forfeit your spot without refund. All payments are due 2 months prior to departure. -
This entirely depends on your spending habits, but you’ll want to budget additional spending money for a couple meals that aren’t included, snacks for camp, as well as alcoholic beverages.
I would budget $30 a day for spending money, plus extra money for shopping if that interests you.
You’ll also want to set aside money to tip our guide, chefs, and driver. -
Yes, you will need a passport valid beyond September 22, 2026. If it will expire before then, you'll need to renew it ASAP.
If you do not have a passport, I recommend you start the process right away, as it can take several months to receive it. If you need assistance with this, feel free to reach out!
You will need to purchase an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya, which can be purchased online for $35. It takes a few days to receive it electronically after applying. More information will be provided to you in the months leading up to the trip.
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Yes, travel insurance is required for all of my trips starting in 2025, with a minimum of post-departure/travel medical coverage (typically about $50). There are options to upgrade to trip cancellation coverage + cancel for any reason coverage as well.
I always recommend getting travel insurance for large investments such as a trip like this. It's well worth the peace of mind knowing you will have travel and health coverage should something go wrong before or during your trip (and I have had several people have to use it—they were SO glad they had it).I always tell people to ask themselves, “am I willing to lose thousands of dollars should I not be able to go on this trip?” If the answer is no, consider getting trip cancellation coverage.
If you want to learn more about travel insurance and are looking for a recommendation, you can learn more about my travel insurance partner, Wanderwell, here.
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I sure hope that’s not the case, but I also realize that life can be unpredictable, and things happen.
All trip payments are non-refundable.
Filling trip spots is incredibly time-consuming. I am a small boutique travel company, and I unfortunately do not have the ability to refund people if their plans change. Your deposits go directly to my local partners, and they are non-refundable to me as well.
Travel insurance is required for this trip (a minimum of post-departure/travel medical). Trip cancellation coverage is available for purchase and will potentially cover most of your trip costs should you need to cancel for a covered reason.
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This is a rugged adventure for the intrepid traveler. We'll be sleeping in tents under the African stars and spending our days immersed in nature - tracking wildlife on game drives, hiking through national parks, and exploring by boat. We stay in remote wilderness areas and travel by 4x4, experiencing Kenya's spectacular landscapes and wildlife in their most raw and authentic form.
While this trip is fairly active and we are very on the go, you are not required to participate in all activities, and you’re free to opt out at anytime.
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Most days have some free time built in so you have time to relax or explore on your own.
In addition, all planned activities are optional, so you are free to opt out at any time if you choose.
All that being said, this trip is designed to show you the best of the best of Kenya and all activities have been personally vetted by me to ensure you’re only seeing things worth seeing. If something isn’t generally liked by the entire group, I don’t include it in the itinerary and leave it for free time.
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I typically recommend 3-6 months prior to the trip, or as soon as I’ve finalized our group and arrival details.
I will be in contact with you regularly with reminders and assistance on purchasing fights, visas, insurance, packing, and more.
In the meantime, feel free to set up a flight alert on Google Flights to start monitoring prices. You will be flying in and out of Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO).
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Absolutely not! Most people come on group trips alone, and it’s the best way to meet people!
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My trips tend to have people mostly in the 30-50 age range, but all ages 18+ are welcome. We usually have some people who are 50+ on our trips, so if that's you, don't worry!
Age is honestly just a number, and it’s more important that the trip sounds like a good fit for you than your actual age. I promise you'll make friends of all ages!
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Safety is relative and can never be guaranteed anywhere, but Kenya is a welcoming destination that's well-suited for group travel.
Traveling with our experienced guides, tour leader, and fellow adventurers provides built-in safety and support throughout the journey. While some areas of Nairobi can be busy and chaotic like any major city, the national parks, conservancies, and tribal areas we visit are well-managed for tourism.Our orientation provides practical safety tips and cultural guidance to help you travel confidently. For those dreaming of witnessing Africa's iconic wildlife, group travel offers the perfect blend of adventure and security.
Our team's local expertise and established relationships with communities ensure you can focus on the extraordinary experiences rather than logistics or safety concerns. -
The Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended and required if you're traveling from a yellow fever zone or going to Tanzania or Uganda from Kenya.
The CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Kenya take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take, if any.We also go over medications in our orientation and give suggestions on things you can bring to prevent getting sick.
Fun Facts
The official languages of Kenya are Swahili and English, but over 60 languages are spoken throughout the country.
March typically has average daily high temperatures from 68°F to 77°F. It can be a little rainy, but is usually much less busy, making it optimal for having wildlife to ourselves.
The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling, and it’s abbreviated as KES.
Kenya's landscape rises from low coastal plains on the Indian Ocean to central highlands, where most of the population lives.
The famous wildlife reserve in Kenya, Maasai Mara, is renowned sightings of the "Big Five" animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo).
Do you have additional questions about traveling with us? Read our FAQs or contact me!
After leading over 230 people through 9 countries, I've learned that while group trips are absolutely life-changing for most people, they're not everyone's cup of tea (or shot of tequila). Before you dive in, let's make sure we're a match:
Vibe Check
You'll thrive with us if:
You can roll with the punches when things go sideways (because they will - it's travel, not a scripted TV show)
You're cool with scheduled adventures (we've got amazing stuff planned, but if you're the "wake up at 2pm on vacation" type, you’ll be missing out)
You understand the whole "strength in numbers" thing means sometimes doing what works for the group vs. your sudden craving for street food at midnight
You're ready to embrace the summer camp vibes - shared meals, group transportation, and maybe even a roommate who becomes your new best friend
You can vibe with different personalities (spoiler: you won't click with everyone, and that's totally fine)
You get excited about culture shock instead of freaking out when things aren't exactly like home (that's kind of the whole point)
Think of it like joining the coolest adventure club you never knew you needed. If you're nodding along to these points, chances are you're gonna fit right in. If you're breaking out in hives just reading this... maybe stick to solo travel for now.
Remember: Travel isn't about being perfect - it's about being open to whatever awesome weirdness comes our way. Because trust me, it will.
Still have questions?
Want to scope out flight prices?
You will be flying in and out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Laura Ericson Group Trips is not responsible for any costs related to flights. You can use this tool to gauge flight prices, but please wait until you get an email from us approximately 6 months prior to your trip to book your flights to ensure you have all of the information needed for booking. We recommend always booking with the airline directly and not from an online travel agency (OTA) like Kayak, etc.
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“Travel is about the
gorgeous feeling of
teetering in the
unknown.”
— Anthony Bourdain
Contact Laura
Contact Laura