Premium Kenya & Southern Africa Highlights

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.8

2 Reviews

Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Enjoy a front-row seat for the wonders of Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana on this 15-day Premium journey. From Nairobi, travel to the waters of lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, then discover the wildlife and landscapes of the Maasai Mara from four-wheel drive Landcruisers.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (7), Dinner (11)
Accommodation: Hotel (3 nights), Lodge (8 nights), Permanent tented camp (3 nights)

Highlights

Spend two nights in touch with nature at your Feature Stay in Kruger National Park. The Mdluli Safari Lodge is dedicated to sustainability and conservation, with its own anti-poaching unit and partnership with the local community.
Enjoy three unforgettable nights at your Feature Stay camp, located with easy access to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Search for lions and cheetahs on 4WD safaris and enjoy sunset drinks within the park.
Visit a local Maasai community known for championing Maasai women’s health and education. During this Signature Experience, you’ll be welcomed by traditional Maasai warrior song and dance and learn about this remarkable and ancient culture.
Go on an intimate sunset river cruise on the Zambezi River – a Signature Experience. A private chef will prepare canapes and drinks as your boat navigates the islands above the thundering Victoria Falls.
Look for elephant families on 4WD safaris through Hwange National Park, home to Zimbabwe’s largest population of elephants as well as endangered wild dogs and nearly 400 species of birds.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

4WD Safari Vehicle, Boat, Private Vehicle, Plane

Guide Language

English

Starts

Nairobi, Kenya

Finishes

Victoria Falls, Kenya

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi

Jambo! Welcome to Kenya. When you arrive, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Nairobi, where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe browse the artistic and cultural displays at the Nairobi Gallery or lounge by the pool at your home for the night – a central hotel complete with bold pan-African art and a sauna and steam room. After your welcome meeting, you’ll head out for dinner with your group. Sharing food is a big part of the culture here and a great way to get to know your new travel companions – maybe try samosas, fried plantains and tilapia.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Nairobi - Welcome Dinner

Optional Activities:

Nairobi - City Experience Urban Adventure (45 USD)

Accommodation:

The Social House or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Lake Nakuru

Today, you’ll travel to the Great Rift Valley of East Africa. Along the way, you’ll stop in Elsamere – the former home of writer Joy Adamson, whose 1960 book helped bring wildlife conservation into the mainstream. The house is a veritable museum dedicated to the works of Joy and George Adamson, with many photos of Elsa (the lioness that started it all). Then, embark on a boat trip on Lake Naivasha, the highest lake in the Great Rift Valley and home to many hippos. Later, sit down to a high tea lunch on the very grounds Joy cherished for so many years, with the lake as a serene backdrop. After lunch, continue to your Lake Nakuru lodge, arriving in the early evening. From your lodge, take in the magnificent views of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding national park, alive with the call of birds and rich in wildlife.

Included Activities:

Lake Naivasha - Boat trip
Lake Naivasha - Elsamere Conservation Centre

Accommodation:

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Lake Nakuru

This morning you’ll visit Lake Nakuru National Park – situated in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. As you explore, look for some of the many birds and wildlife who call this national park home – including waterbuck, Rothschild’s giraffes, gazelles and leopards. After a morning spent learning about this diverse landscape with your knowledgeable local leader, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch, before heading out for a game drive this afternoon. Keep your eyes peeled for one of Africa's most endangered creatures, the elusive black rhinoceros.

Included Activities:

Lake Nakuru - Lake Nakuru National Park Visit
Lake Nakuru - 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Travel to the Maasai Mara this morning – one of the most active and beautiful game reserves in Africa. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it’s a good idea to get stuck into a book or favourite podcast. Along the way you’ll cross the Great Rift Valley and pass by the remote region of Loita Hills, home of the Maasai people. This is one of the few places where they still practice their traditional way of life with little influence from the western world. Stop at Tepesua Village where you’ll be welcomed by Maasai warriors through traditional song and dance. When you arrive, you’ll meet your Maasai hosts and take a walk to the community village. The village offers support, safety and economic growth through the Tepesua Widows Income Project, where widowed women sew eco-friendly handicrafts to sell to visitors and locals. Learn about village life and be shown around a traditional Maasai home and cattle enclosure. Later, move on to Zebra River Camp – your Feature Stay accommodation for the next three nights. Here, you can watch the sunset and share stories over the bonfire (maybe with a cocktail) before retiring to your room.

Included Activities:

Loita Hills - Tepesua Camp Maasai Village Visit

Accommodation:

Zebra Valley Camp (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Explore more of the park by 4WD today with game drives from morning to afternoon. You’ll drive to the further part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve to look for wildlife including wildebeest, zebra and gazelles. Elephants, giraffes and elands are also commonly sighted, along with plenty of bird life. The area is known for its green plains and riverine woodlands. As the sun starts to set, stop and take a moment to soak it all in with a drink in hand – which is just what you’ll do during your Premium Signature Experience. Set against the backdrop of the open wilderness, indulge in canapes, light bites and a sundowner as the atmosphere comes alive with traditional Maasai dance performances and a cosy bonfire. As dusk falls, a variety of animals might be visible in the vicinity of your camp.

Included Activities:

Maasai Mara - Full Day 4WD Safari
Maasai Mara - Sundowner with Bonfire and Maasai Dancers

Accommodation:

Zebra Valley Camp (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Maasai Mara National Reserve

This morning, maybe take an optional hot balloon ride over Maasai Mara at sunrise. If you’ve pre-booked this activity, you’ll be picked up before dawn and driven to the launch site for a safety briefing from your pilot. You’ll then glide through the skies, sometimes at tree height, for some amazing photo opportunities. After landing, you’ll sit down to a bush breakfast before meeting up with the rest of your group. Today you’ll venture into the Maasai Mara National Reserve with expert local driver guides for a day-long 4WD safari. Explore this diverse environment and look for roaming wildlife like lions and cheetahs along the way.

Included Activities:

Maasai Mara - Full Day 4WD Safari

Optional Activities:

Maasai Mara National Reserve - Balloon Safari (500 USD)
Maasai Mara - Half Day 4WD Safari (80 USD)
Maasai Mara National Reserve - Guided Walking Safari (30 USD)

Accommodation:

Zebra Valley Camp (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Nairobi

Say goodbye to the Maasai Mara and drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll have a free evening to spend at your leisure before you depart for South Africa tomorrow morning.

Accommodation:

The Social House or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Johannesburg

This morning, you’ll take an included transfer to the airport, where you’ll board your flight to Johannesburg. When you arrive, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight where you'll meet your new leader and group for the next leg of your trip. After the meeting, join your leader and fellow travellers for dinner at your hotel. South Africa has a diverse food scene flavoured by its multicultural influences. This evening, you may like to try some boerewors (a spiced South African sausage) or perhaps some springbok carpaccio (thinly sliced raw meat).

Included Activities:

Johannesburg - Welcome Dinner
Complimentary Arrival Transfer - OR Tambo International Airport to Johannesburg Hotel

Accommodation:

The Maslow Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Kruger National Park

Set off early for a drive to Kruger National Park, arriving just in time for lunch at Mdluli Safari Lodge – your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights. Created in partnership with the local Mdluli community, the lodge is in perfect harmony with its wild surroundings. In the afternoon, you'll set off on your first open 4WD safari. See some of your favourite wild animals in their own habitat, including lions, elephants, rhinos and leopards!

Included Activities:

Kruger National Park - Afternoon 4WD Safari

Accommodation:

Mdluli Safari Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Kruger National Park

This morning, make the journey into the heart of Kruger National Park, where you'll find yourself in the perfect position to catch a glimpse of one, or hopefully all, of Africa's iconic animals. Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa, home to 500 bird species, 100 reptile species and 150 mammal species. As you journey through the park’s diverse habitats, including savanna, mixed acacia woodlands and rocky hills, you’ll stop at waterholes and other various points to see animals such as zebras, giraffes and African wild dogs, going about their day. Today's game drive will finish in time for sunset and drinks, served on a kopje at your Feature Stay. Pronounced 'kopee', these large ancient rock formations provide scenic contrasts across Africa's vast landscapes. Take a moment to sit back and take in the sounds and sights of the bush as the day turns to night.

Included Activities:

Kruger National Park - Full Day 4WD Safari
Kruger National Park - Sundowner Drinks

Accommodation:

Mdluli Safari Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Victoria Falls

Say goodbye to South Africa as you board a flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. When you arrive, continue to your lodge accommodation, which serves up beautiful views of uninterrupted wilderness and a waterhole frequented by elephant, buffalo, kudu and more! Maybe spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or spotting wildlife from the multiple viewing decks around the lodge, before embarking on a small and intimate dinner cruise on the Zambezi River tonight. Sit down to a four-course meal of fresh, locally sourced ingredients as you navigate around the islands above the thundering Victoria Falls. Be sure to look for crocodiles lazing on the banks or elephants and hippos submerging themselves in the river as the sun sets.

Included Activities:

Victoria Falls - Zambezi River Dinner Cruise

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight (25 mins - Excludes USD39 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (328 USD)
Victoria Falls - Helicopter Flight of the Angels (12 mins - Excludes US$29 fuel surcharge and NP fees) (173 USD)

Accommodation:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world, and today you’ll witness its might. Plunging over 100 m into a deep gorge, take in its raw power and beauty as you explore the rich flora, fauna, birdlife and fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site with your local leader by your side. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe continue to wander around Victoria Falls or relax with a swim at Devil’s Pool – a natural rock pool at the edge of the waterfall (season dependent).

Included Activities:

Victoria Falls - Guided Tour

Optional Activities:

Victoria Falls - Traditional Village Tour (74 USD)
Victoria Falls - Jet Boat (Seasonal - excludes USD12 NP Fee) (141 USD)
Victoria Falls - Whitewater rafting (Seasonal - excludes USD12 NP Fee) (173 USD)
Victoria Falls - Simunye Show (58 USD)
Victoria Falls - Bridge Swing (137 USD)

Accommodation:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Hwange National Park

Depart Victoria Falls this morning, headed for Hwange. When you arrive, settle into your lodge. This afternoon, you’ll go on a wildlife safari in Hwange National Park. This is the largest national park in Zimbabwe’s north-west, spanning more than 14,500 sq km. Keep an eye out for buffalo, leopards, lions, elephants (Zimbabwe’s largest population of elephants resides here!) and endangered wild dogs. Nearly 400 species of birds can be found here, as well as rare mammals like sables and roan antelope. End the day by soaking up your surroundings with a sundowner in hand.

Included Activities:

Hwange National Park - Afternoon Game Drive and Sundowners

Accommodation:

Ivory Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Hwange National Park

Embark on a full-day drive in Hwange National Park today to see more of the incredible wildlife that roams these vast savannas and teak forests. Return to your lodge in the mid-afternoon, where you’ll have some free time to relax.

Included Activities:

Hwange National Park - Full Day Game Drive

Accommodation:

Ivory Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Victoria Falls

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Victoria Falls, where your adventure comes to an end. You’ll arrive around midday, so please book flights accordingly, and not before late afternoon at the earliest. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $22,290

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 06 Feb 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Chris

Traveled, September 2023

10/08/2023

The Intrepid premium trip to Africa is a great way to experience the safari experience and to not just the ‘big 5’ but many other wild animals in their natural habitat…going to different countries also show cases the diversity of landscapes and cultures.

5.0

Maryann

Traveled, August 2024

09/17/2024

This was my 8th Intrepid trip. I really enjoy their close connection that using local guides and drivers provides. I highly recommend the company.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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