16 Days Kenya Safari and Swahili Coast Escape

Depart Iceland on your international flight to Kenya. Overnight in transit.

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where you are warmly received and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax, recover from travel, and prepare for your safari adventure.

Begin the morning with a game drive in Nairobi National Park, where lions, rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo roam freely against the striking backdrop of the city skyline — a rare blend of wilderness and urban contrast.

Late morning, visit the renowned David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Sheldrick Wildlife Trust). During the public viewing hour, watch rescued baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud while keepers share their individual rescue stories and conservation journey. Continue to the Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Feed the giraffes from an elevated platform and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. In the afternoon, visit a local children’s home (pre-arranged and ethical visit). Spend time interacting, sharing stories, and learning about community initiatives supporting vulnerable children. This visit adds a meaningful cultural and humanitarian dimension to your Kenyan experience. Return to your hotel in the evening for relaxation

After breakfast, transfer to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Arrive at your camp in time for lunch. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive across the rolling plains, searching for elephants, lions, cheetahs, and vast herds of plains game.

Begin with an early morning game drive when predators are most active. After lunch and relaxation at camp, enjoy an afternoon safari exploring different sections of the reserve.

 

Spend a full day exploring deeper into the Mara ecosystem. Track big cats, observe large elephant herds, and enjoy exceptional birdlife. This is an ideal day for photography and immersive wildlife observation.

Optional morning visit to a Maasai village before driving back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy a relaxed evening as you prepare for your coastal extension.

Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lamu.

  Lamu is the oldest continually inhabited Swahili settlement on the Kenyan coast and a UNESCO-listed heritage town. The island is car-free, with residents traveling by foot or donkey along narrow streets lined with centuries-old Swahili and Arabic architecture.   Relax along Shela Beach, explore the historic old town, or enjoy a traditional dhow excursion to nearby islands such as Manda Toto.

Enjoy a relaxed day at leisure. Sail on a traditional dhow, indulge in Swahili cuisine, and explore Lamu’s charming streets at your own pace. This day is designed for rest and immersion in coastal culture.

Another free day to embrace island life. Optional activities include beach time, guided cultural walks, yoga sessions, or spa treatments. In the evening, gather for a farewell coastal dinner.

Check out and take an afternoon flight back to Nairobi. Upon arrival, proceed by road to the scenic Laikipia Plateau via the Central Highlands. Optional stop at the equator marker for photos.

Spend the day exploring Ol Pejeta Conservancy, known for its strong conservation focus. Visit the rhino sanctuary, home to both black and white rhinos, and optionally the chimpanzee sanctuary. The conservancy also hosts Kenya’s second-largest lion population

Another full safari day within Ol Pejeta. Enjoy extended game drives across diverse landscapes. Optional afternoon visit to a nearby local market for cultural interaction.

   

After breakfast, drive back to Nairobi. Check in and enjoy a relaxed afternoon to unwind after your bush experience.

Explore Nairobi at leisure. Visit craft markets and souvenir shops for authentic Kenyan gifts and keepsakes. Optional city excursions can be arranged depending on interests.

Transfer to the airport for your return international flight to Iceland, marking the end of your comprehensive Kenya safari and coastal journey.