12-Day Birding Safari Circuit
The 12-Day Kenya Birding Safari Circuit is a specially designed journey for passionate birdwatchers and nature lovers. Kenya is home to over 1,100 bird species, making it one of the world’s premier birding destinations. This safari takes you through diverse ecosystems – from the wetlands of Lake Naivasha and the alkaline shores of Lake Nakuru, to the highland forests of Aberdare and the savannahs of Maasai Mara and Samburu. Along the way, you’ll spot flamingos, pelicans, eagles, hornbills, bee-eaters, turacos, and rare endemics like the Somali ostrich and Jackson’s widowbird.Led by expert birding guides, the tour combines rewarding birdwatching experiences with opportunities to encounter iconic African wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos. Whether you are an experienced birder with a life list or a beginner eager to learn, this circuit offers the perfect balance of birding, game viewing, and breathtaking landscapes.
12-Day Birding Safari Circuit
The 12-Day Kenya Birding Safari Circuit is a specially designed journey for passionate birdwatchers and nature lovers. Kenya is home to over 1,100 bird species, making it one of the world’s premier birding destinations. This safari takes you through diverse ecosystems – from the wetlands of Lake Naivasha and the alkaline shores of Lake Nakuru, to the highland forests of Aberdare and the savannahs of Maasai Mara and Samburu. Along the way, you’ll spot flamingos, pelicans, eagles, hornbills, bee-eaters, turacos, and rare endemics like the Somali ostrich and Jackson’s widowbird.Led by expert birding guides, the tour combines rewarding birdwatching experiences with opportunities to encounter iconic African wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos. Whether you are an experienced birder with a life list or a beginner eager to learn, this circuit offers the perfect balance of birding, game viewing, and breathtaking landscapes.
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Safari briefing and preparation for the birding adventure ahead. Overnight in Nairobi.
Drive to Aberdare National Park. Explore the forested highlands for species like Hartlaub’s Turaco, African Thrush, and Black-and-White Colobus monkeys. Overnight at lodge/camp.
Travel north to Samburu. Afternoon game drive and birding; look out for species unique to northern Kenya, including Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk, and Beisa Oryx. Overnight at Samburu lodge/camp.
Morning and afternoon game drives combined with birding. Expect to see Lilac-breasted Roller, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, and a variety of raptors along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Drive to Mount Kenya foothills. Explore highland forests and bamboo zones for birds such as Mountain Buzzard, White-starred Robin, and African Hill Babbler. Overnight at lodge.
Travel to Lake Naivasha. Afternoon boat ride to spot African Fish Eagle, Malachite Kingfisher, and various waterfowl. Optional walk on Crescent Island for more birding opportunities. Overnight at lake lodge.
Head to Lake Nakuru, famous for flamingos and rhinos. Enjoy afternoon game drive with excellent opportunities for photographing Pelicans, Black-necked Grebes, and other bird species. Overnight at lodge.
Drive to Maasai Mara. Afternoon birding and game drive, spotting species such as Lilac-breasted Roller, African Fish Eagle, and Yellow-billed Stork. Overnight at camp/lodge
Two full days of game drives and birding in the Mara plains. Look for Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, Vulturine Guineafowl, and migratory species during the migration season (July–October). Optional hot-air balloon for aerial bird and wildlife photography.
Two full days of game drives and birding in the Mara plains. Look for Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, Vulturine Guineafowl, and migratory species during the migration season (July–October). Optional hot-air balloon for aerial bird and wildlife photography.
Morning birding/game drive before returning to Nairobi. Evening at leisure or optional visit to Nairobi National Museum or Karura Forest for local bird species. Overnight in Nairobi.
Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your 12-day birding safari.
12-Day Birding Safari Circuit
Cost Includes
- Meet & greet on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi
- Accommodation as per itinerary (lodges/camps/hotels)
- Full board meals while on safari (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
- Professional, English-speaking birding driver-guide with expertise in East African species
- All park entry fees, conservation fees & government taxes
- Exclusive use of a 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof & large windows (ideal for bird photography)
- Unlimited game drives and guided bird walks where applicable
Cost Excludes
- International flights to/from Nairobi
- Visa fees & travel insurance
- Optional activities (e.g., night game drives, Maasai village visit, hot-air balloon safari, nature walks not in the program)
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs, etc.)
- Tips & gratuities for driver-guides, hotel staff, and porters
- Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks not included in the meal plan
- Extra accommodation before/after the safari (if required)
- Costs of photography/videography permits where applicable
