10-Day Bush and Beach Adventure: A Journey through the Heart of Kenya
Embark on a transformative journey, blending the serene beauty of Kenya’s beaches with the thrilling adventure of the Maasai Mara’s wilderness. With a carefully curated itinerary, we invite you to experience the magic of this extraordinary land.
Arrival Day: Karibu Nairobi, Kenya
Welcome to Kenya
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where you'll be warmly greeted by our trusted partners. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the Tamarind Tree Hotel for a restful overnight stay, setting the tone for your adventure ahead.
Day 1: Nairobi to Watamu Beach - Relax on the Kenyan Coast
Start Your African Adventure
After a hearty breakfast at Tamarind Tree, our team will take you to the airport for a flight to Watamu, a stunning coastal paradise. Upon arrival at Malindi Airport, you'll be driven to Medina Palms, a beautifully designed Swahili-style resort nestled on the pristine shores of Watamu Beach. Here, unwind in the tranquil surroundings and prepare to relax for the next three nights.
Day 2: Explore the Serenity of Watamu Beach
Day at Leisure
Savour a leisurely breakfast amidst the lush tropical gardens of Medina Palms. Spend the day enjoying the resort’s first-class amenities, including the sparkling swimming pool, or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Sakina Ocean Spa. If you're feeling adventurous, consider exploring the area with an optional visit to nearby attractions or simply relax and unwind by the beach.
Day 3: Discover Watamu’s Rich Marine Life
Dive into the Underwater Wonders
Spend the day discovering the wonders of Watamu Marine National Park, home to over 600 species of fish, including vibrant clownfish, parrotfish, and majestic sea turtles. From November to February, whale sharks are also spotted here! For a unique cultural experience, you may visit Gede—an ancient Swahili town dating back to the 12th century—or the Watamu Turtle Sanctuary, where the Local Ocean Trust cares for rescued sea turtles. Conclude the day with a sunset dhow cruise aboard a traditional Arab sailing vessel, gliding across the waters as the sun sets on the horizon.
Day 4: Watamu Beach to Nairobi - A Glimpse of Village Life
Saying Goodbye to the Coast
After a final breakfast at Medina Palms, you will be transferred back to Malindi Airport for your flight to Nairobi. Once in Nairobi, travel to the charming village of Mua Hills, Machakos, where you’ll experience authentic Kenyan village life. Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Nthenya’s parents on their farm, followed by a relaxed drive back to Nairobi for an overnight stay at the Tamarind Tree Hotel.
Day 5: Nairobi to Maasai Mara - Into the Wild!
Journey to the Heart of the Mara
After breakfast, your adventure continues as you fly from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. The 45-minute flight over the Great Rift Valley offers panoramic views of Kenya’s stunning landscape. Upon arrival, your first game drive will introduce you to the reserve’s abundant wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and lions. Check-in at Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, where you can enjoy lunch, unwind in your luxurious tented accommodation, and settle into the rhythm of the Mara.
Day 6-8: Maasai Mara - Unleash Your Inner Explorer
Game Drives and Unique Adventures
You have the option of two or three game drives (per full day) within the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Begin each day with an early morning game drive or opt for a game drive after breakfast, where you’ll have the chance to observe the rich wildlife in their natural habitat in the Mara plains. From the ‘Big Five’ to countless bird species, the Mara offers exceptional wildlife encounters. If you’re seeking something extraordinary, ask your travel designer about a hot-air balloon safari at sunrise, providing a breathtaking aerial view of the reserve.
In the evenings, return to camp for drinks and a traditional Maasai dance around the campfire followed by a peaceful dinner. Fall asleep to the distant calls of wild animals.
Day 9: Maasai Mara to Nairobi - Farewell to the Mara
One Last Game Drive
On your final morning in the Maasai Mara, take one last game drive to capture the essence of the Mara before you depart. After a late breakfast at camp, you’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Nairobi, where you’ll enjoy a quiet evening and overnight stay at Tamarind Tree Hotel.
Day 10: Nairobi - Kwaheri Kenya
A Fond Goodbye
End your adventure with a visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, home to orphaned elephants who are being cared for and rehabilitated in preparation for their return to the wild. Then, take a short trip to the Giraffe Centre to meet the famous Rothschild giraffes and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures. After a final lunch, you’ll be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight home, leaving Kenya with unforgettable memories and a piece of your heart left behind.
This 10-day itinerary combines the best of Kenya’s coastal beauty and its world-renowned wildlife experiences. From the sandy shores of Watamu Beach to the expansive plains of the Maasai Mara, every moment is designed to provide you with unforgettable memories. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring marine life, or witnessing incredible wildlife in the Mara, this adventure promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Let us help you plan your perfect East African getaway—where your dream journey becomes a reality.