9-Day Samburu, Masai Mara & Diani Safari and Beach Experience

Samburu, Masai Mara & Diani

Rates From $2,775

About This Tour

A classic Kenyan journey unfolds across distinct ecosystems, pairing remote northern wilderness with legendary savannahs and a quiet ocean retreat. The expedition balances dramatic wildlife observation with deep physical relaxation, creating an ideal escape for couples and families who appreciate a steady, calm travel pace.

Travelers journey from the arid red crust of Samburu into the private conservation lands of Laikipia, before flying south to the wide plains of the Masai Mara and concluding along the white sands of Diani. Each transition introduces a new rhythm, moving seamlessly from active bush exploration to peaceful coastal rest.

The journey prioritizes comfort and steady pacing, utilizing exceptional mid-range accommodations that emphasize local hospitality and scenic locations. Guests experience the genuine warmth of traditional guiding, ensuring a reassuring sense of security and immersion throughout the entire loop.

Our Community Impact

This itinerary actively supports local livelihoods by sourcing accommodation from properties that prioritize indigenous employment. Bed fees and conservation levies directly fund community-led infrastructure, supporting local schools and healthcare initiatives outside the main reserve borders.

Our Sustainability Promise

JohnBow Tours and Travel selects eco-certified partners dedicated to low-impact operations. The featured lodges use solar power systems, enforce strict plastic-free policies, and actively support indigenous reforestation projects to protect fragile habitats.

Why This Safari Works

The architecture of this route minimizes travel fatigue through an intentional combination of overland drives and strategic domestic flights. Beginning in the dry northern territories allows guests to acclimatize gently while observing rare localized wildlife species. Moving onward into a private Laikipia conservation area offers exclusive, crowd-free walking excursions that break the traditional vehicle-bound routine. The journey reaches its wildlife peak in the rich Masai Mara ecosystem before a direct flight transports travellers to the coast, replacing a grueling full-day drive with a swift, comfortable transition straight to the ocean breeze. This thoughtful layout ensures energy levels remain high, perfectly balancing intense game viewing with restorative beach relaxation. It serves as a seamless entry point for first-time safari goers and multi-generational families.

Your Trip at a Glance

A snapshot of your entire experience, from key highlights to where you'll stay and what to expect each day.

  • All-Inclusive
  • All-Inclusive Meals
  • Beach Activities
  • Big Five Experience
  • Boat Safaris
  • Children Allowed
  • City Tours
  • Cultural Visits
  • Family Safari
  • Flight Transfer (Fly-in)
  • Fly-In Safari
  • Full Board
  • Game Drives
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Luxury Safari
  • Photography Safaris
  • Rhino Tracking
  • Spa & Wellness

Trip Summary

  • Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
  • Day 2: Full Day in Samburu National Reserve
  • Day 3: Samburu to Laikipia
  • Day 4: Full Day in Laikipia
  • Day 5: Laikipia to Masai Mara National Reserve
  • Day 6: Full Day in Masai Mara
  • Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi JKIA for flight connection to Diani
  • Day 8: Full Day in Diani
  • Day 9: Diani to Nairobi by flight

Destinations

  • Samburu National Reserve
  • Laikipia Plateau
  • Masai Mara National Reserve
  • Diani Beach

Where You Stay

  • Night 1 & 2: Samburu Simba Lodge
  • Night 3 & 4: Ol Gaboli Community Lodge
  • Night 5 & 6: Enkorok Mara Camp
  • Night 7 & 8: Diani Sea Resort

Safari Highlights

  • Watching the morning sun highlight the red earth of the Samburu wilderness.
  • Tracking the specialized northern endemic species along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
  • Walking quietly through the private community-owned conservation lands of Laikipia.
  • Enjoying an open-air bush dinner under a vast starlit northern sky.
  • Witnessing the grand expanse of the gold-hued Masai Mara savannah.
  • Spotting predators resting under solitary acacia trees during afternoon drives.
  • Feeling the smooth white sand and warm turquoise water of Diani Beach.
  • Flying low over the Great Rift Valley during scenic domestic flight transfers.

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Smooth morning drive past the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya.

  • Arrival at the lodge in time for a refreshing lunch.

  • First afternoon game drive as the wilderness temperature begins to drop.

Itinerary information

The journey begins with a scenic drive northward from the capital, watching the green central highlands transform into semi-arid northern plains. Arriving at the lodge, the dry, warm air carries the distinct scent of the wild bush. An afternoon drive introduces the rugged beauty of the reserve, where doum palms line the life-giving river. Golden light bathes the unique terrain as animals emerge to feed.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Early morning search for rare northern wildlife specialities.

  • Midday relaxation overlooking the scenic riverbanks.

  • Sunset game drive across the distinctive red-dirt plains.

Itinerary information

A full day reveals the unique character of this northern ecosystem. Game drives focus on tracking the localized species unique to this region, including the reticular giraffe and grevy’s zebra. The morning hours offer the best opportunity to observe predators on the move. Returning to the lodge, guests enjoy a quiet afternoon watching elephants bathe in the brown river waters.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Samburu Simba Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Short transition drive into the spectacular Laikipia plateau.

  • Warm welcome by community hosts at a unique eco-lodge.

  • Guided evening walk to learn about local plant medicine.

Itinerary information

The route climbs gently onto the high-altitude plateau of Laikipia, a region famed for its innovative community conservation success. The landscape shifts toward open bushland and rocky kopjes. Guests settle into an authentic community-owned lodge built beside a flowing river. The evening brings a slower pace, exploring the immediate surroundings on foot accompanied by local guardians.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Ol Gaboli Community Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Morning guided bush trek along the river corridors.

  • Interactive visit to a community-led livestock and wildlife project.

  • Peaceful sundowner atop a rocky viewpoint overlooking the plains.

Itinerary information

This day emphasizes a deeper connection with the land and its people. A guided morning walk offers a sensory experience, focusing on animal tracks, birdsong, and traditional bushcraft. The afternoon provides insights into how local communities harmoniously manage livestock alongside wild predators. The day concludes with a quiet drink on a high ridge as twilight settles over the plateau.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Ol Gaboli Community Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Scenic drive across the dramatic Great Rift Valley floor.

  • Afternoon entry into the world-renowned Masai Mara ecosystem.

  • Evening campfire stories under the vast African night sky.

Itinerary information

The safari moves south across the iconic rift valley landscape before rising onto the rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara. The immense scale of the savannah becomes immediately apparent as thousands of herbivores dot the horizon. Guests reach the tented camp tucked into the riverine forest. The night begins with the ambient sounds of the bush echoing through the canvas walls.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Enkorok Mara

Itinerary Highlights

  • Sunrise game drive across the endless savannah pathways.

  • Picnic lunch served under a solitary wild balanites tree.

  • Late afternoon search for resident big cats and large elephant herds.

Itinerary information

An immersive full day exploring one of the most productive wildlife zones on earth. The morning drive searches for lions, leopards, and cheetahs returning from night hunts. The vast plains provide exceptional visibility, allowing guests to watch natural animal behaviors unfold without rush. A picnic lunch out on the plains ensures maximum time is spent deep within the reserve.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Enkorok Mara

Itinerary Highlights

  • Final short morning drive out of the plains.

  • Domestic flight connection via Nairobi to the Kenyan coast.

  • First evening stroll along the soft sands of the Indian Ocean.

Itinerary information

A morning flight carries guests away from the wild plains back toward Nairobi for a swift connection down to the coast. The crisp bush air is replaced by the warm, humid breeze of the Indian Ocean. Arriving at Diani, the contrast is striking as turquoise waters replace golden grasslands. The evening is spent unwinding on the beach as the waves roll in.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

  • Accommodation: Diani Sea Resort

Itinerary Highlights

  • Breakfast overlooking the sparkling ocean waters.

  • Optional snorkeling or dhow sailing across the coral reef.

  • Peaceful relaxation under the shade of coastal palm trees.

Itinerary information

A completely open day dedicated to coastal rest and personal rejuvenation. Guests can swim in the warm ocean, lounge by the pool, or walk along the expansive shoreline. The resort provides an array of amenities and unlimited selected drinks, allowing for total peace of mind. The pace is entirely dictated by personal preference, celebrating a beautiful end to the journey.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (including selected drinks)

  • Accommodation: Diani Sea Resort

Itinerary Highlights

  • Relaxed morning enjoying the resort facilities.

  • Afternoon transfer to the local airstrip for the flight to Nairobi.

  • Arrival at JKIA in time for onward international flight connections.

Itinerary information

The final morning allows for a last swim or souvenir shopping along the beach. An afternoon transfer leads to the airstrip for a comfortable domestic flight back to Nairobi. Arriving at the international airport, guests connect seamlessly to their homeward flights, carrying vivid memories of northern deserts, wild plains, and tropical shores.

  • Meals: Breakfast

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ We designed this itinerary specifically to solve the common issue of safari burnout; combining road travel in the north with internal flights down south preserves your comfort perfectly. ❞

~JohnBow Safari Expert Team

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

Guests2 Guests4 Guests6 Guests
Peak Season – 1 July – 31 Oct$ 3,385$ 2,930$ 2,775

Important Rate Notes

  • Rates are based on per person Sharing.
  • Room configurations vary across mid-range properties and triple rooms are often limited.
  • Single room supplements apply to bookings with an odd number of adult travellers.
  • Child policies differ significantly between properties and specific age limits will be verified during booking.
  • Internal airline baggage allowances are strictly limited to fifteen kilograms per passenger in soft bags.

What's Included

  • All accommodation nights and full board meals as listed.
  • Private 4x4 safari Land Cruiser for all mainland road transport.
  • All airport and airstrip transfers throughout the itinerary.
  • Unlimited selected beverages during the stay at Diani Sea Resort.
  • Daily scheduled game drives and guided community bush walks.
  • National park, reserve, and community conservation entry fees.
  • Scheduled domestic flights from Masai Mara to Nairobi and Diani.
  • Services of a certified professional English-speaking driver-guide.

Optional Addons

  • Hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara plains on Day 6.
  • Guided day trip to a traditional Maasai cultural village.
  • Half-day scuba diving or deep-sea fishing excursion in Diani.
  • Professional private photography vehicle upgrade in Samburu.

What's Not Included

  • International flight tickets and corresponding airport departure taxes.
  • Entry visa fees for the Republic of Kenya.
  • Comprehensive personal travel and medical insurance policies.
  • Premium alcoholic beverages, spirits, and specialized bottled wines.
  • Voluntary tips and gratuities for safari guides and lodge staff.
  • Laundry services at the mid-range community properties.

Ready to start planning your Safari? Tell us your travel dates, who you are traveling with, and what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Laikipia operates under private and community conservation models, which means vehicles can drive off-road for closer tracking and guests can legally walk through the bush. National reserves have strict rules prohibiting walking, so Laikipia offers a rare physical freedom that balances the traditional vehicle-bound safari experience.
Samburu is home to the “Special Five”—animals adapted to arid environments that do not inhabit the Masai Mara. These include the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and the long-necked gerenuk, which stands on its hind legs to browse.
The small domestic aircraft servicing the bush airstrips have small cargo holds and enforce a strict fifteen-kilogram limit per person. Soft-sided duffel bags are required because rigid suitcases cannot physically fit into the planes, meaning heavy items should be left at the Nairobi base or packed lightly.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

Posted on Google Google
Dorcas Munga profile picture
Dorcas Munga
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great planning and communication. My trips have been smooth. All expectations met 💯
Posted on Google Google
Mike Bourassa profile picture
Mike Bourassa
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our driver, Patrick, made the experience even more special with his outgoing personality and his knowledge of each park. He always made certain that he positioned his vehicle just right so we could get a perfect photo. He shared a lot about African culture an answered our questions. His keen eye spotted a cheetah from a long distance and we experienced the animal stalk and catch his prey (only to have a hyena steal it from him at the end). The accommodations were excellent at Massai Mara but were a bit too primitive at Amboseli. The large openings between the sleeping area and the bathroom brought way too many bugs into the tent. Wonderful memories of the entire experience!! We hope to come back next year and Patrick will be our choice of guide.
Posted on Google Google
Kate Mandere profile picture
Kate Mandere
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Wonderful team, very warm, helpful and well coordinated!
Posted on Google Google
Emmy Chepkoech profile picture
Emmy Chepkoech
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I recently booked my 1st trip with Johnbow Tours and Travel and it was an outstanding experience from the start to finish. The team was professional, well-organised, helpful and incredibly friendly. Transfer to my hotel room and back was handled smoothly allowing us to relax and enjoy our journey. The fact that they allow lipa mdogo mdogo was not overwhelming paying for the package...I can't wait to book again with Johnbow 😊
Posted on Google Google
Gloria Kikete profile picture
Gloria Kikete
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jonbow has offers seamless travel service with a personal touch.
Posted on Google Google
Lolo Chgn profile picture
Lolo Chgn
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Safaris de 5 jours depart Nairobi et arrivée à Diani beach Visite des parcs d’amboseli, tsavo ouest et est , t.hills Découverte d une faune magnifique Notre chauffeur Chombo a tout fait pour rechercher les animaux et il était à notre écoute ! Dépaysement total garanti Les hôtels étaient tout confort avec des conditions d’alimentation en eau et électricité précaire ! Nous remercions vraiment Morris et Chombo pour ce magnifique Safari
Posted on Google Google
Irene Nduku profile picture
Irene Nduku
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent services, the team was friendly, efficient and went above and beyond to meet my need.Their service was prompt and effective. I highly recommend
Posted on Google Google
Cheyenne van den B profile picture
Cheyenne van den B
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a two day tour with Johnbow Tours & Travel to Tsavo West. The park itself is not that good to be honest, but we stayed at Salt Lick lodge and that was amazing. The animals are coming so close to the lodge, it is really beautiful to see. The driver Pius was also really nice and he had a lot of knowledge about the animals. I have been in contact with Morris and that was also really pleasant because of the arrangement we had.
Posted on Google Google
virginia mumo profile picture
virginia mumo
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As a team of 12pax..we had an exceptional good experience with the Johnbow team. Well informed and humble team who contributed a lot to an enjoyable trip and creating memories.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Stay06810033473 profile picture
Stay06810033473
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Customer Servive Customer service was great!Communication was timely and effective especially as there were some flight changes.Either way the bookings were perfect, customer service was exceptional and we even got a treat for our anniversary, at no extra costElijah and Sam were very helpful.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Annette M profile picture
Annette M
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Exceptional Experience with Johnbow Tours and Travel! I had an unforgettable trip to Bali and Thailand, the guides were amazing, the places beautiful and the itinerary on point. Bali has very many temples and beautiful rice terraces, the swings and sunset views unforgettable. thank you Johnbow for the tour.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
KSP profile picture
KSP
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Memorable Safari with a Great Team and Guide We had a really good experience with Johnbow Tours during our Kenya safari. Morris, our main point of contact, was communicative and professional throughout. He stayed in touch via WhatsApp both before and during the trip, answering all our questions quickly and clearly, which gave us a lot of confidence going in.The pricing felt fair for what we received, and the Land Cruiser was comfortable, especially considering the long drives. They also provided snacks at the start of the trip upon request, which was thoughtful.Our guide, Paul, was very knowledgeable. He had a sharp eye for spotting animals and shared interesting facts about everything we saw. We had plenty of game drives and were lucky to spot a wide variety of wildlife.The only small issue was around water. We had been told water would be included throughout, but at a couple of the lodges, we were charged for drinking water, tea, or coffee during meals. It wasn’t a big deal, but having clarity on that from the start would’ve been helpful.Overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable safari. The team was dependable, the schedule was well planned, and we felt taken care of from start to finish. I’d absolutely recommend Johnbow to anyone planning a private safari in Kenya.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Alain V profile picture
Alain V
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A great experience, a must for everyone who reads this Jonbow, our driver who has the same name as the agency, took very good care of us. He was on time for the appointment. Once on the road he was super attentive. In the park he was always the first to spot the game. He gave us very good explanations about all the animals we saw. No effort was too much to make us spot all the game. Super friendly and helpful guy. He operates from Mombasa/Diani Beach. He made sure that our safari will remain unforgettable.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
winnie a profile picture
winnie a
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Dubai tour 2024 was a birthday gift to my son who turned lucky number seven. I writing to thank you for coordinating our trip to UAE, dubai. Everything was perfect; the flight, the hotel was clean and all staff were friendly and professional. Special thanks to Mary Gathua as she was the one who coordinated everything for us.The tour guides were excellent! They made things as easy for us as possible. I really appreciate these and that indicate the quality services that they provide.We had dubai town tour and our guide, Mr. Albert did exceptionally well. We learnt about the origin of UAE and the important features in dubai. We had dhow cruise with dinner, and the dessert safari with dinner.Desert safari was the best of the trip (the driver , Mr . Zaheer was very professional, and the overall experience was thrilling and amazing). The desert safari remains in my priority to do list when I visit dubai next.I would certainly recommend Johnbow Tours and travel to anyone wanting to visit Dubai. Thank you again and look forward to plan our next vacation with you.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
maryanne o profile picture
maryanne o
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome Best tour company ..travelled to Dubai in Emirates .Booked the best hotel in Dubai..Johnbow staff are friendly and accommodatve I rate them10/10 they're affordable too .
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
M A profile picture
M A
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Superb service Happy New Year! Eunice managed our travel plans superbly, and I’m grateful. Our stay at Pride Inn was delightful; the staff’s service, food, attention, and entertainment made our holiday special and memorable. Thanks again for your excellent services.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
gladys n profile picture
gladys n
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Efficient Eunice of John Bow ,was pretty helpful from getting us a hotel to SGR tickets, and transfers to the hotel.She also called to ensure we arrived safely.I loved the seamless process and especially because we chat on whatsapp mostly. Johnbow tours keep their word! I would choose them again.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Christine N profile picture
Christine N
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome experience This travel company was very efficient. I engaged them on whatsapp in the morning and by afternoon they had finalised everything including the sgr tickets. Their staff Eunice was readily available even at night because we did night travel. And early morning at 4 am, she called to find out if the driver had picked us. I would recommend them anytime
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sabina M profile picture
Sabina M
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
It was a time of relaxation and fun. The trip was well planned from Nairobi to Maasai Mara. We had so much fun and took so many photos. We saw lions, cheetahs, elephants and other animals. If we could do it again, we would still chose Johnbow tours and travel.
info@johnbowtoursandtravel.com
Kenya Cinema Plaza, 3rd Floor Room 3-8. Moi Avenue, Nairobi