This 6-day birding safari takes you through Kenya’s central highlands and the semi-arid north, offering a rich blend of montane, forest, and savannah birds. Start in the misty Aberdare ranges, move into the montane forest zone of Mount Kenya, and end in the drier Samburu region — home to unique northern species found nowhere else in Kenya.
Expect to record 350–400 bird species in just under a week, plus a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, Grevy’s zebra, and reticulated giraffes. This route is perfect for both avid birders and nature enthusiasts who want a short yet rewarding ornithological experience.
Depart Nairobi after breakfast and drive north through rolling farmlands and tea estates to Aberdare National Park. Arrive for lunch, followed by an afternoon birding walk in the moorlands and forest fringes.
Birds to Spot: Aberdare Cisticola (endemic), Hartlaub’s Turaco, Mountain Yellow Warbler, and Tacazze Sunbird.
Accommodation: Dinner & Overnight: The Ark Lodge / Aberdare Country Club.
Morning bird walk before heading to Mount Kenya National Park. Enjoy birding in montane forest and bamboo zones.
Birds to Spot: Hunter’s Cisticola, White-starred Robin, Olive Ibis, and Grey Apalis. Optional forest walk for butterflies and small mammals.
Accommodation: Dinner & Overnight: Serena Mountain Lodge / Castle Forest Lodge.
Depart after breakfast, descending through the Laikipia Plateau into Samburu. Arrive at your lodge or camp in time for lunch. Afternoon birding drive along the Ewaso Nyiro River.
Birds to Spot: Vulturine Guineafowl, Somali Bee-eater, Golden-breasted Starling, and Donaldson-Smith’s Sparrow-Weaver.
Accommodation: Dinner & Overnight: Ashnil Samburu Camp / Samburu Sopa Lodge.
Spend the full day exploring Samburu and the adjacent Buffalo Springs Reserve. The semi-arid vegetation supports several dry-country and northern Kenya specialties.
Birds to Spot: Yellow-vented Eremomela, Pygmy Falcon, Chestnut Weaver, and Rosy-patched Bushshrike.
Wildlife Bonus: Grevy’s Zebra, Beisa Oryx, and Reticulated Giraffe.
Accommodation: Meals & Overnight: Same as Day 3.
Early morning birding along the Ewaso Nyiro River and woodland thickets, followed by afternoon birding around rocky escarpments and open plains.
Birds to Spot: Palm-nut Vulture, Martial Eagle, Abyssinian Scimitarbill, and Rufous-crowned Roller. Optional visit to a Samburu village for a cultural experience.
Accommodation: Dinner & Overnight: Lodge or Camp in Samburu.
Enjoy early morning birding before breakfast, then begin your drive back to Nairobi. Stop for scenic views near Nanyuki and the equator line. Arrive in Nairobi in the evening — marking the end of your birding adventure.
This tour is customizable and can be tailored to your interests, budget, and travel dates for a personalized safari experience.