Kenya’s Birds of Paradise: a 12-Day Journey

TRIP DETAILS

Overview:

Embark on an extraordinary 12-day birdwatching adventure through Kenya, a land of stunning landscapes and unrivaled biodiversity. From the rolling savannahs to lush tropical rainforests and serene wetlands, this journey will take you to some of Africa’s most iconic birding destinations. Begin in Nairobi National Park, where open grasslands meet urban horizons, offering sightings of secretary birds and African fish eagles. Venture west to the enchanting Kakamega Forest, alive with the calls of great blue turacos and the flutter of rare forest gems. Marvel at the flamingo-dotted shores of Lake Nakuru, the montane forests of Mount Kenya, and the arid beauty of Samburu National Reserve, home to dazzling Somali ostriches and golden-breasted starlings.

Every day brings new habitats and species, from the papyrus wetlands of Western Kenya to the rugged landscapes of Samburu, where the birdlife is as vibrant as the scenery. Expert guides will lead you to Kenya’s most treasured birding hotspots, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot endemic and migratory species. With breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and diverse ecosystems, this tour is a birder’s paradise and a journey into the heart of Kenya’s natural wonders.

Duration: 12 days

Group Size: 6 - 12 participants

PRICE: Starting at $9,000 **

**subject to terms and conditions

 

Itinerary

 

Day 1: Birding in Nairobi National Park and Flight to Kisumu

Kick off your adventure with an early morning birdwatching session at Nairobi National Park, a unique park on the city’s edge that combines savannah, acacia woodland, and wetlands. This is a hotspot for over 500 bird species alongside abundant African wildlife. Look out for the kori bustard, secretary bird, white-bellied bustard, and African fish eagle. The park’s wetlands host waterbirds such as grey crowned cranes and sacred ibises. After an exciting morning, catch an evening flight to Kisumu, located in Western Kenya near the shores of Lake Victoria. Overnight in Kisumu.

................. Here we will spend the following three days spotting the birds of Western Kenya.


Day 2: Birding in Siaya, Busia, and Kakamega Forest

Begin your day birding in the wetlands and farmlands of Siaya and Busia, known for specialties like the blue-breasted bee-eater, papyrus gonolek, and swamp flycatcher. Later, head to the lush Kakamega Forest, Kenya’s only tropical rainforest, home to unique species such as the great blue turaco and black-and-white casqued hornbill. Overnight near Kakamega Forest. ...............

Day 3-4, we will have two full days of birding in Kakamega Forest, taking a break for a picnic lunch, then we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight.


Days 3-4: Birdwatching in Kakamega Forest

Spend two full days immersed in the enchanting Kakamega Forest, exploring its trails and observing its rich birdlife. Look out for forest gems like the African grey parrot, black-faced rufous warbler, and yellow-billed barbet. The forest is also home to rare primates and butterflies, adding to the experience. Overnight near Kakamega Forest.


Day 5: Kakamega to Lake Nakuru National Park

Depart Western Kenya and journey to Lake Nakuru National Park, arriving in the afternoon. Along the way, enjoy scenic views and possible roadside birding stops. Overnight near Lake Nakuru.

4 hour drive


Day 6: Birding in Lake Nakuru National Park

Spend the day exploring Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and other waterbirds like the great white pelican and African spoonbill. The park’s woodlands and grasslands also host raptors, cisticolas, and the African fish eagle. Overnight near Lake Nakuru.
...................

have a full day to explore the park, which is teeming with wildlife as well as the many bird species. While bird spotting, we will also keep our eyes peeled for the endangered white rhinos, flamingos, lions, leopards, giraffe, zebra, and other wildlife that this park is known for. We will return to our lodge for dinner and overnight.


Day 7: Lake Nakuru to Naro Moru

Drive to Naro Moru, located at the foothills of Mount Kenya, with opportunities for birding en route. Naro Moru offers montane forest species such as the cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Tacazze sunbird, and scarlet-tufted malachite sunbird. Overnight in Naro Moru.

a 3.5 hour drive


Day 8: Mt Kenya National Park & Samburu National Reserve

Begin the day with an early departure from Lake Nakuru, heading towards the scenic foothills of Mount Kenya National Park for a morning of birdwatching. Here, explore the montane forests and spot high-altitude species such as the Hartlaub's turaco, Abyssinian ground thrush, and white-headed wood-hoopoe. After a rewarding birding session, continue your journey north to Samburu National Reserve, arriving in time for afternoon birding. Samburu's arid landscapes are home to striking species like the vulturine guineafowl, Somali ostrich, and shining sunbird. Overnight in Samburu.


Day 9-10: Birding in Samburu National Reserve

Dedicate two full days to birdwatching in Samburu National Reserve, where over 450 bird species thrive. Look out for the Somali bee-eater, buff-crested bustard, and yellow-billed hornbill, as well as game animals like elephants and reticulated giraffes. Overnight in Samburu.


Day 11: Flight to Nairobi & Birding in Thika

Take a short flight back to Nairobi, then drive to Thika, known for its waterfalls and unique birding spots. Enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching, with species like the African green pigeon, Hartlaub’s turaco, and grosbeak weaver. Overnight in Thika. ..............

flight back to Nairobi, where we will have some time to explore on our last tour day. We will enjoy a farewell dinner at Carnivore Restaurant, before heading to the airport for your return flight home.


Day 12: Leisure in Nairobi & Departure

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Nairobi, reflecting on your birding adventure. Take time to shop for souvenirs or visit a nearby birding site before preparing for your evening departure flight. .................

we will have some time to explore on our last tour day. We will enjoy a farewell dinner at Carnivore Restaurant, before heading to the airport for your return flight home.


 

What's Included:

  • Airport Pickup/ Meet & Greet
  • All Accommodations - luxury lodges & tented camps
  • All Meals - breakfast, lunch, & dinner (water, tea, coffee included)
  • All Transfers - all transport between hotels & during game drives
  • Private Guide - an expert wildlife, ornithology, and natural history guide
  • All Park & Reserve Fees - entrance fees for all national parks & wildlife reserves
  • Bottled Water - unlimited supply in safari vehicles
  • Evacuation from Park - evacuation insurance to a Nairobi hospital (transport only - cost of hospitalization NOT included)

Exclusions:

  • Alcohol, Special drinks
  • Add-On Experiences - optional extra activities (hot air balloon rides, camel rides, night game drives, nature walks with an armed ranger, etc)
  • International Airfare - airfare to and from the African continent
  • Entry Visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • Gratuities
  • Personal Purchases
  • Pre & Post Safari Tours
 

PLEASE NOTE:
*** FOR YOUR RESERVATION TO BE FINALIZED, YOU MUST DOWNLOAD & RETURN THE FOLLOWING FORMS TO US BY EMAIL. ***
*** A DEPOSIT DOES NOT SOLELY CONFIRM YOUR BOOKING!!! ***
***
CLICK HERE to download our “Booking and Waiver Forms” ***
*** Please read our
Booking Terms & Conditions thoroughly and note our Cancellation Policy before booking! ***