
Kenya’s Birds of Paradise: a 12-Day Journey
Starting from: $7000 USD pp
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Destinations: Nairobi, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara
Group Size: 6 to 12 people
Tour Type: Birding Tour
Tour 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.
**This itinerary can be customized for private groups or solo travelers
Highlights:
Close encounters with baby elephants
Feeding endangered giraffes
Multiple game drives with expert guides
Opportunities to spot the “Big Five”
Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
Predator-prey interactions in the golden savannahs of the Masai Mara
Cultural visit to a Maasai village or an optional add-on hot air balloon safari
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Begin the day with an early departure from Lake Nakuru, driving 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.
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Enjoy morning birding in the scenic foothills of Mount Kenya National Park. 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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)
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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
Accommodations
Throughout your journey in East Africa, you’ll stay at a mix of hand-picked lodges and tented camps that blend comfort with authenticity. Each property has been chosen for its unique charm, stunning location, warm hospitality, and proximity to key wildlife and cultural experiences.
Whether you're enjoying a sundowner overlooking the savannah, relaxing in a canvas tent under the stars, or unwinding in an authentic lodge, you can expect accommodations that offer both relaxation and immersion in nature. Most locations offer en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, delicious locally inspired meals, and friendly service that reflects the warmth and hospitality of the region.
An initial 25% deposit will secure your spot on the tour. Please refer to all Booking Terms & Conditions here.
