11-Day Kenya Family Safari & Mombasa Beach Holiday

11 Days Kenya Family Safari & Mombasa Beach holiday leads to Olpejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, and Diani Beach in Mombasa Coast. This 11-day journey combines exhilarating game drives, enriching cultural experiences, and serene relaxation by the Indian Ocean.

Overview of the 11 days Kenya Family Safari & Diani Beach Mombasa

Kenya, with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastlines, provides an ideal setting for a family safari and beach getaway. This itinerary offers a delightful mix of experiences, featuring the rhinos and chimpanzees of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the rich wildlife of the Masai Mara National Reserve, and the serene beaches of Diani, ensuring enjoyment for all ages while harmonizing adventure with relaxation. Start with intimate experiences in Ol Pejeta, then enjoy game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve, featuring an enchanting hot air balloon safari. Next, head to Diani Beach for a serene experience filled with relaxation, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and enchanting sunset dhow cruises. This journey, perfect for families, offers diverse accommodations and promises unforgettable memories.

A Detailed 12 Days Kenya Family Safari & Diani Beach

Day 1: Arriving in Nairobi – Journey to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Your journey in Kenya starts at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Your safari guide will welcome you and lead you to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia. This wildlife sanctuary, situated between Mount Kenya and the Aberdares, provides a distinctive combination of adventure and conservation. Following lunch and check-in, set out on an afternoon game drive. Ol Pejeta houses the last two northern white rhinos, showcasing its commitment to conservation.

The game drive presents opportunities to observe the Big Five, along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of birdlife. As the sun sets, make your way back to your lodge for dinner and a tranquil evening.

Opulent: Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages
Mid-range: Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Financial Plan: The Stables

Day 2: Comprehensive Exploration of Ol Pejeta

Awaken to the melodies of nature and set off on a morning game drive. Ol Pejeta is famous for its efforts in rhino conservation, and you will have the opportunity to visit the Endangered Species Enclosure, which is home to the northern white rhinos. Following breakfast, head to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the sole location in Kenya where you can observe rescued chimpanzees in their natural environment. Relish a picnic lunch or head back to your lodge prior to an afternoon game drive, discovering various areas of the conservancy. The diverse landscapes provide remarkable opportunities for wildlife observation. Unwind by the bonfire as night falls, exchanging tales of the day’s escapades.

High-end: Kicheche Laikipia Camp • Moderate: Rhino Watch Safari Lodge
Financial Plan: Mutara Camp

Day 3: Journey to Lake Nakuru through the Equator

Following breakfast, leave Ol Pejeta and pause at the Equator for photographs and a demonstration of the Coriolis effect. Proceed through the stunning vistas of the Rift Valley to reach Lake Nakuru National Park. Arrive and enjoy lunch prior to the afternoon game drive. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its flamingos, rhinos, and the rare sighting of tree-climbing lions. Venture into the woodlands and grasslands in search of giraffes, buffaloes, and warthogs. Make your way to Baboon Cliff for an awe-inspiring sunset view before heading back to your lodge.

Opulence: The Cliff Nakuru
Mid-range: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Financial Plan: Ziwa Bush Lodge

Day 4: Journey to Masai Mara – Afternoon Wildlife Safari

Following breakfast, set off for the Masai Mara National Reserve. Delight in the experience of game viewing as you travel to your lodge, where you can spot elephants, wildebeest, and antelope. Following lunch and a period of relaxation, set out on an afternoon game drive to explore the golden plains rich with wildlife.

The Masai Mara boasts a significant predator population, providing outstanding opportunities to observe lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Head back to your lodging for an enchanting bush dinner beneath the stars.

Opulent: Mara Explorer Camp
Mid-range: Mara Serena Safari Lodge
Budget: Julia’s River Camp

Day 5: Comprehensive Game Drives in Masai Mara

Rise early for a sunrise game drive, when predators are at their most active. Experience remarkable wildlife interactions, ranging from fierce lions on the hunt to spirited young elephants at play. Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a full-day game drive with a packed lunch, exploring further into the reserve and potentially reaching the Mara River. Savor your lunch in the wild before resuming your quest for the Big Five, plains game, and various birdlife. Head back to your lodge in the late afternoon to relax and savor a bonfire accompanied by captivating Masai storytelling.

Opulent: Sand River Masai Mara • Moderate: Fig Tree Camp
Budget: Enkorok Mara Camp

Day 6: Hot Air Balloon Adventure & Wildlife Drive

Awaken early to embark on a hot air balloon safari. Experience the stunning vistas and majestic wildlife below as you rise above the Mara at dawn. Upon arrival, indulge in a delightful champagne breakfast in the bush, followed by a mid-morning game drive.

The remainder of the day provides a chance to relax at the lodge, with optional pursuits such as nature walks or cultural excursions. A twilight game drive offers a last opportunity to observe wildlife before enjoying a warm dinner by the campfire.

Luxury: Angama Mara
Mid-range: Ilkeliani Camp
Budget: Sekenani Camp

Day 7: Journey to Diani Beach – A Day of Leisure

Following breakfast, say goodbye to the Masai Mara and take a flight from Wilson Airport to Ukunda Airstrip in Diani. Make your way to the beach resort, where you will find immaculate white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters ready to welcome you. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the beach, taking a swim, or treating yourself to a spa experience. Savor a delightful seafood dinner beneath the stars.

Luxury: The Sands at Chale Island
Mid-range: Leopard Beach Resort
Budget: Diani Backpackers

Day 8: Diani Beach – Engaging in Water Activities & Excursions

Awaken to the soothing sounds of the ocean and discover the various activities Diani has to offer. Choose snorkeling or diving at Kisite Marine Park and immerse yourself in the beauty of vibrant coral reefs.

Those who crave excitement can indulge in deep-sea fishing or jet skiing. Consider exploring Shimba Hills National Reserve for a half-day safari experience. Conclude your day with a dhow sunset cruise, savoring the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque coastal views.

Luxury: Almanara Luxury Villas
Mid-range: Baobab Beach Resort
Budget: Footprints Home

Day 9: Diani Beach – Dolphin Safari and Local Exploration

Begin your day with an exhilarating dolphin-watching safari at Wasini Island. Savor a seafood lunch prior to delving into the local Swahili culture in a nearby village. Another option is to unwind on the beach, enjoy a camel ride, or experience stand-up paddleboarding. Explore Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest for a nature walk and to gain insights into Mijikenda traditions. Relish a barbecue by the beach as the evening unfolds.

Luxury: Lantana Galu Beach
Mid-range: Pinewood Beach Resort
Financial Plan: Stilts Travelers with backpacks

Day 10: Diani Beach – Leisure and Optional Experiences

Delight in a relaxed morning at Diani Beach. Unwind by the turquoise waters, bask in the sun, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean.

This day is ideal for diving into a good book, taking advantage of the resort amenities, or just relaxing after your safari adventures. For individuals looking for additional engagement, there are optional excursions offered, including a visit to the Colobus Conservation Centre or a guided tour of a local spice farm. In the evening, enjoy a delightful seafood dinner at your resort, taking a moment to reflect on your remarkable journey through Kenya.

Opulent: The Sands at Chale Island
Moderate: Leopard Beach Resort
Economical: Diani Backpackers

Day 11: Journey Home Through Nairobi

Following a final walk along the beach, check out of your resort and head to Moi International Airport in Mombasa for your flight to Nairobi. Board your international flight home, holding onto the treasured memories of your remarkable safari and beach getaway, brimming with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.