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Best Kenya Budget Safari

Best Kenya Budget Safari

Overview

Explore the best budget safari options in Kenya, offering thrilling game viewing and birdwatching experiences during your six-day visit to Lake Bogoria, Baringo, Nakuru, Naivasha and Amboseli.

This safari package offers a fantastic experience without breaking the bank. You can still explore diverse ecosystems, witness the Great Migration, and engage with local cultures, all while adhering to a modest budget.

Additionally, opting for group tours can significantly reduce expenses, rendering this an attractive option for individuals in search of an economical adventure. To summarize, this safari can be organized on request and it’s ideal for families, friends or colleagues.

Best Camping Accommodation

Our camps are equipped with beds, beddings, mosquito nets, flush toilets, and hot water showers. There is a communal dining area where meals are served in a buffet style. Additionally, we cater for special dietary requirements including vegetarian and vegan options.

Transport Logistics

Kenya epic safaris facilitates travel and game drives with our customized 4×4 safari vehicles. Typically, the vans/jeeps are accessorized with pop up roofs ideal for game viewing, communication gadgets and comfortable seats. After all our aim is to enhance the overall safariing experience.

Best Budget Safariing

During your budget-friendly safari in Kenya, you will benefit from the expertise of our skilled driver guides. Equally important the guides possess extensive knowledge of the wildlife and various landscapes that you will encounter.

Experiencing the excitement of exploring wildlife but also sceneries is an adventure that every traveler should include in their bucket list. Moreover, the best budget safari in Kenya offers you the chance to engage directly with the rich cultural diversity of the region. At the same time enjoy remarkable game viewing opportunities in this premium parks and lakes.

Call To Action

Initiate your ideal safari experience by contacting our team. We are here to provide you with essential information, outline what to expect and offer guidance. Reach out to us today to begin your journey with the best budget-friendly safari in Kenya. We aim to help you realize your travel aspirations.

Six Days Lake Bogoria, Baringo,Nakuru, Naivasha & Amboseli Budget Safari. [Itinerary]

Day One: Nairobi – Lake Bogoria – Lake Baringo

First, a representative from Kenya epic safaris will meet you at your hotel or pick you up from the airport. Secondly, the rep will brief and hand you over to your assigned driver guide, who will facilitate the best Kenya budget safari.

Your driver guide will drive you to lake Baringo. Shortly after your departure, there will be a brief stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, allowing you to view a portion of the valley and capture some photographs or selfies. This valley extends from Jordan in Israel to Mozambique, covering a distance of 8,000 miles.

Embark on your journey to Lake Bogoria, renowned as a breeding habitat for flamingos. In addition to its rich avian population, the lake is celebrated for its geothermal hot springs and geysers. However, it is advisable to exercise caution while exploring the area, as the scalding waters possess the capability to boil an egg.

Following lunch, proceed to Lake Baringo for a boat excursion and a visit to the historic caves. Lake Baringo is teeming with diverse bird species, as well as hippos and crocodiles that can be seen lounging by the water’s edge. Enjoy dinner and spend the night at Robert’s Camp.

Day Two: Lake Baringo – Lake Nakuru

Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on your journey. You will be transported to Lake Nakuru to arrive well in time for a hot lunch in Nakuru town. Often described as a birdwatcher’s haven, Lake Nakuru is renowned for the millions of pink flamingos that inhabit its shores.

The view of the lake from the baboon cliff reveals a stunning pink hue, attributed to the vibrant plumage of the flamingos, which has led to its nickname, “Pink Lake.” The park is home to approximately 450 species of birds, encompassing both migratory and resident varieties.

Designated as a World Heritage Site, the park is acknowledged as a wetland of global significance. Lake Nakuru not only boasts over 50 species of mammals but also serves as a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos.

It is notable for having the highest population of black rhinos in Kenya, alongside white rhinos that have been introduced from South Africa. Due to the park’s limited size, elephants are absent, as they require expansive areas rich in vegetation for sustenance. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Chester hotel.

Day Three: Lake Nakuru – Lake Naivasha

Following a delightful breakfast, you will proceed to Hell’s Gate National Park. Upon your arrival, your driver guide will introduce you to your adventure guide.

Your guide will arrange for mountain bikes, and after completing the necessary park formalities, you will begin cycling amidst the wildlife, with the assurance that there are no predators in the area. A stop will be made at Fitcher’s Tower for a rock climbing experience on the 500-meter-high rock formation. You will continue cycling to the ranger’s post, where a brief rest will be taken.

Following lunch, you will embark on an exhilarating walking safari, taking in the breathtaking views of the gorge. The evidence of volcanic activity is apparent, with hot water streaming down the gorge walls. This guided walk through the gorge will last approximately two hours.

The hot springs, stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife are truly remarkable. Afterwards, you will return to collect your bikes and cycle back to the park entrance. Transfer to Fish Eagle Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day Four: Lake Naivasha – Amboseli

After a scrumptious breakfast transfer to lake Naivasha for a boat ride. Lake Naivasha is situated at the highest elevation among all lakes in the Rift Valley. Besides that, the lake reaches an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level and is classified as a freshwater lake. It is home to numerous hippos and a diverse array of bird species, particularly the fish eagle.

Depart and travel to Amboseli, to arrive at Kimana Camp in time to enjoy a hot and delectable lunch. Upon your arrival, the camp staff will guide you to your designated tents. You may spend your afternoon at your leisure or engage with the local community; subsequently, you will embark on an evening game drive.

Amboseli is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five, various feline species, plains game, and numerous bird species. Dinner and overnight accommodations will be provided at Kimana Camp.

Day Five: Amboseli

Awaken early to witness the breathtaking sight of Mt. Kilimanjaro, which stands majestically as the stunning backdrop of this remarkable park. On a clear day, the snow-capped peaks are clearly visible. Following breakfast, embark on a morning game drive. At this time you will have the best chance to observe wildlife, as animals are most active during the cooler hours before the sun intensifies.

Amboseli has the largest population of elephants and has served as a focal point for elephant research for the past three decades. Notably, each elephant is identified by name. The game drive will also include a stop at the observation point, providing an opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of the Amboseli plains.

After returning to the campsite for lunch, you may choose to relax in the afternoon or take a stroll around the camp to socialize. In the evening, set out for another game drive, where you may encounter large herds of elephants. Amboseli is home to a diverse range of bird species, both migratory and resident. All meals and overnight accommodations will be provided at Kimana Camp.

Day Six: Amboseli – Nairobi

A pre-breakfast game drive will commence at 6:30 A.M.; this will allow you to witness the breathtaking African sunrise. Apart from this, the sunrise offers an ideal backdrop for capturing stunning photographs and selfies. Additionally, you will also get the chance to spot any wildlife species you may have overlooked during previous game drives.

Return to the camp by mid-morning, where a hearty breakfast will be served. Following your meal, you will embark on your journey back to Nairobi. Also, lunch will be provided along the way, arriving in the late afternoon. Finally, your guide will drop you off at either a hotel or the airport, marking the conclusion of the best budget safari in Kenya.

End of services.

  • Transport in a customized safari van with a pop up roof ideal for game viewing .
  • All park entrance fees.
  • Meals as described in the itinerary.
  • Budget accommodation.
  • Game drives and other activities as described in the itinerary.
  • Services of an English speaking driver guide.
  • Complimentary Bottled water 1 Litre per person per day.
  • All government taxes.
  • International airfares.
  • All expenditure of personal nature such as telephone calls, hard drinks, soft drinks and laundry.
  • Tips.
  • Visas.
  • Travel Insurance.

Kenya Camping Accommodation

We provide affordable lodging options at Lake Baringo, including bandas, family cottages, and budget hotels. Robert’s Camp is situated along the shores of Lake Baringo and offers a variety of accommodations, such as three cottages: Coots Cottage, Little Heron, and Heron House, as well as four double thatched bandas.

Amenities include towels, mosquito nets, and linens. Each banda is equipped with an electrical socket. The camping area spans five acres of beautifully maintained gardens that extend to the lakeshore.

Facilities include well-kept lavatories, barbecue areas, and campers are invited to enjoy the Thirsty Goat pub and restaurant. In addition to tent camping, Robert’s Camp features permanently erected tents that come with bedding.

Lake Nakuru is a relatively compact national park, which results in a limited number of camping facilities available within its boundaries. Nevertheless, there are alternative campsites situated around the park, as well as budget accommodations in Nakuru town.

Ground camping is highly favored among tourists who enjoy the thrill of outdoor adventures. The campsites are distributed throughout the park and are in proximity to the lake, providing breathtaking views of the park’s landscapes, including Makalia Falls.

Lake Naivasha offers a diverse range of campsites and affordable hotels. Certain campsites are located directly beside the lake, while others are conveniently situated near both the lake and Hell’s Gate National Park.

Visitors have the option to choose between budget tented accommodations or traditional ground camping within the designated areas. We suggest considering Crayfish Camp, Fish Eagle Cottages, Fisherman’s Camp, and Camp Carnelley’s. All of these facilities are in close proximity to the lake.

Budget campsites at Amboseli National Park are somewhat limited and situated outside the park’s boundaries. However, the camps are within a short driving distance from the various entrance gates. Significantly visitors can choose between tented accommodations or a more traditional ground camping experience.

The tented camps are equipped with beds, bedding, mosquito nets, flush toilets and hot showers. Bedding is refreshed daily, and guests are provided with towels. Each tent can accommodate one to three individuals.

The campsites feature dining areas where meals are served, along with a bar. Our cook prepares fresh food in a buffet style, and we are able to accommodate special dietary requirements. In the evenings, guests can enjoy a bonfire while being entertained by Masai warriors, providing an opportunity to socialize and relax.

Know Your Parks / Lakes

Lake Bogoria spans an area of 32 square kilometers and is situated in a depression beneath the Ngendelel escarpment, which rises 600 meters high. The western shore of the lake exhibits geothermal activity, featuring geysers and hot springs. In 1892, geologist J.W. Gregory characterized the lake as “the most beautiful view in Africa.” Previously, Lake Bogoria was referred to as Lake Hannington.

The lake is characterized by numerous hot springs that discharge boiling water into its otherwise sterile waters. This sterility is contrasted by the large populations of Lesser Flamingos that migrate to Bogoria annually. During peak seasons, millions of flamingos have been observed, making the lake an optimal breeding ground.

The lake’s alkaline nature supports blue-green algae, which serve as a food source for the flamingos. Raptors, including Tawny eagles, hunt these flamingos. The reserve is also home to a herd of the relatively rare Greater Kudu. Other notable large mammals found in the area include buffalo, zebra, cheetah, baboon, warthog, caracal, spotted hyena, impala, and Dik diks.

Lake Baringo is situated in the Rift Valley, to the north of Lake Nakuru. It encompasses a surface area of approximately 130 square kilometers and is positioned at an elevation of around 970 meters. The lake receives water from several rivers, including El Molo, Perkerra, and Ol Arabel and notably lacks a visible outlet. It is believed that the water gradually permeates through the lake’s sediments into the underlying faulted volcanic bedrock. Lake Baringo is one of only two freshwater lakes in Kenya’s Rift Valley, the other being Lake Naivasha.

The surrounding acacia woodland is home to a diverse array of bird species. Furthermore, the lake serves as a crucial habitat for seven species of freshwater fish, including the Nile Tilapia, which is unique to this lake. Fishing activities are vital for the social and economic advancement of the local community. The region also supports a variety of wildlife, including hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and numerous other mammals, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates.

In addition to opportunities for bird watching and boat excursions led by a qualified ornithologist, Lake Baringo offers a variety of activities such as fishing, camel rides, and day trips to the nearby Lake Bogoria National Reserve. Visitors can also explore a Njemps village, where they can experience local crafts and traditional dances.

Pink Lake

Lake Nakuru is recognized as one of the alkaline lakes situated within the Great Rift Valley. Commonly referred to as the “Pink Lake” or Africa’s Bird Paradise, it is strategically positioned in central Kenya, within the confines of Lake Nakuru National Park. The park spans an area of 188 square kilometers, while the lake itself covers approximately 62 square kilometers.

The lake is renowned for the vast numbers of flamingos that congregate there, although these birds can be unpredictable and may not always be present in large quantities through out the year. From the vantage point of baboon cliff, the lake appears pink due to the presence of flamingos. The landscape surrounding Lake Nakuru features a mix of grasslands, rocky cliffs, acacia woodlands, and a forest dominated by euphorbia trees.

Bird’s Paradise

There are two primary species of flamingos found in the lake. In particular, the lesser flamingo and the greater flamingo, both of which feed on algae that thrive in the warm alkaline waters. In addition to flamingos, the area is home to various other bird species, including ducks, pelicans, cormorants, plovers, vultures, eagles, and buzzards.

Lake Nakuru also hosts over 50 species of mammals, such as hippos, reedbucks, waterbucks, Rothschild giraffes, baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, lions, gazelles, and impalas, among others.

Hell’s Gate is renowned for its natural hot geysers and serves as a breeding habitat for eagles and vultures. Visitors can choose from a variety of activities, including driving, walking, camping, cycling and rock climbing within the park. Additionally, horseback safaris can be organized. The landscape features several iconic viewpoints, such as Fischer’s Tower, which was once a volcanic plug, along with the Central Tower and Njorowa Gorges.

The park is also home to two extinct volcanoes, Olkaria and Hobley’s, which are worth visiting. Natural steam vents emerge from fissures in the volcanic rock, and obsidian—an impressive black, glassy rock formed from solidified lava—can be found throughout the area. Wildlife in the park includes buffalo, Masai giraffes, elands, Coke’s hartebeest, gazelles and various antelopes.

A paradise for birdwatchers and rock climbers alike, the cliffs of Hell’s Gate provide breeding grounds for vultures, Verreaux’s eagles, augur buzzards, and thousands of swifts. A total of 103 bird species have been documented within the park.

Lake Naivasha is situated at the highest altitude among the lakes in the Kenyan Rift Valley, reaching an elevation of 1,890 meters. It is nourished by two rivers, the Malewa and Gilgil, and notably lacks a visible outlet. The lake spans an area of 140 square kilometers, although this size fluctuates annually in response to rainfall patterns. Its average depth is 8 meters and it is classified as a freshwater lake.

Surrounding much of the lake are forests of the yellow-barked Acacia Xanthophlea, commonly referred to as the yellow fever tree. These woodlands are rich in avian life, making Naivasha a premier destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The lake is home to populations of hippopotamuses and a diverse array of bird species, with the fish eagle being particularly prevalent. A delightful way to enjoy the scenery is by taking a boat ride either in the morning or afternoon.

The Park

Amboseli National Park is situated to the south of Nairobi, approximately 140 kilometers away, which translates to a four-hour drive from the city. The park encompasses an area of 392 square kilometers. Its ecosystem features a seasonal body of water known as Lake Amboseli, from which the park derives its name, along with swamps, expansive plains, acacia woodlands, rocky outcrops, thorny bushes, and marshlands. The landscape is prominently characterized by the stunning snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. These snow caps are most visible during clear weather, particularly in the early morning and late evening hours. The picturesque scenery provides ample opportunities for capturing memorable photographs to share with friends and family back home.

Amboseli: A Wildlife Treasure

Many tourists regard Amboseli National Park as Kenya’s second most significant wildlife destination, following the Masai Mara Game Reserve. It is notable for having the highest population of elephants among Kenya’s national parks. Despite its relatively small size compared to other parks, Amboseli supports a diverse array of bird species and wildlife. The local population primarily consists of the Masai, although individuals from other Kenyan tribes have also settled in Amboseli in search of better opportunities. In addition to wildlife viewing and the breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, visitors have the chance to explore a local Masai village, gaining insights into their culture and engaging with the community.