6-Day Rough North Kenya Safari | Samburu & Lake Turkana Adventure

6-Day Rough North Kenya Safari | Samburu & Lake Turkana Adventure

This fast-paced 6-day journey showcases Northern Kenya’s dramatic landscapes and extraordinary cultural diversity. Beyond the well-known Samburu and Turkana peoples, you’ll encounter Rendille nomads in Marsabit, the ancient El Molo fishing community on Lake Turkana, and glimpses of Borana influence in the arid north — each tribe bringing its own unique traditions, language, and way of life to this remarkable region.

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve (Approx. 6-hour drive)

Travel north to Samburu, home of the proud Samburu tribe. Afternoon game drive and evening cultural visit to a Samburu manyatta to witness warrior traditions, beadwork, and dances. Overnight in Samburu. (Meals: Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Samburu to Marsabit National Park (Approx. 5-hour drive)

Morning Samburu exploration, then drive to Marsabit an ethnic crossroads where you’ll encounter Rendille, Borana, and Gabbra communities alongside the forest-dwelling Borana. Overnight in Marsabit. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Marsabit to Loyangalani on Lake Turkana (Approx. 4-hour rough road drive)

Traverse the Chalbi Desert to Loyangalani. Afternoon at the Jade Sea, meeting Turkana, Rendille, and the tiny El Molo tribe — Kenya’s smallest ethnic group, famous for their unique fishing culture. Overnight lakeside. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Lake Turkana Exploration

Visit the El Molo tribe (Kenya's smallest ethnic group) and Rendille nomads for cultural insights. Afternoon boat trip to North Island (Central Island National Park) to see volcanic craters and crocodiles. Interact with Turkana people in the evening. Overnight in Loyangalani. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Loyangalani to Maralal via South Horr and Baragoi (Approx. 6-hour drive)

Drive south through Rendille lands to South Horr valley, then Baragoi for a brief stop. Continue to Maralal, the Samburu frontier town. Evening at leisure, optional camel trek. Overnight in Maralal. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Maralal to Nairobi via Lakes Baringo and Bogoria (Approx. 5-hour drive)

Morning visit to Lake Baringo for boat ride, hot springs, and Njemps (Il Chamus) tribe interactions. Quick detour to Lake Bogoria for geysers and flamingo viewing. Return to Nairobi by evening. (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch)

Includes

• 5 nights' accommodation in mid-range lodges/camps (twin-sharing basis; single supplement available)
• All meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner; vegetarian options available)
• Private 4x4 Prado or Land Cruiser transport with fuel, driver/guide (self-drive option includes vehicle briefing and GPS)
• Experienced English-speaking guide with 25+ years Northern Kenya expertise
• National park/reserve entry fees (Samburu, Marsabit, Lake Turkana parks)
• Cultural visits, boat trips, and activities as listed
• Bottled water throughout the journey
• Emergency medical evacuation insurance
• All applicable taxes and service charges

Excludes

• International/domestic flights to/from Nairobi
• Kenyan visa fees
• Travel insurance (mandatory; comprehensive coverage recommended)
• Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal expenses
• Tips/gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff (suggested KES 1,000–2,000 per day per group)
• Optional activities (e.g., extra camel treks or hot air balloon rides if available)
• Any COVID-19 testing/vaccination requirements
• Personal gear (e.g., binoculars, sun protection, insect repellent)