8 Days Off the Beaten Track Kenya Safari
Untamed Adventures Through Northern Kenya’s Hidden Treasures
Step off the tourist trail and experience the raw beauty of Northern Kenya — a land of desert landscapes, rare wildlife, and ancient culture.
This 8-day off-the-beaten-path safari with Siraam Tours takes you from Samburu’s wild plains to Laikipia’s conservation lands, across the Chalbi Desert, and to the legendary Lake Turkana, Africa’s Jade Sea.
It’s a journey for explorers, photographers, and travelers who want to experience the real, untouched Kenya.
Safari Overview
| Tour Duration | 8 Days / 7 Nights |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Samburu, Marsabit, Chalbi Desert, Lake Turkana, Laikipia |
| Departure | Daily (Private or Small Group) |
| Transport | 4×4 Land Cruiser with open roof |
| Accommodation | Safari lodges / desert camps |
| Starting Price | From USD 2,100 per person (sharing) |
| Best Travel Time | June–October, December–March |
Adventure, culture, and wilderness in one unforgettable northern safari.
Safari Highlights
Camel country landscapes of Samburu & Marsabit
Cross the Chalbi Desert — one of Kenya’s wildest frontiers
Lake Turkana — Africa’s largest desert lake
Rare wildlife: reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Beisa oryx
Desert camping under the stars
Visit Rendille & Turkana villages
Wildlife-rich Laikipia conservancies
8-Day Safari Itinerary
Day 1 – Nairobi → Samburu National Reserve
Depart early from Nairobi, driving north through Nanyuki and across the equator into Samburu.
Enjoy lunch at your lodge, then head out for your first afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, lions, leopards, and the unique “Samburu Five.”
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget: Samburu Sopa Lodge
- Mid-range: Ashnil Samburu Camp
- Luxury: Elephant Bedroom Camp
Samburu’s dramatic semi-arid landscape sets the tone for your adventure.
Day 2 – Full Day in Samburu
Spend the day exploring Samburu’s rugged beauty.
Morning and afternoon game drives offer chances to see cheetahs, elephants, ostriches, and gerenuks.
Later, visit a Samburu village for an authentic cultural experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Same lodge
Samburu’s wildlife and red-toned hills are a photographer’s paradise.
Day 3 – Samburu → Marsabit National Park
After breakfast, travel deeper north to Marsabit, a cool mountain oasis rising from the desert.
Visit Marsabit National Park, known for its crater lakes and forest elephants.
Evening walk near your lodge for scenic views of the desert below.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget: Jirime Hotel Marsabit
- Mid-range: Marsabit Lodge
Marsabit is a land of extinct volcanoes, forest, and silence.
Day 4 – Marsabit → Chalbi Desert → Kalacha Oasis
Descend from the green hills into the vast Chalbi Desert — one of the most remote places in Kenya.
Drive across the white salt pans and sand dunes, stopping to interact with Rendille nomads.
Arrive at Kalacha Oasis, a small green haven surrounded by desert. Camp under the stars or stay in a local eco-lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kalacha Camp (basic / eco-camp setup)
This is true adventure — sleeping under the Milky Way in Kenya’s desert.
Day 5 – Kalacha → Loiyangalani (Lake Turkana)
Early departure for Loiyangalani, a beautiful settlement on the shores of Lake Turkana, the “Jade Sea.”
Explore the lakeshore, visit El Molo and Turkana villages, and learn about traditional fishing and desert survival.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget: Oasis Lodge Loiyangalani
- Mid-range: Palm Shade Camp
Lake Turkana’s turquoise waters contrast dramatically with the desert landscape.
Day 6 – Loiyangalani → North Horr → Karare
After breakfast, drive through North Horr, a remote desert region inhabited by pastoral communities.
Cross dry riverbeds and dramatic rock escarpments — a true off-road safari experience.
Arrive in Karare for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Desert Rose Lodge or equivalent
This route captures Kenya’s most rugged, untouched scenery.
Day 7 – Karare → Laikipia Plateau
Travel south to the Laikipia Plateau, home to private wildlife conservancies and stunning views of Mount Kenya.
Enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge — possible sightings include wild dogs, elephants, and reticulated giraffes.
Relax at your lodge in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation:
- Budget: Laikipia Wilderness Camp
- Mid-range: Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages
- Luxury: Segera Retreat
Laikipia’s conservancies are renowned for rhino conservation and low-impact tourism.
Included:
All park fees & government taxes
7 nights’ full-board accommodation
4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with guide-driver
Bottled water & airport transfers
Cultural visits & desert drive fees
Not Included:
Cultural visit fees ($25 pp)
Optional activities (night drives, hikes)
Drinks & tips
About Our Nairobi Safari Guides
Our guides are certified by KPSGA (Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association) and have over 5 years of experience navigating Nairobi National Park.
They know every trail, animal pattern, and hidden viewpoint — ensuring you get the most sightings in the least time.
They’re also trained in first aid, photography support, and wildlife interpretation for a safe, enriching experience.
8 Days Off the Beaten Track Kenya Safari
Go beyond the ordinary — explore Kenya’s wild north with Siraam Tours!
From Samburu’s wildlife to the desolate beauty of the Chalbi Desert and the Jade Sea’s serenity, this 8-day off-the-beaten-track safari promises the adventure of a lifetime.
