Nairobi to Diani Beach Safaris
Package Overview
Kenya offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife experiences, and a Safari From Nairobi to Diani Beach showcases the very best of this East African gem. This journey combines the thrill of wildlife safaris with the relaxation of coastal paradise, creating a perfectly balanced Kenyan adventure. Whether you’re planning to start in the capital or join safaris from Mombasa, this guide provides all the essential information to plan your dream safari experience.
Getting There: Transportation Options
From Nairobi
The journey from Nairobi to Diani Beach can be accomplished several ways:
- Domestic Flight: The quickest option is a 1-hour flight from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) to Ukunda Airstrip (Diani). Airlines like Jambojet, Safarilink, and AirKenya offer regular flights.
- Road Trip: A more adventurous option is driving, which takes approximately 8-10 hours. The route passes through stunning landscapes and can include game drives in Tsavo National Park.
- Standard Gauge Railway (SGR): Take the modern SGR train from Nairobi to Mombasa (4-5 hours), then a ferry crossing and shuttle to Diani (approximately 1.5 hours).
Safari From Nairobi to Diani Activities
Wildlife Experiences
- Nairobi National Park: Begin your safari experience in this unique park located just outside Nairobi’s city center, home to lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.
- Amboseli National Park: Famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, this park makes an excellent first stop.
- Tsavo East & West National Parks: Kenya’s largest national park system offers diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, including the famous “red elephants” of Tsavo.
- Shimba Hills National Reserve: Located just 33km from Diani Beach, this coastal forest reserve is home to elephants, sable antelopes, and over 111 bird species.
Package Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve
Your Safari from Nairobi to Diani begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley, arriving at the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve by midday.
After lunch at your lodge, set off on your first thrilling game drive, where you may spot the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. As the sun sets over the Mara, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara
Spend the entire day exploring Masai Mara’s vast plains. Your expert guide will take you to prime wildlife spotting locations, ensuring the best opportunities for incredible photography. Visit the Mara River, famous for the dramatic wildebeest migration.
After a picnic lunch in the reserve, continue tracking wildlife before heading back to your lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Day 3: Masai Mara – Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, a picturesque freshwater lake known for its rich birdlife and hippo sightings. Arrive in time for a boat safari, where you can get up close with hippos and a variety of water birds.
Spend the afternoon exploring Crescent Island, a private sanctuary where you can walk among zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Later, unwind at your lakeside lodge with dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Lake Naivasha – Amboseli National Park
Enjoy a relaxed morning before heading to Amboseli National Park, arriving in time for lunch. Known for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli offers spectacular photography opportunities.
An afternoon game drive lets you witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Return to your lodge for an evening under the African sky.
Day 5: Amboseli – Tsavo East National Park
After breakfast, journey towards Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and oldest parks. Famous for its red elephants and dramatic landscapes, Tsavo East is a hidden gem for safari lovers.
Check into your lodge and embark on an afternoon game drive, discovering unique wildlife and the park’s stunning rock formations.
Day 6: Tsavo East – Diani Beach
Your final game drive takes place at sunrise, offering the last chance to capture the beauty of Tsavo. After breakfast, embark on a road trip to the coastal paradise of Diani Beach. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your beachfront resort.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy the pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees of Diani Beach.
Day 7-8: Leisure at Diani Beach
Spend your days soaking up the sun, engaging in water sports such as snorkeling and diving, or exploring nearby attractions like Wasini Island and Shimba Hills National Reserve. Indulge in beachfront dining and experience Diani’s vibrant nightlife.
Day 9: Departure from Diani Beach to Nairobi
Conclude your Safari from Nairobi to Diani with a flight back to Nairobi from Ukunda Airstrip or a scenic drive back to the capital.
This safari seamlessly blends adventure with relaxation, making it the perfect escape for travelers seeking both wildlife encounters and tropical tranquility.
Why Choose This Safari from Nairobi to Diani?
- Unmatched Wildlife Experiences – Explore Kenya’s top national parks, including Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo.
- Breathtaking Landscapes – Witness the Great Rift Valley, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the stunning Diani coastline.
- Luxury & Comfort – Stay in top-rated lodges and beachfront resorts.
- Seamless Travel – Enjoy a hassle-free safari itinerary with expert guides and seamless transport options.
Book your Safari from Nairobi to Diani today and embark on an unforgettable African adventure!
- Accommodation in lodges, tented camps, or beach resorts
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles
- Professional English-speaking tour guides
- Park entry fees
- Airport transfers and internal flights (if applicable)
- Bottled water during game drives
- International flights to and from Kenya
- Personal travel insurance
- Drinks, laundry, and personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities for guides and hotel staff
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary