If you’ve found yourself Googling “best luxury African safari” between back-to-back meetings or while catching your breath on a rare day off, you’re not alone. Many of the travelers we work with—physicians, executives, and entrepreneurs—are looking for a meaningful break from work but don’t have endless time to plan or travel.

There’s also a common myth that you need several weeks for a proper safari. While more time is always a gift, an unforgettable safari can absolutely be done in 10–12 days with the right planning.

Ultimately, a well-crafted African safari offers something rare: a complete shift in perspective in a relatively short amount of time. But to make it worthwhile, every detail matters.

At MMarkham Travel, we design safaris that honor your time—logistically efficient, deeply restorative, and filled with the kinds of moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

So, what’s the best luxury African safari? It’s the one you actually take.

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What Makes a Safari Achievable for Busy Professionals?

That said, not all safari itineraries are created equal. If your time away is limited, here’s what to prioritize:

✈️ Efficient routing and connections – Fly-in options and regional flights help minimize time in transit.

🛌 Exceptional accomodations – Thoughtfully run properties that combine comfort, style, and a strong sense of place.

🐘 High-quality wildlife viewing – We focus on areas within the different countries of Africa that offer excellent game density and wonderful guides. Combining both national parks and private reserves ensures a well-rounded experience.

🥂 All-inclusive structure – Meals, game drives, and transfers are included, so that you can simply enjoy the experience.

🌿 Conservation-forward lodges – Properties that invest in the land and communities around them — without sacrificing comfort.

A Sample Itinerary: 9-Night Luxury Safari in Kenya

Interested in where to go on a luxury safari in Kenya? This sample itinerary works beautifully for travelers seeking a rich, immersive experience in just over a week.

Days 1–3: Nairobi Arrival
To begin, ease into the trip with a night at Giraffe Manor—a unique and memorable stay—or opt for the elegant Hemingways Nairobi. During your stay in Nairobi, visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Karen Blixen Museum.

Days 3–6: Loisaba Tented Camp, Laikipia
Next, enjoy sweeping views, guided bush walks, and Big Five game drives in a private conservancy known for its strong conservation ethos. The Loisaba Tented Camp is a haven that you won’t want to leave.

Days 6–10: Sand River Masai Mara
Experience the magic of the Masai Mara—iconic landscapes, dramatic wildlife encounters, and golden-hour sundowners. Spend four luxurious nights enjoying immersive game drives and unwinding at one of Kenya’s most picturesque safari camps.

Later, return home on a late-night flight from Nairobi.

Optional Add-On: If time allows, extend your journey with a few days relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar.

What’s Typically Included

Your custom safari itinerary often includes:

• Luxury accommodations with all meals and beverages
• Twice-daily game drives with expert guides
• Internal flights and private transfers
• Conservation and park fees
• Personalized pacing based on your preferences

Thoughtfully Designed Travel, Grounded in Experience

Above all, what makes this kind of travel different is how it makes you feel. For many of our clients, a safari isn’t just a trip—it’s a reset. There’s something about being immersed in nature, unplugged and fully present, that allows space for clarity and reconnection.

We believe travel should feel intentional. Especially when your time off is limited, each moment should count.

If you’re wondering whether a safari could be the right kind of getaway, we’d be glad to help you explore the possibilities—at your pace, with thoughtful guidance tailored to you.