Maralal Camel Derby 2026 Dates
The Maralal Camel Derby 2026 runs from 24 to 27 September 2026. Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya will operate a specially planned 3-day safari from Nairobi from Friday 25 September to Sunday 27 September 2026, allowing travellers to experience the main Camel Derby activities while combining the event with an organised road journey, accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary.
Maralal Camel Derby 2026 Safari for Fans – 25–27 September from Nairobi
Experience one of northern Kenya's most distinctive cultural and sporting events with Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya. Our Maralal Camel Derby safari departs Nairobi on 25 September 2026 and returns on 27 September 2026.
Maralal Camel Derby Safari 2026 at a Glance
- Official Maralal Camel Derby Dates:
- 24-27 September 2026
- Cruzeiro Safaris Travel Dates:
- 25-27 September 2026
- Safari Duration:
- 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Departure:
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Destination:
- Maralal, Samburu County, Kenya
- Main Experience:
- Maralal Camel Derby, camel racing and Samburu cultural experiences
- Transport:
- Return road transport from Nairobi to Maralal
- Accommodation:
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Maralal
- Meals:
- Selected meals included according to the published safari itinerary
- Booking Status:
- Bookings are open and secure online payment is available
Important: The official Maralal Camel Derby runs from 24 to 27 September 2026. The Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya package is a 3-day / 2-night safari operating from 25 to 27 September 2026.
The journey combines the excitement of the Maralal Camel Derby with camel racing, Samburu cultural experiences, traditional entertainment and a scenic road journey through Kenya's northern landscapes.
Cruzeiro Safaris has organised journeys to the Maralal Camel Derby since 2013, giving travellers the benefit of experience on this distinctive northern Kenya route.
3-Day Maralal Camel Derby Safari Itinerary
Day 1 - Friday 25 September 2026: Nairobi to Maralal
Depart Nairobi at approximately 6:00 AM and travel north towards Nyahururu. Stop for lunch at Thomson's Falls before continuing through the northern Kenya countryside to Maralal.
Arrive in Maralal in the evening, check in at the hotel and enjoy dinner.
Day 2 - Saturday 26 September 2026: Maralal Camel Derby
After breakfast, spend the day experiencing the Maralal Camel Derby. Activities are expected to include camel racing, cultural displays, Samburu traditions, entertainment and other activities included in the official Derby programme.
Travellers will have time to experience the atmosphere of Maralal and interact with the wider cultural and sporting programme surrounding the Derby.
Lunch and personal drinks during the day are at each traveller's own expense. Dinner and overnight are in Maralal.
Day 3 - Sunday 27 September 2026: Maralal to Nairobi
Enjoy breakfast before departing Maralal for the return journey to Nairobi. A lunch stop will be made in Gilgil before continuing to Nairobi.
Expected arrival in Nairobi is approximately 7:00 PM, subject to road, weather and traffic conditions.
Important Event Information
Official Maralal Camel Derby dates: 24 to 27 September 2026.
Cruzeiro Safaris travel dates: 25 to 27 September 2026.
The exact programme of races, cultural activities and entertainment is determined by the event organisers and may be adjusted without notice.
🐪 3-Day Maralal Camel Derby Weekend Adventure 2026
Travel with Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya – Camel Derby Adventures Since 2013
🔥 The Fans Asked. We Listened.
The Maralal Camel Derby experience is now available as a convenient
3-day Friday-to-Sunday weekend adventure.
Travel from Nairobi to Maralal in Samburu County and experience one of Kenya's most exciting cultural and sporting events, combining camel racing, Samburu culture, northern Kenya scenery and adventure travel.
Depending on the official programme released by the event organisers, activities may include:
- Camel racing and derby activities
- Amateur camel races
- Sporting and endurance events
- Samburu cultural performances
- Traditional dances
- Music and entertainment
- Photography opportunities
- Interaction with local communities and visitors
- Local food, crafts and souvenirs
- Optional camel riding activities
Guests will have time to explore and enjoy the event during the day.
2026 Maralal Camel Derby Safari Package Rates
The official Maralal Camel Derby 2026 runs from 24 to 27 September 2026. Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya operates this 3-day safari from Nairobi from 25 to 27 September 2026.
| Traveller Category | Package Price |
|---|---|
| Kenyan Citizens | KES 36,800 per person |
| African Citizens | KES 36,800 per person |
| International / Non-Resident Visitors | USD 330 per person |
Book and Pay Online
Bookings for the Maralal Camel Derby Safari 2026 are now open. Travellers can confirm their places and make payment securely online through the Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya payment store.
When making payment, please ensure the traveller name and contact details correspond with the booking information provided to Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya.
Places are subject to availability and are confirmed after the required booking payment has been received and acknowledged.
Package Inclusions
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Maralal
- Road transport from Nairobi to Maralal
- Road transport from Maralal back to Nairobi
- Transport in the designated Cruzeiro Safaris tour vehicle
- Friday lunch at Thomson's Falls Lodge, Nyahururu
- Friday dinner in Maralal
- Saturday breakfast
- Saturday dinner
- Sunday breakfast
- Sunday lunch in Gilgil
- 1 litre of bottled drinking water per person per day
- Transfers between the hotel and designated Camel Derby event areas according to the final event programme
- Services of a Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya driver and trip coordinator
- Trip planning, organisation and logistical coordination
Package Exclusions
- Camel Derby event entrance fees where applicable
- Camel race participation fees
- Camel riding charges
- Triathlon or other sporting activity participation fees
- Separately charged cultural show entrance fees
- Saturday lunch in Maralal
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Extra bottled water beyond the package allocation
- Meals and snacks not specifically listed under the package inclusions
- Travel insurance
- Medical expenses
- Personal purchases and souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities
- Laundry services
- Telephone and data expenses
- Optional activities not specifically listed under the package inclusions
- Additional accommodation before or after the safari
- Expenses resulting from personal itinerary changes
What to Bring
- Warm jacket or fleece for cooler Maralal mornings and evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light daytime clothing
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Small day bag
- Personal toiletries
- Camera or mobile phone
- Power bank
- Personal medication
- Gloves if you intend to participate in camel riding
- Spending money for lunch, refreshments, optional activities and souvenirs
Book Your Maralal Camel Derby Safari 2026
The official Maralal Camel Derby takes place from 24 to 27 September 2026. Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya's organised safari operates from Friday 25 September to Sunday 27 September 2026.
This 3-day road adventure is designed for travellers who want to experience the atmosphere of the Maralal Camel Derby while enjoying organised transport, hotel accommodation, selected meals and logistical support from Nairobi.
Kenyan and African Citizens: KES 36,800 per person.
International / Non-Resident Visitors: USD 330 per person.
Secure online payment is available through Pesapal.
Pay Online and Confirm Your Safari
WhatsApp Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya
Have questions about the Maralal Camel Derby Safari or need assistance before making your booking? Speak directly with the Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya team.
Three Days. One Legendary Northern Kenya Adventure.
Friday 25 September: Nairobi to Maralal.
Saturday 26 September: Experience the Maralal Camel Derby.
Sunday 27 September: Maralal to Nairobi.
Experience camel racing, Samburu culture, northern Kenya landscapes and a memorable road journey with Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya.
The Maralal Camel Derby itself runs from 24 to 27 September 2026, while this Cruzeiro Safaris package is specifically designed around travel from 25 to 27 September 2026.
Bookings are now open and online payment is available.
Book and pay online for the Maralal Camel Derby Safari 2026
Terms and Conditions
Please read the Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya Terms and Conditions before confirming your booking.
Important: The Maralal Camel Derby is organised independently of Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya. Event schedules, individual activities, participation requirements and entrance charges may be changed by the event organisers. Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya's safari travel dates are 25 to 27 September 2026.
Maralal Camel Derby 2026 Safari from Nairobi
Looking for a convenient way to attend the Maralal Camel Derby 2026? Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya offers a 3-day organised safari from Nairobi from 25 to 27 September 2026, during the official Derby period of 24 to 27 September. The package combines return road transport, hotel accommodation, selected meals, camel racing, Samburu cultural experiences and the landscapes of northern Kenya.
Book online today and secure your place.
🐪
Travel with Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya – Camel Derby Experts Since 2013
🔥 Limited Seats – Book Now with 35% Deposit!
🗺️ Experience the Adventure in Kenya’s Northern Frontier
Reconnect with local culture, thrill, and tradition at the 2026 Maralal Camel Derby – one of Africa’s most iconic events. Since 2013, Cruzeiro Safaris has guided travelers on this unique expedition combining camel racing, Samburu culture, and scenic highland drives.
📅 5-Day Itinerary Overview
- 🛫 Day 1 – Thursday, 25 Sept 2025
- Depart at 6.30am from Nairobi early morning
- Lunch at Thomson Falls (Nyahururu)
- Evening arrival and hotel check-in in Maralal. This is a long drive - 🐪 Days 2–4 – 26–28 Sept
- Camel Derby races (amateur, triathlon, kids)
- Samburu cultural shows & traditional dances
- Entertainment & social evenings
- Daily breakfast & dinner provided (lunch on own) - 🏡 Day 5 – Monday, 29 Sept
- Breakfast & checkout
- Scenic return via Gilgil with lunch stop
- Arrive Nairobi late evening at around 7-8pm. This is a long drive.
💰 Tour Cost & Payment Info
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| 🇰🇪 Kenyan Citizens | KES 39,000 per person |
| 🌍 Non-Kenyan Residents | USD 380 per person |
🎯 35% Booking Deposit Required while confirming, Limited slots available
Balance due by 17 September2025
Please read our Terms and Conditions
💳 Payment Options
- M-PESA PAYBILL via KCB App:
DialKCB app or *522# For Freeor PayBill*522533# Charges Apply
Till Number: 7969671
Account: Cruzeiro Safaris Limited - Online Credit Card / USD Payments via Pesapal:
https://payments.pesapal.com/cruzeiro-safaris
⚠️ Note: All payments are non-refundable except in extreme cases.
🛏️ What’s Included
- 4 nights hotel accommodation (no camping)
- Meals:
- 25 Sept: Lunch (Thomson Falls) & Dinner
- 26–28 Sept: Breakfast & Dinner
- 29 Sept: Breakfast & Lunch (Gilgil)
- Round-trip Safari Truck transport (25 seats)
- 1L bottled water per person per day
- Full coordination by Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya
❌ Not Included
- Entry fees to races, triathlon & cultural shows
- Lunches and drinks in Maralal town
- Things of personal nature (souvenirs, tips, extra snacks, phone calls, laundry, etc.)
- Travel insurance and medical expenses
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
🧳 What to Bring
- Warm clothes (cold nights in Maralal)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Gloves (for camel riding)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat/cap
- Personal toiletries & snacks
🧼 Basic hotel amenities – No frills experience!
📞 Book Your Seat Now
📲 WhatsApp: +254-722-370833
📧 Email:
🌍 Website: www.cruzeiro-safaris.com
FROM 26 - 28 AUG - NB exact dates to be communicated.
We started taking people to the Camel Derby in 2013, travel with the people who know the journey. Review from our trip advisor clients Maralal Camel Derby fun! : Reviewed September 10, 2013: Traveled with Cruzeiro Safaris to the
Maralal Camel Derby on 30 August - 1September.The event was amazing and I would recommend it to everyone. There was an amazing mix of local culture with Camel racing. Be warned you need gloves and good shoes if you are going to ride the camel (it hurts!) but great fun.Cruzeiro Safaris were excellent, they arranged everything and although the journey was very long (approx 10 hour drive from Nairobi) it was worth it. Accommodation was basic in tents (but what we had expected and paid for) and the food was good. I also had to cancel a few people from our group at late notice and they were very understanding.I would recommend others to use them if planning a trip in Kenya.Visited August 2013
The Program / Itinerary
Friday 26th August.
0630 hrs - Leave Nairobi in the morning and drive northwards to Nyahururu for lunch then proceed to Maralal in the evening. Transit time 11hours.
The journey from Nairobi to Maralal is a long and bumpy one and windy please carry warm jackets.
1600 hrs - Arrival of participants and registration of entrants at the Secretariat desk. Orientation on camels, rules and routes. Meeting of Amateur riders.
1900 hrs – Dinner and overnight at the campsite.
Saturday 27 th August.
0700 hrs – Breakfast
0800 hrs – Continued registration (other races except Amateur)
0900 hrs – Briefing of Amateur Camel entrants and handlers at briefing point.
0930 hrs – Amateur riders and handlers assemble and prepare at the starting point at main road.
1100 hrs – Flag off amateur camel race. All participants must wear official numbers.
1130 hrs – Flag off kids bike race.
1230 hrs – Lunch
1400 hrs – Entertainment / traditional dances. Triathlon team and individuals preparing camels and bikes at starting point
1430 hrs – Flag off individual triathlon race
1530 hrs – Flag off disabled / special needs race
(1400 – 1630 hrs – entertainment for all and social evenings for the organizers, families, friends and guests)
1900 hrs: Dinner
Samburu cultural nite show. Traditional foods, attire, ornaments and age groups.
Sunday 28th August
0700 hrs – Breakfast.
0800hrs - Leave for Nairobi and you will carry picnic lunches to arrive nairobi in the late evening . Transit time 11hours.
Cost is USD220 or Kshs.22,000 per person in 2 man -sharing tent.
Cost In own Tent USD250 or Kshs. 25,000
All Payments sent through Lipa Na Mpesa and Online Payments with Credit Card Pesapal.com
All Payments are Non- refundable except in extreme cases.
Cost will cinlude:
- Camping tents
-Camping Matteress
-Standard Size Sleeping bag
- Lunch at thompson falls and dinner at Camping site on the 26th.
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Camping Site - 27th
- Breakfast, and packed lunches - 28th.
-Transport in Safari Truck to fit 25 people.
- 1 little of mineral water per person per day.
All food served at the campsite is fresh and prepared onsite.
There are only cold showers and we fetch water in buckets so please note NO FRILLS.
NB: Please carry warm clothing, umbrella and comfortable walking shoes, suncsreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap.
