Dreaming of the iconic African savannah, teeming with wildlife and breathtaking landscapes? A 5-day safari journey through Kenya’s most famous parks is the perfect way to turn that dream into reality. This expertly crafted itinerary packs the very best of Kenya into one unforgettable adventure, taking you from the world-renowned Masai Mara to the flamingo-fringed shores of Lake Nakuru and the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

This 5-day mid-range safari is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive Kenyan experience without spending weeks on the road. You’ll travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, perfect for game viewing, accompanied by an experienced, professional driver-guide.

Your journey begins in Nairobi, heading first to the Great Rift Valley lakes. At Lake Nakuru National Park, you’ll witness a bird-lover’s paradise, famous for its thousands of flamingos painting the shoreline pink and its population of endangered rhinos. Then, you’ll unwind at Lake Naivasha, a freshwater oasis where you can enjoy a boat ride amongst hippos and a walking safari on Crescent Island.

The crown jewel of the trip is the Masai Mara National Reserve. As one of the world’s most magnificent wildlife destinations, the Mara offers unparalleled game viewing. It’s the stage for the Great Migration (approximately July-October), but its dense population of predators and grazers ensures incredible sightings year-round. You’ll spend two full days here, diving deep into the ecosystem on morning and afternoon game drives.

Highlights

The Big Five: Exceptional chances to spot lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and both black and white rhino.
Masai Mara Game Drives: Multiple extensive game drives across the vast, rolling plains of the Mara in search of cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and more
The Great Migration (Seasonal): If traveling between July and October, witness the dramatic river crossings of millions of wildebeest and zebra – a truly once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Lake Nakuru’s Flamingos: Be mesmerized by the vast, shimmering pink flocks of greater and lesser flamingos (water levels permitting).
Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha: Glide across the freshwater lake, getting up close to hippos, watching fish eagles soar, and seeing diverse waterbirds.

Day 01 :

Nairobi – Lake Nakuru National Park

After an early pickup from your Nairobi hotel or the airport, you'll drive towards the Great Rift Valley, enjoying stunning panoramic views. Descend the escarpment and proceed to Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive, where you’ll look for rhinos, flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and tree-climbing lions. Dinner and overnight at your lodge/camp

Day 02 :

Lake Nakuru – Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, depart for the world-famous Masai Mara. You'll arrive in time for lunch at your lodge or camp. Embark on your first taste of the Mara with an afternoon game drive across the rich, wildlife-studded plains. Return for dinner and overnight, listening to the sounds of the African night.

Day 03 :

Full Day in the Masai Mara

Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the Masai Mara. Opt for a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch, allowing you to venture deeper into the reserve to remote rivers and valleys, or choose morning and afternoon drives with a break at your lodge for lunch. Your guide will track animals, hoping to find big cats on the hunt or a herd of elephants. Every moment is an opportunity for a breathtaking sighting. Enjoy dinner and another overnight stay.

Day 04 :

Masai Mara – Lake Naivasha

Enjoy one last early morning game drive in the Mara, followed by breakfast. Then, check out and begin your journey to Lake Naivasha. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your accommodation. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax by the lake. Dinner and overnight.

Day 05 :

Lake Naivasha – Nairobi

After breakfast, experience the highlight of Naivasha: a one-hour boat ride on the lake to see hippos and birds up close. This is often followed by a walking safari on Crescent Island, a truly unique experience. Afterward, begin your journey back to Nairobi, with a stop for lunch (own expense) along the way. You will be dropped off at your hotel or at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.