Overview

In this tour you have the best chances to experience the Big 5 in Kenya. Starting with Masai Mara where you can find at least 4 of the big 5 along with many other varieties and numbers of animals, you will be moving to Lake Nakuru (5 hours drive) on Day 4. Lake Nakuru offers good chances for spotting rhinos along with aquatic birds like flamingos

Trip Highlights

Masai Mara National Reserve (2 Nights): Known for its high concentration of wildlife, especially the Big Five, the Masai Mara is one of the best places in the world for game drives. The park offers exceptional wildlife viewing, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. During the Great Migration (July–October), the Mara also sees the dramatic crossing of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores.
Lake Nakuru National Park (2 Nights): Lake Nakuru is famous for its large population of black and white rhinos and is a great spot for birdwatching, particularly flamingos and other waterfowl. The park’s diverse ecosystems offer opportunities to see wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope species. The soda lake adds to the park's beauty, with stunning views and an abundance of wildlife
Game Drives & Scenic Views: Throughout the safari, you’ll enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, where expert guides will take you to the best wildlife spots. Expect beautiful landscapes, such as the expansive savannahs of the Mara, lush woodlands, and serene lakeshores in Nakuru.

Day 01 :

Nairobi to Masai Mara

Your tour starts with pick up at 7:30 AM from your Nairobi hotel or Airport and drive to Masai Mara. This drive will take about 5 to 6.5 hours with a scenic stopover at Great Rift Valley. Arrive in Masai Mara shortly after noon and check into your lodge/camp, have hot lunch and then depart for an afternoon game drive.

After the game drive, we head back to lodge/camp to reach by around 5:30 or 6:00 PM, freshen up and enjoy a freshly prepared Dinner. Overnight at your lodge.

Overnight at a Midrange or Luxury Camp or Lodge

Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast

Note: The last 1-hour drive to Masai Mara is on the corrugated and bumpy road and may not be comfortable for clients with back problems. Clients with back problems can consider flying directly to (and out of) Masai Mara. Flight takes Approx. 45 minutes and lands at an airstrip near your Lodge

Day 2 & Day 3 :

Masai Mara

Today’s itinerary is flexible and you can discuss with your guide on the previous evening and plan for today’s schedule.

You can either have a relaxed breakfast and depart for full day game drives around 9:00 AM with packed lunch and return back to lodge late afternoon around 6:00 PM. Or you can depart at 6:00 AM on an early morning game drive (This is the best time to see the animals and a good chance to witness hunt/kill). Later return to accommodation for breakfast and relax for a bit and depart on an afternoon game drive with packed lunch. you will stop at a picnic spot for having packed lunch and later depart on a game drive till the park is closed. Around 6:00 PM return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight at a Midrange or Luxury Camp or Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4 :

Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

Wake up early in the morning and have a short morning game drive in Masai Mara. Return to Camp/Lodge for Breakfast and around 10:00 AM checkout and Depart to Lake Nakuru National Park which is about 5.5 hours drive. Upon reaching Nakuru lodge check in, have dinner and relax for the day.

Note : Depending on your itinerary, location of lodge in Nakuru and plan for the next day(if going to Amboseli for example), we might skip morning game drives in Masai mara this day and proceed to Nakuru directly to reach by around 2:00 PM and do afternoon game drives in Nakuru.
Overnight at a Midrange or Luxury Camp or Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 05 :

Lake Nakuru to Nairobi

After breakfast, we proceed to Lake Nakuru national park with packed lunch and do game drives till around 2:00 PM and then proceed to Nairobi where we will reach around 5:30 PM at your hotel or airport in Nairobi.

No accommodation pre-booked for you on this day

Meal Plan: Breakfast and farewell Lunch in Nairobi depending of departure time

FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go on this safari?
- The best time for wildlife viewing in Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru is during the dry seasons (June to October) when animals tend to congregate around waterholes, and the Great Migration takes place. The short rains (November to December) and long rains (April to May) are less ideal due to potential weather disruptions.
Do I need a visa to enter Kenya?
- Yes, most visitors to Kenya require a visa, which can be obtained online (eVisa) or upon arrival, depending on your nationality.
How physically demanding is the safari?
- The safari involves game drives in a 4×4 vehicle, with minimal walking. The itinerary is suitable for all fitness levels, but be prepared for long hours in the vehicle and early morning departures.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
- In Masai Mara, you’ll likely see lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. In Lake Nakuru, you can spot rhinos, giraffes, waterbucks, flamingos, and a variety of birds.
Is malaria a risk on this safari?
- Yes, malaria is a risk in the areas you’ll be visiting. It’s advisable to take malaria prophylaxis and use insect repellent during your stay.
How cold does it get in the mornings and evenings?
- It can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, particularly in Masai Mara. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a jacket for early morning game drives.
Can I see the Great Migration during this safari?
- If you visit between July and October, you will likely witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara, a spectacle of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Mara River, attracting predators.
How do I travel between the parks?
- You’ll travel by 4×4 safari vehicle with your guide. The parks are located a few hours apart, and you will enjoy scenic views during the drives.
Is this safari suitable for children?
- Yes, the safari is family-friendly, but children should be at least 6 years old to enjoy the experience fully. Some lodges or camps may have age restrictions for certain activities.
What should I pack for the safari?

Essential items include comfortable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), trekking shoes, binoculars, camera, and insect repellent. Be sure to pack warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings.