5-Day Kenya Budget Safari: Masai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara
Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing Nairobi for the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, offering stunning vistas and photo opportunities. You will arrive at Masai Mara in time for lunch at your tented camp or safari lodge, strategically located for optimal wildlife viewing. After settling in, embark on your first game drive in the expansive plains of the Masai Mara. Your experienced guide will navigate through the reserve, pointing out the diverse wildlife that call this area home, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and an array of herbivores. As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the savannah, return to your camp for a delightful dinner and a night under the African sky.
Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara
Your day starts with an early morning game drive, the perfect time to catch predators in action and witness the vibrant life of the Mara. The reserve is teeming with wildlife, and you might spot large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. The Masai Mara is also famous for its big cat population, so keep your camera ready for sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. After an exhilarating morning, return to your camp for a leisurely breakfast. You have the rest of the day to relax or take part in optional activities. Consider visiting a local Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life, engage with the community, and purchase unique handicrafts. Another game drive in the late afternoon will give you more opportunities to spot elusive animals as they prepare for the night. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your camp.
Day 3: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
After a fulfilling breakfast, bid farewell to the Masai Mara and drive towards Lake Nakuru National Park. The journey offers scenic views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and a chance to stop for photos along the way. Upon arrival at Lake Nakuru, check into your lodge and enjoy a sumptuous lunch. In the afternoon, set out on a game drive around the park, renowned for its stunning flamingo-filled shores and rich birdlife. Lake Nakuru is also a sanctuary for endangered species, including the black and white rhinos, which you may see grazing by the lake. Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The park’s picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife make for a memorable afternoon. Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, depart Lake Nakuru and travel to Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the serene views of the lake. After lunch, embark on an exciting boat ride across Lake Naivasha, offering a unique perspective on the area’s wildlife. You will likely spot hippos lounging in the water, as well as a variety of bird species including fish eagles and kingfishers. Following the boat ride, visit Crescent Island for a guided walking safari. This sanctuary allows you to walk among freely roaming herbivores such as zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests, providing an up-close and personal wildlife experience. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi
On the final day of your safari, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge, taking in the tranquility of Lake Naivasha one last time. Begin your journey back to Nairobi, reflecting on the incredible experiences and wildlife encounters of the past few days. Upon arrival in Nairobi, you have the option to explore more of the city's attractions or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Consider a visit to the Giraffe Centre, where you can get up close and personal with the endangered Rothschild giraffes, or take a tour of the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the famous author of "Out of Africa."
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant before being transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your departure flight. As you board your flight, you'll carry with you unforgettable memories of Kenya's breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture, marking the end of your 6-day Kenyan safari adventure.
Inclusions:
- All budget-friendly accommodation as detailed in a double occupancy room, with private facilities.
- Full board meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the safari.
- Park fees and conservation charges for all national parks and reserves visited.
- Expert safari drivers/guides who will accompany you throughout your journey.
- Game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles, offering optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
- Guided walking safari on Crescent Island
- The Flying Doctors emergency evacuation cover.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure.
- Bottled water during game drives
Exclusions:
- International flights and visas.
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional activities or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara with a bush breakfast experience.
- Beverages, laundry, items of a personal nature.
- Tips and gratuities for safari guide and camp staff.
Important to Know
- All of our safaris are on a private basis
- Children aged between 0-2 years are free of charge.
- Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult rate when sharing the same room with adults
- Children between 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their separate room from adults
- Children 13 years and above are recognized as adults
