6-Day Budget Safari: Masai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by your private guide and driver. Enjoy a warm Kenyan welcome and a seamless transfer to the Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands. This stylish hotel offers modern comfort and convenience, the perfect place to relax after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, explore Nairobi at your leisure, visit local attractions, or unwind at the hotel’s rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
Accommodation Option: Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands – a chic hotel featuring contemporary rooms and dining options.
Meals: Dinner at the hotel’s restaurant offering a mix of international and local cuisine.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve
After a hearty breakfast, depart Nairobi for the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Your journey takes you through the scenic Great Rift Valley, offering spectacular landscapes and photo opportunities. Arrive at the Enkorok Mara Camp in time for lunch and check into your luxury tented accommodation, designed for comfort and proximity to wildlife.
In the afternoon, embark on your first thrilling game drive in the Masai Mara. Spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and various herbivores roaming the expansive plains. As the sun sets over the savannah, return to your camp for dinner and a serene evening under the stars.
Accommodation Option: Enkorok Mara Camp – a luxury tented camp blending comfort and authenticity.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Start your day with an early morning game drive, the best time to witness predators in action and enjoy the vibrant wildlife activity. The Masai Mara’s diverse ecosystem supports large herds of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and an impressive population of big cats.
After a picnic breakfast in the bush, continue exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Enjoy lunch al fresco with a picnic lunch box before continuing with an afternoon game drive, maximizing your chances to spot elusive wildlife. Return to the camp for a sumptuous dinner and another peaceful night in the wilderness.
Accommodation Option: Enkorok Mara Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru National Park
Enjoy breakfast before bidding farewell to the Masai Mara and driving to Lake Nakuru National Park. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and stop for photo opportunities.
Upon arrival, check into the Lake Nakuru Lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, head out for a game drive to explore this park famous for its vibrant flamingo-lined shores, rare black and white rhinos, and other fascinating wildlife like giraffes and zebras. As the day ends, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation Option: Lake Nakuru Lodge – a comfortable lodge offering stunning views of the lake and the park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, travel to the picturesque Lake Naivasha. Upon arrival, check into the Naivasha Kongoni Lodge and relax with breathtaking views of the lake.
After lunch, embark on a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, where you can spot hippos lounging in the water and various bird species, including kingfishers and fish eagles. Conclude your afternoon with a guided walking safari on Crescent Island, where you can walk alongside freely roaming herbivores such as zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests. Enjoy your final evening with dinner by the lakeside.
Accommodation Option: Naivasha Kongoni Lodge – a tranquil retreat featuring luxurious amenities and lakeside views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge before beginning your journey back to Nairobi. Reflect on the unforgettable memories made during your safari as you drive through Kenya’s scenic landscapes.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you have the option to visit the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum (optional activities, at extra cost) or enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 5 nights in carefully selected lodges and camps (Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands, Enkorok Mara Camp, Lake Nakuru Lodge, Naivasha Kongoni Lodge - alternative accommodations will be provided if these are unavailable).
- Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trip.
- Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional guide and driver for game drives and transfers.
- Game Drives: Morning and afternoon game drives in Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha, led by an experienced safari guide.
- Boat Ride & Walking Safari: Boat ride on Lake Naivasha and walking safari on Crescent Island.
- Park Fees: All entrance fees to national parks and reserves (Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha).
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during the safari.
- Guided Tours: Guided game drives and activities with an expert local safari guide.
Exclusions:
- International Flights: Flights to and from Nairobi are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Items such as souvenirs, personal tips, and extra drinks or snacks.
- Travel Insurance: Travel and medical insurance are not included.
- Optional Activities: Optional activities such as a visit to a Maasai village or additional excursions.
- Gratuities: Tips for the driver/guide and lodge staff are not included.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and beverages are at an extra cost.
Important to Know
- 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
