6-Day Kenya Safari: Masai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Gateway to Adventure
As your flight descends toward Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the vast cityscape of Nairobi unfolds beneath you—a striking blend of towering skyscrapers, verdant parks, and bustling streets. Upon arrival, your safari representative warmly welcomes you and assists with your transfer to Sarova Panafric Hotel, a tranquil haven just outside the vibrant city center. Here, you can unwind in lush gardens, relax by the sparkling pool, and enjoy modern comforts before your adventure begins.
If you arrive early, consider optional excursions that offer insight into Nairobi’s wildlife and cultural heritage. Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage to witness orphaned elephants being nurtured before their reintroduction into the wild. Alternatively, explore the Giraffe Centre, where you can hand-feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. For history enthusiasts, the Karen Blixen Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into colonial Kenya and the life of the Out of Africa author.
As evening falls, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner at the hotel’s restaurant. Your safari guide will provide a briefing on the exciting journey ahead. Afterward, retreat to your cozy room for a restful night in preparation for the next day's adventure.
Accommodation: Sarova Panafric Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Distance & Travel Time: approx. 18 km, 30 minutes from JKIA to hotel
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara – Journey into the Wild
After an early breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Masai Mara National Reserve. The journey takes you through Kenya’s picturesque countryside, passing through small towns and vast farmlands. A stop at a Great Rift Valley viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the sprawling landscapes below.
Continuing through Maasai land, you arrive at Mara Sopa Lodge in time for a delicious lunch. Nestled on the slopes of Oloolaimutia Hills, the lodge provides stunning views of the surrounding savannah.
In the afternoon, embark on your first thrilling game drive. The Masai Mara is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—along with an abundance of other wildlife. The golden plains stretch endlessly, punctuated by acacia trees and bustling with activity. Lions bask in the shade, elephants graze in family herds, and cheetahs stealthily prowl for their next hunt.
As the sun sets, return to the lodge for a delightful dinner, followed by relaxation around a crackling bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Accommodation: Mara Sopa Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance & Travel Time: approx. 280 km, 5-6 hours
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara – Big Five & The Great Migration
Rise early for a morning game drive, the best time to witness predator activity. You may spot lions stalking their prey, cheetahs in high-speed chases, or leopards lounging in trees. If visiting between July and October, you may also witness the dramatic Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, braving crocodile-infested waters.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation. Midday options include a visit to a Maasai Village to experience their traditional lifestyle, music, and craftsmanship.
After lunch, venture on another game drive, exploring the vast Mara plains and its abundant wildlife. As the sun sets, return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and an evening of relaxation under a star-lit African sky.
Accommodation: Mara Sopa Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance & Travel Time: Varies based on game drive routes, 4-6 hours of exploration
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru – Flamingos, Rhinos & Scenic Beauty
After an early breakfast, depart Masai Mara for Lake Nakuru National Park, driving through stunning Rift Valley landscapes. Arrive at Lake Nakuru Lodge in time for lunch with scenic views of the lake, often tinged pink from thousands of flamingos.
In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to discover the park’s diverse wildlife, including black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalos, baboons, and elusive leopards. Visit Baboon Cliff Viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
As dusk settles, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay amidst the tranquil sounds of nature.
Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance & Travel Time: approx. 230 km, 5-6 hours
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha – Boat Safari & Walking Safari
Wake up to a leisurely breakfast before departing for Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and flower farms.
Upon arrival at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, refresh before embarking on a boat safari across the lake. Glide past hippos basking near the shore, watch African fish eagles swoop for prey, and observe the rich birdlife along the shoreline.
The adventure continues with a guided walking safari on Crescent Island, where you can walk among grazing giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes—an immersive experience in a predator-free environment.
Return to the resort for a delightful lunch with stunning lake views. Spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the swimming pool, exploring the gardens, or simply relaxing.
As evening falls, enjoy a lakeside dinner before retreating to your cozy room.
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance & Travel Time: approx. 80 km, 2 hours
Day 6: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi – Farewell to Kenya
After breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Naivasha and begin the scenic drive back to Nairobi. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute explorations:
- Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative: Visit this artisan workshop where local women craft beautiful, hand-painted ceramic jewelry, supporting sustainable livelihoods.
- The Maasai Market: Browse handcrafted souvenirs, from beaded jewelry to intricate wood carvings.
- Carnivore Restaurant (Optional): Enjoy a famous Kenyan feast featuring a variety of roasted meats, an ideal way to conclude your safari experience.
In the afternoon, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure. As you take off, you carry with you unforgettable memories of thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of Kenyan hospitality.
Meals: Breakfast
Distance & Travel Time: approx. 100 km, 2-3 hours
Inclusions:
✔ Accommodation: Midrange lodges and hotels on a shared basis, including Sarova Panafric Hotel, Mara Sopa Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge, and Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.
✔ Meals: Full-board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as per the itinerary.
✔ Transport: Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing and photography.
✔ Game Drives & Activities: Unlimited game drives in Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru, plus a boat safari at Lake Naivasha and a visit to Crescent Island.
✔ Park Entry Fees: All entrance fees to Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Crescent Island.
✔ Professional Guide: English-speaking driver-guide with extensive knowledge of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.
✔ Cultural Experience: Visit to a Maasai Village for an immersive cultural interaction.
✔ Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during game drives.
✔ Airport Transfers: Pick-up from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and drop-off at the airport or a preferred location in Nairobi.
✔ Government Taxes & Levies: VAT, conservation fees, and all mandatory government charges.
Exclusions:
✘ International Flights: Airfare to and from Kenya is not included.
✘ Visa Fees: Travelers are responsible for obtaining and paying for their Kenya visa.
✘ Personal Expenses: Costs such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, extra snacks, and laundry services.
✘ Optional Activities: Visits to Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, or Carnivore Restaurant (available at an additional cost).
✘ Travel & Medical Insurance: Highly recommended but not included in the package.
✘ Tips & Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff (at guests’ discretion).
✘ Additional Meals & Drinks: Any meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.
✘ Additional Accommodation: Extra hotel nights before or after the safari unless requested.
