7-Day Budget Camping Safari: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha & Amboseli
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Embrace the Wild in Masai Mara
Your journey commences with a picturesque drive across the Great Rift Valley to reach the hallowed grounds of the Masai Mara National Reserve. On arrival, you'll be ushered into your campsite, a humble abode amidst the wilderness, to freshen up and enjoy a local lunch. The afternoon is when the Mara truly comes alive; embark on a game drive that will bring you face-to-face with the untamed life of the savanna, including lions, cheetahs, and elephants, while the setting sun paints the vast landscape in hues of orange and red.
Day 2: Full Day in the Heart of Masai Mara
Rise with the dawn for a game drive at first light, the perfect time to catch predators in action. After a hearty breakfast back at camp, take the midday to unwind or explore the camp surroundings. Come afternoon, set off once again into the reserve. The Mara's expansive grasslands and acacia woodlands are brimming with wildlife, and you'll have the chance to observe the intricate dynamics of this ecosystem.
Day 3: Birding Bliss at Lake Nakuru
Depart the Masai Mara with the sunrise as your backdrop, heading towards the alkaline Lake Nakuru. The park is a sanctuary for endangered rhinos and a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 400 bird species. During your game drive, watch as the water's edge flickers with the movements of countless flamingos and other waterfowl, and keep an eye out for big cats and the endangered Rothschild's giraffes that call this park home.
Day 4: Serene Escapades at Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, you will travel to the tranquil Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake nestled in the rift valley escarpment. Here, you can partake in an optional boat tour to view hippos at close range and glimpse the myriad of birds that flock to this peaceful retreat. As evening falls, the campsite by the lake offers a relaxing atmosphere where the lapping waters and nocturnal sounds of wildlife are the perfect lullaby.
Day 5: Elephants and Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
Setting off early, you'll make your way to Amboseli National Park, renowned for its large herds of free-ranging elephants and the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in the backdrop. An afternoon game drive will take you through diverse landscapes, from dusty plains to swampy marshes, all teeming with wildlife. This is one of the best places in Africa to observe elephants up close, with Kilimanjaro providing a stunning photographic backdrop.
Day 6: Bountiful Wildlife of Amboseli
A full day in Amboseli allows for an in-depth exploration of its remarkable biodiversity. Morning and afternoon drives offer ample opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species. The park's unique ecosystem, fed by the snowmelt of Kilimanjaro, supports a rich array of fauna and flora, offering exceptional game-viewing experiences.
Day 7: Farewell to the Wilderness
On your final morning, take in the last views of Amboseli's wildlife with an early game drive before beginning your journey back to Nairobi. Reflect on the myriad of experiences, from the adrenaline of the game drives to the serenity of the evening campsites, as you return to the capital city, where your safari adventure comes to a close.
Inclusions:
- Transport and game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles, offering optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Full board accommodation in selected budget-friendly camps throughout the safari.
- All meals as specified in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Comprehensive park entrance fees for all national parks and reserves visited.
- Expert safari drivers/guides who will accompany you throughout your journey.
- Bottled water to keep you hydrated during your safari adventures
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure, if required.
Exclusions:
- International flights and visas.
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional activities and excursions not outlined in the itinerary, such as boat rides.
- Any personal expenses, such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and alcoholic beverages.
- Gratuities for the safari guide and camp staff, which are highly appreciated.
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