Kenya · Safari

4-Day Kenya Safari to Lake Nakuru and Maasai Mara with Big Five

4 Days Round trip from Nakuru Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for flamingos and rhino sightings
02 Experience unlimited game drives in Maasai Mara with chances to spot the Big Five
03 Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal, July to October)
04 Visit a traditional Maasai village and experience authentic local culture

Experience a 4-day Kenya safari through Lake Nakuru National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve, combining scenic landscapes with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Enjoy game drives in search of the Big Five, explore Lake Nakuru's flamingo-filled shores, and travel across the vast plains of the Maasai Mara in a 4x4 Land Cruiser with an expert guide. The journey also includes a visit to a traditional Maasai village and a drive through the Great Rift Valley. This safari is ideal for travellers seeking an immersive African wildlife experience.

Look out for flamingos, black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, buffalo, and possibly a leopard.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Nairobi to Lake Nakuru Through the Great Rift Valley

Early morning pick-up from Nairobi and departure towards the Great Rift Valley.
Stop at the escarpment viewpoint for panoramic views.
Descend into the Rift Valley floor.
Arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park in time for lunch.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive in the park.
Look out for flamingos, black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, buffalo, and possibly a leopard.
Explore the acacia woodlands and lakeshores.
Return to Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: Full Board.

Day 02

Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara Across the Highlands

Breakfast at the lodge.
Depart for Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Drive through rolling highlands and Maasai villages.
Arrive at the camp or lodge in time for lunch.
Set out on an afternoon game drive across the Maasai Mara plains.
Look for the Big Five, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs.
Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Overnight at Pride Inn Mara Camp or similar.

Meal Plan: Full Board.

Day 03

Full-Day Safari and Maasai Cultural Visit

Early breakfast at camp.
Spend the day on game drives in Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Track wildlife across the reserve.
There may be a chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, depending on the season.
Visit a traditional Maasai village.
Learn about Maasai culture, traditions, and way of life.
Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Overnight at Pride Inn Mara Camp or similar.

Meal Plan: Full Board.

Day 04

Morning Game Drive and Return to Nairobi

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Maasai Mara.
Breakfast at camp.
Depart for Nairobi.
Drive through scenic landscapes along the way.
Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon.
Drop-off at your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
End of the safari experience.
Safari njema and departure.

Where this trip takes you

flamingo shores of Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara plains, Great Rift Valley escarpment

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Nakuru 3 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation on a full-board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
All park entrance fees
Transport in a 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
Unlimited game drives
Complimentary bottled mineral water during the safari
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Maasai village visit experience
AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation cover

What's Not Included

International flights
Kenya eTA
Travel insurance
Optional activities such as a hot air balloon safari in Maasai Mara
Personal expenses, including tips, drinks, and laundry services

What to bring

Lightweight clothing (neutral colours: khaki, beige, green)
Long-sleeved shirts (sun & insect protection)
T-shirts / comfortable tops
Light jacket or fleece (mornings & evenings can be cool)
Comfortable trousers / shorts
Closed, comfortable walking shoes
Hat or cap
Swimwear
Camera or smartphone
Extra batteries / power bank
Binoculars
Small backpack / daypack
Reusable water bottle
Travel adapter
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Insect repellent
Personal medication
Hand sanitizer / wet wipes
Passport (valid for 6 months)
Visa / ETA (where applicable)
Travel insurance
Flight tickets (digital or printed)
Yellow Fever certificate (if required)
Sunglasses
Scarf / buff (for dust)
Cash (USD recommended for tips & small purchases)

Know before you go

Luggage: Soft bags or duffel bags are recommended; hard suitcases are not ideal for safari vehicles.
Weather: Early mornings and evenings can be cold, while afternoons are warm, so layering is key.
Health: Anti-malaria precautions are recommended. Consult your doctor before travel.
Currency: USD is widely accepted; small denominations are useful for tips.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most lodges but may be limited in remote areas.
Power: 240V with UK-type plugs, so carry an adapter.
Plastic bags: Banned in countries like Kenya, so avoid packing them.
Drones: Not allowed without prior permits.
Safety: Always follow your guide's instructions during game drives and walks.
Wildlife: Animals roam freely, so do not feed or approach them.
Cultural visits: Dress modestly when visiting local communities, such as Maasai villages.
Tipping: Optional but appreciated for guides and lodge staff.