5-Day Kenya Safari to Lake Elementaita and Maasai Mara with Big Five

5 Days Round trip from Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Great Rift Valley lake system
  • 02 Game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park with white and black rhinos
  • 03 Flamingo-filled lakeshores and abundant birdlife in the Rift Valley
  • 04 Exceptional Big Five viewing in the Maasai Mara
  • 05 Traditional Maasai village visit and insight into local culture
  • 06 Optional hot air balloon safari over the savannah at sunrise
  • 07 Great Migration sightings from July to October
  • 08 Vast golden plains with excellent wildlife photography opportunities

Experience an exclusive 5-day safari that combines the serene beauty of Lake Elementaita with the untamed wilderness of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Explore wildlife-rich Lake Nakuru National Park, where white and black rhinos roam and flamingos colour the lakeshore pink, before continuing to Kenya's premier wildlife reserve for thrilling game drives across endless golden plains. Along the way, enjoy exceptional opportunities to spot the Big Five, abundant birdlife, and dramatic Great Rift Valley scenery, with the option to add a magical hot air balloon safari at sunrise. This carefully curated journey blends classic wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and the warm hospitality of Kenya.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Elmenteita

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Nairobi and Journey to Lake Elementaita

Tranquillity by the Lake

(Approx. 130 km, 2.5-3 hrs by road)

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), you will be warmly welcomed by our professional safari representative and introduced to your professional safari driver-guide, who will accompany you throughout your journey.

Depart Nairobi and journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, where sweeping escarpments, fertile farmlands, and scenic viewpoints create countless opportunities for memorable photographs. As you descend into the valley, the shimmering lakes of the Rift Valley begin to appear across the landscape.

Continue to Sentrim Elementaita Lodge, arriving in time for a delicious lunch. Set near the tranquil shores of Lake Elementaita, the lodge provides a peaceful base from which to appreciate the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its surrounding Rift Valley landscapes.

After lunch, settle into your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the lodge. Take a refreshing swim, relax in the serene surroundings, enjoy a nature walk, or simply admire the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding escarpments as the afternoon light begins to soften.

As evening falls, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Sentrim Elementaita Lodge, reflecting on your first day in the beautiful Great Rift Valley.

Meal Plan: Full Board (Lunch, Dinner)
Overnight: Sentrim Elementaita Lodge

2
Day 02

Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drives

Wildlife Haven of the Rift Valley

(Approx. 60 km, 1-1.5 hrs by road from Lake Elementaita to Lake Nakuru)

After a hearty breakfast at Sentrim Elementaita Lodge, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya's most wildlife-rich destinations. The park is renowned for its populations of white and black rhinos, while its diverse habitats also offer excellent opportunities to encounter lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and the elusive leopard.

Upon entering the park, embark on a rewarding game drive around the lake and through its surrounding grasslands and woodland. Keep your camera ready for the park's abundant birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, crowned cranes, and numerous birds of prey.

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch within the park before continuing with afternoon game drives. Explore the changing landscapes as you search for more wildlife and enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Rift Valley.

As the sun begins to descend, make your way back to Sentrim Elementaita Lodge. Freshen up and relax before enjoying dinner and reflecting on a day filled with memorable wildlife encounters.

Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Overnight: Sentrim Elementaita Lodge

3
Day 03

From Lake Elementaita to the Maasai Mara

From Lakes to Golden Plains

(Approx. 230 km, 5-6 hrs by road)

After a leisurely breakfast at Sentrim Elementaita Lodge, bid farewell to the tranquil shores of Lake Elementaita and journey southwest toward the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve. The scenic drive takes you through rolling hills, patchwork farmlands, traditional Maasai communities, and rural landscapes before the scenery gradually opens into the endless golden plains of the Mara.

Arrive at Flair Camp Experiences in time for lunch and settle into your comfortable safari accommodation. After a short rest, set out on your first afternoon game drive across the Mara's magnificent grasslands.

Keep watch for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and your first encounters with the Mara's famous big cats. As the afternoon light turns the savannah golden, the landscape becomes particularly atmospheric and rewarding for photography.

Return to Flair Camp Experiences as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the African bush before settling into a relaxing evening beneath the Mara sky.

Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Overnight: Flair Camp Experiences

4
Day 04

Maasai Mara Wildlife Encounters and Maasai Village Visit

Living Theatre of the Wild

Rise early to the golden dawn over the Maasai Mara. For those seeking an extraordinary experience, an optional hot air balloon safari offers a magical way to witness the sunrise from above, followed by a champagne breakfast at the landing site.

Alternatively, enjoy breakfast at Flair Camp Experiences before setting out on a morning game drive. Explore open grasslands, riverine forests, and rolling hills while searching for the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The Mara's famous big cats, particularly lions, cheetahs, and leopards, provide some of the most thrilling wildlife encounters.

During the Great Migration season from July to October, you may also have the opportunity to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing, creating one of Africa's most spectacular natural events.

Return to Flair Camp Experiences for lunch and a short midday break. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Maasai village and experience the rich culture and traditions of the Maasai people. Meet local community members, learn about their traditional way of life, customs, songs, dances, and pastoral heritage, and gain a deeper appreciation of the people who have shared this landscape with wildlife for generations.

Later, head out for an evening game drive as the golden light transforms the Mara's vast plains. Keep watch for wildlife becoming active in the cooler hours of the day, with excellent opportunities for photography before returning to camp.

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and a peaceful evening at Flair Camp Experiences, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Overnight: Flair Camp Experiences

5
Day 05

Return to Nairobi and Departure

Farewell to the Wild

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Flair Camp Experiences, taking in your final views of the golden Mara plains and reflecting on the unforgettable wildlife encounters of your safari.

After checking out, begin your scenic journey back to Nairobi. Travel through the changing landscapes of the Kenyan countryside and the dramatic Great Rift Valley, offering one final opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the country.

Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your international departure flight. As your journey comes to an end, carry with you memories of serene Rift Valley lakes, extraordinary wildlife, golden savannahs, and the warm hospitality of Kenya.

Meal Plan: Breakfast
Overnight: In Transit

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) 4 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport transfers and arrival/departure assistance at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)
  • Accommodation for 4 nights as specified in the itinerary (2 nights at Lake Elementaita and 2 nights in the Maasai Mara)
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (Full Board)
  • Private safari transportation in a customized 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • All scheduled game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve
  • Applicable park entrance and conservation fees
  • Bottled drinking water during safari excursions (1 litre per person per day)
  • Government taxes and statutory levies

What's Not Included

  • International flights to and from Kenya
  • Domestic or regional flights unless specifically included
  • Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional excursions and activities (e.g. hot air balloon safari $450pp, Maasai cultural visit $30pp)
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, telephone calls, and shopping
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages not included in the specified meal plans
  • Tips and gratuities for driver-guides and camp staff
  • Meals not specifically mentioned under inclusions
  • Additional accommodation before or after the scheduled itinerary
  • Medical expenses and emergency evacuation costs
  • Any increase in park fees, government taxes, or fuel-related costs imposed after booking
  • Any service not specifically mentioned under Safari Inclusions

What to bring

  • Lightweight, comfortable clothing
  • Neutral-coloured safari clothing
  • Warm layer or jacket for early mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal toiletries and medication
  • Camera and extra batteries/power bank
  • Binoculars
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small daypack
  • Travel documents, passport, and travel insurance details
  • Light rain jacket or waterproof layer
  • Packing tip: Keep luggage reasonably compact for easy transfer between destinations.

Know before you go

  • Safari Vehicle: The safari is conducted in a private, customized 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, allowing excellent visibility and photography opportunities during game drives.
  • Professional Guide: You will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking safari driver-guide who will assist with wildlife spotting, navigation, and interpretation of the landscapes and ecosystems.
  • Game Viewing: Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Animals move freely within their natural environment, and sightings depend on weather, season, water availability, and animal movements.
  • Lake Nakuru Game Drives: The park offers some of the best chances to encounter white and black rhinos and the elusive leopard in Africa. The alkaline lake attracts over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and crowned cranes.
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari: The optional hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara is a magical experience - drifting silently above the savannah at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast. Advance booking is recommended.
  • Conservation: Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife regulations, maintain safe distances from animals, avoid littering, and follow the instructions of their professional guide throughout the safari.
  • Is the tour family-friendly? Yes. Children under 2 travel free; children aged 3-11 pay 75% of the adult rate.
  • Do I need a visa? Yes, most nationalities require a Kenya eTA, obtainable online before travel.
  • Child policy: Children below 2 years travel free, subject to accommodation policy.
  • Child policy: Children aged 3-11 years are charged at the child rate, depending on accommodation and room-sharing arrangements.
  • Child policy: Children aged 12 years and above are generally charged at the applicable adult rate.
  • Child policy: Final child rates are subject to the policies of the selected hotels, lodges, and camps.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport)
Tour start
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport)
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport).

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