Kenya · Safari

5-Day Kenya Safari to Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Hell's Gate

5 Days Round trip from Nairobi Moderate pace

Spot the enchanting Wildebeest Migration

Spot towering giraffe at Lake Nakuru National Park

Witness African wildlife amongst lush landscapes

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Witness the Big Five in Masai Mara
02 Experience cultural immersion with a visit to a local Maasai village
03 Marvel at Lake Nakuru's famous flamingos and rhino sightings
04 Explore Hell's Gate's dramatic gorge and geothermal features
05 Enjoy scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley

Embark on a thrilling 5-day safari from Nairobi to Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Hell's Gate National Park, immersing yourself in Kenya's stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. Witness the iconic Big Five in Masai Mara, marvel at flocks of flamingos along Lake Nakuru, and explore Hell's Gate's dramatic gorges and geothermal wonders.

Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for stunning landscapes.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell's Gate National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Nairobi and Scenic Transfer to Masai Mara

Morning:

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Meet your tour guide and enjoy a brief introduction to your adventure.

Afternoon:

Depart for Masai Mara, approximately 5-6 hours by road.
Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for stunning landscapes.

Evening:

Check into your accommodation, such as a tented camp or budget lodge.
Enjoy dinner and share stories with fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Sarova Mara Game Lounge

Day 02

Full-Day Game Drives and Maasai Culture in Masai Mara

Morning:

Set out on an early morning game drive to catch the sunrise and spot wildlife such as lions, elephants, and buffalo.
Return to camp for breakfast.

Afternoon:

Enjoy lunch at the camp, followed by a visit to a local Maasai village to learn about their culture.

Evening:

Head out on an evening game drive to explore different regions of the reserve.
Dinner and overnight at your camp.

Accommodation: Sarova Mara Game Lounge

Day 03

Scenic Journey from Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

Morning:

Depart Masai Mara after breakfast.
Enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, about 4-5 hours.

Afternoon:

Arrive at Lake Nakuru and check into your accommodation.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the lake's edge, famous for its flamingos.

Evening:

Go on an evening game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, looking for rhinos and other wildlife.
Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge or camp.

Accommodation: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lounge

Day 04

Hell's Gate Adventure and Geothermal Landscapes

Morning:

After breakfast, depart for Hell's Gate National Park, approximately 1 hour away.
Enjoy a guided walking or cycling tour in the park, taking in the unique geothermal features.

Afternoon:

Visit the Olkaria Geothermal Station and take a hike to Hell's Gate Gorge.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscapes.

Evening:

Return to your accommodation in Lake Nakuru for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort

Day 05

Return to Nairobi and Departure

Morning:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out.
Depart for Nairobi, about 2-3 hours away.

Afternoon:

Optional quick city tour or visit to a local market for souvenirs.
Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight.

Where this trip takes you

Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell's Gate National Park, Great Rift Valley viewpoint

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Nairobi 4 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation
Meals
Transportation
Park entrance fees
Game drives
Cultural visit
Adventure activities
Bottled water
Tour guide
Emergency medical assistance

What's Not Included

International flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Optional activities
Tips and gratuities
Visa fees
Additional meals
Accommodation before or after the tour

What to bring

Travel Documents
- Passport and Visa: With at least six months' validity and a printed e-visa, if applicable.
- Travel Insurance: Covering health, cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Required if coming from a yellow-fever-prone area.
Clothing
- Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Opt for neutral colors for safaris, such as khaki, olive, and beige.
- Long-Sleeve Shirts and Pants: For sun protection and to deter mosquitoes, especially for evening safaris.
- Warm Layers: A fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings, especially in high-altitude areas.
- Rain Jacket: Essential if you're traveling during Kenya's rainy seasons (March-May and October-November).
- Swimsuit: For beach or lodge pools.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Lightweight hiking boots or sturdy sneakers for safari walks.
- Sandals or Flip-Flops: For relaxing at your accommodation.
Accessories
- Hat: Wide-brimmed for sun protection.
- Sunglasses: With UV protection for strong sunlight.
- Scarf or Buff: Protects against dust on safari drives.
- Day Pack: Small backpack for carrying essentials during outings.
- Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
- Camera and Extra Batteries: To capture those incredible moments; bring additional memory cards and a portable charger.
Health and Safety Items
- Prescription Medications: Bring enough for the entire trip, plus extras in case of delays.
- Malaria Tablets: Consult your doctor for recommendations.
- First Aid Kit: Including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal health essentials.
- Insect Repellent: Especially effective against mosquitoes, preferably one with DEET.
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: Handy for maintaining hygiene during excursions.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher, as Kenya's sun can be intense.
Electronics and Connectivity
- Portable Power Bank: Useful for recharging devices on the go.
- Travel Adapter: Kenya uses the British plug type G (240V).
- Unlocked Mobile Phone: Buy a local SIM for data if you want affordable internet.
Personal Comfort and Convenience
- Reusable Water Bottle: For staying hydrated and reducing plastic waste.
- Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, or trail mix for long drives or treks.
- Notebook and Pen: To jot down notes on sightings or trip details.
- Reading Material or E-Reader: For downtime or during travel.
Money and Documents
- Cash: Some rural areas may not accept cards, so carry local currency (Kenyan Shillings) for small purchases and tips.
- Credit/Debit Card: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities.
- Photocopies of Documents: Including your passport, visa, and insurance, in case of loss.

Know before you go

Visa and Entry Requirements
- Visa: Most travelers need a visa to enter Kenya. An e-visa can be obtained online through the eVisa portal.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Vaccination proof may be required, especially if you're arriving from a country with a yellow fever risk.
Health and Vaccinations
- Malaria: Kenya is a malaria-prone area, so consider malaria prophylaxis and bring mosquito repellent.
- Vaccinations: Besides yellow fever, other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in rural areas.
- Travel Insurance: It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, as medical care can be costly for non-residents.
Money and Currency
- Currency: The currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns.
- Credit Cards: While widely accepted in urban areas, cash is essential in rural or remote areas. Carry small denominations for ease of transactions.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in Kenya for good service, particularly for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Safety and Security
- Personal Belongings: Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and city centers.
- Transportation: Avoid using unregistered taxis; instead, use reliable options like Uber or reputable taxi services.
- Local Laws: Penalties for drug possession are severe. Always respect local regulations, including wildlife protection laws.
Weather and Climate
- Seasons: Kenya's climate varies by region. The best times for safaris are during the dry seasons (June to October and January to March), when animals congregate around water sources.
- Packing: Light clothing is good for the day, but bring layers or a jacket for cool nights, especially in high-altitude areas.
Wildlife and Safaris
- National Parks: The Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, and Lake Nakuru are some of the top parks for safaris.
- Respect Wildlife: Always follow the guide's instructions and maintain a respectful distance from animals.
- Photography: Some areas prohibit flash photography, so be mindful of restrictions and bring extra batteries or power banks.
Culture and Language
- Language: English and Swahili are official languages, and most Kenyans speak both.
- Cultural Respect: Be mindful of customs, especially in rural areas and with the Maasai or other indigenous groups. Always ask before taking photos of people.
- Dress: Dress modestly, especially in towns and rural areas.
Food and Water Safety
- Drinking Water: Stick to bottled or purified water, as tap water is not always safe for consumption.
- Food: Kenya has a variety of delicious foods, but try to eat from clean, reputable places. Watch out for spicy food and be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Mobile Connectivity and Internet
- SIM Cards: Local SIM cards (Safaricom, Airtel) are affordable and provide good coverage.
- Internet Access: Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and hotels, but speeds may vary.
Time Zone and Power Outlets
- Time Zone: Kenya is on East Africa Time (GMT+3).
- Power Outlets: The standard voltage is 240V, with Type G plug sockets (same as the UK). A power adapter is useful if you have different plug types.
A 5-day safari visiting Hell's Gate, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara. Lake Nakuru: Enjoy the fabulous water birds and other bird species. The best place to view the birds is from Baboon Cliff, where you get an excellent view over the lake and the wonderful spectacle of pink flamingos along its edge. Maasai Mara: The Masai Mara Game Reserve is one of the best places in Africa for wildlife viewing. Game drives are a great way to experience the park, and they take place all year round.