Kenya · Safari

6-Day Kenya Safari through Amboseli, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara

6 Days Round trip from Nairobi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Game drives in Amboseli National Park with Mount Kilimanjaro as a dramatic backdrop
  • 02 Scenic views of the Great Rift Valley on the journey to Lake Nakuru
  • 03 Birdwatching at Lake Nakuru with flamingos and sightings of black and white rhinos
  • 04 Wildlife encounters in Masai Mara National Reserve, including the Big Five
  • 05 Opportunity to witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara from July to October
  • 06 Optional visit to a Maasai village for cultural insights
  • 07 Panoramic views of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding park from the lodge

Embark on a 6-day safari journey through Kenya's iconic national parks, exploring the majestic landscapes of Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara. Witness breathtaking wildlife, including the Big Five, on daily game drives set against unforgettable backdrops such as Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley. From flamingos and rhinos at Lake Nakuru to the vast plains of the Mara, this adventure showcases Kenya's diverse ecosystems and remarkable natural beauty. Enjoy exceptional service, comfortable lodge stays, and memorable wildlife encounters throughout the journey.

Witness breathtaking wildlife, including the Big Five, on daily game drives set against unforgettable backdrops such as Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Amboseli National Park

  • On Day 1, your adventure begins upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where you will be warmly greeted by your guide.
  • After a brief introduction and safari briefing, begin your journey to Amboseli National Park, a drive of approximately 4-5 hours. The route offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and beautiful landscapes, perfect for photos along the way.
  • Arrive at Amboseli Sopa Lodge in time for lunch. The lodge is ideally located, offering panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, and a perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon.
  • After settling in, enjoy the lodge's facilities and take in the scenic surroundings.
  • In the late afternoon, embark on your first game drive in Amboseli, where you'll have the opportunity to spot large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and perhaps even lions, all with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
  • The park is renowned for its elephant populations, so be sure to have your camera ready.
  • As the sun sets, return to Amboseli Sopa Lodge for dinner, where you can unwind in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a delicious meal while reflecting on the first day of your safari adventure, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
  • After dinner, rest and prepare for another exciting day in Amboseli.
2
Day 02

Full-Day Game Drives in Amboseli National Park

  • Start your day with an early breakfast at Amboseli Sopa Lodge before heading out for a morning game drive.
  • Early mornings are the best time to spot wildlife, as animals are most active during the cooler hours.
  • In Amboseli, you'll have the chance to observe elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species, all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park's expansive wetlands and savannahs create an ideal environment for a variety of wildlife, offering rich opportunities for photography.
  • Return to the lodge for a mid-morning break and enjoy a leisurely brunch.
  • Afterward, relax at the lodge or take a walk around the area, soaking in the views and the tranquility of Amboseli.
  • In the afternoon, you'll embark on another exciting game drive across the park, exploring new areas and possibly encountering more wildlife.
  • You may also visit the Amboseli Swamps, which are frequented by large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and other water-loving animals. The swamp areas also provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, with species like the sacred ibis and flamingos.
  • In the evening, return to Amboseli Sopa Lodge for dinner, where you can unwind and share stories about the day's adventures. The lodge offers a peaceful atmosphere to relax after a day of wildlife viewing.
  • Take in the panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro once more as the sun sets, reflecting on the incredible encounters of the day.
  • Rest for the night in preparation for the journey to Lake Nakuru National Park tomorrow.
3
Day 03

Journey from Amboseli to Lake Nakuru National Park

  • After an early breakfast at Amboseli Sopa Lodge, check out and begin your journey to Lake Nakuru National Park. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through diverse landscapes, including rural farms, hills, and scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Enjoy the changing scenery as you head towards the Rift Valley, where Lake Nakuru is nestled.
  • Arrive at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge in time for lunch. The lodge, situated on a hill overlooking the lake, offers stunning views of the surrounding park and is a perfect place to relax before heading out for your afternoon game drive.
  • After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its large population of flamingos that often cover the shores in a pink hue, especially during migration periods. The park is also home to rhinos, including both black and white rhinos, which are frequently spotted here. You'll also see a variety of other wildlife, including buffaloes, waterbucks, and giraffes. The park's lush vegetation, alkaline lake, and forested areas make for a diverse landscape and rich wildlife habitat.
  • After the game drive, return to the lodge for dinner and enjoy a relaxing evening. The picturesque setting of the lodge, with its panoramic views of Lake Nakuru, offers the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's sightings.
  • Enjoy the evening at leisure, with time to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Overnight at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, preparing for your journey to the famous Masai Mara on the following day.

4
Day 04

Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve

  • After an early breakfast at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, check out and begin your journey to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through the scenic Great Rift Valley and rolling hills.
  • As you approach the Mara, you'll begin to see the distinctive savannah landscape that defines this iconic reserve.
  • Arrive at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge in time for lunch. Located in a picturesque spot with views of the Mara plains, the lodge offers a serene and comfortable setting to relax before your first game drive in the Mara.
  • After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve, one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world. The Mara is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
  • Depending on the time of year, you may also witness the spectacular Great Migration, when millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River, pursued by predators in a dramatic natural spectacle.
  • As the sun begins to set, return to Masai Mara Sopa Lodge for dinner.
  • Afterward, enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps sharing stories around the campfire or watching the stars. The lodge provides a peaceful atmosphere with spectacular views of the Mara plains, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a thrilling game drive.

Overnight at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge, preparing for another full day of wildlife exploration in the Mara.

5
Day 05

Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve

  • On Day 5, start your day with an early breakfast at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge. The early morning hours are perfect for wildlife sightings, so get ready for a full-day game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve.
  • The Mara is famous for its incredible concentration of wildlife, and this full-day adventure will give you ample time to explore different parts of the reserve and increase your chances of seeing the Big Five as well as other iconic species like cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
  • During the morning drive, you'll explore the vast open plains and savannahs, searching for predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, and marveling at the sight of large herds of elephants and buffaloes. If you're visiting during the Great Migration season (typically July to October), you'll have the chance to witness the breathtaking spectacle of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River, an unforgettable sight for any safari-goer.
  • Midday, take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush or return to the lodge for a more relaxed meal. This break allows you to recharge before heading back out for the afternoon game drive.
  • In the afternoon, explore other areas of the Mara Reserve, focusing on areas rich in birdlife, or perhaps visit a Maasai village (optional) to learn about the culture of the local Maasai people and their traditional ways of life.
  • As the sun sets, return to Masai Mara Sopa Lodge for a delicious dinner. The lodge offers a comfortable, welcoming environment to reflect on the day's adventure.
  • Afterward, relax under the stars and prepare for your last day in the Mara.

Overnight at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

6
Day 06

Final Game Drive and Return to Nairobi

  • On your final day, wake up early for a morning game drive in the Masai Mara, the best time to see the wildlife before the heat of the day. The early hours offer a chance to see animals in action, from predators hunting to herds of wildebeests grazing on the vast plains.
  • Enjoy the thrill of the last safari adventure as you explore areas of the reserve you may not have visited yet, looking for those final sightings of the Big Five, cheetahs, or other unique wildlife.
  • Return to Masai Mara Sopa Lodge for a hearty breakfast and a relaxing morning.
  • Afterward, you'll check out of the lodge and begin your journey back to Nairobi, a drive of approximately 5-6 hours.
  • As you travel through the Kenyan countryside, you'll pass small villages, farms, and scenic landscapes, reflecting on the incredible wildlife experiences of the past week.
  • Upon arrival in Nairobi, you'll have the option to stop for a late lunch at a local restaurant, or if time permits, you can visit a nearby attraction such as the Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, or a local market for souvenirs. In the afternoon or evening, depending on your departure schedule, your guide will assist with your transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight home or to your next destination.

This 6-day safari, filled with incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable landscapes, will leave you with lasting memories of Kenya's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Safe travels!

Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve

Where this trip takes you

Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Nairobi 4 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Round-trip airport transfer
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinking water (on all days)

What's Not Included

  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees

What to bring

  • Travel Essentials:
    • Valid passport and visa (if required)
    • Travel insurance documents
    • Flight tickets or itinerary
    • Cash in Kenyan Shillings (KES) or USD (for tips, souvenirs, and optional activities)
    • Photocopies of important documents (passport, insurance, etc.)
  • Clothing:
    • Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors to blend with the environment)
    • Long-sleeve shirts and pants for protection against the sun and insects
    • Warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings in the Mara and Nakuru)
    • Comfortable, breathable clothing for warm days
    • A hat or cap to protect from the sun
    • A swimsuit (if your lodge has a pool)
    • Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for game walks and lodge surroundings
    • Sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at the lodge
  • Safari Gear:
    • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
    • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    • Travel tripod for steady wildlife shots
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • A lightweight backpack for day trips
    • A scarf or bandana for dust protection during game drives
    • A small notebook or journal to document your experiences
  • Health and Hygiene:
    • Insect repellent (with DEET to prevent mosquito bites)
    • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
    • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
    • Any prescription medications and a small first-aid kit
    • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
    • Reusable water bottle (many lodges provide refillable stations)
    • Anti-malarial medication (if recommended by your doctor)
  • Miscellaneous:
    • Power bank or portable charger (for your devices)
    • Universal power adapter (Kenya uses type G plugs)
    • Travel pillow and blanket for long drives
    • A good book, guidebook, or e-reader for downtime
    • Small snacks for the road (trail mix, energy bars)

Know before you go

  • Weather and Climate: The climate can vary: Amboseli is hot and dry, Lake Nakuru is cooler, and Masai Mara can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, especially from June to October. Bring layers for warmth.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for spotting animals. The Great Migration in Masai Mara happens from July to October, but other seasons also offer great wildlife viewing.
  • Game Drive Etiquette: Be quiet and respectful during game drives to avoid startling the animals. Follow your guide's instructions about wildlife behavior and safety.
  • Park Entry Fees: Park entry fees are often included in the tour package but can be subject to change. These fees help fund conservation efforts.
  • Health and Safety: Malaria is present in some areas, so consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication. Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
  • Currency: The local currency is Kenyan Shilling (KES), but USD is also widely accepted in lodges and for park fees. ATMs are available in Nairobi but not in more remote areas.
  • Electricity and Charging: Lodges generally have limited electricity and may rely on generators. Bring a portable power bank to charge devices while on the go.
  • Photography Etiquette: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in Maasai villages. Keep your camera ready, but avoid distracting wildlife with flashes.
  • Local Culture: Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting Maasai villages. Always ask permission before taking photos or entering sacred spaces.
  • Tipping: Tips are customary in Kenya. You may want to tip your guide and lodge staff; a general guideline is $10-15 per day for guides.
  • Packing Limitations: Pack light. Many safari lodges and vehicles have weight restrictions, and soft-sided bags are preferred for ease of handling.
  • Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Wi-Fi may be limited or unavailable in remote areas. This is a great opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the safari experience.
  • Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
  • Health Insurance: It's advisable to have travel health insurance and carry any necessary medications with you. Some areas may have limited medical facilities.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 6 days finish where they began, in Nairobi.

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