Kenya · Safari

4-Day Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara Safari through the Great Rift Valley

4 Days Round trip from Nairobi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Game drives in Lake Nakuru and the iconic Masai Mara
02 See flamingos, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, and other diverse wildlife
03 Explore the Masai Mara, home to the 'Big Five'
04 Travel through the scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley
05 Choose optional experiences such as a hot air balloon safari or Maasai village visit

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day safari to Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara, two of Kenya's most iconic wildlife destinations. Enjoy thrilling game drives in search of vibrant flamingos, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, and the 'Big Five' across some of the country's most celebrated landscapes. Travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley and experience the beauty of Kenya's countryside along the way. With optional experiences such as a hot air balloon safari or a Maasai village visit, this journey offers a memorable blend of wildlife, scenery, and culture.

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day safari to Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara, two of Kenya's most iconic wildlife destinations.

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 No

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Nairobi to Lake Nakuru Safari

Your safari adventure begins with a morning departure from Nairobi, heading towards Lake Nakuru National Park.
Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Great Rift Valley, arriving at Lake Nakuru in time for lunch.
In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling game drive around the park, renowned for its vibrant flamingo populations and diverse wildlife, including rhinos, buffaloes, and giraffes.
Settle into your lodge or camp for a relaxing evening with stunning views of the lake.

Overnight: Lake Nakuru Lodge or similar

Day 02

Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, depart for the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve.
The drive takes you through the varied landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and offers the chance to see Kenya's beautiful countryside.
Arrive in Masai Mara in time for lunch at your camp or lodge.
In the afternoon, venture out on your first game drive in this iconic reserve, home to the 'Big Five' and numerous other species.
The vast plains of the Mara are a sight to behold, especially during the migration season.

Overnight: Mara Sopa Lodge or similar

Day 03

Full-Day Exploration of Masai Mara

Spend an entire day exploring the Masai Mara.
Start with an early morning game drive to witness the wildlife at its most active.
Optional activities include a hot air balloon safari at dawn, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the Mara, or a visit to a traditional Maasai village to learn about the local culture and traditions.
After lunch, continue your game viewing with an afternoon drive, seeking out the reserve's abundant wildlife.
Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Mara Sopa Lodge or similar

Day 04

Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, depart for Nairobi, reflecting on the amazing wildlife encounters and landscapes you have experienced.
Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon, concluding your unforgettable 4-day safari adventure.

Where this trip takes you

Lake Nakuru National Park, Masai Mara, Great Rift Valley

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transportation: Pick-up and drop-off at a designated location (e.g., airport or Nairobi hotel)
Transportation in a safari van or 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for game viewing
Accommodation: 1 night at a lodge or tented camp in Lake Nakuru National Park
2 nights at a lodge or tented camp in Maasai Mara National Reserve
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari
Park fees: Entry fees for Lake Nakuru National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve
Game drives: Guided game drives in Lake Nakuru and Maasai Mara as per the itinerary
Driver-guide: Services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide
Drinking water: Bottled water during game drives
Government taxes: All applicable taxes and VAT

What's Not Included

International flights: Flights to and from Nairobi
Visas: Kenyan visa fees
Optional activities: Hot air balloon safaris in Maasai Mara
Maasai village visits
Travel insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance
Personal expenses: Tips for the driver-guide and lodge staff
Laundry services
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages not included in meals
Additional meals
Meals in Nairobi before and after the safari
Cultural items
Souvenirs and personal shopping

What to bring

Clothing:

Neutral-colored clothing (e.g., khaki, brown, green) to blend in with the environment.
Comfortable lightweight layers for daytime, such as T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts.
A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings.
A hat or cap for sun protection.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes for walking.
A rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy seasons from March to May and in November.

Accessories:

Sunglasses with UV protection.
A reusable water bottle (most safari vehicles provide water).
Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
A camera or smartphone with extra batteries and storage.
A backpack or daypack for carrying essentials during game drives.

Health and Hygiene:

Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
Insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
Wet wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer.

Other Essentials:

A valid passport and safari confirmation documents.
Some cash (Kenyan Shillings) for tips or small purchases.
A power bank or adapter for charging devices.
Snacks, if not provided by the tour company.

Know before you go

Wildlife and Scenery:

Lake Nakuru National Park is famous for its flamingos, rhinos, and acacia forests.
Maasai Mara is known for big cats, the Big Five, and the Great Migration (seasonal).

Game Drives:

Expect early morning and late afternoon game drives when wildlife is most active.
Game drives can be bumpy, so secure your gear.

Climate and Weather:

Temperatures range from cool mornings (10-15°C) to warm afternoons (25-30°C).
Rain is possible, so be prepared.

Health Precautions:

Lake Nakuru and Maasai Mara are low malaria-risk zones, but mosquito precautions are essential.
Carry basic medicines for motion sickness or allergies.

Cultural Experiences:

Visiting Maasai villages is optional but offers unique insights into their traditions.
Respect local customs and ask before taking photos of people.

Park Rules:

Do not feed or disturb the animals.
Follow your guide's instructions for safety.

Connectivity:

Mobile networks may be weak or nonexistent in some areas.
Embrace being offline and focus on the experience.

Food and Accommodation:

Lodges and camps provide meals, but inform them of dietary restrictions in advance.
Carry snacks and water for game drives.

Photography Tips:

Keep a zoom lens (if using a DSLR) or ensure your smartphone camera is charged.
Avoid flash photography, as it may disturb wildlife.

Sustainability:

Leave no trace: dispose of waste properly.
Support eco-friendly and community-based tourism.
Lake Nakuru National Park:
- Scenic views of the iconic Rift Valley and the alkaline Lake Nakuru.
- Sightings of endangered species, including rhinos (both black and white).
- Vibrant birdlife, including flamingos and pelicans, along the lake's shores.
- Opportunities to see tree-climbing lions and other wildlife such as buffalo, zebras, and giraffes.
- Breathtaking landscapes featuring acacia forests and rocky escarpments.
Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Exciting game drives in the wildlife-rich savannahs of Maasai Mara.
- Chance to witness the famous 'Big Five' (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino).
- Abundant wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, and large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.
- Seasonal spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration (July to October).
- Sunrise or sunset photography opportunities in the open plains.
- Optional cultural experience with a visit to a Maasai village.
- Stunning views of rolling grasslands, acacia trees, and vast open skies.