5 Days Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha & Amboseli

Day 1: Nairobi / Masai Mara National Reserve

Start your journey with an early morning departure to the Masai Mara National Reserve, one of the few places on Earth where wildlife continues to thrive largely undisturbed, reminiscent of the days when vast herds roamed Africa’s plains and forests. As the northernmost part of the Serengeti ecosystem, the Mara is famous for hosting the spectacular seasonal migration of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and their predators. Arrive in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive.

Day 2: Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day game drive with a packed lunch provided. The Masai Mara is renowned for its black-maned lions, abundant wildlife, and is one of the few places where you can potentially spot the Big Five in a single morning. The cheetahs here are often so accustomed to vehicles that they may seek shade underneath or even climb on top for a better view of potential prey. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted, as nearly 500 species have been recorded, including 16 species of eagles, several hawks and falcons, 6 types of vultures, 8 species of storks, 4 types of bustards (including the Kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird), and 9 species of sunbirds.

Day 3: Masai Mara National Reserve / Lake Naivasha

Depart for Lake Naivasha in the early morning. This lake, the highest and most picturesque in the Rift Valley at an altitude of 1,910 meters (6,200 feet), is a freshwater oasis fringed with dense papyrus reeds. Kingfishers perch on the reeds, while herons seek food in their shelter. Lake Naivasha is a haven for bird watchers, with over 400 species recorded. It’s also a popular weekend retreat for Nairobi residents who come to sail, water ski, and fish. There are no crocodiles in the lake due to its cold temperature, but hippos are common. Along the lakeshore, local vineyards produce grapes for Kenya’s budding wine industry. Dinner and overnight at a campsite or lodge.

Day 4: Lake Naivasha / Amboseli National Park

Set off early for Amboseli National Park. After check-in and lunch at your accommodation, enjoy an afternoon game drive. Located south of Nairobi, Amboseli is characterized by a dry, ancient lakebed surrounded by fragile grasslands and patches of acacia woodland. The park’s southern region features volcanic hills, while lush vegetation thrives around the swamps of Ol Kenya, Ol Tukai, and Enkongo Narok, with yellow-barked acacias and phoenix palms adding to the scenery.

Day 5: Amboseli National Park / Nairobi

Begin the day with a morning game drive in Amboseli. In the afternoon, transfer back to Nairobi, with lunch en route, arriving at around 5 p.m.