This 4-day safari combines the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve and the scenic Lake Nakuru National Park, giving you a comprehensive Kenyan wildlife experience. The itinerary includes two full days in the Masai Mara, one of the best places in Africa for spotting the Big Five, followed by a day in Lake Nakuru, renowned for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary. Below is a complete guide to your itinerary, key highlights, inclusions, and what to expect on this exciting adventure.
Safari Highlights
- Big Five Game Viewing: Masai Mara offers incredible opportunities to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.
- The Great Migration (Seasonal): Witness one of nature’s most spectacular events (July–October), with millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Mara River.
- Birdwatching Paradise: Lake Nakuru is famous for its stunning birdlife, especially the flocks of flamingos and over 400 bird species.
- Rothschild Giraffe and Rhinos: Lake Nakuru is home to a significant population of endangered Rothschild giraffes and a sanctuary for black and white rhinos.
- Scenic Landscapes: From the open savannah of the Masai Mara to the cliffs and lake views at Nakuru, you’ll experience breathtaking Kenyan landscapes.
- Cultural Experience: Optional visit to a traditional Maasai village to learn about the local Maasai people’s customs and lifestyle.
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture some of the best wildlife moments and landscapes Kenya has to offer, including panoramic views from Baboon Cliff in Lake Nakuru.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve
- Departure: Early morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel at 7:00 AM.
- Scenic Drive: Travel through the Great Rift Valley, with a stop for photos and views of the escarpment.
- Drive Time: Approximately 5-6 hours (270 km) to Masai Mara.
- Arrival and Check-In: Arrive at your lodge or camp in time for lunch.
- Afternoon Game Drive: Embark on a 2-hour game drive around 4:00 PM, exploring the park’s diverse wildlife. The Mara is teeming with elephants, lions, zebras, cheetahs, and more.
- Dinner and Overnight: Return to the lodge for dinner and rest.Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Masai Mara
- Early Morning Game Drive: Depart for an early morning drive at 6:30 AM, catching predators like lions and leopards at their most active, as well as herds of grazing animals.
- Breakfast and Relaxation: Return to the lodge around 9:00 AM for breakfast, then relax or enjoy the lodge’s facilities.
- Full-Day Safari: After breakfast, set off on a full-day safari, exploring the vast plains and rivers. If visiting between July and October, you may witness the Great Migration. Your guide will take you to prime wildlife spots.
- Packed Picnic Lunch: Enjoy lunch in the park to maximize your game viewing time.
- Return for Dinner: End the day with a final evening drive and return to the lodge for dinner.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru National Park
- Breakfast and Checkout: After breakfast, check out from the lodge at around 7:00 AM and head to Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Drive Time: Approximately 5-6 hours (240 km).
- Arrival at Lake Nakuru: Check-in at your lodge, followed by lunch and a short rest.
- Afternoon Game Drive: Head out for an afternoon game drive to explore Lake Nakuru. You’ll have a chance to see rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, zebras, and the famous flocks of flamingos.
- Visit Baboon Cliff for panoramic views of the park.
- Return for Dinner: Enjoy a peaceful evening with dinner at the lodge.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Morning Game Drive in Lake Nakuru and Return to Nairobi
- Morning Game Drive: Start your day with an early morning game drive to catch wildlife in action, including birds, lions, and buffaloes.
- Breakfast at Lodge: Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Drive Back to Nairobi: After breakfast, check out and begin your drive back to Nairobi.
- Drive Time: 3-4 hours (160 km).
- Arrival in Nairobi: Arrive back in Nairobi in the early afternoon, with a drop-off at your hotel or preferred location.Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions:
- Transport: Round-trip transport from Nairobi in a 4×4 safari vehicle or pop-up roof safari van.
- Park Fees: Entry to Masai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Accommodation:
- 2 nights in Masai Mara at a lodge or tented camp.
- 1 night in Lake Nakuru at a safari lodge.
- Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Game Drives: Professionally guided game drives in both parks.
- Bottled Water: Provided throughout the trip.
Exclusions:
- Travel Insurance: Personal insurance is recommended but not included.
- Drinks: Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges are not included.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides and lodge staff are appreciated but optional.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, snacks, and additional activities.
- Optional Maasai Village Visit: If you choose to visit a Maasai village, this incurs an extra fee.
Safari Vehicle Options:
- 4×4 Land Cruiser: Ideal for rugged terrain, offering more comfort and reliability on rough roads. Equipped with a pop-up roof for excellent wildlife viewing and photography.
- Safari Van: More affordable, suitable for groups or families, and comes with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
Pricing:
- Price Per Person: Typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per person, depending on the season, group size, and type of accommodation chosen.
- Discounts may be available for larger groups, and residents may pay lower park fees.
What to Expect:
- Wildlife Sightings: From the Big Five in Masai Mara to the stunning birdlife at Lake Nakuru, expect abundant wildlife throughout the safari.
- Photography: Excellent opportunities for photography, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when animals are more active.
- Weather: Prepare for cool mornings and warm afternoons. Dress in layers for comfort.
- Expert Guides: Professional guides with deep knowledge of the parks will enhance your safari experience by helping you spot and understand the wildlife.
Additional Tips:
- Packing: Bring binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Pack light, breathable clothing for the day, but have a warm layer for mornings and evenings.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure you are covered for medical emergencies, as you’ll be spending time in remote areas.
- Be Patient: Some wildlife sightings may require patience, but your guide will do their best to get you to the right spots.
Final Thoughts:
This 4-day safari is the perfect combination of Kenya’s most famous wildlife destinations. Masai Mara’s open plains and incredible game viewing, combined with Lake Nakuru’s serene landscapes and rich birdlife, make for a diverse and rewarding safari experience. Whether you’re after the Big Five or Kenya’s flamingo-filled lakes, this itinerary offers a complete wildlife adventure with comfortable accommodation, experienced guides, and unforgettable scenery.