`` The Grand Kenyan Safari ´´ 11 Days Across Six Iconic Parks
Experience Kenya's most iconic safari circuit, journeying through six remarkable destinations with unforgettable experiences.
11-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary Overview
Discover six parks in 11 days, from Tsavo East's red-earth plains and Tsavo West's volcanic hills and Mzima Springs, to Amboseli's elephants under Kilimanjaro, the lake circuit of Naivasha and Nakuru, and three nights in the Masai Mara.
Begin in Tsavo East, Kenya's largest park, known for its red-dusted elephants and the Yatta Plateau's lava flows. Continue to Tsavo West for natural springs, resident hippo and crocodile pools, and volcanic terrain. Move on to Amboseli for close-range elephant sightings with Kilimanjaro as backdrop, then to Lake Naivasha for a boat safari and a walk with giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island. In Lake Nakuru, track black and white rhino and flamingos. End with three nights in the Masai Mara on daily game drives for the Big 5, with the Great Migration's Mara River crossings possible between July and October.
With handpicked lodges, KPSGA-certified guides, and six distinct ecosystems in one continuous route, this 11-day Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
High Season
Jan 5th – Mar 31st
Adults
Deluxe
$2,652
Per person2 adults sharing · $5,304 total
Premium
$2,723
Per person2 adults sharing · $5,446 total
Luxury
$3,885
Per person2 adults sharing · $7,770 total
Every price shown is per person, based on 2 adults sharing. Travelling with teens or children? and we’ll price your exact group.
* Indicative costs per person in USD, excluding international airline tickets.
Kenya Safari Route Overview
Route: Nairobi → Tsavo West → Tsavo West → Amboseli → Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Nairobi
- Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo East (L, D)
- Day 2: Tsavo East (B, L, D)
- Day 3: Tsavo East to Tsavo West (B, L, D)
- Day 4: Tsavo West to Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 5: Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 6: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha (B, L, D)
- Day 7: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru (B, L, D)
- Day 8: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 9: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 10: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 11: Masai Mara to Nairobi (B)
Day-by-Day Safari Plan
11-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Untamed Wilderness. Unforgettable Safari.
Nairobi
Tsavo East
Tsavo East
Tsavo West
Amboseli
Amboseli
Naivasha
Nakuru
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi to Tsavo East
Begin your journey with a morning pick-up from Nairobi before travelling southeast through the scenic Kenyan countryside to Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya's oldest and largest reserves. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive across the park's open plains and red-earth landscape.
Spot Tsavo's iconic red-dusted elephants and learn the story of its legendary man-eating lions. Look for the Yatta Plateau, one of the world's longest lava flows, running along the park's horizon. As the sun sets over the plains, return to your lodge for dinner and your first overnight stay in the heart of Tsavo East.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Nairobi to Tsavo East National Park
- Afternoon game drive in open plains and red earth terrain
- Spot Tsavo's red-dusted elephants
- Views of the Yatta Plateau, one of the world's longest lava flows
- Overnight stay at Lodge/Camp
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Ashnil Aruba Lodge
- Premium: Satao Camp
- Deluxe: Voi Wildlife Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 5 to 6 hrs
Day 2
Tsavo East
Spend a full day exploring Tsavo East on guided game drives across its vast open plains and red-earth terrain. Search for lion, buffalo, giraffe, and zebra against a backdrop of scrubland and acacia.
Visit Lugard Falls, a series of dramatic rapids where the Galana River cuts through sculpted rock, and Aruba Dam, a man-made reservoir that draws elephant, buffalo, and waterbirds throughout the day. Return to your lodge for lunch and some downtime before an afternoon game drive as the cooler hours bring increased wildlife movement.
Day Highlights:
- Morning and evening game drives
- Diverse wildlife sightings
- Visit to Lugard Falls on the Galana River
- Wildlife viewing at Aruba Dam
- Visit Mudanda Rock View point
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Ashnil Aruba Lodge
- Premium: Satao Camp
- Deluxe: Voi Wildlife Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Tsavo East to Tsavo West
After breakfast, depart Tsavo East and begin the journey toward Tsavo West. The scenery shifts dramatically along the way, from open plains to rolling hills, volcanic formations, and denser vegetation.
Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch, then head out on an afternoon game drive across Tsavo West's rugged terrain, keeping an eye out for elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and lion. Visit Mzima Springs, the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, and Chaimu Crater, where crystal-clear waters, endangered rhinos, and dramatic volcanic landscapes showcase Tsavo West's remarkable diversity.
Day Highlights:
- Short Scenic drive from Tsavo East to Tsavo West
- Explore rugged terrain and valcanic landscapes
- Visit crystal clear Mzima Springs
- Explore the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary
- Discover Chaimu Crater
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Soroi Lions Bluff
- Premium: Kilaguni Serena Lodge
- Deluxe: Severin Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 2 to 3 hrs
Day 4
Tsavo West to Amboseli
After a hot breakfast, depart Tsavo West and travel towards Amboseli National Park, famed for its enormous elephant herds and clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before heading out on an afternoon game drive across the park's open plains, acacia woodland, and seasonal swamps.
Watch for elephant families moving against the mountain backdrop, along with zebra, buffalo, and resident lion prides. As the light softens toward evening, return to your lodge for dinner and your first overnight stay in Amboseli.
Day Highlights:
- Short Scenic drive from Tsavo West to Amboseli
- Afternoon 4×4 game drive across Amboseli's landscape
- Views of Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days)
- Excellent opportunities to spot large elephant herds
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Elephant Gorge Camp
- Premium: Kibo Safari Camp
- Deluxe: Kilima Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 2 to 3 hrs
Day 5
Amboseli
Wake up to breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro before setting out on a full-day safari through Amboseli National Park. Explore its vast open plains, seasonal swamps, and acacia woodlands in search of large elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
Pause for a picnic lunch in the park or return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch before continuing your afternoon game drive. As the day draws to a close, enjoy the golden light across the Amboseli plains before returning to your lodge for dinner and your second overnight stay.
Day Highlights:
- Full-day game drive in Amboseli
- Explore Amboseli's open plains, marshes, and acacia woodlands
- Relaxing picnic lunch in the wilderness
- Search for lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and abundant birdlife
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Elephant Gorge Camp
- Premium: Kibo Safari Camp
- Deluxe: Kilima Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6
Amboseli to Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, check out and depart Amboseli National Park for the scenic journey to Lake Naivasha, travelling through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley. Arrive in time for lunch before heading out on a relaxing boat safari, where you'll cruise past pods of hippos and enjoy close encounters with African fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants, and other waterbirds.
Later, enjoy an optional guided walking safari on Crescent Island, where giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, and other herbivores roam freely in a predator-free environment. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley
- Guided boat safari on Lake Naivasha
- Close encounters with hippos and abundant birdlife
- Optional walking safari on Crescent Island
Accommodations
- Luxury: Naivasha Sopa Resort
- Premium: Great Rift Valley Lodge
- Deluxe: Naivasha Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 6 to 7 hrs
Day 7
Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, check out and enjoy a short scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya's premier wildlife reserves and home to one of Africa's largest rhino sanctuaries. Upon arrival, embark on an afternoon game drive through the park's diverse landscapes in search of black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, buffalo, and, depending on the season, spectacular flocks of greater and lesser flamingos along the lakeshore.
As you explore the park, keep an eye out for the rare tree-climbing lions and over 450 bird species that make Lake Nakuru a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. After an exciting afternoon in the park, continue to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day Highlights
- Scenic drive from Lake Naivasha to renowned rhino sanctuary
- Afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru
- Excellent opportunities to spot black and white rhinos
- Chance to see Rothschild's giraffes and seasonal flamingos
- Search for the park's famous tree-climbing lions
Accommodations
- Luxury: Mbweha Camp
- Premium: Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- Deluxe: Sarova Woodlands
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 2 hrs
Day 8
Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
After breakfast, check out and journey towards the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, travelling through the scenic Great Rift Valley, rolling farmlands, and traditional Maasai villages. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and relaxation before setting out on your first afternoon game drive across the reserve's vast savannahs in search of the Big Five and countless other wildlife species.
As the African sun begins to set, return to camp for dinner and your first overnight stay in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley to the Masai Mara
- First game drive in the Masai Mara National Reserve
- Excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five and wildlife
- Sunset across the African savannah
Accommodations
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 4 to 5 hrs
Day 9
Full day in Masai Mara
Spend a full day exploring the world-renowned Masai Mara on expertly guided game drives. After an early breakfast, head into the reserve with a packed lunch, maximising your time in search of the Big Five, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and abundant plains wildlife.
Between July and October, you'll have the opportunity to witness hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrating across the Masai Mara. If you're lucky, you could witness one of the dramatic river crossings. After an unforgettable day, return to your camp in the evening for dinner and well earned rest.
Day Highlights:
- Full-day game drive in Masai Mara
- Search for the Big Five and other iconic wildlife
- Picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve
- Spectacular wildlife photography opportunities
Accommodations
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10
Masai Mara
Begin your day with an optional Hot Air Balloon Safari, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Masai Mara as the golden sunrise illuminates the vast savannah below. After landing, celebrate the experience with a champagne bush breakfast before rejoining your guide for another exciting game drive through the reserve.
Return to camp for lunch and some time to relax before heading out on an evening game drive in search of the Big Five and recent predator activity, as the cooler temperatures often bring increased wildlife movement and excellent viewing opportunities.
After an unforgettable day in the wilderness, return to your camp for dinner and your final overnight stay in the heart of the Masai Mara.
Day Highlights:
- Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari
- Champagne bush breakfast (balloon safari guests)
- Morning and Evening Game Drives
- Explore different regions of the Masai Mara
Accommodations
- Luxury: Ilkeliani Camp
- Premium: Mara Maisha Camp
- Deluxe: Mara Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
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Day 11
Masai Mara to Nairobi
Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out of your camp and beginning the scenic drive back to Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley while experiencing the changing landscape from rolling savannahs to lush highlands. Along the way, you may choose to visit a traditional Maasai Village Visit (optional) to learn about their rich culture and way of life.
Arrive in Nairobi by early to mid-afternoon, marking the end of an incredible 11-day Kenya safari adventure. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or at Airport in time for your onward journey, carrying memories of Kenya’s wild beauty and warm hospitality.
Day Highlights:
- Early morning departure from Masai Mara after breakfast
- Scenic drive from Masai Mara to Nairobi
- Optional Maasai village visit — USD 30 / person
- Optional stopovers for photos or local crafts.
- Drop-off at your hotel or Nairobi Airport
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Drive Time: 6 to 7 hrs
Wildlife Experience
Wildlife You Can Expect on This Kenya Safari
Experience Kenya's Remarkable Wildlife Across All The Six Legendary Parks
The Predators
HighFrom Tsavo's lava-strewn and red plains to Amboseli's open grasslands, Lake Nakuru's woodlands, and the predator-rich Masai Mara, Kenya's carnivores rule the wilderness with unforgettable wildlife encounters.
- African Lions
- African Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Spotted Hyenas
- Black-Backed Jackals
- Nile Crocodiles
- Bat-Eared Fox
The Giants
HighEncounter Africa's largest mammals across four remarkable ecosystems. Tsavo and Amboseli is famous for its elephant herds, Lake Nakuru protects thriving black and white rhinos, while the Masai Mara offers exceptional sightings of buffalo, giraffes, and hippos.
- African Bush Elephant
- Rhinoceros
- Masai Giraffe
- Hippopotamus
- Cape Buffalo
The Wanderers
HighAcross the endless plains, vast herds follow ancient migration routes in search of fresh grazing. Their remarkable journey is one of instinct, endurance, and survival, creating one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife experiences
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Thompson's Gazelle
The Skyfolk
HighFrom Tsavo West's 500+ recorded species to Lake Nakuru's famous birdlife and the soaring raptors of the Masai Mara, Kenya's skies are alive with colour and movement. Whether along the lakeshore or above the open savannah, every sighting adds to an unforgettable safari.
- Martian & Bateleur Eagle
- White-backed Vulture
- Secretary Bird
- Marabou Stork
- Grey Crowned Crane
- Greater & Lesser Flamingo (Seasonal)
The Plainsfolk
HighThe sweeping grasslands of the Masai Mara, the open landscapes of Amboseli, and the acacia woodlands of Tsavo West & East support thriving populations of grazers that sustain Kenya's remarkable wildlife. Their presence creates some of Africa's finest game viewing opportunities.
- Topi
- Impala
- Eland
- Lesser Kudu
- Hirola
- Klipspringer
The Waterfolk
HighFrom Tsavo West's Mzima Springs to the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha, Amboseli's marshes, and the Mara River, Kenya's waterways support an abundance of aquatic wildlife and vibrant birdlife.
- Hippopotamus
- African Jacana
- Grey Heron
- Great White Pelican
- African Spoonbill
- Egyptian Goose
Make Your Dream Trip Come True with Marvels of Africa
At Marvels of Africa, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences — our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey.
When to visit
Best Time to Visit these parks
All the Six parks offer outstanding wildlife experiences throughout the year, with July to October providing the best conditions for the Great Migration, abundant birdlife, clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and exceptional game viewing.
When to Visit
Big Five Season
Highlights
- Excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five
- Clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
- Calving season attracts predators to the open plains
- Warm, sunny days ideal for game drives and boat safaris
- Perfect conditions for photography and family safaris
Lush Green Season
Highlights
- Vibrant landscapes across all six parks
- Discounted rates at lodges and camps
- Excellent birdwatching around Lake Naivasha and Tsavo
- Peaceful game drives with fewer visitors
- Beautiful light and moody skies for photography
Dry & Migration Season
Highlights
- Witness the legendary Great Migration
- Chance to see dramatic Mara River crossings
- Excellent views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Crystal-clear skies and golden light for photos
- Peak time for first-time safari-goers
Short Rains Season
Highlights
- Active resident wildlife across all the parks
- Lesser crowd before peak festive season
- Enjoy premium safari experiences at lower rates
- Lush landscapes with vibrant colours
- Great conditions for birdwatching and photography
Safari Inclusions
What’s Included in This 11-Day Kenya Safari Package?
Everything you need for a seamless safari—from park fees and expert guides to accommodation, meals and game drives—so you can focus on making unforgettable memories
Included
Essentials covered — no surprises.
All Park Entry Fees
Private 4×4 Land Cruiser
Professional KPSGA-Certified English Speaking Safari Guide
Unlimited Drinking Water During Safari
Accommodation & Meals as per the itinerary
Unlimited Game Drives
Safari Accessories — Binoculars and Cooler box
Airport Transfers - Pickup And Drop Off
Boat Safari in Lake Naivasha
Excluded
Paid separately if chosen.
International Flights
Personal Expense - Shopping & Laundry
E - visa / ETA
Hot Air ballon Safari
Walking safari on Crescent Island
Guide Tips { 10 - 15 USD / Day }
Why This Safari
Why Choose This 11-Day Safari Itinerary?
Discover why this Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of wildlife, adventure, and relaxation across Kenya's six iconic safari destinations.
- 01
A Wildlife Enthusiast's Paradise
Journey through Kenya's most iconic landscapes; from Tsavo's vast wilderness and Amboseli's elephant-filled plains to Naivasha, Nakuru, and the legendary Masai Mara. Experience six remarkable parks, each with its own wildlife, scenery, and unforgettable moments.
- 02
A Safari With No Repeats
Spot red-dusted elephants, drift across Naivasha by boat, walk among animals, climb a volcanic crater, track rhinos and chase the Big 5. Five parks, five completely different ways to see the wild.
- 03
A Journey That Covers It All
Thoughtfully paced to explore six iconic parks, giving you time to experience Kenya's extraordinary wildlife and landscapes without feeling rushed.
Safari FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About This 11-Day Kenya Safari
Find answers to common questions about planning your Kenya safari, including wildlife, accommodation, travel logistics, the best time to visit, and optional activities.
Why choose a 11-day Kenya safari?
An 11-day itinerary allows you to experience Kenya's incredible diversity at a comfortable pace. You'll explore six iconic destinations, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and experiences. From Tsavo's red elephants and Amboseli's Mount Kilimanjaro views to Lake Naivasha's boat safari, Lake Nakuru's rhino sanctuary, and the world-famous Masai Mara.
Are the game drives private?
Yes. All game drives are conducted in a private 4x4 land cruiser with an experienced professional english-speaking guide, allowing you to enjoy flexible schedules, personalized wildlife viewing, and a more exclusive safari experience.
What makes Tsavo East and Tsavo West different?
Although they are part of the same ecosystem, each park offers a distinct experience. Tsavo East is known for its vast open plains, the Galana River, and iconic red elephants, while Tsavo West features volcanic landscapes, Mzima Springs, the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, and scenic viewpoints, creating two very different safari experiences.
When is the best time to take this safari?
The safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. July to October is ideal for witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, while January to March offers excellent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds. Every season provides rewarding game drives across Kenya's diverse landscapes.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this safari?
You may encounter the Big Five, red elephants, black and white rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, wildebeest, buffalo, hirola, lesser kudu and over 500 species of birds across Kenya's diverse ecosystems.
Can i witness Great Migration in this safari?
Yes. If you travel between July and October, your time in the Masai Mara offers excellent opportunities to witness the Great Migration and, if luck favors you, the dramatic Mara River crossings as well.
Why are Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru included in this safari?
Lake Naivasha and Nakuru add experiences you won't find elsewhere in Kenya. Enjoy a boat safari and guided walking safari at Naivasha, then visit Nakuru, for its thriving rhino sanctuary, Rothschild's giraffes, and exceptional birdlife. Together, these destinations complement the classic savannah safaris while also reducing long travel distances between parks; act as a connecting point between parks.
Is this itinerary suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya?
Absolutely. This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors as it showcases Kenya's most celebrated national parks and reserves in one seamless journey, offering an excellent mix of wildlife, scenery, and unique safari experiences.
Can this Kenya safari itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. Every safari can be tailored to suit your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you'd like to upgrade your accommodation, add optional activities, internal flights or extend your stay.
Still have questions? We're here to help!
Guest testimonials
Stories from Our Travelers
Firsthand reflections from guests who experienced East Africa with us.
Read more guest stories on Tripadvisor.
Lindsay Koch
United States
“I truly don’t know where to start! Marvels of Africa is absolutely amazing; unmatched when it comes to making sure their guests are happy and comfortable. From first booking with Riman and then having our pre-travel meet…”
Lindsay Koch • United States
Kashish A
India
“From witnessing all the Big Five up close, to watching the heart-warming bond between animals and their young ones, observing feeding, nurturing, hunting, teamwork during a kill, and even getting the rare chance to be ne…”
Kashish A • India
Renee Ronald
United Kingdom
“Firstly, this trip felt surreal, out of a movie. All credit to Marvels of Africa for organising it so well taking into consideration our needs and requirements.Starting with Mayur - he was patient and planned the perfect…”
Renee Ronald • United Kingdom
Rajiv Sharma
Qatar
“Excellent services by the Marvels team, my family and I are so happy we chose them for our first ever safari trip. I was bit apprehensive at first but everything was just great. From the time of initial discussion with M…”
Rajiv Sharma • Qatar
Abhishek
United States
“Everything was so well organized. The team in India and Kenya are real professionals. Edith Marie our Guide Salim they all went above and beyond for all the requirements or requests we have before and during the stay in…”
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Rakteem
United Arab Emirates
“We went for 5 days to Masai Mara in February 2025, and it was one of the most memorable holidays we've had. Marvels of Africa were fabulous, arranging everything flawlessly. The team are responsive, diligent, meticulous…”
Rakteem • United Arab Emirates
Visual Journey
Safari Gallery
A glimpse into the extraordinary moments awaiting you in Africa
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