5-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary – Lake Naivasha, Nakuru and Masai Mara
Experience the best of Lake Naivasha, Nakuru and Masai Mara with spectacular wildlife, scenic adventures, expert guides, and exceptional safari lodges.
5-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary Overview
Experience three of Kenya's most iconic safari destinations on this unforgettable 5-day Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara safari. Combining the tranquil beauty of Lake Naivasha, the renowned rhino sanctuary of Lake Nakuru, and the world-famous wildlife of the Masai Mara, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and exceptional game viewing.
Enjoy a scenic boat safari and guided walking safari on Crescent Island, search for black and white rhinos in Lake Nakuru, and embark on expertly guided 4×4 game drives in the Masai Mara in search of the Big Five. Between July and October, witness the spectacular Great Migration and dramatic Mara River crossings.
With handpicked safari lodges, expert local guides, and a thoughtfully planned route that minimises travel time while maximising wildlife experiences, this 5-day Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
High Season
Jan 5th – Mar 31st
Adults
Deluxe
$1,658
Per person2 adults sharing · $3,316 total
Premium
$1,711
Per person2 adults sharing · $3,422 total
Luxury
$2,164
Per person2 adults sharing · $4,328 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
Thoughtfully designed to maximise wildlife experiences while minimising long travel hours.
Route: Nairobi → Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Nairobi
- Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha (L, D)
- Day 2: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru (B, L, D)
- Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 4: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 5: Masai Mara to Nairobi (B)
Day-by-Day Safari Plan
5-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Lake Adventures & Mara Wonders
Nairobi
Lake Naivasha
Lake Nakuru
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi to Lake Naivasha
Begin your 5-day safari with a morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or the airport, then travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley with stops at panoramic viewpoints. Arrive at Lake Naivasha, a tranquil freshwater lake known for its rich birdlife, proceed to your lodge for check-in and lunch, followed by boat safari spotting hippos and waterbirds. Also opt for a guided walk on Crescent Island among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. After your activities, head back and stay overnight at the lodge/camp.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha
- Stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Rift Valley escarpment
- Boat safari on Lake Naivasha with hippos and birdlife
- Walking safari on Crescent Island among herbivorous animals
- Relaxed lakeside evening at your lodge
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Naivasha Sopa Resort
- Premium: Great Rift Valley Lodge
- Deluxe: Naivasha Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 1.5 to 2 hrs
Day 2
Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru National Park, a short and scenic drive through the Rift Valley floor. Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge/camp at Lake Nakuru, followed by an afternoon game drive around the lake’s shores and acacia forests. Look out for pelicans, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions lounging in the trees with thriving populations of black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, flamingos (seasonal), and over 450 bird species. Overnight at your lodge / camp.
Day Highlights:
- Short scenic drive across the Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru
- Afternoon game drive in the park
- Chance to spot rhinos, lions, and Rothschild giraffes
- Explore acacia woodlands, lake shores, and open savannah
- Sunset views over Lake Nakuru before returning to your lodge
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Mbweha Camp
- Premium: Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- Deluxe: Sarova Woodlands
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Drive Time: 2 hrs
Day 3
Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the lake, then check out and begin your drive to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Pass through farmlands and Maasai villages as you approach the Mara’s rolling savannah's. Arrive at your lodge / camp in time for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, head out for your first game drive in the reserve, where you might spot elephants, lions, and herds of antelope as the sun sets over the plains.
Day Highlights:
- Drive through rural Kenya and Maasai lands
- Arrival in Masai Mara with views of vast open savannah
- Lunch and relaxation at your safari camp or lodge
- First afternoon/evening game drive in Masai Mara
- Evening wildlife sightings during golden hour on the 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
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Day 4
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, allowing you to maximise your time in the wilderness. Enjoy exceptional opportunities to spot the Big Five, along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and countless antelope species across the vast savannah.
If you're visiting between July and October, you'll have the opportunity to witness hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrating across the Masai Mara. Your guide may take you to the Mara River, where, if you're lucky, you could witness one of the dramatic river crossings.
End the day with dinner and your final overnight stay in the heart of the African wilderness.
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 5
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 5-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
Discover the incredible wildlife of Kenya, including the Big Five, Great Migration herds, and diverse birdlife across Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara.
The Predators
HighThe vast plains of Kenya reveal nature’s untamed power. Stealth and speed rule here, where every hunt becomes a display of instinct and survival. The balance of life is written in every chase, every moment of stillness, and every heartbeat of the wild.
- African Lions
- African Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Spotted Hyenas
- Black-Backed Jackals
- Nile Crocodiles
The Giants
HighEncounter Africa's largest mammals across three remarkable ecosystems. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its thriving black and white rhino sanctuary and endangered Rothschild's giraffes, while the Masai Mara is home to elephant herds, buffalo, Masai giraffe and Lake Naivasha for its abundant hippo population.
- African Elephant
- Southern White Rhinos
- Black Rhinos
- Masai Giraffe
- Rothschild's Giraffe
- Hippopotamus
- Cape Buffalo
The Wanderers
HighBetween July and October, the Masai Mara becomes the stage for the Great Migration. Across 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 Lake Naivasha & Nakuru's famous birdlife to 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.
- African Fish Eagle
- White-backed Vulture
- Secretary Bird
- Marabou Stork
- Grey Crowned Crane
- Flamingo (Seasonal)
The Plainsfolk
HighThe golden grasslands of the Masai Mara support thriving herds of grazers that shape the rhythm of the savannah. Their constant movement sustains the ecosystem, attracting the reserve's famous predators and creating unforgettable wildlife encounters.
- Topi
- Impala
- Eland
- Warthog
- Olive Baboon
The Waterfolk
HighWhere rivers flow and lakes shimmer, life gathers in abundance. The waters nurture both calm and chaos, a realm of reflection, movement, and grace that sustains the heart of the wild
- African Jacana
- Egyptian Goose
- Grey Heron
- Great White Pelican
- African Spoonbill
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 three ecosystems offer exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year, with July to October being the best time to witness the Great Migration and enjoy outstanding game viewing across all parks.
When to Visit
Big Five Season
Highlights
- Excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five
- Outstanding rhino sightings in Lake Nakuru
- Calving season attracts predators to the open plains
- Warm, sunny days ideal for game drives
- Warm, sunny days ideal for game drives and boat safaris
Lush Green Season
Highlights
- Vibrant landscapes across the parks
- Discounted rates at lodges and camps
- Abundant birdlife at Lake Nakuru and Naivasha
- 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
- High predator activity around migrating herds
- Crystal-clear skies and golden light for photos
- Peak time for first-time safari-goers
Short Rains Season
Highlights
- Resident wildlife remains active throughout the reserve
- 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 5-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
Accommodation & Meals as per the itinerary
Safari Accessories — Binoculars and Cooler box
Unlimited Drinking Water During Safari
Unlimited Game Drives
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
Guide Tips { 10-15 USD / Day }
Walking Safari at Crescent Island
Why This Safari
Why Choose This 5-Day Safari Itinerary?
Discover why this 5-day Kenya safari combines two of the country's most iconic wildlife destinations for an unforgettable African safari experience.
- 01
Three Destinations, Endless Wildlife
Experience the best of Kenya across Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara, combining boat safaris, rhino encounters, and unforgettable Big Five game drives.
- 02
Stay Close to Nature, Without Compromising Comfort
Relax in handpicked safari lodges that combine authentic African charm with modern comfort and warm hospitality.
- 03
Every Day, A New Adventure
Cruise among hippos, walk beside giraffes, track rhinos, and search for the Big Five. All in one perfectly paced itinerary.
Safari FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About This 5-Day Safari
Find answers to common questions about planning your Kenya safari, including costs, best time to visit, wildlife, travel logistics, and customization options.
How much does a 5-day safari cost?
The cost depends on your travel dates, accommodation category, and group size. We offer Deluxe, Premium and Luxury options to suit different budgets. Contact our safari specialists for a personalised quotation.
What is included in this Kenya safari package?
This safari package includes accommodation, all meals as per the itinerary, both park entry fees, private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a professional safari guide, unlimited drinking water, and game drives and basic safari equipments. International flights, eTA, and optional activities such as Hot Air Balloon Safaris are excluded.
Why combine these three parks?
Combining these three ecosystems offers a richer safari experience with boat safaris, walking safaris, rhino encounters, and Big Five game drives. It also follows a well-planned route that minimises travel time between parks, allowing you to spend more time enjoying Kenya's spectacular wildlife.
When is the best time to visit?
All the three ecosystems offer exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year. For the Great Migration and Mara River crossings the best time to visit is between July and October.
What animals will I see on this safari?
You may encounter Southern black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, flamingos (seasonal), hippos, crocodiles, variety of antelopes and over 450 bird species across the parks.
How long is the drive between the parks?
The drive from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hrs, the journey from Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru takes 2 hrs and Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara takes around 4–5 hours, creating a more comfortable travel experience than driving directly to the Masai Mara which is 6 to 7 hrs.
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.
Is a Professional Safari Guide included?
Yes. Your safari is led by a professional KPSGA-certified guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. Their local knowledge and animal tracking and behavioral expertise will leave you mesmerized.
Can i witness Great Migration in this safari?
Yes, if you travel between July and October, you'll have the opportunity to witness the Great Migration of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles in Masai Mara.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya?
Yes. This itinerary is one of the best introductions to Kenya, combining the rhino sanctuary of Lake Nakuru with the legendary wildlife of the Masai Mara and Lake Naivasha with Boat and Walking Safaris. It offers an excellent balance of diverse wildlife, comfortable travel, and unforgettable safari experiences.
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…”
Abhishek • United States
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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