.webp%3F2026-07-07T11%253A21%253A21.907Z&w=3840&q=75)
.webp%3F2026-07-07T10%253A46%253A28.609Z&w=3840&q=75)
5-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary – Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara
From Lake Nakuru's rhinos to the legendary Masai Mara's abundant wildlife, experience Kenya's most iconic wildlife adventure in just five days.
5-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary Overview
Discover two of Kenya's most iconic safari destinations on this unforgettable 5-day Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara safari. Combining the rhino sanctuary of Lake Nakuru National Park with the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, this itinerary offers exceptional wildlife viewing, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable safari experiences.
Starting in Nairobi, travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru, where you'll have excellent opportunities to spot both black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, tree-climbing lions, flamingos (seasonal), and over 450 bird species. Spending your first night here also breaks up the long journey to the Masai Mara, making for a more relaxed and enjoyable safari.
Continue to the legendary Masai Mara, renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, cheetahs, hyenas, elephants, and the elegant Masai giraffe. Between July and October, you may also witness the spectacular Great Migration and the dramatic Mara River crossings, one of Africa's greatest wildlife spectacles.
With handpicked safari lodges, expertly guided game drives, and a carefully planned itinerary, this 5-day Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of comfort, adventure, and incredible wildlife encounters. Combining the rhino-rich landscapes of Lake Nakuru with the unrivalled game viewing of the Masai Mara creates one of the most rewarding safari experiences in East Africa.
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, this 5-day safari takes you from Nairobi through Lake Nakuru before reaching the legendary Masai Mara.
Route: Nairobi → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Nairobi
- Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru (L, D)
- Day 2: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 3: 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
Rhinos, Big Five & Mara Magic
Nairobi
Lake Nakuru
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi to Lake Nakuru
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from Nairobi before travelling through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Pause at one of the valley's scenic viewpoints to admire sweeping panoramas before continuing to the park, where your first safari experience awaits. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive in one of Kenya's premier rhino sanctuaries, renowned for its thriving populations of black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, flamingos (seasonal), and over 450 bird species.
As you explore the park's diverse landscapes, keep an eye out for elusive leopards, graceful waterbucks, and the occasional tree-climbing lion, making every game drive a unique wildlife experience. After an exciting introduction to Kenya's wildlife, head to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay overlooking the park.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru
- Stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Great Rift Valley escarpment
- Afternoon game drive
- Excellent opportunities to spot black and white rhinos
- Chance to see Rothschild's giraffes and flamingos (seasonal)
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Mbweha Camp
- Premium: Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- Deluxe: Sarova Woodlands
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 3 to 4 hrs
Day 2
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, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, zebras, 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 resident 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 3
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 picnic 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.
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 National Reserve
- 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 4
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.
End the day with dinner and your final overnight stay in the heart of the African wilderness.
Day Highlights:
- Optional sunrise hot air balloon safari
- Champagne bush breakfast (balloon safari guests)
- Morning and evening game drives
- Exceptional Big Five wildlife encounters
- 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
.webp%3F2026-07-08T07%253A46%253A52.811Z&w=3840&q=68)
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 4-day Masai Mara 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 Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara, from thriving rhino populations and diverse birdlife to the Big Five, the Great Migration, and Africa's most iconic predators.
The Predators
HighFrom the acacia-dotted plains of the Masai Mara to the woodlands of Lake Nakuru, Kenya's predators showcase nature at its wildest. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas thrive across these landscapes, where every game drive offers the chance to witness unforgettable wildlife encounters.
- African Lions
- African Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Spotted Hyenas
- Black-Backed Jackals
- Nile Crocodiles
The Giants
HighEncounter Africa's largest mammals across two 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, hippos, and the elegant Masai giraffe.
- 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 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
- Greater Flamingo (Seasonal)
The Plainsfolk
HighThe sweeping grasslands of the Masai Mara and the open landscapes of Lake Nakuru 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
- Warthog
- Olive Baboon
The Waterfolk
HighFrom the tranquil shores of Lake Nakuru to the winding river of Mara, Kenya's waterways attract waterbirds, crocodiles, and abundant wildlife throughout the year.
- 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 Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara
Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara 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 both 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
- Perfect conditions for photography and family safaris
Lush Green Season
Highlights
- Vibrant landscapes across both parks
- Discounted rates at lodges and camps
- Abundant birdlife at Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara
- 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 (Flamingos)
- 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 Masai Mara 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.
Both Park Entry Fees
Private 4×4 Land Cruiser
Professional KPSGA-Certified English Speaking Safari Guide
Accommodation & Meals
Safari Accessories — Binoculars and Cooler box
Unlimited Drinking Water During Safari
Unlimited Game Drives
Airport Transfers - Pickup And Drop Off
Excluded
Paid separately if chosen.
International Flights
Personal Expense - Shopping & Laundry
E - visa / ETA
Hot Air ballon Safari
Guide Tips { 10-15 USD / Day }
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
Two Iconic Parks, One Incredible Safari
Experience the best of Kenya with a journey through Lake Nakuru National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve, combining rhino encounters, the Big Five, and diverse wildlife across two remarkable ecosystems.
- 02
Comfort Throughout Your Journey
Enjoy thoughtfully selected accommodations that blend modern comfort, warm hospitality and an authentic African safari atmosphere.
- 03
A Well-Paced Safari Experience
Thoughtfully designed to reduce long travel hours, this itinerary balances exciting game drives with comfortable travel, allowing you to enjoy more time exploring Kenya's spectacular wildlife.
Safari FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About This 5-Day Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara 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 Masai Mara 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 visit both Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara?
Combining Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara offers a more diverse safari experience. Lake Nakuru is renowned for its thriving rhino sanctuary, Rothschild's giraffes, and abundant birdlife, while the Masai Mara is famous for the Big Four, large predator populations, and the Great Migration.
When is the best time to visit Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara?
Both parks 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 rhinos, white rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, flamingos (seasonal), hippos, crocodiles, and over 450 bird species across both parks.
How long is the drive from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara?
The drive from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru takes approximately 3–4 hours, while the journey from Lake Nakuru to the Masai Mara takes around 4–5 hours, creating a more comfortable travel experience than driving directly to the Masai Mara.
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. 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
-1.webp%3F2026-07-03T07%253A57%253A05.469Z&w=3840&q=68)
