Icons of the Wild — 9 Days Across Five Iconic Parks
Kenya's ultimate safari circuit, built around back-to-back game drives and the widest spread of wildlife the country has to offer.
9-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary Overview
Discover five parks in nine days from Tsavo West's volcanic hills and Mzima Springs, Amboseli's elephants under Kilimanjaro, the lake circuit of Naivasha and Nakuru, and three nights in the Masai Mara.
Begin in Tsavo West, Kenya's oldest and largest park, with its lava flows, natural springs, and resident hippo and crocodile pools. Continue to Amboseli for close-range elephant sightings with Kilimanjaro as backdrop. At Lake Naivasha, take a boat safari and walk with giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island. In Lake Nakuru, track black and white rhino, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions. End with three nights in the Masai Mara on daily game drives for the Big Five, with the Great Migration's Mara River crossings possible between July and October.
With handpicked lodges, KPSGA-certified guides, and five distinct ecosystems in one continuous route this 9-day Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, making it an ideal choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned safari enthusiasts.
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
Thoughtfully designed to maximise wildlife experiences while minimising long travel hours.
Route: Nairobi → Tsavo West → Amboseli → Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Nairobi
- Day 1: Nairobi to Tsavo West (L, D)
- Day 2: Tsavo West to Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 3: Amboseli (B, L, D)
- Day 4: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha (B, L, D)
- Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru (B, L, D)
- Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 7: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 8: Masai Mara (B, L, D)
- Day 9: Masai Mara to Nairobi (B)
Day-by-Day Safari Plan
9-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Iconic Landscapes. Extraordinary Wildlife.
Nairobi
Tsavo West
Amboseli
Amboseli
Naivasha
Nakuru
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Masai Mara
Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi to Tsavo West
Begin your adventure with a morning pick-up from Nairobi before travelling south through the scenic Kenyan countryside to Tsavo West National Park, one of Kenya's oldest and largest wildlife reserves. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before setting out on an afternoon game drive across the park's volcanic hills, lava rock formations, and open savannah.
Visit crystal-clear waters of Mzima Springs, volcanic rock formations of Shetani Lava Flow, optional trek to Chaimu Crater and Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary for rhino sightings.
Day Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Nairobi to Tsavo West National Park
- Afternoon game drive across volcanic and savannah terrain
- Visit to Mzima Springs hippo and crocodile pools
- Trek Chaimu Crater, visit Shetani Lava Flow
- First sunset and overnight stay in the reserve
Accommodations:
- Luxury: Soroi Lions Bluff
- Premium: Kilaguni Serena Lodge
- Deluxe: Severin Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: 4 to 5 hrs
Day 2
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 game drive
- Views of Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days)
- Spot diverse wildlife
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 3
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 last overnight stay.
Day Highlights:
- Full-day game drive in Amboseli National Park
- 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 3
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 4
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 5
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 6
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 7
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 8
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 9-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 Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Nakuru and the Masai Mara, from iconic elephant herds and rhinos to the Big Five, abundant birdlife and the Great Migration.
The Predators
HighFrom Tsavo West's lava-strewn 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 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
- 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 five 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 three parks
- Discounted rates at lodges and camps
- Excellent birdwatching around Lake 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
- 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 three destination
- 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 9-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 9-Day Safari Itinerary?
Discover why this Kenya safari offers the perfect balance of wildlife, adventure, and relaxation across Kenya's five most iconic safari destinations.
- 01
From Lava Fields to Lion Prides
Experience elephant-filled plains, freshwater lakes, rhino sanctuaries, and the legendary Masai Mara on one unforgettable journey through Kenya's most celebrated wildlife destinations.
- 02
A Safari With No Repeats
Spot red-dusted elephants, drift across Naivasha by boat, climb a volcanic crater, track rhinos and chase the Big 5. Five parks, five completely different ways to see the wild.
- 03
Nine Days, Never Rushed
Long enough to explore each park properly, short enough to keep moving. Pace built for game drives that breathe, not a checklist to race through.
Safari FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About This 9-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 9-day Kenya safari?
A 9-day safari offers a more relaxed pace, allowing you to fully experience Tsavo West, Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Nakuru and the Masai Mara with more game drives, less time on the road, and greater opportunities to spot Kenya's iconic wildlife.
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, boat safari in Lake Naivasha, game drives and basic safari equipments. International flights, eTA, and optional activities such as Hot Air Balloon Safaris, Crescent island walking safaris are excluded.
Why visit these parks?
As each destination offers a unique experience combining them would be the only logical answer. Amboseli is renowned for its elephant herds and Mount Kilimanjaro views, Lake Naivasha is famous for boat and walking safaris, Lake Nakuru for its rhinos and birdlife, while the Masai Mara is home to the Big Five and the Great Migration.
When is the best time to visit these destinations?
All the three destinations 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, while Amboseli offers spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro views during the dry seasons.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this safari?
You'll have excellent chances of seeing elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and numerous antelope species. Lake Naivasha is famous for hippos and birdlife, Nakuru for rhinos and flamingos (seasonal) while Amboseli is renowned for its large elephant herds.
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.
What activities are included at Lake Naivasha?
Lake Naivasha includes a scenic boat safari where you can see hippos and abundant birdlife. An optional guided walking safari on Crescent Island can also be arranged.
What is Crescent Island and why should I visit?
Crescent Island is a private wildlife sanctuary on Lake Naivasha where you can enjoy a guided walking safari among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, and other herbivores without the presence of large predators.
Is this safari suitable for families with children?
Yes. This itinerary is well suited for families, couples, and first-time safari travellers. The combination of game drives, a boat safari, and optional walking safari offers a variety of experiences suitable for different ages and interests.
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…”
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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