Kenya safari landscape
Kenya Safari

7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari

Nairobi - Amboseli - Lake Naivasha - Lake Nakuru - Masai Mara. The ultimate Kenya circuit with elephant herds, flamingos, and the Great Migration.

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Amboseli - Naivasha - Nakuru - Masai Mara

7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari

Kenya Safari Circuit 7 Days / 6 Nights Nairobi / Nairobi 2-8 guests 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser

Introduction

This expertly crafted 7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari is a premier Kenya safari experience designed to give you the absolute best of East Africa's most celebrated wildlife destinations. Covering Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru National Park, and the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, this 7 Days / 6 Nights private tour delivers extraordinary wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class African hospitality throughout every stage of your journey.

7 Days
Duration
Kenya
Destination
1 Country
Countries
Mid-range
Accommodation
2-8
Group Size
Jun-Oct, Jan-Feb
Best Time
Easy
Difficulty
Big Five
Safari Type
Nairobi
Starting Point
Nairobi
Ending Point
English
Language
4x4 Safari
Transport
Full Board
Meals

Why This Safari?

Iconic Kenya Circuit

Visit Kenya's four greatest destinations in one seamless itinerary - Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru, and the Masai Mara.

Elephants Against Kilimanjaro

Witness massive elephant herds roaming the Amboseli plains with the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro as the backdrop.

Flamingo Spectacle

Lake Nakuru's shores turn pink with thousands of flamingos. Also home to black and white rhinos, lions, and leopards.

Lake Naivasha Serenity

Cruise the hippo-filled waters of Lake Naivasha, walk among wildlife on Crescent Island, and explore the scenic freshwater lake.

Masai Mara Big Five

Three full days in the world-famous Masai Mara. Search for lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and the Great Migration.

Expert Local Guides

Our experienced Kenyan guides bring decades of knowledge, ensuring you see more and understand deeper on every game drive.

Tour Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

Each day is carefully crafted to maximise your wildlife encounters while ensuring comfort and relaxation. Below you will find a complete breakdown of every day, from morning game drives to evening sundowners at your lodge.

Day 1

Nairobi Arrival & Safari Preparation

Full Day Transfer: 30-60 min Accommodation: Nairobi Hotel Meals: Dinner

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. You will be met by your driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, you can opt for a city tour visiting the Karen Blixen Museum, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, or the Giraffe Centre. Enjoy a welcome dinner and comprehensive safari briefing about the exciting days ahead. Overnight at your Nairobi hotel.

Morning: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Clear customs and collect your luggage. Your professional driver-guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name. Nairobi is known as the "Green City in the Sun" and serves as the safari capital of East Africa.
Afternoon: Transfer to your hotel in Nairobi (30-60 minutes depending on traffic). If time permits, enjoy an optional city tour to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (feeding time at 11 AM or 5 PM), the Giraffe Centre to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes, or the Karen Blixen Museum. Alternatively, relax at your hotel and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Evening: Check in and settle at your hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner and a comprehensive briefing from your guide about the incredible safari ahead. Your guide will review the itinerary, check your gear, and answer any questions. Recommended: try a Kenyan nyama choma (roasted meat) dinner with ugali and kachumbari.
Airport Transfer City Tour Option Safari Briefing
Day 2

Amboseli National Park - Elephants & Kilimanjaro

Full Day Drive: ~4 hrs Accommodation: Amboseli Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After early breakfast, depart Nairobi and drive south through the scenic Athi Plains towards Amboseli National Park. Arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive. Amboseli is world-famous for its massive elephant herds set against the backdrop of Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 bird species. Overnight at your Amboseli lodge.

Morning: Early breakfast at the hotel. Depart Nairobi at 7:00 AM and drive south through the Athi Plains and the Kenya countryside. The 240 km drive takes approximately 4 hours with a brief stop at the scenic viewpoint overlooking the Great Rift Valley. The landscape transitions from urban Nairobi to open savannah with views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Afternoon: Arrive at Amboseli National Park (392 sq km) around midday. Check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch. At 3:30 PM, depart for an afternoon game drive through the park's wetland areas and open plains. Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds - over 1,600 individuals - and offers the best elephant photography in Africa with Kilimanjaro as the backdrop. Look for lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and over 400 bird species including pelicans, herons, and the African fish eagle.
Evening: Return to the lodge as the sun sets behind Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a sundowner drink and dinner at the lodge. Photography tip: the late afternoon light on Kilimanjaro creates stunning photo opportunities, especially when the peak is clear. Overnight in Amboseli.
Elephant Photography Kilimanjaro Views Big Cats Wetland Birding
Day 3

Lake Naivasha - Hippos & Crescent Island

Full Day Drive: ~3 hrs Accommodation: Naivasha Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive from Amboseli to the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha, a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by papyrus swamps and acacia woodlands. Arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon boat safari on the lake, where you will see hundreds of hippos, fish eagles, and a spectacular variety of waterbirds. Option to visit Crescent Island for a guided walking safari among zebras, giraffes, and waterbuck. Overnight at your Naivasha lodge.

Morning: Early breakfast at the lodge at 7:00 AM. Depart Amboseli and drive north-west through the Great Rift Valley, passing through Nairobi and continuing to the Rift Valley floor. The drive offers spectacular views of the escarpment and the valley below. The journey takes approximately 3 hours covering 150 km via Nairobi and the Mai Mahiu road.
Afternoon: Arrive at Lake Naivasha (the highest lake in the Rift Valley at 1,884 metres) and check in at your lodge. Enjoy lunch overlooking the lake. At 2:30 PM, board a boat safari on Lake Naivasha to get up close to pods of hippos, fish eagles, cormorants, and the stunning papyrus-fringed shoreline. After the boat ride, enjoy a guided walking safari on Crescent Island - a wildlife sanctuary where you can walk among zebras, giraffes, waterbuck, wildebeest, and over 200 bird species. No predators are on the island, making it a safe and unique walking experience.
Evening: Sundowner drinks at your lodge with views over the lake as the sun sets over the Rift Valley escarpment. Dinner and overnight at Lake Naivasha. Optional: visit the nearby Hell's Gate National Park for cycling and walking among wildlife.
Boat Safari Walking Safari Hippo Viewing Birding Paradise
Day 4

Lake Nakuru National Park - Flamingos & Rhinos

Full Day Drive: ~1.5 hrs Accommodation: Nakuru Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive north to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its thousands of flamingos that turn the lake shore pink. The park is also a premier rhino sanctuary with healthy populations of both black and white rhinos. Afternoon game drive searching for lions, leopards, waterbuck, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. Overnight at your Nakuru lodge.

Morning: Breakfast at the lodge at 7:00 AM. Drive north from Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru National Park (approximately 1.5 hours, 80 km). The park covers 188 sq km and is part of the Rift Valley soda lake system. Lake Nakuru is world-famous for its massive flamingo populations - at peak season, over one million lesser flamingos can be seen feeding on the lake's algae, creating a stunning pink carpet along the shoreline.
Afternoon: Check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch. At 3:00 PM, depart for an afternoon game drive through the park. Lake Nakuru is a designated rhino sanctuary and offers excellent sightings of both black and white rhinos. The park is also home to lions, leopards, waterbuck, buffalo, zebras, and the endangered Rothschild giraffe. The lake's alkaline waters support incredible bird diversity including pelicans, storks, herons, and over 450 bird species. Photography tip: early afternoon light is ideal for flamingo photography when the sun reflects off the pink birds and the lake surface.
Evening: Return to the lodge as the sun sets over Lake Nakuru. Enjoy dinner at the lodge overlooking the Rift Valley. Overnight at Lake Nakuru area. Optional: night sky photography - the Rift Valley has minimal light pollution and offers spectacular views of the Milky Way.
Flamingo Viewing Rhino Sanctuary Big Cat Search Rift Valley
Day 5

Masai Mara National Reserve - Arrival & Evening Game Drive

Full Day Drive: ~5 hrs Accommodation: Masai Mara Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, depart Lake Nakuru and drive south-west through the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. En route, stop at the Maasai town of Narok for supplies. Arrive in the Mara in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive - your first introduction to Africa's greatest wildlife reserve. The Mara is home to the Big Five and the annual Great Migration. Overnight at your Masai Mara lodge or camp.

Morning: Early breakfast at the lodge at 6:30 AM. Depart Lake Nakuru and drive south-west through the Rift Valley towards the Masai Mara (approximately 5 hours, 280 km). The drive passes through the Loita Plains and the Maasai town of Narok, the last major settlement before the reserve. Stop in Narok for supplies and a comfort break. The landscape transforms from the lush lake region to the open savannah plains of Maasailand.
Afternoon: Arrive at the Masai Mara National Reserve (1,510 sq km) around midday. Check in at your lodge or tented camp and enjoy lunch. At 3:30 PM, depart for your first afternoon game drive in the Mara. The Mara is home to the highest concentration of wildlife in Kenya: lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, topi, and Thomson's gazelles. The Mara River is famous for its resident hippos and crocodiles. Photography tip: the late afternoon golden light in the Mara creates spectacular photographic conditions for wildlife.
Evening: Return to the lodge as the sun sets over the endless Mara plains. Enjoy a sundowner drink and dinner. Listen to the sounds of the African night - lions roaring, hyenas calling, and the distant whoop of a spotted hyena. Overnight in the Masai Mara.
First Mara Game Drive Big Five Territory Photography Paradise Scenic Drive
Day 6

Full Day Masai Mara - Great Migration & Predators

Full Day Game Drives: Full Day Accommodation: Masai Mara Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Full day of game drives in the Masai Mara. Rise early for a sunrise game drive when predators are most active. Return to the lodge for brunch and rest, then head out again for the afternoon game drive. Your guide will take you to the best wildlife viewing areas based on recent sightings. If visiting during the Great Migration season (July-October), you may witness dramatic river crossings as thousands of wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested Mara River. Optional: visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about the vibrant Maasai culture. Overnight at your Mara lodge.

Morning: Early morning game drive departure at 6:00 AM with a packed breakfast or return to the lodge for a full breakfast. The early morning hours are the best time to see predators on the hunt - lions, cheetahs, and leopards are most active before the heat of the day. Your guide will use their extensive knowledge and radio network to locate the best sightings. The Mara's open plains make wildlife viewing exceptional, with visibility stretching for kilometres.
Afternoon: Return to the lodge for brunch and rest during the heat of the day (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM). Many lodges have swimming pools for a refreshing dip. At 3:30 PM, depart for the afternoon game drive, exploring different areas of the reserve. During the Great Migration (July-October), the Mara River crossings at key points like the Mara River and Talek River provide some of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth - thousands of wildebeest plunging into crocodile-infested waters. Even outside migration season, the Mara's resident wildlife is exceptional with consistent lion, cheetah, elephant, and giraffe sightings.
Evening: Return to the lodge as darkness falls. Enjoy dinner under the stars at your camp or lodge. Many camps offer night drives within the private conservancies (extra cost) where you can spot nocturnal wildlife including leopards, genet cats, porcupines, and the elusive aardvark. Overnight in the Masai Mara.
Full Day Safari Great Migration Big Cats Maasai Culture
Day 7

Final Game Drive & Return to Nairobi

Full Day Morning Game Drive: 3 hrs Drive to Nairobi: ~5 hrs Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Rise before dawn for one final spectacular game drive in the Masai Mara, capturing the extraordinary morning light and wildlife activity. Enjoy a farewell bush breakfast in the wild before packing up and departing for Nairobi. The drive takes you through the dramatic Rift Valley with opportunities for last-minute souvenir shopping. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon for your international departure or onward connections. End of tour.

Morning: Early morning game drive at 6:00 AM - your final opportunity to capture the magic of the Masai Mara. The early morning light is spectacular for photography, and predator activity is often at its peak. Look for any species you may have missed: leopard in a riverine tree, cheetah on the plains, or the iconic lion pride resting after a night of hunting. Enjoy a farewell bush breakfast in the heart of the Mara at approximately 9:00 AM - a memorable experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African savannah.
Afternoon: Pack up and check out of the lodge. Depart for Nairobi (approximately 5 hours, 280 km) with lunch en route at a scenic Rift Valley viewpoint. Stop at the Maasai craft markets for last-minute souvenir shopping - traditional Maasai shuka cloth, beadwork, wooden carvings, and Kenyan coffee make excellent gifts. Arrive in Nairobi in the late afternoon (approximately 4:00-5:00 PM).
Evening: Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight or onward connections. End of tour. We recommend booking flights departing after 8:00 PM to allow ample time for the drive and any unexpected delays. Alternative: extend your stay with a beach holiday on the Kenyan coast (Mombasa/Diani) or a safari extension to Tanzania.
Final Game Drive Bush Breakfast Scenic Return Airport Drop-off

Destinations You'll Explore

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park

World-famous for its massive elephant herds set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. The park's wetlands, savannah, and acacia woodlands support exceptional wildlife densities.

Elephant Paradise Kilimanjaro Views 400+ Bird Species
Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha

A stunning freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, famous for its hippo populations, prolific birdlife, and the unique Crescent Island walking safari where you can walk among wildlife.

Hippo Boat Safari Crescent Island Walk Rift Valley Lake
Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park

A premier rhino sanctuary and flamingo haven. The park's soda lake turns pink with up to one million flamingos, while the surrounding woodlands are home to lions, leopards, and the Rothschild giraffe.

Flamingo Spectacle Rhino Sanctuary 450+ Bird Species
Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya's most famous wildlife reserve and home to the highest concentration of predators in Africa. The Mara is the stage for the Great Migration and offers year-round exceptional Big Five sightings.

Great Migration Big Five Safari Predator Capital
Included
  • All Park Permits
  • Mid-range Accommodation
  • Professional Driver
  • Ground Transport
Excluded
  • Visa
  • Insurance
  • Personal Spending
  • Tips
Transport
  • Travel With 4x4 Safari Vehicle

Kenya Wildlife

Kenya is one of Africa's premier safari destinations. Here's what you can expect to see.

Photo Gallery

Location

What Our Travelers Say

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Kenya for this safari?

The dry seasons from June to October and January to February offer the best game viewing conditions. The Great Migration peaks in the Mara from July to October. However, the parks are accessible year-round with excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year.

Is Kenya safe for tourists?

Yes, Kenya is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. The safari circuit is well-established with professional guides, secure lodges, and excellent infrastructure. Travel advisories from most governments recognise the tourism areas as safe.

Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Yes, most visitors require a Kenya visa, which can be obtained online via the e-visa system before travel. The process is straightforward and typically takes 2-3 business days. Visas are not included in the tour price.

What should I pack for this Kenya safari?

Pack lightweight neutral-coloured clothing for game drives, a warm jacket for early morning drives, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries and memory cards. A flashlight is recommended for evening walks at lodges.

What animals will I see on this safari?

You will see the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino - plus giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and over 450 bird species. The variety and density of wildlife in Kenya is exceptional throughout the year.

Can children join this safari?

Yes, children are welcome on this safari. Many lodges offer family-friendly accommodations and activities. Special rates apply for children under 12 sharing with parents.

How much does this safari cost?

Please contact us for a personalised quote. Prices vary based on group size, accommodation level, and season. We offer mid-range and luxury options to suit your budget.

What is the group size?

Our groups range from 2 to 8 guests, ensuring a personalised experience with dedicated attention from your guide. Private safaris for couples and families are also available.

What type of accommodation is included?

Mid-range lodges and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds are included. Upgrades to luxury lodges with swimming pools, spas, and fine dining are available upon request.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover medical evacuation, trip cancellation, loss of luggage, and personal belongings. We recommend purchasing insurance at the time of booking.

What is the food like on safari?

Full board meals are included, featuring a mix of international and local cuisine. Expect freshly prepared dishes including Kenyan specialities such as nyama choma, ugali, and seasonal vegetables. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

What is the terrain like for game drives?

The terrain varies from the open savannah plains of the Mara to the wetlands of Amboseli and the lake shores of Nakuru and Naivasha. Our customised 4x4 safari vehicles are equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal viewing and photography in all conditions.

Can I see the Great Migration?

Yes, from July to October you can witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. Over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras cross the Mara River in dramatic river crossings, depending on the timing of your visit.

What photography equipment should I bring?

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a 70-200mm or 100-400mm lens is ideal for wildlife photography. A smartphone with a good camera works well too. Bring extra memory cards, batteries, and a lens cleaning cloth. A bean bag for window-mounted camera support is useful.

How do I book this safari?

You can book by contacting us via WhatsApp, email, or our website booking form. A deposit of 30% is required to secure your dates, with the balance due 30 days before departure.

Is the tour eco-friendly?

Yes. We follow responsible tourism practices, support conservation efforts including elephant and rhino protection programmes, employ local guides, and minimise environmental impact. A portion of proceeds supports community projects in Maasailand.

What language are the tours conducted in?

All tours are conducted in English. Guides are fluent and knowledgeable about wildlife, culture, and history. Other language guides may be available upon request.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 60+ days before departure receive a full refund. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund. We recommend travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.

What are the vaccination requirements?

Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Kenya. Consult your doctor for malaria prophylaxis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, we can arrange extensions to the Kenyan coast (Mombasa, Diani Beach, Watamu), additional days in the Masai Mara, a visit to Samburu National Reserve, or a combined Kenya-Tanzania safari crossing into the Serengeti.

Is the tour suitable for solo travellers?

Yes, solo travellers are welcome. You can join a group tour or book a private trip. Single supplements may apply for private accommodation.

What transport is used on safari?

You will travel in a customised pop-up roof 4x4 safari Land Cruiser or Land Rover, designed for optimal wildlife viewing and photography. All vehicles are equipped with charging ports, cooler boxes, and reference guides.

Ready for the Ultimate Kenya Safari?

Book your 7-day journey through Kenya's greatest national parks and wildlife encounters.