5 Days Maasai mara, Lake Nakuru, samburu private lodge safari

Introduction

This 5-day private safari through Kenya offers a compelling mix of iconic wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and comfortable lodges. While we haven’t taken the trip ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an adventure packed with action, comfort, and authentic encounters.

What we love most? The chance to see the Big Five in Maasai Mara, the unique birdlife of Samburu, and the flamingoes of Lake Nakuru. Plus, the possibility of witnessing the Serengeti migration and enjoying luxury accommodations without breaking the bank. The only thing to keep in mind is the long driving hours—something to consider if you’re not a fan of extensive time in the car.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers who appreciate the blend of adventure and comfort, as well as travelers seeking an expertly curated experience with knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for an immersive, well-organized safari from Nairobi, this might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience offers personalized wildlife viewing and expert insights.
• Luxury lodges ensure comfort after long days of game drives.
• All meals included simplifies planning and adds value.
• Efficient transportation with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi keeps you comfortable and connected.
• Long driving hours are unavoidable but allow for scenic views and in-depth exploration.
• Authentic wildlife encounters with abundant animals, including rare species and big cats.

Overview of the Safari Experience

This 5-day safari takes you across Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife parks: Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Samburu. The trip is designed to maximize your chances of sightings through multiple game drives, guided by professional and friendly local guides. The entire experience emphasizes comfort, convenience, and authentic encounters with nature.

The value of this tour lies in its all-inclusive approach—meals, private transport, and entry fees are covered. This means fewer surprises and more focus on the sights and sounds of Kenya’s wild side.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport, where a knowledgeable guide will brief you before heading out in a private, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi. The drive to Maasai Mara spans roughly 254 km, and you’ll enjoy an enroute game drive, giving your first glimpse of the savannah wildlife.

Expect to arrive at your lodge for check-in, lunch, and a chance to relax. As the day winds down, a game drive around the reserve offers prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, and other predators emerging from their daytime shadows. The guides’ local knowledge is a highlight here—many guests mention how guides like Fred are excellent at spotting animals and sharing insights.

Day 2: Maasai Mara Full-Day Game Drives

The second day is dedicated to exploring Maasai Mara’s vast plains. The morning breakfast kicks off a full day of game drives, often lasting up to 8 hours, so comfort is key. This reserve is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five and a variety of plains game like giraffes, zebras, and elephants.

Guests frequently mention the thrill of seeing predators in action. One reviewer noted how their guide was “very knowledgeable ensuring we didn’t miss any action,” highlighting the value of experienced guides. The Mara River, with its crocodiles and hippos, is another focal point, especially during the migration season.

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, the journey continues with an enroute game drive and a transfer to Lake Nakuru. The drive takes you through scenic plains, with a stop at Narok for lunch. Lake Nakuru is famous for its pink flamingoes and rhino populations, making it a birdwatching paradise.

Expect an enroute game drive as you arrive, followed by check-in, rest, and an evening game drive. The park is home to both black and white rhinos and a variety of waterfowl. The reviews emphasize how stunning the landscape is and how close guests can get to iconic species like flamingoes and waterbucks.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Samburu National Reserve

The next leg takes you north to Samburu, a reserve known for its northern specialist wildlife and an astonishing array of bird species—over 350 types, including vultures, kingfishers, and marabous. The drive is scenic and en route, you’ll have more chances for game viewing.

Samburu’s unique fauna includes species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. Guests have raved about the birdlife here, and many mention how the abundance of flamingoes and other waterfowl adds vibrancy to the landscapes. The guides’ local expertise shines during these drives, helping travelers spot elusive species and offering fascinating facts.

Day 5: Return to Nairobi

Your final morning begins with an early breakfast and a game drive en route back to Nairobi. The drive offers a last chance to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped at your hotel or the Nairobi airport, concluding your safari.

Many reviews highlight the smooth logistics and friendliness of the guides, making this a stress-free end to your adventure.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour provides private transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi—an unexpected luxury that keeps you comfortable and connected during long drives. The vehicle size is typically suited for the group, and the drivers are praised for their professionalism and knowledge.

Traveling in a private vehicle means you can customize your stops and game drives to suit your interests, rather than sticking to a rigid group schedule. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off is also a significant plus, saving you time and hassle.

Accommodations and Meals

Staying in luxury lodges or tented camps offers comfort after active days in the wild. Reviews mention the “nice eco camp” and “luxury accommodations,” making it clear that comfort is a priority. The inclusion of all meals means you won’t need to worry about finding food in remote areas—meals are planned around your schedule, with hearty breakfasts, picnic lunches, and hearty dinners.

Guests often praise the quality of the food, describing it as fresh and satisfying, which is important after long days of game viewing.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the standout aspects of this safari is the chance to see iconic species up close. Reviewers recall witnessing the Big Five, lions lounging in the shade, cheetahs hunting, and rhinos grazing peacefully. Several mention how the guides’ expertise ensured they didn’t miss the best sightings, with one stating, “Our guide was knowledgable ensuring we didn’t miss any action.”

The migration of animals from Mara River to Serengeti is a highlight, with some guests describing the experience as “awe-inspiring,” especially during the migration season when the river teems with crocodiles and the banks are filled with wildebeest and zebras.

Value and Pricing

At approximately $4,143 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that covers transportation, guided game drives, park fees, meals, and luxurious accommodations. When you consider that the price includes all these aspects and the personalized service, it represents good value for those wanting a hassle-free, high-quality safari.

The reviews reinforce this perspective. Guests mention how they appreciated the well-organized itinerary, the chance to see the Big Five, and the comfort of the lodges—all bundled into one package that saves time and planning.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari travelers, and those who want a luxurious yet authentic experience. It suits travelers who prefer private tours for a more personalized touch and appreciate all-inclusive packages that handle logistics.

It’s also perfect for families or small groups looking for a balance of adventure, comfort, and guided expertise. The long drives might not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking a more relaxed pace, but for most, the scenery and wildlife sightings will make the journey worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Samburu safari offers a well-rounded experience blending top wildlife sightings with comfort and convenience. The combination of expert guides, luxurious lodges, and efficient transportation makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want to make the most of Kenya’s wildlife in a short time.

From the iconic plains of Maasai Mara, where predators stalk prey, to the bird-filled lakes of Nakuru, and the unique species of Samburu, each stop provides a different flavor of African wilderness. The inclusion of all meals and private transport ensures a stress-free adventure that lets you focus entirely on the animals and scenery.

If you’re after a high-quality safari experience that balances value, comfort, and adventure, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a fantastic way to see Kenya’s most famous parks with guides who know how to find the wildlife and make your trip memorable.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, Wi-Fi on board, all park entry fees, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and accommodations at luxury lodges.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Guests report staying in comfortable, luxury lodges or eco camps, providing a cozy retreat after full days of game viewing.

How long are the game drives?
Expect full-day game drives, particularly on Day 2, with drives lasting up to 8 hours. These are guided by knowledgeable professionals who help maximize wildlife sightings.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves some walking and sitting in a vehicle for extended periods.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll see lions, elephants, cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species including flamingoes and vultures.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so guides can tailor the experience to your interests, though the core itinerary remains fixed.

How is transportation arranged?
Transportation is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and connectivity during your drives.

What is the best time to go?
While specific seasons aren’t stated, the reviews suggest that witnessing migration or specific wildlife behaviors can vary. Generally, the parks are rewarding year-round.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included, and reviews praise the quality and freshness of the food.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This safari offers a comprehensive look at Kenya’s most celebrated parks, combining wildlife spotting with comfort, guided expertise, and smooth logistics—perfect for travelers who want a memorable, well-organized adventure.