6-Day Maasai Mara Reserve, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli National Park

Planning a safari in Kenya? This 6-day tour covering Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli promises a well-rounded look at some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. From tracking the Big Five to witnessing the Great Migration (if timed right), it captures the essence of a classic Kenyan adventure.

What we love about this experience is its focus on personalized service, the variety of landscapes, and the full inclusiveness of meals and water. It’s really designed for those who want a hassle-free, immersive wildlife experience. One thing to consider is the price—$1,800 per person is an investment, but many reviews suggest it’s well worth the cost for the quality of guides and comfort.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, well-organized safari with plenty of chances to see wildlife, combined with scenic drives and relaxing moments at stunning lodges. If you’re someone who values good value, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible schedule, this trip might be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour ensures a tailored experience focusing on your interests
• All meals included make it convenient and budget-friendly
• Prime wildlife viewing with chances to spot the Big Five and, if in season, the Great Migration
• Expert guides like Gilbert and Alex are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Diverse landscapes from savannahs and lakes to mountain views provide stunning photo opportunities
• Comfortable lodges like Aa Mara Lodge and Sentrime Lodge enhance your stay

A Closer Look at the 6-Day Kenya Safari Experience

This tour offers an impressive balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters. Let’s walk through each day to understand what makes this safari special and what you can expect.

Day 1: Arrival and Maasai Mara Introduction

Your journey kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or the airport—whichever suits your schedule best. The drive begins with a scenic stop at the Great Rift Valley escarpment, an iconic natural wonder that frames much of Kenya’s landscape. As you move into Maasai Mara, you’ll cross into the lands of the Maasai people, an area steeped in both cultural richness and natural beauty.

Arriving at the Maasai Mara National Reserve for lunch, you’ll settle into your lodge—Aa Mara Lodge in this case—and get a chance to relax before your first game drive in the afternoon. The Mara is renowned for its vast plains, which are perfect for spotting lions, elephants, and other wildlife.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Maasai Mara

This is the day to really get close to nature. With a full-day game drive and a picnic lunch, you’ll have plenty of time to see different terrains—from lush grasslands to acacia trees—and the animals that call them home. Reviewers consistently mention how skilled guides like Gilbert make all the difference, knowing where the animals tend to gather and sharing engaging stories about the wildlife.

The Maasai Mara is best known for hosting the Great Migration between July and September. During these months, the grasslands are dotted with over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes, creating a spectacle of wildlife that’s tough to beat.

Day 3: Transition to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, it’s time to leave the Maasai Mara and head south towards Lake Naivasha. The drive takes you through Naivasha town and past flower farms, giving you a glimpse into Kenya’s thriving agricultural industry. At the entrance to Hells Gate National Park, the landscape unfolds into a semi-arid terrain with rugged cliffs, open plains, and deep gorges—a striking contrast to the Maasai Mara.

Here, you’ll enjoy a boat ride among hippos (extra cost), which offers a different perspective on the lake’s colonies of hippos and birdlife. The park is also popular for activities like walking, cycling, rock climbing, and bird watching, making it an active and scenic stop that appeals to nature lovers.

Day 4: Amboseli National Park Arrival

The journey continues with a drive through Nairobi and then south into Amboseli National Park. Known for its spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli offers a different landscape—vast plains dotted with acacia trees and swamps filled with wildlife.

The Sentirime Lodge (or similar) becomes your base for the next two days. The park is famous for large herds of elephants, often seen with Mount Kilimanjaro as a breathtaking backdrop. Reviewers have highlighted how our guide Alex made sure we saw the Big Five—including elusive rhinos and cheetahs—making this a wildlife spectacle.

Day 5: Full Day in Amboseli

Today is all about wildlife in the park’s diverse habitats. Morning and afternoon game drives provide ample opportunity to observe giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and hundreds of bird species. One reviewer noted how the hills around the park offer panoramic views of the plains and swamps, perfect for photos.

The Vast Lake Amboseli (often dry outside the rainy season) adds to the park’s unique appeal. The guide’s expertise often shines here—spotting animals that might be hidden and explaining their behaviors.

Day 6: Return to Nairobi and Departure

The early morning drive back to Nairobi marks the end of your safari. The timing allows for a relaxed breakfast before you’re transferred to the airport or your hotel, wrapping up a well-rounded adventure that balances wildlife, landscapes, and comfort.

Real-World Insights from Traveler Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Gilbert and Alex, mentioning how their expertise enriched the experience. One reviewer called their safari “beyond expectations,” highlighting spotting every animal possible and the quality of meals and accommodations.

The value for money is often emphasized—many feel that the all-inclusive meals, private tours, and well-chosen lodges justify the cost. One reviewer pointed out that the safaris in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Naivasha felt like “the best bang for the buck,” especially given the personalized service.

Wildlife viewing is another highlight. Many travelers mention seeing the Big Five, especially in Maasai Mara and Amboseli. The chance to witness the Great Migration in season is an extra bonus, making this tour suitable for those seeking iconic safari moments.

Transportation and Guides

The transportation involves comfortable, private vehicles with experienced drivers who know the parks well. The timing of the drives ensures you catch animals during the most active parts of the day—early mornings and late afternoons—adding to the chances of seeing wildlife.

Guides like Gilbert and Alex receive high praise for their friendly, informative, and attentive approach, often sharing interesting facts and anecdotes. This adds a layer of engagement that enhances the overall experience.

Lodging and Meals

Staying in lodges like Aa Mara and Sentirime means comfort without sacrificing the authentic safari feel. Most meals are included, and reviewers have appreciated the variety and quality of food, describing it as “delicious,” with some mentioning “excellent” options even for picky eaters.

Price and Overall Value

While $1,800 per person may seem steep, reviews suggest it offers good value for an all-inclusive, guided experience. The private tour setup means your schedule is flexible and tailored, while the all meals and water help keep costs predictable. For those wanting a comprehensive Kenyan safari with knowledgeable guides and scenic diversity, this price point is justified.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple key parks in Kenya without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guides, comfort, and flexibility. If spotting the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, or enjoying varied landscapes are priorities, this trip ticks all those boxes.

It’s also a good choice for families or couples looking for a private, intimate experience rather than a large group tour. Travelers who appreciate good food and cozy lodges will find this package hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, pickup from the airport or your hotel is included, based on your preference.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately six days, covering Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli.

Are meals included? All meals are included in the package, making it easier to plan and budget. Water is also provided.

Can I witness the Great Migration? If you visit between July and September, you have the best chance to see the Great Migration in Maasai Mara.

What kind of accommodation is provided? The tour includes stays at lodges like Aa Mara Lodge and Sentirime Lodge, offering comfort and authentic safari ambiance.

Who are the guides? Guides like Gilbert and Alex receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife.

What activities are included? Daily game drives are the main activity, along with optional boat trips at Lake Naivasha (extra cost).

Is this a private tour? Yes, the experience is exclusive to your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What is the price point? At $1,800 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusions, guided expertise, and access to premier parks.

What should I bring? While not specified, it’s wise to pack essentials such as comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera, sunblock, and a hat for sun protection.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Kenyan safari provides a detailed, well-paced journey through some of Africa’s most famous parks. From the Big Five sightings in Maasai Mara to the majestic views of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, it creates an authentic and memorable wildlife holiday. With expert guides, cozy lodges, and all meals included, it’s a stress-free way to experience Kenya’s wilderness.

Travelers who seek a personalized experience with quality service and stunning scenery will find this tour highly satisfying. While the price is a consideration, most reviews confirm that the value and quality justify the investment, especially for a trip that offers such rich landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters.

If you’re dreaming of a classic safari with a mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights, this tour is definitely worth considering.