6 Days Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Amboseli-Ultimate Kenyan Safari

Experience a 6-Day Kenyan Safari Covering Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli

Our review uncovers the ins and outs of this well-loved safari tour, designed for first-timers eager to see Kenya’s most famous national parks. It’s a journey that promises incredible wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and the comfort of fully organized logistics—all for a very reasonable price of $395 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers small-group intimacy, capped at just eight travelers, which means a more personalized experience. Second, the all-inclusive package covers accommodations, meals, ground transport, and a professional guide, reducing stress and unexpected costs. Lastly, the itinerary includes diverse landscapes—from the rolling plains of Masai Mara to the towering peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli, giving you a comprehensive snapshot of Kenya’s natural beauty.

However, some might consider the busy schedule, especially if you prefer slow-paced, in-depth exploration. Long game drives and tight timings mean you’ll be on the move, but this is often the trade-off for covering multiple parks in just six days.

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, guided introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, especially those visiting for the first time. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-organized experience with plenty of chances for wildlife sightings, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: meals, accommodation, transport, and a professional guide are covered.
• Small-group experience: max 8 travelers for more intimate wildlife encounters.
• Diverse scenery: from Great Rift Valley to Mount Kilimanjaro, each day offers unique vistas.
• Expert guiding: guides like Moses and George are highly praised for their knowledge and professionalism.
• Wildlife focus: Major chance to see the Big Five and other iconic animals.
• Convenient logistics: pickup from Nairobi, pre-arranged campsites, and smooth transitions between parks.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara – The Start of Your Adventure

Your safari begins early at 7 AM with a pickup from your Nairobi accommodation or airport. The drive toward Masai Mara is around six hours, but it’s not just about getting there—it’s about enjoying the journey. A highlight is the stop at the Great Rift Valley Escarpment, where panoramic views create perfect photo ops and set the tone for the adventure ahead.

Once in Masai Mara, you’ll check into your campsite or lodge for lunch. Expect a relaxing break before heading out on your first game drive at 4 PM. This initial drive is a great chance to spot lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as Masai Mara is renowned for its predator populations. Our reviewer Ky_N praises the organization, highlighting that the guides made sure everyone saw the Big Five and kept everyone safe—a reassuring aspect for first-time safari-goers.

Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara

This day is all about maximizing wildlife sightings. After breakfast, you’ll go on a full-day game drive, with picnic lunches packed to keep your energy high. Masai Mara’s sprawling plains and meandering rivers make for incredible wildlife viewing environments.

Reviewers like Sinead_B highlight the professionalism of guides like Joseph, who is praised for his knowledge. The open landscape and abundance of animals, including the elusive rhinos, make this a truly memorable experience. You’ll also get a chance to witness Masai Mara’s stunning scenery, from acacia trees to wide-open skies, which lends a cinematic quality to your photos.

Day 3: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

Leaving the Mara after breakfast, you’ll head towards Lake Nakuru National Park, approximately a 4-5 hour drive. En route, there’s an optional stop at Lake Naivasha, famous for its calm waters and hippo populations. Some travelers, like Minna_K, appreciated the boat ride and nature walk among the lush vegetation—an optional, relaxing addition to the trip.

Arriving at Nakuru, you’ll check into your lodge, enjoy lunch, then explore the park on an evening game drive. Nakuru is a sanctuary for rhino conservation, with both black and white rhinos roaming freely. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 450 bird species, including flamingos. You’ll love the chance to see flamingo-covered lakes and diverse landscapes, from wooded grasslands to shimmering shores.

Day 4: Nakuru to Amboseli via Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Amboseli National Park, with an optional stop at Lake Naivasha. The boat safari here is a highlight for many reviewers, giving a close-up view of hippos and birdlife amid tranquil waters.

The drive to Amboseli takes about 4-5 hours, with lunch en route. Arriving in the evening, you’ll settle into your camp or lodge, enjoying the serene surroundings and preparing for the wildlife-packed days ahead. Ambosseli is famed for its views of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering some of the continent’s most iconic scenery.

Day 5: Full Day in Amboseli

This is where the views truly shine. After breakfast, you’ll set off on game drives through the park’s diverse habitats—savannahs, swamps, and acacia woodland. The guides, like the reviewer Patrick_P’s guide Kenneth, are noted for their expertise in finding wildlife and sharing insightful stories.

Amboseli is particularly renowned for its elephants, with some of the largest herds in Kenya. The backdrop of Kilimanjaro makes every moment picture-perfect. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and buffalo, with the possibility of spotting predators stalking prey. The park’s terrain and wetlands support a wide variety of species, making each game drive a new adventure.

Day 6: Amboseli and Return to Nairobi

Early morning game drives let you catch wildlife in the softer light of dawn. This peaceful time is perfect for photography and quiet wildlife viewing, according to reviews emphasizing the park’s tranquility in the mornings.

After breakfast, you’ll check out and start the drive back to Nairobi, approximately 4-5 hours, arriving in time for your afternoon or evening plans. The driver will drop you at your hotel or airport, ending your Kenyan safari with treasured memories of Africa’s wild beauty.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers exceptional value. For just $395, you get five nights of accommodation, all meals, ground transportation in a safari van with a pop-up roof, and a professional guide. The small-group setup means you’ll enjoy more personalized attention, and the company of like-minded travelers.

It’s important to note that park entrance fees, Maasai village tours, boat rides, tips, and personal expenses are not included. These extras can add up but also allow flexibility if you want to customize your experience.

The tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy—cancellable up to six days in advance for a full refund—giving travelers peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Many travelers, like Ky_N and Sinead_B, highlight the guides’ knowledge and professionalism. Moses and George are praised for their ability to spot wildlife and share interesting insights, making the game drives both informative and fun. The accommodation, while simple, is considered good value, especially given the cost—reviewers often mention that the food was lovely and the lodges comfortable.

One reviewer pointed out the importance of choosing the right safari vehicle, with some recommending avoiding older, less reliable options. The guides’ expertise in maintaining safety and securing wildlife sightings clearly makes a difference.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 6-day adventure offers a practical, well-organized way to tick off Kenya’s top parks without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown of wildlife and landscapes with minimal hassle. The small-group format ensures a more intimate connection with the guides and fellow travelers, making it easier to ask questions and share moments.

If you’re looking for good value, professional guiding, and a varied itinerary, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited to travelers who want to see the Big Five, enjoy stunning scenery, and experience Kenya’s diverse habitats in a manageable timeframe.

However, if you prefer more time per park or a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, those who want to avoid additional costs should budget for park fees and optional extras like boat rides or Maasai village visits.

All in all, this safari balances affordability with quality, offering a memorable introduction to Kenya’s wilderness — ideal for those eager to explore, learn, and photograph some of the world’s most iconic landscapes and animals.

FAQ

Is pickup offered from Nairobi?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Nairobi accommodation or the airport, starting at 7 AM.

What is the group size for this tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of eight travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all six days.

What about accommodation?
All nights are spent in pre-arranged campsites or lodges, offering comfortable facilities suited to a safari setting.

What’s not included in the price?
Park entrance fees, Maasai village tours, boat rides, tips, and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to six days before the start date for a full refund.

Is this suitable for first-time safari-goers?
Absolutely. The organized nature, professional guides, and varied scenery make it perfect for newcomers.

Will I see the Big Five?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, many reviews confirm that this tour offers excellent chances to see lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo.

How long are the game drives each day?
Typically around 8 hours on full days, with some shorter drives in between, providing ample wildlife viewing time.

In summary, this 6-day Kenyan safari delivers a well-rounded, cost-effective experience for adventurous travelers eager to see Kenya’s top wildlife and landscapes with expert guidance and comfortable logistics. It’s an excellent choice for first-timers and those wanting a hassle-free introduction to Africa’s incredible wilderness.