7 Day Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and Amboseli Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya can seem overwhelming, with so many parks, routes, and options. We’ve reviewed a 7-day guided tour that takes you through some of Kenya’s most iconic spots—Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli—offering a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and cultural insights. While it’s packed with highlights, the tour also offers practical comforts, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience in a relatively short time.

What really caught our eye? The chance to see the Big Five and the great migration, the stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro looming in the background, and the inclusion of all meals and park fees—a real plus for hassle-free planning. We also love that the guides are praised for their knowledge and experience, making every game drive more insightful. However, the price point of around $1,316 per person might seem steep for some, but considering what’s included, many will find it good value.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to tick off Kenya’s top wildlife parks, families, or anyone wanting a guided adventure that combines comfort with authentic safari moments. If you prefer a more independent or luxury-focused trip, you might want to explore other options, but for those seeking a well-organized, all-in-one safari, this trip hits many marks.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package covers accommodation, park fees, transport, and meals, making it straightforward.
• Expert guides like Sammy and Ambrose are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Iconic wildlife viewing includes elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and rare white rhinos.
• Scenic highlights include Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Rift Valley, and the Mara River crossing.
• Flexible activities such as optional balloon safaris and Maasai village visits add extra flavor.
• Group size is capped at 20 travelers, enhancing the experience without feeling crowded.

In-Depth Review of the Safari Experience

Starting Strong: The Maasai Mara and the Great Rift Valley

Your adventure kicks off early in Nairobi with a pickup and a scenic drive to Maasai Mara. The journey includes a stop at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint, where the expansive landscape is perfectly framed—think vast skies and a valley that looks like it stretches forever. According to a reviewer, the view here is “unbelievable,” and it sets the tone for the entire trip.

Once in Mara, you’ll check into your camp—either Rhino Tourist Camp or Enkajiang Mara Camp—both offering a comfortable base with easy access to game drives. The Mara is renowned for its big cats and the Great Migration, and your guide will take you on game drives until late afternoon, increasing your chances of spotting lions, cheetahs, and elephants. One traveler noted, “Our guide, Sammy, was very experienced and made sure we saw many animals.” The flexibility to go out in the afternoon and evening improves your chances of catching these elusive creatures in action.

The Mara River and the Migration Marvel

A highlight of Day 2 is the visit to Mara River, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross during migration season. Even outside of migration, the river teems with hippos and crocodiles, making for some compelling wildlife sightings. One reviewer mentioned, “Watching the animals cross the river was a surreal experience, with hippos basking and crocodiles lurking.”

Optional activities include a hot air balloon safari at USD 420, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the plains, or a Maasai cultural tour for USD 20. The cultural aspect adds an enriching layer, allowing you to learn about the Maasai community directly from the locals.

Transition to Lake Nakuru: Flamingos and White Rhinos

On Day 3, the tour moves to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its pink flamingos and rare white rhinos. The small park size makes for intimate game drives, and reviewers highlight the magnificent scenery and abundance of wildlife. One guest pointed out the park’s special appeal: “Seeing the white rhinos was a dream come true, and the flamingos added a splash of color to the landscape.”

After a late afternoon check-in at Lanet Matfam Resort Hotel, you’re free to relax or enjoy the hotel amenities. The next day’s early start means you’re ready to explore Nakuru’s highlights in the morning.

Lake Naivasha and Birdwatching Bliss

Following breakfast on Day 4, the journey continues to Lake Naivasha, where a boat ride provides a quiet, close-up view of hippos and a variety of birdlife. Reviewer comments like “the boat ride was perfect for bird watching and spotting hippos up close” testify to its value. The calm waters and lush surroundings contrast beautifully with the open savannahs, offering a different perspective on Kenyan wildlife.

In the afternoon, you’ll settle into Chambai Hotel or Astorian Grand for some downtime—ideal for recharging before the next day’s adventures.

Active Exploration at Hell’s Gate and Amboseli’s Iconic Views

Day 5 involves a biking safari at Hell’s Gate, a unique activity in Kenya. Bikes are provided, and the park’s relatively gentle terrain makes it accessible. One reviewer described it as “not a race; you can go slowly, take photos, and enjoy the animals at your own pace.” Alternatively, a game drive is available for those who prefer being driven.

Later, the tour heads to Amboseli, famous for its snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro and plains dotted with elephants. While late arrivals mean no game drive on Day 5, the following day promises plenty of wildlife viewing, including elephants, giraffes, and predators. The Observation Hill is a must-see, offering panoramic views of the park and a chance to see elephants bathing—a truly special sight.

A Full Day in Amboseli

Day 6 is dedicated to Amboseli, with a full-day game drive that often exceeds expectations. One review noted how guides are adept at tracking the animals, especially near the swampy areas where elephants gather. If timing permits, you’ll also visit the Observation Hill for stunning photo opportunities against Kilimanjaro’s backdrop. Visitors frequently mention how the large herds of elephants and spectacular scenery make this a highlight.

Wrapping Up and Cultural Encounters

On the final day, there’s a short game drive en route to Nairobi, with an optional visit to the Maasai tribe in Kimana—offering a glimpse into local customs, dancing, and traditional crafts. It’s a meaningful way to end the safari, adding a cultural dimension to your wildlife adventure.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses customized vehicles with pop-up roofs, ideal for game viewing and photography. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a personal experience without feeling crowded. The drive times are reasonable, with most days involving 6-8 hours on the road, including game drives and scenic stops. This balance allows for immersive wildlife viewing without long, exhausting days.

Meals and Accommodation

All meals are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—allowing you to enjoy the local flavors and rest after busy days. Accommodation varies from campsites to hotels, but reviews suggest they are comfortable and well-located for game viewing.

Cost and Value

At $1,316 per person, this tour packs in seven days of guided exploration, park fees, and all meals, making it a solid value for first-timers wanting a comprehensive experience. The inclusion of activities like boat rides and optional cultural visits adds value that can be costly if arranged separately.

Booking and Flexibility

Most bookings are made about 67 days in advance, which is pretty standard for such tours. The free cancellation policy allows peace of mind, especially in unpredictable times.

Why This Tour Works

This safari delivers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights, guided by experienced professionals who know how to maximize your chances of seeing Kenya’s iconic animals. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate organized, all-inclusive trips that take the stress out of planning, with plenty of opportunities to photograph and connect with nature.

The feedback from past travelers highlights knowledgeable guides, especially Ambrose and Sammy, and the stunning vistas that remain etched in their memories. The ability to see the Great Migration, the Big Five, and Mount Kilimanjaro** in one trip is a rare and rewarding combination.

However, keep in mind that this is a group tour, so if you prefer total independence or luxury accommodations, you might want to explore other options. Nonetheless, for those seeking a well-rounded, value-packed adventure in Kenya’s top parks, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,316 fee covers 6 nights of accommodation, all transportation with a pop-up roof vehicle, park entrance fees, all meals, bottled water, and activities like boat rides.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Sammy and Ambrose are specifically mentioned as making the experience unforgettable.

Can I participate in optional activities?
Absolutely. You can opt for a balloon safari at USD 420 or visit a Maasai village for USD 20, both of which are recommended for adding extra memorable moments.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and the rare white rhinos are commonly spotted. The Mara River crossing is especially spectacular during migration season.

How long are the game drives?
Most drives last between 6-9 hours, with opportunities for morning and late afternoon excursions, allowing optimal wildlife viewing conditions.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour’s group size and activities make it family-friendly, especially with the chance to see a variety of animals and scenic landscapes.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 2 months in advance, so planning early ensures availability and better pricing.

Are air-conditioned vehicles provided?
The tour uses customized vehicles designed for safaris, with open roofs for game viewing, but it’s not specified if they are air-conditioned. Expect comfortable seating with good visibility.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day safari offers a well-rounded Kenyan adventure, combining wildlife encounters, scenic views, and cultural insights. With experienced guides and all-inclusive pricing, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a stress-free experience that covers Kenya’s major parks. You’ll leave with stunning photos, memorable stories, and a deeper appreciation for Kenya’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife.

Ideal for first-timers, nature lovers, and those seeking a convenient yet authentic safari, this tour delivers value and adventure in equal measure. While it may not suit travelers seeking ultra-luxury or independence, it remains a solid, reliable choice for a comprehensive Kenyan safari experience.

Interested in exploring more of Kenya’s incredible parks or customizing your trip? Check out additional tours and activities that pair well with this safari to extend your adventure or tailor your experience even further.