8-Day Amboseli Park, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara Park Tour

A Practical Look at the 8-Day Amboseli, Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara Safari

If you’re dreaming of Kenya’s incredible wildlife and landscapes but want a balanced, well-organized adventure, this 8-day tour by Silver Spark Africa Safaris could be just what you need. It promises a chance to see the legendary Big Five, witness the spectacle of the Great Migration, and enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro—all within a comfortable, thoughtfully planned itinerary.

What really catches our eye about this trip is the focus on diversity: high-adventure game drives in Amboseli, birdwatching in Lake Nakuru, and the vast plains of Maasai Mara. Plus, the inclusion of optional extras like hot air balloon rides and cultural visits adds some flair—though they come at extra costs. A minor consideration is the price—$2,900 per person—but when you look at what’s included, it’s a fair value for a comprehensive Kenyan safari.

This tour suits travelers who love wildlife, scenery, and cultural insight but appreciate a structured, guided approach. If you’re after a blend of adventure and comfort, with knowledgeable guides and reliable logistics, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Visit Amboseli, Nakuru, and Maasai Mara—each offering unique experiences.
• Wildlife & Birding: Excellent game viewing, especially for elephants, Big Five, and bird species.
• Expert Guides & Vehicles: Driven by knowledgeable guides in window seats-equipped 4x4s.
• Flexible Extras: Optional balloon rides and cultural visits available at extra costs.
• Comfort & Convenience: All transportation, park fees, and most meals included.
• Value for Money: Though at a higher price point, the itinerary covers a lot of ground and includes key highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the 8-Day Kenyan Safari

Starting Off in Nairobi: The Gateway

Your safari begins in Nairobi, where you’ll be met at JKIA and transferred to the 67 Airport Hotel for a pre-departure meeting. This initial day is more about settling in and setting expectations than adventure, but it’s a useful chance to ask your guide questions and get to know your fellow travelers.

The hotel choice is practical—close to the airport, comfortable, and convenient for early start the following day. Plus, most travelers appreciate having some downtime after a long flight, so this initial night offers a relaxed start.

Amboseli National Park: Iconic Views and Elephants

Early morning pick-up kicks off your journey to Amboseli, with a scenic drive that includes lunch en route. Once inside the park, the game drive begins, and it’s easy to see why Amboseli is so popular: it’s famous for its large herds of elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.

During your full days here, you’ll explore five different habitats—dried lake bed, wetlands with sulphur springs, savannah, and woodlands—each teeming with wildlife. The guides are quite experienced; reviews mention guides who are “knowledgeable about flora, fauna, and Kenyan culture”, making the game drives not just about spotting animals but understanding the larger ecosystem.

Most guests highlight Amboseli’s elephants, describing them as “up close and personal”. The park’s landscape, with the majestic Kilimanjaro looming in the background, creates some of the most photogenic moments on the trip. The full-day game drive with packed lunch is a highlight, allowing ample time to observe and photograph wildlife without feeling rushed.

Lake Nakuru: Birdlife and the Big Five

From Amboseli, you’ll travel via Nairobi to Lake Nakuru, situated on the east side of the Rift Valley. The drive offers picturesque views—lush coffee and tea plantations, and the famous Rift Valley viewpoint. Many guests appreciate the short stop for photos, noting that the viewpoint “offers a spectacular panorama of the Rift Valley’s lush landscape”.

Lake Nakuru is renowned for its flamingos, but it’s also a good place to spot rhinos, lions, and even the elusive leopard. The park’s ecosystem supports a range of animals, and birders will love the vibrant birdlife—including pelicans, storks, and the towering pink flamingos (though their numbers can fluctuate). Reviewers mention that game drives here are productive, with the “Big Five” often seen during their search.

A major perk is that park entrance fees are included, meaning no surprise costs at this stage. The lake’s alkaline waters and surrounding grasslands create a distinctive landscape that’s a delight for nature lovers.

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Maasai Mara: The Heart of Wilderness

The journey continues through the Rift Valley to Maasai Mara, Africa’s most famous reserve. The landscape shifts to wide-open plains dotted with acacia trees, and the promise of witnessing the Great Migration draws many visitors here.

The camp at Maji Moto Eco Camp offers a more rustic, authentic experience. Guests often comment on the guides’ depth of knowledge and the comfort of the safari vehicle, which is outfitted with all necessary gear, including roof hatches for optimal game viewing and photography.

Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari

One of the special options is a hot air balloon ride—a splurge at USD$490 but often described as “the most incredible way to see the Mara”. Reviewers rave about the panoramic views and the feeling of floating above the herds of wildebeest, elephants, and predators. This adds a magical dimension to the experience, especially for photography enthusiasts.

Maasai Mara: The Ultimate Game Drive

Your days in Maasai Mara are filled with full-day game drives, typically during early mornings when animals are most active. Reviewers note that this is when you’ll see the most animals, often including lions lounging in the shade or herds of elephants crossing the plains.

Several mention that guides are particularly skilled at spotting elusive animals, and their in-depth knowledge helps you appreciate the behaviors and interactions of the wildlife. The vastness of the reserve, combined with the guides’ expertise, makes each game drive feel like uncovering a new part of Africa’s wildlife story.

Cultural & Extra Experiences

While the main focus is wildlife, optional visits to Maasai villages or Lake Naivasha boat rides are available for extra fees. Not included in the base price, these can add cultural insight or a relaxing water-based activity. The reviews note that these extras are well-organized and worth considering if you’re eager for a broader Kenyan experience.

Practical Details & Overall Value

Transportation in a private 4×4 with guaranteed window seats makes game viewing comfortable and flexible. The vehicle’s equipment, including radio communication and safari accessories, ensures smooth operation and safety.

Meals are included almost every day, offering a mix of Western and local dishes—an appreciated detail for travelers who want to enjoy authentic Kenyan cuisine without hassle. Accommodation ranges from the comfortable Kibo Safari Camp in Amboseli to the more rustic Maji Moto Eco Camp, providing a genuine safari atmosphere.

Price-wise, at USD$2,900 per person, the tour offers excellent coverage of key parks, knowledgeable guides, and all logistics handled. Comparing this to similar experiences, it’s a fair deal considering the inclusions, especially park fees and transfer services. Optional extras like balloon safaris and village visits are extra but provide memorable add-ons.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants, lions, rhinos, and the Big Five with minimal hassle. It’s also ideal for those who want a mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural exposure in Kenya. If you enjoy guided tours with reliable logistics and don’t mind optional costs for extras, you’ll find this offers great value.

However, if you prefer a very flexible, independent experience or are traveling on a tighter budget, you might find some elements less adaptable. The group size and fixed itinerary mean less personal customization but ensure a well-organized trip.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day safari packs a lot into a manageable schedule, opening a window into Kenya’s most remarkable wildlife areas. The combination of Amboseli’s iconic elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, Nakuru’s vibrant birdlife and rhinos, and the Maasai Mara’s endless plains creates a balanced, impressive itinerary.

Guides with deep knowledge and a well-maintained fleet of safari vehicles enhance the experience, ensuring you won’t miss out on key sightings. While the price might seem steep, the inclusions—park entry fees, transport, most meals—make it a worthwhile investment for a comprehensive Kenyan adventure.

If you’re after a safari that blends wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights within a structured, reliable framework, this tour offers a solid, authentic choice—one designed to give you lasting memories and stunning photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this safari?
The tour costs USD$2,900 per person, which includes most accommodations, park entry fees, transportation, and meals as outlined in the itinerary.

Does the price include park entrance fees?
Yes, all government taxes, levies, and park fees are included, so there are no hidden costs at the parks.

Are accommodations comfortable?
The accommodations include the Kibo Safari Camp in Amboseli and the Maji Moto Eco Camp in Maasai Mara, offering a mix of comfort and authentic safari atmosphere.

Can I take a hot air balloon ride?
Yes, this is an optional extra costing USD$490. Many guests find it well worth the splurge for the panoramic views and unique experience.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
A private 4×4 Toyota safari vehicle equipped with a pop-up roof guarantees good visibility, space for photography, and safety.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served buffet-style, featuring both Western and local dishes.

What about cultural experiences?
Optional visits to Maasai villages or Lake Naivasha boat rides are available for extra fees but are not part of the standard itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly stated, but generally, the tour is best suited for travelers over 1 year old who are comfortable with long game drives and outdoor conditions.

What is the best time to go?
While not specified, Kenya’s dry seasons (June to October and January to February) are generally preferred for wildlife viewing.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but optional extras and personal requests (like early game drives or additional cultural visits) might be accommodated—check with the provider for specifics.

To sum it up, this safari offers a well-rounded, immersive way to experience Kenya’s most famous parks. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a thoughtfully designed route, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a classic African wildlife adventure with the comforts of organized logistics. Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, marveling at flamingos, or gazing at Mount Kilimanjaro, this tour has the ingredients for an unforgettable safari.

You can check availability for your dates here: