4 Day Private Masai Mara National Reserve & Lake Nakuru National Park Safari

Introducing the 4-Day Private Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru Safari

This 4-day private safari in Kenya promises an immersive wildlife experience, combining the stunning landscapes of Lake Nakuru and the world-famous Masai Mara. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s clear this trip offers a good balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic animal encounters.

Three things we especially love about this safari are the highly praised knowledgeable guides, the chance to see the Big Five and more in their natural habitat, and the scenic drives across iconic landscapes like the Great Rift Valley. A potential consideration is the cost of park fees, which aren’t included in the base price and can add up.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a well-organized, private experience with a focus on wildlife, scenic views, and cultural encounters. It suits those with an interest in authentic safaris, good health, and a desire for personalized service.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, with dedicated guides.
• Wildlife Focus: Encounters with the Big Five, flamingos, and other species.
• Scenic Journey: Stunning drives across the Great Rift Valley and savannah plains.
• Full Board Accommodation: Meals included on safari days, enhancing convenience.
• Value for Money: Competitive price considering private guides and all-inclusive elements.
• Optional Extras: Extras like balloon safaris or Maasai village visits are not included but available.

A Close Look at the Experience

Ease of Planning and Booking

One of the elements that stands out is how straightforward the booking process appears. Many reviewers appreciated the quick responses from the Africa Vacation Safaris team, especially from guide and coordinator Denis. They describe feeling in “good hands” even before arriving in Kenya, which can significantly ease the nerves of first-time travelers.

The tour confirmation is immediate, and the tour operates as a private activity, meaning your group won’t be sharing the vehicle or guides with strangers. This customization ensures your safari feels tailored to your preferences, making it a truly personal adventure.

Pickup and Transportation

Your journey begins with a 7:00 AM pickup from your Nairobi hotel or the airport. The transportation is in a 4×4 safari van, which is ideal for navigating Kenya’s varied terrains, from the rougher paths in the Maasai Mara to the scenic routes across the Great Rift Valley. Reviewers consistently mention the comfortable and well-maintained vehicles, noting that the drivers are also guides with extensive knowledge of wildlife and local landscapes.

Many praise the unlimited mileage on game drives, meaning you won’t feel rushed and can take in the scenery at your own pace. It’s worth noting that the cost of park fees ($160 USD per person for Maasai Mara, and $60 USD for Lake Nakuru) are not included in the initial price, so budget awareness is important here.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Lake Nakuru

The spellbinding landscapes of the Great Rift Valley are one of the early highlights. Reviews often mention how scenic the route is, with many stops to admire the dramatic escarpment views.

Upon entering Lake Nakuru National Park, a game drive en route to the lodge introduces you to wildlife like rhinos, lions, giraffes, zebras, and warthogs. The park is also famed for its pink flamingos, though some recent feedback notes a slight decline in their numbers. Still, the birdlife remains impressive, with pelicans and many other species.

Post-lunch, a second game drive reveals more of Nakuru’s diverse fauna. The birdwatching opportunities are considered excellent, especially for those interested in ornithology.

Day 2: Transitioning to the Masai Mara

The morning begins with a short game and bird watching drive at Lake Nakuru, perfect for catching any missed wildlife or snapping a few last photos.

Then, the journey to the Masai Mara commences, with stops at scenic points along the way, giving travelers a chance to appreciate the changing landscapes. Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and variety of views on the route.

Arriving in the afternoon, you are greeted with the expansive plains of the Mara, where the game drives start immediately. Staying at the AA Lodge or similar, you’re in a good position to explore the rich wildlife the reserve is famous for.

Day 3: Full Day in the Maasai Mara

This is the star of the trip. Many travelers comment on how the full-day game drives are the highlight, offering the chance to encounter the Big Five — lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards.

One reviewer describes the reserve as “the most exciting wildlife eco-system in the world” due to its high concentration of wild animals and scenic beauty. The moderate climate means you’re not battling extreme heat or cold, making the game viewing more enjoyable.

A standout moment for many is the picnic lunch by the Mara River—where hippos and crocodiles lounge, and sometimes the Great Migration (from July to October) makes a dramatic appearance. Guides are noted for their extensive animal knowledge, spotting elusive predators and pointing out smaller creatures that often go unnoticed.

Day 4: Return to Nairobi

Early morning game drives offer a last chance to see animals in action, with many reviewers remarking on how guides are great at spotting wildlife even in the quiet dawn hours.

The return trip to Nairobi includes a lunch stop, and the arrival time around 4:30 PM means you’ll have some time to relax or prepare for your flight. It’s important to note that no accommodation is included on this day, so plan accordingly.

Practicalities & Value

The overall price of $1,059.24 per person appears reasonable, especially considering it covers full board accommodation on safari days, unlimited game drives, and the services of an English-speaking guide.

However, expect to budget separately for park entry fees, which are approximately $160 USD for the Maasai Mara and $60 USD for Lake Nakuru, to fully understand the total expenditure. The inclusion of meals is a big plus, removing the hassle of finding food in remote areas, and reviews frequently highlight the local, hearty cuisine served at lodges.

Many reviewers emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Joseph and Denis, who are lauded for their animal spotting skills and ability to answer questions. This makes the experience more enriching and personalized.

Authentic Animal Encounters and Scenery

Based on reviews, many travelers appreciated the diversity of wildlife, from the rare Rothschild’s giraffes at Nakuru to the big cats in the Mara. The guides’ ability to spot animals from a distance is often highlighted, making these moments feel almost magical.

Photographers will love the scenic drives and animal activity at waterholes, especially during early morning or late afternoon. The full-day game drives mean more opportunities to capture those perfect shots.

Additional Experiences and Optional Extras

While this package doesn’t include extras like balloon safaris or Maasai village visits, reviews suggest many travelers are content with the core safari experience. If you’re interested in cultural experiences or a bird’s-eye view, you might find these options available locally, but they come at an additional cost.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This safari suits adventure seekers who want an authentic, private experience with expert guides and guaranteed wildlife sightings. It’s ideal for travelers with a moderate budget who value full-board convenience and personalized service.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Kenya, thanks to the seamless organization, and those who appreciate scenic drives and cultural insights from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

Best for:

• Wildlife lovers eager to see the Big Five and bird species
• Travelers wanting a private, tailored safari experience
• Those with a flexible schedule who enjoy scenic drives and photography
• Visitors looking for a balance of comfort, adventure, and culture

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers transport by 4×4 safari van, full-board accommodation during safari days, unlimited game drives, services of an English-speaking guide, drinking water, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on safari days.

Are park entry fees included?
No, the park fees for Lake Nakuru ($60 USD per person) and Maasai Mara ($160 USD per person for two days) are not included in the base price and should be budgeted separately.

What is the pickup time?
The tour starts at 7:00 AM, with pickup from your Nairobi hotel or the airport.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives are unlimited during the safari days, with long hours through the day, and early morning drives are common to catch animals in action.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour is considered relatively easy and suitable for most travelers in good health. Since it involves early mornings and long hours on rough roads, it’s best for those in good physical condition.

Can I customize or add optional activities?
Extras like balloon safaris or Maasai village visits are not included but can often be arranged locally at additional costs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for a full refund, and the policy includes partial refunds for cancellations made earlier.

In Summary

This 4-day private safari offers a well-rounded, authentic Kenyan wildlife experience with attentive guides and scenic drives. Travelers will appreciate the seamless organization, the chance to encounter Africa’s iconic animals, and the comfort of full-board accommodations.

While the park fees are an extra expense, the overall value for money is solid considering the personalized service and expert guides. It’s a great pick for those looking to explore Kenya’s wildlife in a private, relaxed setting without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Perfect for first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers craving a blend of adventure and scenic beauty, this safari can create memories that last a lifetime.