5 Days Best Of Kenya Safari

Exploring the 5 Days Best of Kenya Safari: An Honest Review

This curated 5-day safari through Kenya offers a well-rounded peek into some of the country’s most iconic wilderness areas. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect—rich wildlife sightings, comfortable accommodations, and hassle-free logistics.

What really stands out are the diversity of parks, from the Maasai Mara’s famed Big Five and wildebeest migration to the flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru, and the scenic landscapes around Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate. The door-to-door transport and all-inclusive meals add to the convenience, making it an attractive package for those wanting a comprehensive Kenyan experience.

A possible consideration is the price point of $2,820 per person, which might be on the higher side for some, but this covers private transportation, multiple game drives, and quality lodging. This safari is perfect for travelers seeking a luxury-level adventure with flexible, personalized options. It also suits first-timers eager to tick off major wildlife reserves with expert guidance, but seasoned safari-goers may want to look for more niche or exclusive experiences.

Key Points

• Diverse parks: Covers Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and optional Hell’s Gate.
• All-inclusive meals: Enjoy three tasty meals daily, simplifying your trip.
• Flexible & private: Private tour with door-to-door transport from Nairobi.
• Expert game drives: Multiple safaris maximize wildlife sightings.
• Unique activities: Optional hiking or cycling at Hell’s Gate.
• Good reviews: Consistently high ratings and positive feedback about quality and value.

What Makes This Kenyan Safari Stand Out?

This safari is designed to give you a broad overview of Kenya’s most famous wildlife habitats within just five days. The itinerary balances iconic game drives with scenic landscapes, making it a strong choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or the airport in Nairobi. From there, you’ll travel along the scenic lower Mau escarpment road toward the Maasai Mara. The drive itself is part of the experience: expect sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley, with vivid landscapes, crater lakes, and distant mountains.

Arriving at the Elangata Olerai Tented Camp, you’ll be greeted with a hearty lunch before heading out on your first game drive. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its healthy populations of lions, elephants, cheetahs, and buffalo, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot the Big Five. Reviewers note that the game drives are well-organized, with knowledgeable guides, and the scenery is simply stunning.

Day 2: Game Drives in Maasai Mara

This full day is dedicated to exploring the reserve. Expect a mix of early morning and late afternoon game drives, typically 7 hours in total, to maximize wildlife encounters.

The Maasai Mara hosts the seventh wonder of the natural world—the wildebeest migration—which peaks from June to September. Reviewers have described the plains literally teeming with animals during migration season, with herds stretching as far as the eye can see. The sounds of animal calls and territorial clashes make these drives vibrant and immersive.

Day 3: From Maasai Mara to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, you’ll journey to Lake Nakuru National Park, passing through the spectacular Great Rift Valley. The views here are often described as breathtaking—cliffs, crater lakes, and lush valleys dominate the landscape.

Lake Nakuru is famous for its millions of pink flamingoes, which line the lakeshore in season, creating a surreal, photo-worthy scene. Besides flamingos, the park is home to rhinos, giraffes, and baboons. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see these animals in a relatively small park with a rich variety of birdlife and mammals.

Day 4: Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate

The morning starts with a drive to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. The area is ideal for wildlife viewing, boat rides, or just soaking in the scenery.

In the afternoon, optional activities at Hell’s Gate National Park include walking safaris, cycling, rock climbing, and photography. The park’s unique landscape features dramatic cliffs, geothermal hot springs, and wildlife that is approachable on foot. Reviewers love the added thrill of walking near giraffes and zebras, feeling more connected to nature than in traditional vehicle safaris.

Day 5: Return to Nairobi

Your final morning features breakfast before heading back to Nairobi for your onward flight. The drive offers last views of Kenya’s incredible landscapes, and you can reflect on a trip packed with diverse wildlife, stunning scenery, and memorable experiences.

What Do Reviewers Say?

The feedback on this safari emphasizes its value and quality. One reviewer called it an “amazing safari” that made their first-ever wildlife trip perfect, praising the top-quality accommodations and game drives. Another highlighted how seamless the entire experience was, especially mentioning the professional guides and well-organized logistics.

Many also appreciated the diversity of parks, noting that seeing flamingoes at Lake Nakuru and lions in Maasai Mara was a highlight. The optional activities at Hell’s Gate, such as biking and walking, received special praise for adding a more interactive element to the trip.

One reviewer, who traveled during their honeymoon, said Dallago Tours made the experience “as smooth as possible,” indicating that the private, customizable nature of the tour appeals to those seeking comfort and flexibility.

Practical Details & Why They Matter

Transportation & Comfort

The tour includes door-to-door private transportation, which is a significant benefit, especially when traveling with luggage or young children. The vehicle is likely spacious and comfortable, allowing for long drives without discomfort. This feature ensures you won’t be stuck in cramped group tours or face unpredictable transport arrangements.

Duration & Timing

Clocking in at around 7 hours for each game drive, your days are long but filled with wildlife sightings. The itinerary is structured to maximize game viewing during early mornings and late afternoons when animals are most active. The final drive back to Nairobi takes roughly 3 hours, giving you some downtime after four nights of adventure.

Cost & Value

At $2,820 per person, this safari might seem steep, but reviews suggest that the quality of accommodations, meals, and guides justify the price. The inclusion of three all-inclusive meals daily reduces extra expenses and stress, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local restaurants or markets.

Why This Tour Works

• It offers a comprehensive introduction to Kenya’s most renowned parks within a manageable timeframe.
• The private nature ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• The guided game drives are tailored for optimal wildlife viewing, which can be hit-or-miss on your own.
• The optional activities like hiking or cycling at Hell’s Gate add a fun, active dimension.
• The positive feedback indicates high satisfaction with the overall value, guides, and logistics.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Kenya’s standout wildlife parks with a balance of comfort and adventure. It also suits those who want a stress-free experience with everything arranged in advance, from transportation to meals.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or honeymooner looking for a luxury yet authentic experience, this safari offers a well-rounded package. However, if you’re seeking an ultra-exclusive or specialized safari (like private guides or off-the-beaten-path destinations), you might want to explore more bespoke options.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Days Best of Kenya Safari is a thoughtfully designed trip that balances iconic wildlife encounters with scenic landscapes and cultural richness. Its focus on comfort, convenience, and quality makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to experience Kenya without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the price is on the higher side, reviews consistently point to good value, especially given the inclusion of meals and private transfers. This safari provides a strong foundation for your Kenyan adventure, offering unforgettable moments with some of Africa’s most spectacular animals and landscapes.

FAQs

What parks are included in this safari?
The tour covers four parks: Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and an optional visit to Hell’s Gate.

Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes three all-inclusive meals per day, making it easier to enjoy the trip without worrying about extra costs.

Is transportation private?
Yes, the tour features private, door-to-door transportation from Nairobi, ensuring a comfortable and flexible experience.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, there is potential for customization, especially with optional activities like hiking or cycling at Hell’s Gate.

How long are the game drives?
Each game drive typically lasts around 7 hours, often with morning and afternoon sessions to maximize wildlife sightings.

What’s the best time of year for this safari?
While the itinerary is designed for year-round enjoyment, the wildebeest migration in Maasai Mara peaks from June to September, offering spectacular wildlife scenes.

To sum it up, this safari is a well-balanced, value-oriented choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes. It’s perfect for first-timers, safari lovers seeking convenience, or couples on a wildlife-focused honeymoon. With positive reviews emphasizing the quality of guides, accommodations, and the unforgettable animal encounters, it’s a trip that promises memories to cherish for a lifetime.