5 days maasai mara -lake naivasha-lake nakuru

Traveling through Kenya’s iconic national parks offers an adventure packed with wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural encounters. This 5-day tour, offered by Dennsland Trekk Tours, promises a well-organized journey through some of the country’s most renowned locations, including Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Nakuru. Our review is based on detailed itineraries, traveler feedback, and the genuine insights of those who’ve experienced it firsthand.

What we really like about this safari is the combination of varied landscapes, the chance to see diverse wildlife, and the open-roof 4WD vehicles that make game viewing more exciting. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints like the Great Rift Valley adds a memorable touch. However, one consideration is that some activities, like the boat safari on Lake Naivasha, may not meet everyone’s expectations if you’re after more exclusive or specialized experiences. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an affordable, comprehensive safari that balances wildlife exploring with scenic stops.

Who would enjoy this tour? It’s a solid choice for first-time safari-goers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those on a budget looking for value without sacrificing authentic adventure. If you’re looking for luxury or highly exclusive experiences, you might want to explore other options. For those eager to see Kenya’s famous parks with knowledgeable guides and a well-structured itinerary, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Affordable value for a 5-day safari covering three iconic parks.
• Open-roof 4WD vehicles enhance game viewing and photo opportunities.
• Experienced guides and smooth itinerary ensure a balanced experience.
• Diverse wildlife sightings including rhinos, flamingoes, and other bird species.
• Comfortable accommodations and meals included in the package.
• Some activities, like the Lake Naivasha boat safari, might feel less special or worth their extra cost.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Nairobi to Maasai Mara with a Scenic Stop

The adventure kicks off early with a pickup from your hotel in Nairobi. As you leave the city behind, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Kenya’s countryside, with a stopover at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. The views here are a highlight — vast, dramatic, and perfect for snapping a few photos. This is often praised by travelers for its impressive natural beauty; one reviewer mentioned, “we enjoyed the scenic views of Mt. Longonot from afar.”

Lunch is a picnic en route, giving you a taste of the local outdoor dining experience. Arriving in Maasai Mara in the afternoon, you’ll settle into your camp or hotel. The evening game drive is a favorite part of many guests’ days, offering the chance to spot animals like elephants, giraffes, and maybe even predators. The guides are known for their knowledge, which helps in spotting and identifying wildlife.

Day 2: Full Day of Game Viewing in Maasai Mara

Spending an entire day exploring Maasai Mara means plenty of opportunities to see wildlife in action. The reserve, which forms the northern part of the Serengeti ecosystem, is famous for its big cats and large herds. Travelers love the way guides take you to River Mara, located on the border with Serengeti, for potential sightings of crocodiles and hippos, alongside the wildlife.

One reviewer highlighted the value of the guides: “We enjoyed the safari, and the guides’ knowledge made a difference.” The open-roof 4WD enables unobstructed views and great photo ops. All meals are served at the camp or lodge, and with the vast plains stretching out as your backdrop, it’s easy to lose track of time watching lions, cheetahs, or graceful antelopes.

Day 3: Transition to Lake Nakuru with Scenic Views

After a morning game drive and breakfast, the journey continues southward to Lake Nakuru. The drive offers scenic views, including Mount Longonot in the distance — a favorite of reviewers for its stunning backdrop. The stop for lunch en route allows for a relaxed pace, and arriving at Lake Nakuru, you’ll check into your hotel for rest and dinner.

This part of the trip is ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace and scenic drives. While the focus is on moving between parks, the landscape offers photographic opportunities that are different from Maasai Mara’s open plains.

Day 4: Game Drive at Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru is famous for its flamingoes, which can sometimes number in the millions, creating a striking pink hue across the lake. The park is also a sanctuary for white rhinos, and sightings of buffalo and waterbucks near the shoreline are common. The guided game drive here is designed for bird lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

One reviewer noted, “Lake Nakuru is a bird paradise, especially for flamingoes,” which adds a unique dimension compared to the previous days. The park’s varied terrain includes forested areas, acacia woodlands, and swampy zones, all teeming with different species.

Day 5: From Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha and Nairobi

The final day begins with an early breakfast before heading to Lake Naivasha, a fresh-water lake known for its birdlife and boat safaris. The boat ride is a typical feature, offering potential sightings of hippos and water birds, though one reviewer mentioned it felt somewhat standard and not overly exciting.

After lunch at Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and geothermal features, the tour concludes with a drive back to Nairobi. The trip usually wraps up by late afternoon, giving you time to reflect on your safari adventures.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during long drives across varied terrain. The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, which strikes a good balance between a guided group and personal space. The open-roof 4WD vans are especially praised for their visibility and game viewing advantage.

Guides and Customer Service

Guests consistently mention the guides’ knowledgeable and friendly attitude, which significantly enhances the experience. Their ability to spot wildlife and provide insightful commentary makes each drive more engaging. The tour provider, Dennsland Trekk Tours, is also appreciated for their smooth organization and excellent customer service.

Cost and Value

At $780 per person, this safari offers a competitive price point for a comprehensive 5-day experience. All major expenses like park fees, accommodations, and meals are included, simplifying budgeting. While optional activities like the boat safari on Lake Naivasha might not feel essential to everyone, they are reasonably priced and add variety to the experience.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One guest shared, “Visiting Maasai Mara was the highlight of the trip,” emphasizing how engaging guide-led game drives can be. However, another pointed out that the water safari on Lake Naivasha was not particularly exciting or worth extra money, highlighting that some activities might vary in perceived value.

Those who enjoyed the trip appreciated the well-paced schedule and the variety of landscapes and wildlife they encountered. The guides’ knowledge and hospitality also left a lasting impression for many.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Bring your camera and binoculars — the scenery and wildlife are worth capturing.
• Prepare for early mornings — game drives often start at dawn, which is prime wildlife viewing time.
• Dress in layers — mornings can be chilly, but daytime temperatures rise.
• Consider your activity preferences — if you’re not keen on boat rides, the Lake Naivasha safari can be skipped or shortened.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Worth It?

This 5-day Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Nakuru tour offers excellent value for those wanting to experience Kenya’s most famous parks without breaking the bank. The combination of expert guides, open-roof vehicles, and scenic drives ensures that you get plenty of wildlife sightings and beautiful landscapes.

It’s particularly well-suited for first-time safari travelers, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking a well-organized trip that balances adventure with comfort. The itinerary is flexible enough to allow for some personal exploration, while the inclusion of key parks guarantees a memorable experience.

While activities like the boat safari on Lake Naivasha might not be a highlight for everyone, the overall package delivers authentic encounters with Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes. If you’re after a reliable, guided, and reasonably priced safari that covers Kenya’s highlights, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers park entry fees, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and accommodations as per the itinerary.

How many days does the safari last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 days, starting early each morning and concluding by late afternoon on the final day.

Are game drives conducted in open-roof vehicles?
Yes, the tour uses open-roof 4WD vans, which enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities during game drives.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transport is in air-conditioned vehicles, designed to comfortably accommodate up to 14 travelers.

What activities are included?
Main activities include game drives at Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru, scenic stops at the Great Rift Valley, and a boat safari on Lake Naivasha (though its appeal might vary).

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time, offering flexibility in planning.

This detailed review aims to give you a genuine sense of what to expect from this 5-day Kenyan safari, emphasizing its strengths and areas for consideration. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and a good itinerary, it’s an adventure that many travelers find rewarding—especially those eager to explore Kenya’s iconic parks without fussing over the details.