5 Days Safari to Amboseli N/P, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara N/R.

Planning a safari in Kenya can feel overwhelming with so many options, but this 5-day private tour covers some of the most iconic spots—Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, and the Maasai Mara—in a well-paced, comfortable way. Based on glowing reviews, this trip offers a mix of incredible game viewing, beautiful scenery, and personal attention from knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free, authentic experience without sacrificing comfort.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are the small group size and private nature, which means more flexibility and personal focus. The inclusion of 4-star lodge accommodations and all meals adds to the value, making it an all-in-one experience. One thing to consider is that the trip involves a fair amount of driving, so expect long days, but that’s a small trade-off for the chance to see some of Africa’s most famous wildlife.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive safari experience with a good balance of adventure and comfort. If you’re after a flexible, well-organized trip with expert guidance and an emphasis on authentic encounters, this could be just right.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with accommodation, meals, and transportation
• Private tour for flexibility and personalized attention
• Visits to Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and the Maasai Mara within 5 days
• Expert guides known for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Focus on iconic wildlife such as elephants, lions, cheetahs, and more
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and authentic wildlife encounters

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

This safari kicks off early at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, with a pickup around 6:00 am. From there, the journey immediately immerses you in Kenya’s landscapes, with transportation included for the entire trip. The tour spans roughly five days, with a schedule that balances wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and relaxing accommodations.

The tour is priced at $2,800 per person, which we see as offering good value considering the inclusive nature—lodging in 4-star camps, all meals, park entrance fees, and personalized guiding. This private setup helps eliminate the stress often associated with group safaris, allowing your guide to tailor the experience to your interests.

Day 1: Amboseli National Park — The Foot of Kilimanjaro

Departing at 7:30 am after breakfast, you’ll head south toward Amboseli National Park, famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Arriving at the Amboseli Sentrim Lodge for check-in and lunch, you get a chance to rest and settle before your first game drive at 3:30 pm.

Amboseli is renowned for its large herds of elephants grazing in the swamp, especially under Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak—a view that leaves many travelers breathless. Reviewers like George highlight the guide’s ability to spot animals and share insights, making the game drive not just a sightseeing tour but a captivating learning experience. Besides elephants, expect to see buffalo, zebras, hyenas, lions, and cheetahs.

As sunset approaches, the chance to see elephants crossing in front of your vehicle is often described as magical, and the evening light makes for fantastic photography. After returning to the lodge for dinner, you’ll likely dream of the elephants’ majestic silhouettes against the mountain.

Day 2: Lake Naivasha — Water, Birds, and Hippos

The morning starts with breakfast before heading towards Lake Naivasha, with a scenic stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. The view of the vast valley and Mount Longonot volcano along the way adds a dramatic backdrop. Here, a quick visit to the Smallest Church in the World offers a quirky photo opportunity.

Check-in at Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge and then embark on a boat ride on the lake in the afternoon. This is where you get up close to hippos and water birds, with many travelers impressed by the opportunity to see African Fish Eagles fishing and the hippos wallowing just beyond the boat. One reviewer notes that this boat ride is a significant highlight, providing a different perspective of Kenyan wildlife.

The tranquility of the lake combined with the lively birdlife and the chance to see hippos in their natural habitat makes this stop both relaxing and enriching. Returning to the lodge at 6 pm, you’ll enjoy dinner with views of the lake.

Day 3: Transition to Maasai Mara

After breakfast, it’s time to leave Naivasha and head further west into the Maasai Mara, passing through Mount Longonot and agricultural areas. The drive offers a glimpse of rural Kenyan life, with fields of maize and wheat, and the rolling landscape that hints at the wilderness ahead.

Lunch is served at the Mara Sekenani Camp before your first game drive in the Maasai Mara in the late afternoon. The Maasai Mara is often called the “7th wonder of the world” because of its annual wildebeest migration and incredible concentration of predators and prey.

Reviewers describe the Mara as “the land of big cats,” with lions, cheetahs, and leopards frequently sighted. The landscape itself, a vast savannah dotted with acacia trees, provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography and memorable sightings.

Day 4: Full Day in Maasai Mara — The Heart of the Wildlife

The entire day is dedicated to game drives, with a picnic lunch to maximize your time in the park. This is where the tour truly shines, with ample opportunity to see lions lounging in the grass, cheetahs sprinting after prey, and herds of zebras and wildebeests.

The reviews highlight how guides like Simon excel in spotting wildlife and sharing interesting facts, making the experience both educational and fun. The vastness of the park, covering around 1,500 km², means that each drive can reveal new surprises—crocodiles basking by rivers, giraffes browsing high in trees, and perhaps even elusive leopards.

Day 5: Early Morning Game Drive & Return to Nairobi

On the last day, an early game drive offers the best chance to see active predators and sunrise views over the plains. After breakfast, you’ll leave the Maasai Mara around noon, heading back to Nairobi with a stop for lunch along the way.

Most travelers appreciate this early start as it boosts their chances of seeing the animals when they’re most active—reviewers agree that this creates a fitting, memorable end to the safari. Once back in Nairobi, the tour concludes with transfers to your hotel or airport.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

This tour’s private nature and expert guides like Simon, who is praised for his keen spotting skills and friendly demeanor, truly elevate the experience. Guests consistently mention how guides go beyond expectations, sharing detailed insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem, making each game drive engaging and educational.

The notable inclusion of all meals and high-quality lodge accommodations means less hassle and more focus on enjoying your surroundings. The 4-star lodges provide comfort after long days of game viewing, with many reviews highlighting the friendly staff and clean facilities.

Travelers also appreciate the flexibility offered by the private tour setup, allowing for spontaneous stops or extra time at particularly spectacular sightings—something that often makes the experience feel more personalized.

Transportation and Timing

Expect comfortable, air-conditioned transport throughout the tour, with pick-up at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and continuous transfers between parks. The early start times maximize wildlife sightings, especially at dawn—when many predators are most active—and allow you to make the most of each day.

While long drives are part of the package, the scenic routes and well-planned schedule help keep fatigue at bay. Reviewers have described the trip as well-organized, with many praising the route selection and pacing.

Value for Money

At $2,800 per person, this safari provides a lot of value—private guiding, all accommodations, meals, park fees, and transportation are included. For many travelers, it’s an efficient way to see a broad swath of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes without the stress of planning each component independently.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This safari suits adventurous travelers who want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal if you value comfort, as the lodges are rated 4-star, and appreciate the convenience of an all-inclusive package. Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see big game, predators, and birdlife in their natural environments will find this tour rewarding.

It also works well for families or small groups, thanks to the private tour setup and flexible schedule. If you’re after a comprehensive, stress-free safari that covers Kenya’s top spots in just five days, this could be a perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
All your accommodation in 4-star lodges, all meals during the trip, transportation from Nairobi, park entrance fees, and activities like game drives and boat rides are included in the price.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically last around 4 to 8 hours each day, depending on the day and what wildlife is spotted. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, some reviews mention traveling with small children and having a lot of fun. The private nature of the tour allows for some flexibility to accommodate family needs.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can anticipate seeing elephants, lions, cheetahs, zebras, hyenas, giraffes, crocodiles, and numerous bird species like the African Fish Eagle.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included, typically served at your lodge or camp, providing a chance to enjoy local and international cuisines after a day of adventure.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While the review data doesn’t specify seasons, generally, Kenya’s dry season (around July to October) offers the best wildlife sightings due to sparse vegetation.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera gear, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Considering the early mornings, layers are recommended for temperature changes.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Kenyan safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into Africa’s wildlife treasures, combining iconic parks, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a private, flexible experience that balances adventure with convenience.

Travelers will love the chance to see elephants under Kilimanjaro, hippos on Lake Naivasha, and the big cats of Maasai Mara—all with the personal attention of skilled guides and the comfort of quality lodges. The inclusion of all meals and transfers means less planning and more enjoying.

For anyone craving a memorable, authentic African safari with plenty of opportunities to witness wildlife in stunning landscapes, this tour provides a comprehensive, value-packed adventure.

In summary, this safari is perfect for travelers eager to explore Kenya’s most famous parks comfortably, with knowledgeable guides and a private, tailored approach. It’s a solid choice for wildlife lovers and families alike looking for a hassle-free journey into Africa’s wilderness.