7 Days Safari in Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and Amboseli

Taking a safari through Kenya’s most iconic parks sounds like a dream, and this 7-day trip with Rustic Nature Tours promises just that. From the legendary Maasai Mara to the scenic Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, you’ll get a taste of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what to expect—and it looks impressive.

What we love about this safari? The expertly guided game drives, the chance to see the Big Five, and the thoughtfully planned stops at key parks. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a fairly intensive schedule with early mornings and full days, so travelers should be prepared for some long, active days. This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those who want a hassle-free, immersive experience with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance fees, accommodations, and most meals are covered, offering great value.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kelvin and Joel have extensive park knowledge, enhancing wildlife sightings.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities for cultural visits and boat rides add dimension beyond just wildlife.
• Comfortable Transport: Private vehicle with a pop-up roof ensures good game viewing and photography.
• Flexible Options: Optional activities like balloon safaris and Maasai village visits are available.
• Well-Paced Itinerary: Balances game drives, relaxation, and sightseeing, making it suitable for most travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Maasai Mara Introduction

Starting with a pickup from your hotel or the airport at 7:30 am, you’ll head toward Maasai Mara, passing through the breathtaking Rift Valley viewpoint. This spot is more than a photo op—it provides a perspective on the immense geological forces shaping Kenya. The drive takes about 6 hours, but the scenery, with lakes, volcanoes, and sweeping plains, makes it feel like part of the adventure.

Once in Mara, you’ll settle into your camp and relax before your first game drive at 4 pm. The afternoon game drive is a fantastic way to get your first glimpses of lions, elephants, and giraffes. The guides’ expertise shines here, as they know precisely where to find wildlife and share interesting facts along the way.

Day 2: Full-Day Maasai Mara Exploration

Today is dedicated to seeing the Big Five—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos—plus countless other species. The day includes a picnic lunch amidst the plains, which means you’ll really get to soak in the wilderness without returning to camp for every meal.

A highlight is visiting the Mara River, famous for the wildebeest migration. Even if the timing isn’t perfect for river crossings, the area is teeming with wildlife including hippos and crocodiles. Authentic insights come from reviews like “you’ll see lots of resident hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun,” which adds to the anticipation.

Optional activities include a Maasai cultural tour ($20), offering a glimpse into the local community’s traditions, or a balloon safari ($380), which promises a bird’s eye view over the plains at sunrise—an unforgettable experience for those who love stunning vistas.

Day 3: Transition to Lake Nakuru

Early morning game drive leads to Lake Nakuru, known for its flamingos and rhinos. Check-in at your lodge in the late afternoon; this break offers a chance to relax, enjoy WiFi, or swim before heading out again later in the day for a game drive. It’s a nice balance of wildlife viewing and downtime, especially after the longer drives.

Day 4: Nakuru’s Birdlife and Crescent Island

The morning game drive in Nakuru offers opportunities to spot the elusive white rhinos and flamingos along the lake shores. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with diverse species like African fish eagles and lesser flamingos.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where hippos bob just below the surface, and a nature walk on Crescent Island offers close encounters with giraffes and zebras. Reviewers mention Crescent Island as “Naivasha’s best-kept secret,” emphasizing its tranquility and fantastic wildlife viewing.

Day 5: Moving to Amboseli

After breakfast, you’ll head south toward Amboseli National Park, famed for its massive herds of elephants and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The drive is about 4 hours, giving you a chance to see Kenya’s changing landscapes.

Arriving in the early afternoon, you’ll check into the AA Lodge Amboseli before your first game drive in the late afternoon. Expect to see elephants bathing in swamps and lions stalking the plains, with Kelvin’s guidance being a major plus—reviewers highlight his extensive park knowledge.

Day 6: Full Day in Amboseli

A full day in Amboseli means plenty of wildlife sightings—zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and of course, elephants. The park’s scenery with Kilimanjaro towering in the background creates stunning photo opportunities. The Observation Hill provides panoramic views of the plains and is a favorite among visitors, especially those eager to capture elephants bathing or flamingos in the wetlands.

If you’re curious about Maasai culture, a visit to a local village offers a chance to learn about their traditions, sing, and dance, enriching the safari experience beyond just animals.

Day 7: Farewell and Return to Nairobi

After early morning game viewing and breakfast, you’ll leave Amboseli with a short game drive en route to Nairobi. Expect to arrive around midday for lunch, and your safari concludes with transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Expert Guides: Both reviewers praise guides like Kelvin and Joel for their deep park knowledge and ability to find wildlife. Their insights help you understand animal behaviors and spot elusive species, making your game drives more rewarding.

Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife: Covering Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, and Amboseli, the tour showcases Kenya’s varied ecosystems. From the plains of Maasai Mara to the flamingo-flushed lakes of Nakuru, you’ll witness a broad spectrum of wildlife and scenery.

Authentic Cultural Experiences: The optional Maasai village visit and walking on Crescent Island add cultural richness, making this more than just a wildlife drive.

Comfort and Convenience: Private transport with a pop-up roof ensures good visibility and photography opportunities. The itinerary’s structure provides a balanced mix of active days and relaxation, avoiding burnout.

Value for Money: Covering all park entrance fees, accommodations, most meals, and bottled water, $3,800 per person appears reasonable for a 7-day, all-inclusive adventure. The inclusion of optional activities also allows for customization.

Authentic Reviews: Guests note the professionalism and knowledge of guides and the breathtaking landscapes, with reviews emphasizing the guides’ expertise and the beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli.

Potential Considerations

While this safari offers substantial value, it’s important to note that the schedule is quite packed. Early mornings and long drives mean you need to be ready for some physical activity and early starts. The price, while inclusive, does not cover tips, personal expenses, or optional activities like balloon safaris, which can add up.

Also, since the tour is private for your group, it provides a more personalized experience but at a higher cost compared to group tours. For those seeking a more relaxed pace or budget options, this might be something to consider.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day safari offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of Kenya’s most renowned parks, guided by knowledgeable experts. The opportunity to see the Big Five, witness the wildebeest migration, and photograph Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli makes it stand out for wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

The tour’s balance of game drives, cultural visits, and scenic stops ensures you get a true taste of Kenya’s natural beauty and local culture. The inclusion of accommodations, park fees, and most meals makes it straightforward and stress-free—a real value for those looking to explore Kenya without the hassle of planning every detail.

Suitable for adventurous travelers, wildlife photographers, and cultural explorers, this tour is especially appealing to those who want a comprehensive, authentic safari experience with a trusted guide.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private, customized vehicle with a pop-up roof designed for game viewing and photography.

Are all park entrance fees included?
Exactly. The tour covers all entrance fees for the parks visited as per the itinerary.

Can I participate in optional activities?
Yes, options like Maasai cultural tours and balloon safaris are available, though they come at additional costs.

What kind of accommodations are included?
All accommodations during the safari are included, with stays at lodges or camps in prime locations, offering comfort and easy access to wildlife.

Are meals provided throughout the tour?
Most meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, allowing you to enjoy Kenyan cuisine while on the move.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Since it’s a private tour, it suits families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a personalized, guided experience. The pace is active, so consider your comfort with early mornings and full days of safari activities.

This safari promises a genuine taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, guided by experts who know Kenya’s parks inside out. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or a cultural traveler, this trip is likely to offer memories that will last a lifetime.