7-Day Private Safari to Amboseli National Park and Masai Mara

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants in the shadow of Mt Kilimanjaro, witnessing the flamingo-filled waters of Lake Nakuru, and experiencing the wild heartbeat of the Maasai Mara, this 7-day private safari might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t been on this exact journey myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of a truly immersive adventure through Kenya’s most iconic parks.

What really stands out are the expert guides, the chance to see all Big Five animals in one trip, and the carefully curated stops at varied landscapes—from arid woodlands to lush lakes. Plus, with all park entry fees included, you get clarity upfront about costs. On the flip side, the trip involves a fair amount of driving—so be ready for some long but scenic road trips. This tour seems ideal for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those craving an authentic, hassle-free Kenyan safari experience.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Pricing: The tour covers all park entry fees, guide, and safari car costs, simplifying the budgeting process.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Steve for their wildlife knowledge and friendly attitude.
• Diverse Landscapes: From Amboseli’s elephants and Kilimanjaro views to Lake Naivasha’s birdlife, each stop offers something unique.
• Balanced Itinerary: The schedule balances game drives with leisure, ensuring you have time to relax and absorb the scenery.
• Private Experience: With only your group participating, expect personalized attention and a tailored experience.
• Value for Money: For $3,450, you’ll visit multiple parks with a seasoned guide, making it a good investment for a comprehensive Kenyan safari.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1 & 2: Amboseli National Park – Elephants and Kilimanjaro

Your safari kicks off with a drive south from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park, famed for its large herds of elephants and the dramatic backdrop of Mt Kilimanjaro. The park spans over 1,260 square miles of arid woodland, punctuated by swamps fed from the mountain’s underground springs.

Expect your guide to focus on spotting Amboseli’s famous elephants—reviewers highlight their large, relaxed groups and the chance for stunning sunset photos if Kilimanjaro is visible. The Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge provides a comfortable base for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, game drives continue, with the landscape offering incredible photo opportunities—especially during golden hour.

On Day 2, the focus is on exploring the ecosystem further. Reviewers loved the chance for morning and afternoon game drives, with plenty of wildlife sightings. They appreciated the opportunity to take sunset photos, as Kilimanjaro often appears in the background, adding a majestic touch to the scenery.

Day 3: Lake Naivasha – Birdwatcher’s Paradise

After breakfast, the journey takes you to Lake Naivasha, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rift Valley, perched at 1910 meters above sea level. The lake’s fresh waters and scenic surroundings make it popular for birdwatching—over 400 species have been recorded, including kingfishers, herons, and lots of hippos.

The reviews mention that Naivasha is a lively place for water activities like sailing, water skiing, and fishing, although the trip focuses more on wildlife viewing. The dense papyrus beds along the shore are home to many birds, and the contrast of the lush vegetation against the lake’s calm waters makes for great photos. Vineyards producing grapes for Kenya’s budding wine industry add a touch of local charm.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park – Flamingos and Rhinos

The drive from Naivasha to Lake Nakuru introduces you to a different kind of terrain—alkaline lakes, acacia trees, and a thriving bird colony. Lake Nakuru is famous for its massive flamingo flocks, sometimes numbering in the millions, creating a surreal pink landscape.

The park is also a sanctuary for rhinos, and it boasts a healthy population of leopards and other plains game. Reviewers mention that the game drives here are lively, with sightings of both big cats and abundant bird species. The Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge serves as your base for a leisurely lunch before more game viewing in the afternoon.

Day 5 & 6: Maasai Mara – The Big Five and the Great Migration

Crossing the Rift Valley escarpment, you’ll reach the Maasai Mara, the crown jewel of Kenya’s parks. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and high wildlife density, the Mara is where you’ll have the best chance to see the Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.

Reviewers emphasize the high concentration of wildlife and the possibility to witness the annual wildebeest migration from August to October. You can opt for multiple game drives or even an all-day adventure, depending on your energy levels. The guides are praised for their knowledge of animal behavior, which enhances sightings and photo opportunities.

Day 7: Return to Nairobi

After a relaxed breakfast, the journey back to Nairobi begins, with a stop for lunch in Narok Town. This gives a final chance to reflect on your trip and enjoy some local flavors before heading to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides and Personalized Service
One of the most consistent praise points in reviews is the quality of guides like Steve, known for their wildlife expertise and friendly manner. Expect helpful explanations about animal behavior, conservation, and local culture. The private nature of the tour means your group gets undivided attention, making the experience more engaging.

Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife
Each park offers something different. Amboseli’s elephants and Kilimanjaro views, Naivasha’s birdlife, Nakuru’s flamingos, and the Mara’s lion pride sightings provide a well-rounded wildlife experience. This multi-park approach ensures a rich diversity that’s hard to match in shorter or less comprehensive safaris.

Value for Money
At $3,450 per person, the package covers all park entry fees, guide, and safari vehicle costs. This transparency helps travelers avoid unexpected costs. The inclusion of meals—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—adds convenience, especially during long game drives.

Authentic Experience with Flexibility
Although the itinerary is well-structured, reviews mention the option for more flexible activities, like guided walks in the Maasai Mara or additional game drives. The ability to customize your experience based on animal movement or weather conditions adds to the appeal.

How Comfortable Is the Travel?

Traveling in private, air-conditioned vehicles, you’ll appreciate the comfort and space—critically important after long drives. The guides are experienced, and the vehicle’s layout allows for excellent wildlife viewing and photography. As most reviews highlight the professionalism and tidiness of the guides and drivers, you can relax knowing you’re in good hands.

The Experience of Staying at Lodges

Lodging like the Amboseli Serena and Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge provides the right mix of comfort and proximity to wildlife. Reviewers mention the delicious food served at these lodges, often complemented by spectacular views. The experience of relaxing with a cold drink after an exhilarating day of game drives is a highlight.

Final Thoughts on the Cost and Value

For $3,450, this safari packs in six nights of guided exploration across Kenya’s most famous parks. Considering the all-inclusive nature—covering entrance fees, meals, and expert guiding—it offers good value. The private tour setup means fewer logistics hassles and more personalized attention, which is often the difference between a good trip and a memorable one.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive wildlife adventure that covers multiple parks in Kenya, this safari checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate expert guides, want all logistics handled, and prefer a private experience. Photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-timers to Kenya will find this trip particularly rewarding.

However, be prepared for some long travel days—road trips can be scenic but tiring. It’s best for travelers comfortable with a bit of sitting in the car and keen to maximize wildlife sightings without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making your start seamless from your Nairobi accommodation.

Are all park entry fees included?
Absolutely. The tour covers all park entry fees, guide fees, and safari car costs, so there are no hidden charges at the gates.

Can I customize the activities?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss additional activities with your guide, such as guided walks in Maasai Mara—rates are negotiable.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially with well-managed guides. Check with the operator if you have very young children.

What is the typical group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, providing a personalized experience.

How many game drives are included?
The itinerary suggests multiple game drives daily, especially in Maasai Mara and Nakuru, giving ample wildlife viewing opportunities.

What is the accommodation like?
Lodges like Amboseli Serena and Lake Nakuru Sopa are comfortable, offering good amenities with views that enhance the safari experience.

Is there an option for walking safaris?
You can opt for guided walks in Maasai Mara at an additional, negotiable cost—this offers a different perspective on the landscape.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It involves some long drives and game drives, but overall, it’s suitable for most travelers in good health who enjoy wildlife and scenery.

What is the best time to book this safari?
While the tour runs year-round, the wildebeest migration from August to October might be particularly exciting for wildlife spotting.

Final Words

This 7-day private safari offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights, all delivered with knowledgeable guides and thoughtful logistics. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to tick off Kenya’s Big Five and explore its iconic parks in comfort and style.

If you’re after an experience that’s comprehensive yet personalized, this trip delivers serious value and memorable moments. Perfect for wildlife lovers, photography buffs, or anyone eager to see Kenya’s best in just a week, it provides a solid foundation for unforgettable safari memories.