5 Days Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Aberdare Circuit Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya? This 5-day tour promises a well-rounded adventure, taking you from the lush Aberdare National Park to the flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru, and finally to the iconic Maasai Mara. We’ve looked into this experience thoroughly to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What immediately attracts us is the chance to see the Big 5 in Maasai Mara, the intimate wildlife encounters at The Ark Lodge, and the stunning scenery of the Great Rift Valley. The comfort of well-rated lodges and the inclusion of park fees make this a hassle-free option. A potential consideration is the fast-paced schedule—if you prefer slow mornings or deeper immersion, this might feel a bit rushed. This tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Kenyan safari with good value, especially travelers who enjoy game drives and wildlife photography.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Big Five: Spot the Big 5 and other animals in Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay in comfortable lodges like The Ark and Mara Sopa.
• Expert Guides & Game Drives: Knowledgeable guides and well-equipped vehicles enhance sightings.
• Variety of Landscapes: Experience the Great Rift Valley, flamingos at Lake Nakuru, and savannahs of Maasai Mara.
• Full-Day Game Drives: Enjoy extensive wildlife viewing with picnic lunches.
• All-Inclusive Price: Park entrance fees, transport, and guides included, offering straightforward planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What Makes This Safari Stand Out

A 5-day Kenyan safari like this isn’t just a checklist of parks; it’s a carefully curated experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters. From what we’ve gathered, the tour offers a good mix of iconic landscapes and close-up animal sightings, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike.

What we really appreciate are the comfortable lodges, especially The Ark, which provides a unique game-viewing experience thanks to its elevated decks and balconies. The guided game drives are another highlight, with knowledgeable guides who know exactly where to look for the Big 5 and other fascinating creatures. And because park entrance fees are included, there’s less paperwork or hidden costs to worry about.

A possible drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which might feel a little rushed for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. But for travelers eager to see a wide range of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes in a short time, this safari hits the sweet spot.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Aberdare National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Nairobi, heading north towards the Aberdare National Park. This park is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain scenery—not just wildlife. Arriving at The Ark Lodge, you’ll notice its distinctive structure with four viewing decks, allowing guests to observe animals coming to drink right from the lodge’s balconies. It’s a game-viewing experience unlike any other, and one guest mentioned how “the animals come so close you feel part of the wilderness.”

Lunch is served at the lodge, giving you time to relax before your first game drive. The guides here are praised for their local knowledge, helping you spot animals that might be hidden in the dense vegetation. Common sightings include elephants, buffalo, and antelope, with chances of seeing predators like lions and leopards in the early evenings.

Day 2: Aberdare to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, you’ll descend from the mountains into the Great Rift Valley, with its sweeping views and volcanic scenery. As you arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park, the highlight is undoubtedly the flamingos—sometimes so many they turn the lake into a pink mosaic. One reviewer noted, “The flamingo spectacle is unlike anything I’ve seen, and I loved how close you can get to the bird colonies from the designated viewing areas.”

You’ll also have a game drive across the park, where rhino sightings are common. The park hosts both white and black rhinos, which are increasingly rare in the wild. The lodge here, Lake Nakuru Sopa, is well-rated for its location and amenities, providing comfortable rest after your busy day.

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Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Maasai Mara

Today is the big one—the journey to Maasai Mara, often called Kenya’s wildlife capital. The drive takes you across the Great Rift Valley floor, offering scenic vistas that camera buffs will love. Upon arrival, you’ll check into Mara Sopa Lodge, a cozy and convenient base for your wildlife adventures.

The afternoon game drive starts around 4 p.m., giving you a taste of Maasai Mara’s abundant wildlife. Guides emphasize patience and keen observation here; spotting predators like lions or cheetahs often depends on good luck and sharp eyes. Many reviews highlight how guides are exceptional at tracking animals and sharing their insights.

Day 4: Maasai Mara Full Day Game Drive

This is the core of your safari—an entire day exploring Maasai Mara’s vast plains. Pack a picnic lunch, because the game drives are extensive. Expect to see herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive big cats. The landscape here is iconic: golden grass, acacia trees, and the endless horizon.

One guest mentioned that “the guides’ knowledge made all the difference—they knew exactly where to find the animals, and their spotting skills are impressive.” The flexibility of full-day drives means you can chase the best sightings and enjoy sunrise at dawn and sunset over the plains.

Day 5: Maasai Mara to Nairobi

After breakfast, you’ll check out and return to Nairobi, completing the circuit. The drive back offers one last chance to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the wildlife encounters. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport, ready to share your memories and photos.

What To Expect: The Practicalities and Highlights

Transport & Guides: Using a customized safari vehicle, the group stays comfortable during game drives, and the guides’ expertise makes wildlife spotting more fruitful. Several reviews emphasize how guides go beyond basic knowledge, often sharing interesting facts about animal behavior and park ecology.

Lodging: The lodges provide a cozy, authentic experience—especially The Ark, which offers a unique game-viewing vantage point, and Mara Sopa, known for its friendly staff and scenic surroundings. Expect hearty meals, comfortable beds, and reliable service.

Wildlife & Scenery: You’ll see the Big 5 plus many other species, such as giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, and flamingos. The landscape varies from the mountain forests of Aberdare to the open savannahs of Maasai Mara, offering diverse photo opportunities.

Game Drives & Timing: Morning and late afternoon drives are scheduled for optimal animal activity. Long drives with picnic lunches allow you to maximize your wildlife sightings, often leading to memorable moments like lions lounging in the shade or elephants crossing the road.

Inclusions & Extras: Park entrance fees, transport, and guides are included, giving you peace of mind. Drinks and personal expenses are extra, and travelers are advised to carry binoculars, wear appropriate clothing, and follow safety instructions at all times.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari Worth It?

This tour combines the best of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes into a manageable, well-organized package. The use of experienced guides and comfortable lodges makes the experience more enjoyable, especially for those new to safaris. The inclusion of all park fees simplifies planning, and the variety of parks ensures a broad view of Kenyan nature.

For travelers who value efficient sightseeing, good value for money, and authentic wildlife encounters, this safari delivers. The pace is energetic but manageable, with enough time for game viewing and relaxing at the lodges. It’s particularly suitable for those eager to see the Big 5 and flamingos in their natural habitat without sacrificing comfort.

On the downside, the packed schedule might not suit travelers who prefer a more leisurely, in-depth exploration. But if your goal is to experience a wide range of Kenya’s iconic parks in a short time, this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

What is the price of this safari?
The tour costs $2,795 per person, which includes park entrance fees, transportation, and guides, making it a good value considering the number of parks visited and the comfort provided.

What kind of accommodation is included?
You’ll stay in comfortable lodges like The Ark Lodge, known for its unique game viewing decks, and Mara Sopa Lodge, praised for its scenic location and friendly service.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all park entrance fees are covered, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs at the gates.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically start early in the morning and sometimes extend into late afternoon, providing ample time for wildlife sightings. Full-day drives include picnic lunches.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the comfortable lodges and guided game drives could be suitable for families, but young children should be prepared for long days and vehicle travel.

Are meals included during the tour?
Most meals are included, especially at the lodges. Meals during game drives are generally not provided, but you’ll have opportunities for picnic lunches.

What wildlife can we expect to see?
You’ll see the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—as well as flamingos, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and more.

What should I bring?
Carry binoculars for better viewing, dress in layers to adapt to weather changes, and bring sun protection and a camera.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
The tour is fixed, but you might find options to reserve and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
By following guide instructions, keeping noise low, and respecting wildlife, travelers help minimize their environmental impact.

This 5-day safari offers a practical yet exciting introduction to Kenya’s remarkable wildlife and landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable lodges, and well-planned game drives, it’s an adventure that balances value and authenticity—perfect for those wanting to experience the heart of Kenya in a short time.

You can check availability for your dates here: