5 Days of Adventure in Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Aberdares

If you’re dreaming of a safari that offers a taste of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife, this 5-day tour by Jossec Safaris might just be your answer. While we haven’t personally been on this journey, detailed reviews and itinerary breakdowns suggest it’s a well-rounded experience, blending thrilling game drives with comfortable accommodations and plenty of opportunities to spot the Big Five.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to witness Africa’s wildlife in their natural habitat, especially in Masai Mara, where the vast plains seem to stretch forever. The inclusion of Lake Nakuru, famous for flamingos and rhinos, adds a splash of color and variety, while the Aberdares’ lush forests and wildlife from the iconic Tree Tops Hotel make for a peaceful, unique ending. Plus, traveling in a 4×4 jeep with a knowledgeable guide ensures you’re never far from the action.

One potential consideration is that the price of $2,750 per person reflects a high standard of accommodation, transport, and guided experiences, but it might be on the pricier side for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly adventure. Also, the tour doesn’t include flights, visas, or optional extras like hot air balloon safaris, which are worth considering if you want to expand your experience.

This safari suits those who crave authentic wildlife encounters, comfort, and guided expertise, especially if you’re eager to cover multiple top Kenyan parks in just five days.

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Key Points

Wildlife Diversity: Spot the Big Five and countless bird species in Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru.
Comfort & Convenience: Stay at comfortable lodges like Rhino Tourist Camp, Lanet Matfam Resort, and Tree Tops Hotel.
Expert Guidance: Guided by professional guides with briefings that enhance your understanding and appreciation.
Scenic Landscapes: Experience stunning views from game drives, lake shores, and the elevated Tree Tops Hotel.
All-Inclusive Ease: Food, park fees, and transportation are covered, simplifying your planning.
Limited Extra Costs: Optional activities like hot air balloon rides are available at additional cost, but not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Looking for more options in Nakuru? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara

Your Kenyan safari begins with a warm welcome from the Jossec Safaris team in Nairobi, where you’ll receive a briefing on the days ahead. From there, it’s a scenic drive in a 4×4 jeep across the Kenyan plains toward the famous Masai Mara. The journey itself is part of the experience—expect to pass through rolling landscapes dotted with acacia trees and perhaps some early wildlife sightings along the way.

Upon arrival, you’ll check into the Rhino Tourist Camp, which offers tented accommodations with mosquito nets and hot showers—bringing a touch of luxury to the bush. After settling in, an afternoon game drive kicks off your wildlife viewing, with the chance to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and other members of the Big Five.

Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara

A full day dedicated to exploring the Masai Mara’s expansive plains. The experience here is about patience and spotting—lesson one from seasoned reviewers: “The wildlife sightings are incredible, and the open plains offer perfect backdrops for photos.” Expect morning and late afternoon game drives, where guides will share insights about animal behavior and the landscape.

The Mara is a wildlife photographer’s dream, with opportunities to see lions lounging, elephants migrating, and perhaps even cheetahs hunting. The guides are attentive, often sharing tips like how to spot animals hidden in tall grass or identify bird calls. Reviewers note that the guides are knowledgeable, making the game drives both educational and exciting.

Day 3: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

After breakfast, you’ll leave the plains behind and head toward Lake Nakuru National Park. This drive affords a different kind of scenery—lusher, with more water bodies and birdlife. You’ll stay at the Lanet Matfam Resort, praised for its comfortable rooms with hot showers and mosquito nets, making the transition from wilderness to relaxation seamless.

In the afternoon, your first game drive at Nakuru begins. The park is famed for flamingos, which often blanket the lake in a pink hue. Alongside flamingos, expect to see rhinoceroses, baboons, and a spectacular array of bird species. Several reviews mention how the flamingo spectacle is truly breathtaking, providing a vibrant contrast to the African savannah.

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Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Aberdares

Today’s journey takes you into the lush forests of Aberdares National Park, arriving at the Tree Tops Hotel, an iconic lodge perched amid the trees. The elevated position offers unparalleled wildlife viewing—from above, you might spot elephants grazing below or the elusive leopard lurking in the canopy.

Guests often comment on the serenity of the surroundings and the chance to see wildlife in a more natural, forested environment. The elevated platform provides a unique perspective—animals roam freely below, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind after busy game drives.

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Day 5: Aberdares to Nairobi

Your safari wraps up after breakfast, with a scenic drive back to Nairobi. The guides ensure your smooth transfer, and you’ll leave with a wealth of memories—wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, and the experience of Kenya’s natural beauty. Many reviews appreciate the organized and professional service, making the entire journey stress-free.

The True Value of This Safari

This tour offers an excellent combination of wildlife encounters, scenic diversity, and comfortable accommodations. While priced at $2,750, the cost makes sense when you consider the inclusions: park fees, all meals, expert guiding, and transport in a reliable 4×4 vehicle. Staying at lodges like Rhino Tourist Camp and Tree Tops Hotel adds a layer of comfort that many travelers find worth the investment.

Travelers will appreciate the balanced itinerary—covering both the iconic plains of Masai Mara and the lush forests of Aberdares, with a peaceful stop at Lake Nakuru. The guided game drives are especially praised for their informative and engaging nature, making wildlife sightings even more rewarding.

However, it’s important to note that flights, visas, and optional activities (such as hot air balloon safaris) are extra and not included. For those seeking an all-inclusive experience or a more luxurious upgrade, there are options to customize or extend the trip.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s ideal for first-time safari travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s highlights in one trip. Adventure seekers who enjoy organized group tours will find this itinerary well-paced and hassle-free. It also suits those wanting comfortable lodging without sacrificing authentic wilderness experiences.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day adventure offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Kenya’s most famous parks, blending wildlife, landscapes, and comfort. The guides seem to be well-versed, and the accommodations are praised for their quality and proximity to wildlife. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable escape into nature, this trip delivers.

While it’s on the higher end of the price spectrum, the inclusions and quality of experience justify the investment for many travelers. It strikes a good balance between guided convenience and authentic wildlife encounters, making it a strong choice for those eager to explore Kenya’s iconic reserves without the fuss of planning every detail.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, wildlife-rich safari with expert guides and comfortable lodges, this is a solid option. Just remember to factor in optional activities and flights separately. Pack your camera, your sense of adventure, and get ready for a memorable Kenyan safari that checks all the boxes.

FAQs

What parks are included in this safari?

The tour includes Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Aberdares National Park, providing a well-rounded experience of Kenya’s key wildlife destinations.

How is transportation arranged?

All travel between locations is in a 4×4 jeep with a professional driver-guide, ensuring comfort and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Are meals included?

Yes, the package covers full board—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at each accommodation, making meal planning simple.

What accommodations are provided?

Guests stay at Rhino Tourist Camp in Masai Mara, Lanet Matfam Resort at Lake Nakuru, and the iconic Tree Tops Hotel in Aberdares.

Can I customize or upgrade my stay?

Yes, upgrades to higher-end accommodations are available upon request, and you can also opt for additional activities like hot air balloon safaris at extra cost.

Are park entrance fees included?

Yes, all park fees are included, so there are no surprise costs for entering Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, or Aberdares.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

The price is based on double occupancy, so solo travelers may pay an additional fee for single occupancy. It’s ideal for those comfortable with group travel.

What should I bring?

Pack comfortable clothing suitable for warm days and cooler evenings, a camera, binoculars, sun protection, and insect repellent.

What is the best time to go?

While the tour’s pricing varies by season, the best times for wildlife viewing are generally during the dry seasons—low, high, or peak—when animals gather around water sources.