7 Days Amboseli-Lake Naivasha-Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Tour

Experience the Wild: A Detailed Review of the 7 Days Amboseli-Lake Naivasha-Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Tour

If you’re dreaming of Kenya’s spectacular landscapes, iconic wildlife, and majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, this 7-day safari package from Jossec Safaris offers a well-rounded adventure. It promises close-up encounters with the Big Five, stunning scenery, and a blend of game drives, boat rides, and walking safaris. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but we’ve studied traveler feedback and the itinerary closely to give you a comprehensive picture.

What truly makes this journey stand out is the chance to see elephants in Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro as your backdrop, the serenity of Lake Naivasha’s boat rides, and the opportunity to witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara. The inclusion of premium lodges ensures you’ll rest comfortably after days packed with wildlife encounters. A possible consideration is the long drives between parks—although scenic, they demand patience and some endurance. This tour suits those eager to experience Kenya’s wildlife in comfort, with an emphasis on authentic sightings and culture.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Focused on the Big Five with expert guides leading game drives.
• Stunning Views: Iconic scenery like Mount Kilimanjaro and flamingos at Lake Nakuru.
• Activities Variety: Game drives, boat rides, and walking safaris for diverse experiences.
• Comfort and Convenience: Top-rated lodges, all meals included, and professional guides.
• Value: For $3,899, you get an immersive, well-organized week of safari highlights.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

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Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a warm greeting from the Jossec Safaris team before heading into the heart of Amboseli. The drive from Nairobi offers a glimpse into Kenya’s landscape and rural life, setting the tone for the journey ahead. Once at your lodge or camp, you’ll enjoy a meal with panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, which often looms majestically in the distance.

In the afternoon, your first game drive introduces you to Amboseli’s famous herds of elephants—large, gentle giants that thrive in this semi-arid environment. Visitors mention that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making each sighting more meaningful. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, and a stack of bird species, all in an environment that feels both wild and accessible. As the sun sets, dinner under the stars encourages reflection and anticipation for the days ahead.

Day 2: Full Day in Amboseli

Early mornings are the best time to spot wildlife, and many travelers have found Amboseli to be particularly rewarding at dawn. The cool air and animal activity make for ideal viewing, with guides sharing insights about elephant behavior and the park’s ecology. After breakfast, a leisurely morning allows for some relaxation before another game drive in the afternoon.

The views of Mount Kilimanjaro remain one of the standout features—photographers will love how the snow-capped peak contrasts with the dry plains and lush waterholes. Expect to see herds of elephants crossing the plains, buffalo, zebras, and a variety of birdlife. Some reviews mention that guides are adept at locating elusive predators like leopards, which are often hiding but worth the effort when spotted.

Day 3: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, the journey shifts toward the lush waters of Lake Naivasha. The drive itself is scenic, giving you a chance to see more of Kenya’s diverse landscapes. Once arrived, you’ll settle into your lodge before heading out for a boat ride across Lake Naivasha. This is where the birdwatching gets exciting—expect to see hippos, herons, kingfishers, and other waterbirds. Travelers often highlight how close you can get to hippos, feeling like you’re in their world.

Later in the day, a guided walk on Crescent Island offers a more intimate wildlife encounter. Walking safaris are a highlight for many, with chances to see giraffes, zebras, and antelopes up close. Tour guides typically provide insightful commentary, enhancing the experience without feeling rushed or commercialized.

Day 4: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru

Next, it’s a short drive to Lake Nakuru National Park. This park is best known for its flamingo flocks, which turn the lake’s surface into a pink spectacle—although numbers can vary, the spectacle remains impressive. The park is also home to black and white rhinos, leopards, lions, and buffalos.

A midday picnic at the lodge is followed by an afternoon game drive. Many visitors mention how the landscape is striking, with acacia trees and soda lakes creating a vivid backdrop for wildlife spotting. Rhinos are a key target in Nakuru, and guides often share interesting facts about conservation efforts. The park’s versatility means you might also see baboons, warthogs, and various antelopes.

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Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

From Nakuru, you’ll head toward the legendary Masai Mara. The drive takes around 5-6 hours but is filled with scenic views and potential wildlife sightings along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll have a hearty lunch before your first afternoon game drive.

The Mara’s vast plains are perfect for spotting the Big Five, and many reviews laud the guides’ ability to locate lions, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural habitat. The landscape is an expansive mix of grasslands, acacia trees, and rivers, offering a picture-perfect backdrop. The chance to see wildlife at close quarters makes this part of the tour a high point for many.

Day 6: Full Day in Masai Mara

This day is dedicated to exploring the Mara’s incredible biodiversity. Early morning game drives are the best chance to spot predators like lions stalking prey or cheetahs resting after a hunt. After breakfast, your guide will tailor the drives based on current sightings, which many travelers say is a highlight, thanks to the guides’ expertise.

If you’re visiting during the Great Migration, you might witness dramatic river crossings—an iconic safari moment. The landscape here also hosts large herds of elephants, giraffes, and wildebeests, making it a photographer’s paradise. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and some relaxation under the endless African stars.

Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi

Your final morning starts with an early game drive—another chance for last-minute wildlife sightings. After breakfast, it’s time to head back to Nairobi, enjoying the scenic drive and perhaps spotting a few animals along the way. The tour concludes with a drop-off in Nairobi, where the team will see you off, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Kenya’s wilderness.

The Practical Side: What’s Included & What’s Not

This safari’s price tag of $3,899 per person includes quite a lot, especially considering the quality of accommodations and guided experiences offered. You’ll have access to comfortable 4×4 safari jeeps for all game drives and transfers, which many reviewers find to be a significant comfort—these vehicles are generally well-maintained, with plenty of space and clear windows for wildlife viewing.

All meals are included, which means no fuss about where to eat during the trip—something travelers often appreciate after long days of exploration. Park entry fees for Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara are covered, ensuring you won’t have unexpected expenses at the gate.

The tour also provides professional, knowledgeable guides—many reviews highlight guides like Samuel, who not only spot wildlife efficiently but also share fascinating facts that deepen the experience. Bottled water is provided during game drives, keeping you refreshed in the heat.

Extras like the boat ride at Lake Naivasha and the walking safari at Crescent Island are included, adding variety to the safari experience. If you want to indulge in a hot air balloon ride in the Mara, that’s an optional extra, priced at $450 per person.

What isn’t included are international flights, visas, travel insurance, and additional activities outside the itinerary. This is typical of guided safaris but worth considering when budgeting your trip.

The Experience of Traveling with Jossec Safaris

Travelers consistently mention that the guides are both friendly and highly knowledgeable. They often go the extra mile to ensure sightings are maximized, and many appreciate how smoothly everything runs—from transportation to meal service.

The lodges and camps are described as top-rated, offering comfy beds, good food, and sometimes a view of wildlife right from your window. Some reviews note that the tour strikes a good balance between safari-focused days and downtime, which can be important after days packed with activity.

Timing is generally well-organized, with early mornings and late afternoons dedicated to game drives—these are the coolest and most wildlife-active parts of the day. The drives are in well-equipped 4x4s, which many find essential for visibility and comfort.

The Real Value: Is It Worth It?

At nearly $4,000, this safari is an investment, but it’s one that many find worth every cent for the level of comfort, expertise, and variety of experiences. The inclusion of multiple parks, boat rides, and walking safaris ensures you’ll see a broad spectrum of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.

Travelers consistently mention how the guides’ knowledge enhances the experience; some describe guides like Samuel as passionate and dedicated, making sightings and facts memorable. The accommodations are generally well-rated, offering a restful retreat after long days in the wilderness.

While the journey between parks involves some long drives, the scenery along the way keeps things interesting. Plus, the opportunity to witness the Great Migration (if timed right) adds an extraordinary element that many consider priceless.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive, comfortable experience of Kenya’s top wildlife spots. It’s suited for those who want guided, hassle-free days with expert insights, without sacrificing luxury or authenticity. Families, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to love here.

It also appeals to travelers who want a balanced itinerary—not too rushed but packed with diverse activities like boat rides and walking safaris. If you’re after iconic wildlife sightings combined with scenic views and a touch of adventure, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

In essence, this 7-day Amboseli-Lake Naivasha-Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara tour offers a well-rounded Kenyan safari experience. It combines the chance to see elephants against Mount Kilimanjaro, the vibrant flamingos of Nakuru, and the legendary wildlife of the Mara—all in comfort and style. The knowledgeable guides and quality lodges elevate the experience, making it suitable for travelers who want an authentic yet luxurious adventure.

While the drive times between parks are long, the scenery and wildlife encounters more than compensate. The inclusion of boat rides and walking safaris add richness and variety, creating a multi-sensory safari journey that leaves lasting memories. For anyone eager to explore Kenya’s wilderness in a structured, reliable way, this tour delivers solid value and unforgettable moments.

If you’re after a safari that balances comfort, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour from Jossec Safaris is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you want a guided experience that takes care of the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy Kenya’s incredible landscapes and animals.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $3,899 price covers all accommodations, meals, park entry fees, guided game drives, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, a walking safari at Crescent Island, bottled water during drives, and transportation in a comfortable 4×4 jeep.

Are there optional activities not included?
Yes, for instance, a hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara costs an extra $450 per person. Other personal expenses like souvenirs or additional excursions are not included.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring essentials such as sunscreen, comfortable clothing suitable for various weather conditions, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars, and perhaps a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photography. Also, ensure your visa and travel documents are in order.

How long are the travel days between parks?
The journey from Nakuru to the Mara takes approximately 5-6 hours, offering scenic views along the way. Although long, travelers mention that the scenery and wildlife stops make the drives enjoyable.

Is it suitable for families or first-time safari-goers?
Yes, the tour’s organized structure, professional guides, and comfortable lodges make it accessible for families and first-timers seeking an authentic introduction to Kenya’s wildlife.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While specific dates aren’t provided, the tour is typically suited for the dry season when wildlife is easier to spot—generally from July to October or January to February. Contact Jossec Safaris for seasonal recommendations.

This safari blends the spectacle of Kenya’s wilderness with the comfort and professionalism needed for an enriching trip. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a casual traveler seeking adventure, this tour aims to deliver the unforgettable essence of Kenya.

You can check availability for your dates here: