7Days Lake Nakuru Masai Mara Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari

7Days Lake Nakuru Masai Mara Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari Review

Planning an African safari can feel overwhelming, but tours like this 7-day adventure from Nairobi to Arusha promise a well-rounded experience filled with iconic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural encounters. This particular trip, offered by SABILOM KENYA TOURS & SAFARIS, takes you through some of East Africa’s most celebrated parks—Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—covering both Kenya and Tanzania.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see the Big Five and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitats is unbeatable. Second, crossing borders between Kenya and Tanzania adds an exciting element of international adventure. Lastly, the opportunity to witness the famous Serengeti migration and the Ngorongoro Crater’s incredible wildlife density creates a truly immersive experience.

One consideration is that, at nearly $5,000 per person, this isn’t a budget safari—so you’re paying for quality guiding, well-located accommodations, and a carefully curated itinerary. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, wildlife spectacle, and the thrill of seeing Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals.

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Key Points

• Wildlife & Big Five: Extensive game drives in renowned parks increase your chances of spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
• Diverse Landscapes: From the lake shores of Nakuru to the savannah plains of Serengeti and the crater floor of Ngorongoro, variety is guaranteed.
• Expert Guides & Seamless Transfers: Well-reviewed guides like David and Jackson are praised for their knowledge and friendly service.
• Border Crossing Experience: The process is straightforward, adding an international feel to your adventure.
• Full-Day Game Drives: Packed days with early starts maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Value for the Price: Included park fees, accommodations, meals, and transportation make this a comprehensive package, although optional extras like balloon safaris are extra.

Introduction to the Tour

We haven’t personally taken this safari, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a well-structured, wildlife-focused trip. One of the standout features is the balance between parks—each provides a unique vista and animal concentration, making every day a new adventure.

What we love most? The chance to see the Big Five in their natural environment, the stunning views of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the opportunity to witness the iconic migration in Serengeti. The inclusion of both Kenyan and Tanzanian parks offers a broader perspective on Africa’s wildlife diversity.

A few potential drawbacks? The long travel days might be tiring, especially crossing borders, and the price could be steep for budget travelers. But if you’re after an authentic, comprehensive safari experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, this tour could be a strong contender.

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers wanting a taste of East Africa, and travelers seeking a guided experience that combines adventure with some of the continent’s most famous sights.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park

Starting with a morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or airport sets a smooth tone. The drive to Lake Nakuru, approximately 2-3 hours, takes you through Kenyan countryside, giving glimpses of traditional villages and lush landscapes.

Once at Nakuru, you’ll enjoy your first game drive. This park, renowned for its pink flamingos covering the lake shores, offers striking photo opportunities. You’ll also search for rhinoceroses—both black and white—whose populations are protected here, and see Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalos, and an impressive array of bird species.

Reviewers note that the Afternoon game drive is lively, with many guests thrilled by the flamingos and the chance to spot the tree-climbing lions in neighboring parks if luck is on your side. Dinner and overnight stay at Flamingo Hill Camp allow you to settle in comfortably with a good view of the park.

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Day 2: Transition to Masai Mara

After an early breakfast, the journey continues to the world-famous Masai Mara, a highlight for many. The drive (roughly 6 hours with a stop for stretching and snacks) takes you through scenic Kenyan savannahs, setting the stage for wildlife action.

Arriving by lunch, you’ll check into the Mara Jambo Lodge. The first afternoon game drive is exciting—look for lions, cheetahs, elephants, and a visit to the Mara River, where crocodiles and hippos lurk. Reviewers often comment on the vibrant landscape and the abundance of wildlife, especially during migration seasons.

Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara

This day is all about maximizing your game viewing. Early morning drives often produce sightings of lions stalking prey or cheetahs basking in the sun. With a packed lunch, you can spend most of the day exploring the plains—searching for elephants, giraffes, zebras, and the elusive leopards.

Guests note that the driver guides, like Jackson, are highly knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about animal behavior. With excellent chances of witnessing wildlife in motion, this full day gives a true sense of the Mara’s ecological richness.

Day 4: Cross to Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll check out and head to the Tanzanian border at Isebania. The border crossing process is straightforward—your Kenyan guide will handle immigration, and you’ll meet your Tanzanian guide on the other side.

From there, the drive to Serengeti takes about 4-5 hours, passing through scenic landscapes. Arriving at Osinon Tented Camp, you get a taste of authentic safari accommodation—tents with comfortable bedding and a rustic charm.

Many reviewers appreciate the seamless border crossing, noting guides’ professionalism and the chance to begin a new chapter in your safari journey.

Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti

Serengeti, famous for its wide-open plains and wildebeest migration, promises incredible wildlife sightings. Leaving early with picnic lunches, you’ll be on the lookout for lions, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs.

The large size of Serengeti means the guide’s local knowledge is crucial in finding animals. Reviewers love the stunning vistas and the chance to see large herds of wildebeest during migration season. The day concludes with a return to your camp for dinner.

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro

A morning game drive is followed by packing up and heading toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive through the Serengeti offers more wildlife encounters and scenic views.

Arriving at Rhino Lodge, you’ll settle in for the night. The lodge’s close proximity to the crater makes early morning game drives into Ngorongoro feasible.

Guests highlight the beauty of the landscape and the concentration of wildlife—the crater is home to rhinos, lions, elephants, and more, often all in one view.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha

The final day begins with a descend into the Ngorongoro Crater. This natural amphitheater, with its lush woodland and grasslands, is bursting with animals—zebras, buffalos, warthogs, hippos, and the endangered rhino.

The high wildlife density makes this one of Africa’s top spots for game viewing. Reviewers mention the amazing landscape and the opportunity to spot big cats in their natural habitat. After the game drive, you’ll head back to Arusha, ending your safari with a sense of awe and fulfillment.

What This Tour Means for You

This safari offers a rundown of East Africa’s most iconic parks, with a mix of structured game drives, comfortable accommodations, and expert guides. The inclusion of park entrance fees, transportation, and meals offers good value, especially considering the high costs of private safaris.

While the itinerary is busy, it allows you to cover a broad spectrum of wildlife and landscapes in just 7 days—an efficient way to maximize your time. The border crossing between Kenya and Tanzania is handled smoothly, adding an international adventure element.

Guides like David are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making game drives both educational and fun. The accommodations, such as Flamingo Hill Camp and Rhino Lodge, balance comfort with a true safari feel. Many reviewers mention the stunning views from their lodges and tents—one of the trip’s memorable highlights.

The full-day Serengeti game drive and the chance to see the Big Five are major attractions, but the tour also shines in offering authentic encounters with local wildlife and landscapes. The optional extras like balloon safaris aren’t included, but the core experience is rich enough to satisfy even seasoned travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is best for adventurers and wildlife lovers seeking a guided, all-inclusive experience that balances comfort with wilderness immersion. It’s suited for those who want to see iconic parks and wildlife with the assurance of experienced guides.

Travelers with a limited amount of time can appreciate how this trip packs highlights from Kenya and Tanzania into just 7 days. It’s also ideal for first-time safari-goers looking for a structured, hassle-free journey.

Keep in mind the price—if you’re after a luxury experience with top-tier lodging and optional activities like hot air balloon rides, this tour provides a solid foundation, though some extras would cost extra.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
You get pickup and drop-off, accommodation as specified, meals, transportation, guide services, and park entrance fees, making it a comprehensive package.

Are border crossings between Kenya and Tanzania smooth?
Yes, the guides handle the border processes, including immigration, so travelers typically find the crossing straightforward.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
The tour focuses on the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and flamingos at Lake Nakuru.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
Yes, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, hats, cameras, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars are recommended.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, lodges like Flamingo Hill and Rhino Lodge are praised for their comfort and scenic views, blending rustic charm with functional amenities.

How many people are in the group?
While not explicitly stated, group safaris typically have around 4-12 travelers, which allows for personalized attention from guides.

Is this suitable for children or families?
This depends on individual preferences, but the full days and early starts are more suited to older children and adults.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Can I pay later or reserve my spot?
Yes, the tour offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing you to secure your booking with no upfront payment.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day safari presents an incredible opportunity to witness East Africa’s most famous parks in one cohesive journey. From the flamingo-laden waters of Lake Nakuru to the grandeur of Ngorongoro’s crater floor, it offers a balanced mix of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural borders.

The carefully curated itinerary maximizes wildlife sightings and scenic vistas, complemented by knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations. While it isn’t a budget trip, the price reflects the quality and inclusiveness of the experience, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a hassle-free, immersive adventure.

Ideal for first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers eager to see the iconic Big Five in their natural habitat, this tour promises a memorable, photographic journey through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes.

If you’re ready for a packed, authentic East African safari with all the essentials covered, this could be your perfect adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: