Kenya: 7-Day Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha, and Amboseli Safari

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions lounging in the sun, elephants marching across the plains, or watching hippos wallow in tranquil lakes, a Kenyan safari might just be your perfect escape. This 7-day journey organized by Olanka Safaris offers a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes. While it’s not a budget trip, the experience packs in enough value—think private game drives, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable scenery—to make every dollar count.

What we especially love about this safari:

• The chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat
• A visit to Lake Naivasha’s vibrant birdlife and boat rides among hippos
• The opportunity to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro from Amboseli
• Round-trip transportation from Nairobi, making logistics simpler for travelers

A potential consideration is that the trip involves considerable travel time between locations—about 5-6 hours each way—so it’s best suited for those with a healthy sense of adventure and patience for long drives. This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers, first-time visitors eager to tick off their safari bucket list, or anyone wanting a comprehensive Kenyan experience with guided support.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: See the Big Five and other iconic animals in three different parks
• Comfort & Convenience: Private 4×4 vehicle with a pop-up roof and round-trip Nairobi transfers
• Diverse Landscapes: From savannahs and lakes to the breathtaking Great Rift Valley
• Authentic Experiences: Guided game drives, boat trips, and opportunities to walk among giraffes
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of early morning game drives, relaxed afternoons, and scenic drives
• Value for Price: All accommodations, meals, and transportation included, making it a streamlined adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Safari Experience

First Impressions and Overall Value

At $4,000 per person, this safari isn’t the cheapest on the market, but what you get is a comprehensive, guided exploration of Kenya’s highlights. The price covers your accommodations, meals, private transportation, and expert guides, which makes it a fairly hassle-free way to experience key sites. Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism and knowledge of guides, noting that their insights added depth to every game drive. One guest mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic—he knew the animals’ habits and made sure we saw everything.”

Day 1: From Nairobi to the Masai Mara

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Nairobi, taking about 5-6 hours, winding through Kenyan countryside with a notable stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. This stretch is a highlight, as the views of the vast Rift Valley escarpment are breathtaking and set the tone for the trip. Once at the Masai Mara, you’ll check into your lodge or camp, then head out on your first game drive as the sun begins to set.

Guests appreciated the ease of this transfer, especially since all logistics are handled. Expect comfortable transportation in a well-maintained 4×4 with a pop-up roof—ideal for spotting wildlife—and plenty of space for luggage and equipment. The first game drive provides a taste of what’s to come: lions lounging in the tall grass, herds of elephants, and possibly a cheetah in the distance.

Days 2-3: Exploring the Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is the star of the show. These days are flexible, allowing you to choose between early morning drives—when animals are most active—or relaxed mornings followed by full-day game drives. Many reviewers mention that their guides were adept at customizing the experience, making sure they saw key animals like leopards and lions.

One guest noted, “We loved the way our guide knew exactly where to find the animals, and he was happy to explain their behaviors.” The Mara’s vast open plains and dense acacia bushes make it easy to encounter wildlife, especially during early drives. You’ll see the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos—as well as other species like giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs.

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Day 4: From Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, it’s time to head north-east to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake famous for its birdlife and hippos. The journey takes around five hours, during which you’ll travel across the scenic landscape with chances to spot local villages and farmlands. Once there, you’ll check into your lodge and enjoy lunch with views over the water.

The highlight here is the boat ride, which offers an up-close view of hippos bathing, crocodiles sunbathing on the shores, and a variety of bird species—including kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles. One reviewer mentioned that the boat trip “was a fantastic way to see hippos and birds in their natural environment, and the guide was very knowledgeable about the different species.”

You’ll also visit Crescent Island, where walking among zebra, giraffes, and wildebeest adds a memorable touch. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see wildlife at close quarters, which isn’t always possible on game drives.

Day 5: Journey to Amboseli

Leaving Lake Naivasha, the drive to Amboseli takes about five hours, mostly along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. The route offers scenic vistas and the opportunity to see local villages and farmland. Arriving at Amboseli, you’ll settle into your lodge, enjoy lunch, then set out for your first game drive.

This park is renowned for its large herds of elephants and spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. One guest remarked, “Seeing elephants with Kilimanjaro in the background is a surreal experience—something I won’t forget.” The terrain here is a mix of open plains and swamps, providing diverse habitats for a wide array of wildlife.

Days 6: Full Day in Amboseli

Early mornings are key in Amboseli, with game drives before breakfast offering the best chances to see predators and more elusive animals. Many reviewers express delight at spotting lions lounging under acacia trees or elephants crossing the plains in large herds.

The park’s scenic backdrop makes every sighting special, and guides are praised for their ability to find animals in these vast landscapes. Some guests chose to relax at their lodge during the hottest part of the day, while others opted for an additional game drive in the afternoon. Having the flexibility to choose is a plus.

Day 7: Return to Nairobi

Your final morning includes a last game drive before heading back to Nairobi with a brief stop along the way. Once in the city, your driver guide will drop you at the airport or your hotel, concluding your safari. Guests report that this smooth transfer and well-organized itinerary make the entire experience seamless.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Safari For?

This 7-day Kenyan safari is designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and guided comfort. The price reflects the inclusion of private transport, expert guides, and accommodation, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a hassle-free, authentic safari experience.

It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, or couples and small groups wanting a comprehensive Kenya adventure. If you prefer guided tours with strategic wildlife viewing and stunning scenery, this safari will meet your expectations.

However, keep in mind that the long drives between locations mean some days are busy in transit. Travelers who prefer ultra-relaxed, slow-paced trips might want to consider shorter options or more localized stays.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof, perfect for wildlife viewing, with round-trip transfers from Nairobi.

What is the price of this tour?
The cost is $4,000 per person, covering accommodations, meals, private transport, and guided game drives.

Are park fees included?
No, park fees are not included and are paid separately, which is common in safari packages.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary offers some flexibility, especially during the full days in Masai Mara and Amboseli, where guides can adjust plans based on wildlife movements.

What should I bring?
Important items include your passport or ID, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a camera. Remember that visas are required for U.S. citizens, which can be obtained online.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, its focus on wildlife and long drives suggest it’s best for older children or adults.

What is the best time to go?
The tour details don’t specify seasons, but Kenya’s dry season (June to October) tends to offer excellent game viewing.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included, usually at the lodges or camps, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, reservations are flexible, allowing you to reserve your spot and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, solo travelers can join, as the price includes private transportation and guided safaris, making it a safe and convenient option.

In summary, this safari offers a well-rounded, guided look at Kenya’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. It balances comfort with authentic adventure, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a comprehensive and immersive experience. From stunning views of Kilimanjaro to close encounters with the Big Five, you’ll leave with stories and memories that last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: