From Nairobi: 5-Day Masai Mara and Naivasha Safari

Planning a safari in Kenya can be thrilling but overwhelming—there are so many options, and knowing what truly delivers value and authentic experiences is key. This 5-day tour from Nairobi, offered by Petan Safaris, promises a balanced mix of iconic wildlife viewing, culture, and lakeside relaxation. We’ve taken a close look at this trip to help you decide whether it fits your travel style and expectations.

What makes this tour stand out are its focus on Big 5 wildlife sightings, cultural visits to Maasai villages, and relaxing boat rides on Lake Naivasha. We love how it combines these highlights with comfortable accommodations and practical logistics, making it a great choice for first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers alike. However, be aware that early mornings and long drives are part of the adventure—so packing appropriately and being prepared for the pace is essential.

If you’re seeking an immersive, family-friendly, and value-packed safari experience that balances wildlife, culture, and scenery, this trip could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable if you want to maximize wildlife encounters without sacrificing comfort or cultural insight. Now, let’s walk through what makes this tour tick and whether it might be your next great adventure.

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Key Points

Wildlife Highlights: You’ll get close to Kenya’s famous Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—plus a host of other species.
Cultural Experience: Visiting a Maasai village offers rare insights into traditional Maasai customs and lifestyle.
Scenic Lake Naivasha: A relaxed boat ride on the lake provides opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Comfort & Convenience: The tour includes accommodations, meals, and transfers, making logistics smoother for travelers.
Expert Guides: An English-speaking driver guide helps you spot wildlife and explains the sights, enhancing your understanding.
Flexible Payment: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Each Day

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Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Your adventure begins with a transfer from the airport to your hotel, with a quick stop at the Giraffe Center. This is a delightful introduction—feeding giraffes and learning about conservation efforts add a fun touch. The snack box on the way is a thoughtful detail, helping you stay energized after your journey. Spending your first night at the City Blue Hotel Nairobi sets a comfortable, convenient tone.

Day 2: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

After breakfast and a briefing, you’re off to the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most renowned reserves. The drive takes around 5-6 hours, but the scenery along the way—rolling plains, acacia trees, and occasional wildlife sightings—makes the journey part of the adventure. Expect to arrive in time for lunch at your camp, followed by your first safari game drive.

The Maasai Mara is known for its vast landscapes and animal populations—here, you’ll see the scenery that’s the backdrop to the famous wildebeest migration, though the actual migration depends on the time of year. The afternoon game drive offers a chance to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and perhaps elusive leopards. Evenings at the camp bring campfire cocktails and hearty dinners, perfect for recounting the day’s sightings.

Day 3: Wildlife Watching & Maasai Village Visit

A full day in the Maasai Mara means plenty of time for game viewing. The guide—referred to as “John” in some reviews—has a knack for spotting animals early and tracking predators like cheetahs and hyenas. The Big 5 are often seen here, with some visitors mentioning how close they got to lions resting in the shade or elephants crossing waterholes.

Beyond wildlife, the afternoon includes a visit to a Maasai Village. This cultural outing provides a meaningful look into traditional Maasai life—dancing, beadwork, and stories shared by community members. As one reviewer said, “The Maasai experience added depth to the safari, making it more than just animals.”

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Day 4: From Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, you leave the Maasai Mara behind and head toward Lake Naivasha, a journey of approximately 4-5 hours. The transition from the open plains to the lush lake scenery is striking. Once there, a relaxed lunch awaits, followed by an optional boat ride ($35 per person).

The boat cruise is often highlighted as a highlight—expect to see hippos lounging in the water, Nile crocodiles sunbathing on the banks, and countless bird species like kingfishers, fish eagles, and herons. Some travelers appreciate how peaceful and scenic this part of the trip feels after the safari madness. The Lake Naivasha Country Club or Sawela Lodge provides comfortable lakeside accommodation, perfect for unwinding.

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Day 5: Return to Nairobi and Departure

Your final morning involves a leisurely breakfast before driving back to Nairobi for your flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights and, if time permits, squeeze in last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kenya’s capital.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour offers good value for its $1,500 price point when you consider the inclusions: airport transfers, lodging, meals, game drives, Maasai village visit, and boat ride. The use of a 4×4 Safari Landcruiser with open roof is a key advantage—it ensures excellent game viewing and photography opportunities.

What’s not included is the optional Crescent Island visit ($35), which many find worth adding for an up-close encounter with wildlife in a different setting. Also, the tour includes water (500ml per person per day) and meals, but you should bring snacks, sun protection, and comfortable clothing.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, and your camera.
Early mornings and long drives mean you’ll want layers—mornings can be chilly, but afternoons warm up quickly.
Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance—your guide will emphasize this.
Carry a valid ID or passport for park entry.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews praise the expert guide, “John,” for his keen eye and friendly attitude, making game drives both educational and fun. Travelers also appreciated how the accommodations were described as “comfortable,” with some noting the “beautiful view of Lake Naivasha from the lodges.”

One reviewer highlighted the timing—early morning game drives that start as dawn breaks—ensuring they saw lions hunting and cheetahs resting. Others enjoyed the cultural aspect, saying the Maasai Village visit felt authentic and insightful.

A common thread is the stunning scenery—from the sweeping plains of Maasai Mara to the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha—making every moment visually captivating.

The Bottom Line: Is This Safari for You?

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of wildlife, culture, and scenery, making it ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive Kenyan safari experience. Its inclusive pricing, comfortable lodges, and experienced guides mean you’re getting good value without sacrificing quality.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the Big 5 and enjoy the beauty of Lake Naivasha, all while learning about Maasai traditions. If you’re looking for adventure, photography opportunities, and cultural insights in one package, this safari ticks most boxes.

However, if you’re after a more exclusive, luxury experience or flexible itinerary, you might want to explore other options. But for practical, memorable experiences at a reasonable price, this trip delivers.

FAQ

What is the price of this safari?
It costs $1,500 per person, including most meals, transfers, and game drives.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all necessary park fees for Maasai Mara and Naivasha.

Is transportation in a suitable vehicle?
Yes, the safari uses a 4×4 Landcruiser with an open roof, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.

Can I book the optional Crescent Island visit?
Yes, it’s available for USD 35 per person, and many travelers find it worth the extra cost.

How many days does the safari last?
It’s a 5-day experience, with specific days allocated for travel, game viewing, and cultural visits.

What accommodations are provided?
Comfortable lodges are included, such as Keekorok Lodge in Maasai Mara and Lake Naivasha Country Club.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, camera, snacks, water, and suitable clothing for early mornings and warm afternoons.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, and pregnant women or those with back problems should consult with their doctor before booking.

Who will be my guide?
An experienced English-speaking driver guide, known for their wildlife knowledge and friendly approach.

Can I pay later or reserve my spot?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexible planning.

This comprehensive 5-day safari from Nairobi to Maasai Mara and Naivasha offers a balanced, authentic taste of Kenya’s wild wonders and cultural riches. Whether you’re chasing the Big 5 or soaking in lakeside views, it promises memorable moments and great value.