Nairobi: Private 5 Days Maasai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha Tour

Contents show

Discover Kenya’s Wildlife on a 5-Day Private Safari: Maasai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha

Planning a safari can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially with so many options vying for your attention. This 5-day private tour in Kenya offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the country’s most celebrated wildlife and scenic spots, all wrapped in a package that balances adventure with comfort. We’re here to share what makes this experience so appealing, along with some honest insights into what travelers can expect.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers guided game drives in the Maasai Mara, giving you a great chance to see the iconic Big 5. Second, the boat ride on Lake Naivasha promises memorable moments watching hippos and birdlife up close. Lastly, cycling or walking tours in Hell’s Gate National Park add a fun, active dimension that’s often missing from typical safaris.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $1,065 per person—a fair deal considering the inclusions, but it’s worth noting that optional extras like a Maasai village visit or balloon safari are available at additional costs. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive experience, blending game viewing, nature activities, and cultural insights, all with the comfort of private transport and guided facilitation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

All-inclusive experience with park entrance fees and activities included
Authentic wildlife encounters with opportunities to see the Big 5
Diverse activities like boat rides, cycling, and walking safaris
Comfortable accommodations in tents and hotels
Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights
Suitable for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Kenya

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Kenya Safari Experience

Day 1: From Nairobi to Maasai Mara — Great Rift Valley Views and Sunset Game Drive

Your journey kicks off early, with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel around 7:30 AM. The drive to Maasai Mara takes you through iconic landscapes, starting with the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, where panoramic vistas of the valley’s rugged terrain and lakes offer an awe-inspiring welcome. We loved the way the guide pointed out various features along the way, making the scenery come alive with stories about the land.

Arriving at the camp in time for lunch, you’ll settle into your private tent accommodation—a self-contained space with hot water, electricity, and a toilet, providing a cozy retreat after a day of travel. The highlight of this first day is the sunset game drive, where you can spot animals settling in for the night, and perhaps catch a glimpse of lions lounging or elephants ambling across the plains. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights on animal behavior and the landscape, which adds depth to the experience.

Day 2: Full-Day Maasai Mara — Big 5 and the Mara River

The second day is dedicated to exploring Maasai Mara’s abundant wildlife. The morning begins early with a game drive aimed at spotting the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The guides are experienced and know exactly where to look, often stopping at waterholes or river crossings where animals congregate.

A particular highlight is the Mara River, home to resident hippos and crocodiles, with guides sometimes pointing out the subtle movements of animals in the water. We loved the bush picnic lunch—a classic safari experience—set under the shade of large umbrella trees or overlooking the river, which makes you feel like you’re part of the landscape rather than just a visitor.

Between July and November, the great migration can be visible, a spectacle of millions of wildebeest and zebra moving across the plains. But even outside those months, Maasai Mara remains alive with diverse animals and predators like cheetahs, hyenas, and lions, which the guides are eager to show off. You’ll want your camera ready for the moments that unfold here.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Nakuru — Cultural and Scenic Transitions

After breakfast and possibly a Masai village visit (optional, at $20 per person), the journey continues toward Nakuru. This drive offers a change of scenery and the chance to see more of Kenya’s diverse landscapes. The new accommodation is at Lanet Matfam Resort, a comfortable hotel where you can relax after the day’s travel.

This evening is reserved for unwinding, but the next day’s game drive at Lake Nakuru promises some exciting animal sightings, especially the white rhinos and the iconic pink flamingos that flock here in large numbers. The park is also known for its flamingo populations, which are a photographer’s dream.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Kenya

Day 4: Nakuru to Naivasha — Birdwatching and Hippos Galore

The early morning game drive at Lake Nakuru is a highlight—expect to see the rare white rhinos and a variety of birdlife, especially flamingos. The park’s alkaline waters make it a perfect habitat for these birds, and guides are quick to point out the different species and behaviors. We appreciated the opportunity to spot the Big 5, with rhinos standing out as a special highlight.

Later, you move to Lake Naivasha for lunch and a boat ride—an absolute must-do that offers close-up views of hippos and a stack of bird species. The boat provides a different perspective on the lake’s wildlife, and guides often share interesting facts about bird calls and behaviors. We found the serenity of the water a calming contrast to the savanna.

Day 5: Hell’s Gate and Return to Nairobi — Active Adventure

The final day starts with a visit to Hell’s Gate National Park. Here, you can choose to cycle or walk among the landscape, spotting wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and buffalos in a semi-open environment. The biking safari is especially popular for those wanting an active experience; the bikes are provided, and guides are present throughout.

If cycling isn’t your thing, a driving tour offers a chance to see the park’s dramatic features, like the hot springs and volcanic formations. The area’s unique landscape is quite different from the previous days, making it a fitting end to your Kenyan adventure.

After lunch, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Nairobi, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, depending on your plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided game drives are a core feature, ensuring you catch the best wildlife moments with expert help. The diverse activities, from boat rides to cycling, add variety and help you connect with nature actively rather than just from a vehicle window. The accommodations, especially the self-contained tents in Maasai Mara, offer both comfort and an authentic safari vibe—no shared bathrooms here, which improves the experience.

The tour’s value for money lies in its inclusions: all park entrance fees, meals, and activities are covered, meaning you won’t face hidden costs. The small group setting (or private option) ensures a personalized experience, with guides who know the parks like the back of their hands.

However, the price does reflect this high level of comfort and flexibility, with optional extras such as a Maasai village visit or balloon safari available at extra cost. Travelers should also prepare for some early mornings, typical of wildlife safaris, and be ready for a fair amount of road travel—Kenya’s vast landscapes mean long drives, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits wildlife enthusiasts eager to tick off the Big 5 and see Kenya’s famous parks with expert guides. Nature lovers who enjoy a mix of active options—like cycling and boat rides—will also find plenty to love. It’s ideal for those seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive experience without sacrificing authentic wildlife encounters, especially if traveling in a small group or privately.

Couples, families, or friends looking for a well-rounded trip that combines game viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights will appreciate the versatility of this tour. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided experiences, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.

Final Thoughts

This private 5-day tour offers a fantastic overview of Kenya’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. The combination of guided safaris, scenic boat rides, and active pursuits like cycling makes it a well-rounded choice for those wanting a blend of adventure and comfort. The accommodations are practical and private, enhancing the authentic safari feel without compromising on amenities.

The price reflects the quality and inclusiveness of the experience, especially with knowledgeable guides and all park fees covered. While long drives are part of the journey, the scenery, wildlife sightings, and engaging activities make each mile worth it.

This tour strikes a good balance for travelers looking to experience Kenya’s top spots with a trusted operator. It’s especially suited for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to explore Kenya’s iconic parks in style and comfort.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, but there is also a small group joining option available if you prefer a bit more companionship during your adventure.

What type of accommodation is provided?
In Maasai Mara, you’ll stay in private, self-contained tents with toilets, showers, hot water, and electricity inside. In Nakuru and Naivasha, accommodations are in hotels such as Lanet Matfam Resort and Astorian Hotel.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Hell’s Gate National Parks are included in the price.

Can I upgrade my hotel stays?
Yes, all hotel accommodations can be upgraded upon request for a more luxurious experience.

What activities are included?
Guided game drives, boat rides on Lake Naivasha, biking or walking safaris in Hell’s Gate, and optional cultural visits like the Maasai village are included. The optional balloon safari is available at extra cost.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is provided in a customized safari van or Jeep with a pop-up roof designed for optimal game viewing, ensuring comfort during long drives.

This 5-day Kenya safari promises a thorough and authentic adventure, ideal for wildlife lovers and active travelers eager to explore Kenya’s most iconic parks in style.