Kenya Classic Safari: Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara
Safari at a Glance
Safari Highlight
Kenya Classic Safari: Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara
- Masai Mara National Reserve: Prepare to be utterly captivated by the Masai Mara!
This is arguably Kenya's most famous wildlife reserve, and for very good reason. Imagine vast, rolling plains teeming with life – lions lounging in the shade, cheetahs sprinting across the savanna, and perhaps even the dramatic spectacle of the Great Migration (if your timing is right!). With abundant wildlife and stunning scenery, the Mara is a safari dream come true. - Amboseli National Park: Get ready for some truly iconic African vistas.
Amboseli is renowned for its breathtaking views of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Picture herds of elephants gracefully wandering with Kilimanjaro as a dramatic backdrop – it's a photographer's paradise! Beyond the views, Amboseli offers fantastic wildlife viewing, with close encounters with elephants being a real highlight. - Lake Nakuru National Park: Lake Nakuru is a gem in the Rift Valley, offering a different but equally rewarding safari experience.
This park is a haven for birdwatchers, often with flamingos gracing the lake shores. But that's not all – you'll also have the chance to spot tree-climbing lions, endangered Rothschild's giraffes, and both black and white rhinos! The scenery is stunning too, with the "Out of Africa" lookout providing panoramic views. - Optional Balloon Safari: For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking to the skies in a hot air balloon.
Floating serenely above the Masai Mara or Amboseli at sunrise offers a unique perspective on the landscape and wildlife. It's an investment, but many say it's worth every penny for the sheer magic of it all.
Destinations
Where You Will Visit
This safari explores the following regions in Kenya
- Amboseli
- Masai Mara
- Naivasha
- Nakuru
Day 1
Arrival in Nairobi - The Start of Your Safari
Your Kenyan safari adventure begins today! After touching down in Nairobi, you'll be met by our friendly and knowledgeable guide. Consider them your safari expert, ready to answer all your questions and provide insights throughout your journey. We'll transfer you to your hotel, the Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands. If you have time and energy, Nairobi offers a vibrant mix of experiences. From fascinating museums showcasing Kenya's rich history to the natural beauty of Nairobi National Park, there's something for everyone. Settle in, enjoy your first taste of Kenyan hospitality, and prepare for the incredible wildlife encounters to come! Â
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel
Meal Plan: Dinner
Optional Activities:
Lunch in Nairobi (add a cultural restaurant recommendation!)
Visit the Giraffe Centre (an amazing close-up encounter!)
Day 2
Amboseli National Park - Kilimanjaro's Majestic Kingdom
Today, we journey to Amboseli National Park, a truly special place where wildlife and stunning scenery collide. Get ready to be awestruck by the iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. While Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, Amboseli offers arguably the best vantage points for admiring its snow-capped grandeur. But Amboseli is more than just a pretty face; it's a haven for wildlife! You'll have incredible opportunities for close encounters with elephants, and the park is also home to lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and a variety of other fascinating animals. We'll explore Amboseli on morning and evening game drives, maximizing your chances of unforgettable sightings. Â
Accommodation: Amboseli Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Activities:
Scenic drive to Amboseli National Park Â
Morning and evening game drives
Day 3
Exploring Amboseli - A Full Day of Wildlife and Optional Adventures
Today offers a full day to delve deeper into the wonders of Amboseli National Park. After a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, we'll set out on a morning game drive, exploring different areas of the park and maximizing our chances of encountering its diverse wildlife. Amboseli's open plains provide excellent visibility, making it easier to spot animals. Your experienced guide will share their knowledge of the park's ecosystem and help you identify various species. We'll return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch, and in the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to choose from optional activities to enhance your Amboseli experience. An evening game drive is included, offering more chances to see animals as they become more active in the cooler temperatures.
Accommodation: Amboseli Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Activities:
Morning game drive
Afternoon game drive
Optional Activities:
Hot air balloon safari (for an unforgettable aerial perspective) Â
Masai village visit (to learn about the local culture)
Day 4
Lake Naivasha - Lakeside Beauty and Walking Safaris
Today, we head to Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Naivasha is a birdwatcher's paradise, and you're also likely to spot hippos wallowing in the shallows and giraffes and zebras grazing along the shoreline. One of the unique experiences here is a walking safari on Crescent Island Game Park. It might sound a bit adventurous, but with an experienced guide, it's a safe and incredibly rewarding way to get close to wildlife and soak in the natural beauty. Â
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Activities:
Drive to Lake Naivasha Â
Boat trip on Lake Naivasha (for unique wildlife views) Â
Walking safari on Crescent Island Game Park
Day 5
Lake Nakuru National Park - Rhinos, Flamingos, and Stunning Views
Our journey continues to Lake Nakuru National Park, another Rift Valley gem with a diverse array of wildlife and stunning scenery. Lake Nakuru is famous for its flamingos, often seen in large numbers, creating a vibrant pink spectacle. The park is also an excellent place to spot both black and white rhinos, as well as tree-climbing lions and endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Don't forget your camera – the views from the "Out of Africa" lookout are simply breathtaking! Â
Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Activities:
Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park Â
Game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park (morning and evening)
Day 6
Masai Mara National Reserve - The Ultimate Safari Destination
Today marks your arrival in the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve! After breakfast, we'll depart from Lake Nakuru and embark on a scenic drive to the Mara, anticipation building with every mile. Upon arrival, you'll check into your accommodation, Masai Mara Sopa Lodge, and enjoy a delicious lunch, settling into the rhythm of the savanna. In the afternoon, the real adventure begins with your first game drive in the Mara. Get ready to be awestruck by the sheer abundance of wildlife! Your expert guide will lead you through the golden plains, pointing out fascinating creatures and sharing their knowledge of the Mara's ecosystem. As the day ends, we'll return to the lodge for a memorable dinner, reflecting on the incredible sights and sounds of your first day in this iconic reserve.
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge Â
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Â
Activities:
Drive from Lake Nakuru National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve
Check-in at the lodge
Afternoon game drive
Day 7
Exploring the Heart of the Mara
Today is dedicated to immersing yourself in the wonders of the Masai Mara. After a hearty breakfast, we'll venture out on a morning game drive, a highlight of any safari! Your guide will expertly navigate the reserve, seeking out prime wildlife viewing opportunities. The Mara is home to an incredible variety of animals, so keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and countless others. Around lunchtime, we'll enjoy a delightful picnic in the heart of the Mara, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness – a truly unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, we'll continue our exploration with another game drive, uncovering more of the Mara's secrets. As the day comes to a close, we'll return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge Â
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Â
Activities:
Morning game drive
Picnic lunch in the Masai Mara
Afternoon game drive
Optional Activities:
Masai Village visit (for a cultural experience)
Day 8
Masai Mara's Endless Plains - A Second Chance for Wonders
Today offers another full day to delve into the magic of the Masai Mara. We'll start with an early morning game drive, a fantastic time to witness wildlife as they're most active. The soft morning light is also ideal for photography, creating stunning images of the animals and the landscape. There's something truly special about being out in the Mara at dawn! We'll once again enjoy a picnic lunch in the reserve, maximizing our time in this incredible place. In the afternoon, we'll embark on another exciting game drive, venturing into different areas of the Mara and seeking out new wildlife encounters. As the sun sets on another unforgettable day, we'll return to the lodge for dinner and share our stories of the day's adventures.
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge Â
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Â
Activities:
Early morning game drive
Picnic lunch in the Masai Mara
Afternoon game drive
Optional Activities:
Hot air balloon safari (for an incredible aerial view
Day 9
Departure - Farewell to Kenya
Sadly, your safari adventure comes to an end today. After a final breakfast at your lodge, we'll transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you depart with incredible memories and a longing to return to the magic of Kenya! Â
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Activities:
Departure from Masai Mara Â
Airport transfer Â
Optional Activities:
Lunch at Fogo Gaucho (a final delicious Kenyan meal!)