Where to go: Ambesoli National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve

Country: Kenya

Duration: 5 Days

Activities: Big Five safaris, Birdwatching, Bush camping, Cultural Experience, Game Drives, tree-climbing lions

Short Itinerary

Day Route Activities
Day 1 Nairobi → Masai Mara Scenic drive with Great Rift Valley stopover; afternoon game drive in Masai Mara
Day 2 Masai Mara (Full Day) Sunrise or full-day game drives across the Mara plains
Day 3 Masai Mara → Lake Nakuru Scenic transfer; evening at leisure at Lake Nakuru
Day 4 Lake Nakuru → Lake Naivasha Morning game drives at Lake Nakuru; transfer to Lake Naivasha
Day 5 Lake Naivasha → Nairobi Boat ride & walking tour at Crescent Island; transfer to Nairobi

Choose Your Travel Dates

Safari tour pricing varies based on departure date, group size, and accommodation preferences.

Start Date Adults Children Vehicle Options
Flexible 2+ 0+ Safari Van / Land Cruiser

Ensuite Accommodation Packages

Presented below are packages featuring popular ensuite options for your journey. Ensuite properties include tented camps and lodges situated either within or near the parks. Each offers private sleeping quarters with attached bathroom facilities. Meals are provided by the respective properties.

Click to learn more about safari accommodations (ensuite camps/lodges).


Option E1: Value Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Oldarpoi Main Camp Masai Mara (Outside the Park) Full Board
1 Night Eagle Palace Hotel - Superior Lake Nakuru (Outside the Park) Full Board
1 Night Lake Naivasha Lazarus Lodge - Deluxe Room Lake Naivasha Full Board
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Safari Van $1,605
Land Cruiser $1,708

Option E2: Classic Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Osero Enarau Camp Masai Mara (Bordering the Park) Full Board
1 Night Ziwa Bush Lodge - Executive Room Lake Nakuru (Outside the Park) Full Board
1 Night Avian Court Hotel - Standard Room Lake Naivasha Full Board
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Safari Van $1,814
Land Cruiser $1,917

Option E3: Comfort Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Olive Bush Camp Masai Mara (Within the Park) Full Board
1 Night Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) Full Board
1 Night Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort - Lodge Room Lake Naivasha Full Board
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Safari Van $2,485
Land Cruiser $2,588

Option E4: Superior Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Neptune Mara Rianta Luxury Camp - Luxury Tent Masai Mara (Outside the Park) All Inclusive
1 Night Lake Nakuru Lodge - Senior Suite Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) Full Board
1 Night Sawela Lodge - Business Suite Lake Naivasha Full Board
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Land Cruiser $3,153

Option E5: Luxury Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Elewana Sand River Mara - Safari Tent Masai Mara (Within the Park) Full Board
1 Night The Cliff Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) All Inclusive
1 Night Chui Lodge - Standard Room Lake Naivasha All Inclusive
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Land Cruiser $4,364

Option E6: Signature Accommodations

Nights Accommodation Location Meal Plan
2 Nights Surana Mara Camp Masai Mara (Within the Park) All Inclusive
1 Night The Cliff Lake Nakuru (Within the Park) All Inclusive
1 Night Loldia House Lake Naivasha Full Board
Safari Vehicle Price Per Adult
Land Cruiser $5,591

A comprehensive list of inclusions is provided below. Additional accommodation options and add-on excursions are available upon request. Please share your specific requirements by clicking the "Request Quote" button, and our reservations team will respond promptly.


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Detailed Itinerary


Day 1 – Nairobi to Masai Mara

Your safari adventure begins with a 7:30 AM pickup from your Nairobi hotel or airport. You'll depart for Masai Mara National Reserve, a journey of approximately 5.5 to 6 hours covering 284 kilometers. Along the way, enjoy a scenic stopover at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for breathtaking photographs.

Arrive in Masai Mara shortly after noon and check into your lodge or camp. After a hot lunch, you'll depart for an afternoon game drive across the vast savannah plains. The Masai Mara is renowned for its exceptional wildlife populations, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.

After the game drive, you'll return to the lodge or camp by approximately 5:30 to 6:00 PM to freshen up before enjoying a freshly prepared dinner. Overnight at your lodge.

Note: The last hour of the drive to Masai Mara is on a corrugated and bumpy road and may not be comfortable for clients with back problems. Those with back issues may consider flying directly into and out of Masai Mara.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Masai Mara


Day 2 – Full Day in Masai Mara

Today's itinerary is flexible. You can discuss options with your guide the previous evening and plan the schedule that suits you best.

Option 1: Full Day Game Drive

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and depart for a full-day game drive around 9:00 AM with packed lunch. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon around 6:00 PM.

Option 2: Early Morning & Afternoon Game Drives

Depart at 6:00 AM for an early morning game drive—the best time to see animals and a good chance to witness a hunt or kill. Return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation. Depart again in the afternoon with packed lunch for another game drive until the park closes.

You'll stop at a designated picnic spot for your packed lunch before continuing your game drive. Around 6:00 PM, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Note: The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to witness the Great Migration (typically July–October), where thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Masai Mara


Day 3 – Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru

Around 10:00 AM, after a relaxed breakfast, check out and depart for Lake Nakuru National Park. The journey takes approximately 5 to 5.5 hours covering 250 kilometers. The drive offers scenic views of Kenya's countryside, passing through the Great Rift Valley.

Upon reaching your Lake Nakuru lodge, check in and enjoy dinner. Relax for the evening and overnight at your lodge.

Note: Morning game drives in Masai Mara can be added on the last morning at the park by paying additional park fees. Please discuss with your guide if interested.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Lake Nakuru


Day 4 – Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha

After an early breakfast, proceed for morning game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park. The park is famous for its flamingos, rhinos, and tree-climbing lions, along with a variety of other wildlife including buffalo, zebra, impala, and Rothschild's giraffe.

Continue game drives until around noon, then return to the lodge for lunch. After lunch, depart for Lake Naivasha, a journey of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours covering 67 kilometers.

Upon arrival at your Lake Naivasha accommodation, check in and enjoy dinner. Overnight at your lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Lake Naivasha


Day 5 – Lake Naivasha to Nairobi

After breakfast, proceed to Lake Naivasha for a boat ride to Crescent Island. Upon arrival at Crescent Island, you'll enjoy a nature walk among zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, waterbucks, antelopes, and many types of birds. The island is a private wildlife sanctuary where you can walk freely among the animals in a unique, open setting without predators—a truly unforgettable experience.

Return by boat to Naivasha for lunch at your lodge. After lunch, proceed to Nairobi. The journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours covering 105 kilometers. Arrive in Nairobi by late afternoon, where your safari adventure concludes.

Note: In Naivasha, the boat ride to Crescent Island and walking tour are included. Other activities like bike tours, hiking at Hell's Gate National Park, and horse riding can be opted as add-ons by paying additional fees.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch


Maps

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Weather Information

Masai Mara

In August, Masai Mara experiences mild and dry weather. Daytime temperatures typically range from about 21°C to 28°C (70°F to 82°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 13°C (50°F to 55°F). This month falls during the dry season, so rainfall is generally minimal, making it an ideal time for wildlife viewing. Conditions are also conducive for the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. August is characterized by sunny days, cooler nights, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures.

Lake Nakuru

In August, Lake Nakuru experiences mild and cool weather as it falls within the dry season. Daytime temperatures range from about 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F). August is generally characterized by lower rainfall, with some occasional light showers, but the month is predominantly dry. Humidity levels are moderate, and the area experiences relatively clear skies, making it a good time for wildlife viewing.

Lake Naivasha

In August, Lake Naivasha experiences mild and pleasant weather. Daytime temperatures usually range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F). August is part of the dry season, so rainfall is generally minimal, although there can be occasional light showers. Humidity levels are moderate, making it a comfortable time to visit. Overall, the climate is conducive for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty around the lake.


Pre & Post Tour Hotels

Nairobi serves as the base for safari tours in Kenya. If you require accommodation in Nairobi before or after your safari, please consider the following popular hotel options on a bed and breakfast basis. Prices are per person, per night.

Single Room

Hotel Price Per Night
67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room $78
ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands $109
The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room $152
Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room $178
Fairmont the Norfolk - Fairmont Room $244

Double Sharing Room

Hotel Price Per Night
67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room $50
ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands $65
The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room $88
Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room $100
Fairmont the Norfolk - Fairmont Room $139

Triple Sharing Room

Hotel Price Per Night
67 Airport Hotel - Superior Deluxe Room $39
ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands $51
The Boma Nairobi - Superior Room $72
Movenpick Hotel - Superior Room $82
Fairmont the Norfolk - Deluxe Room $119

All prices above are per person, per night on bed and breakfast basis. Additional hotel options can be provided upon request.


Transfers

This tour begins and ends in Nairobi. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is the nearest international airport, while Wilson Airport (WIL) serves domestic flights.

Airport Pickup/Drop-off

Service Cost
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport pickup/drop-off on safari day No extra charge
Wilson Airport pickup/drop-off on safari day No extra charge

Airport to Hotel Transfers

Service Cost
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ↔ Nairobi Hotel $30 per vehicle
Wilson Airport ↔ Nairobi Hotel $30 per vehicle
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ↔ Wilson Airport $30 per vehicle

Fly-In / Fly-Out Safari Options

This tour operates with road transfers between all locations. Masai Mara is the farthest destination, approximately 5 hours from Nairobi each way. To reduce driving time, you may choose to fly directly into or out of the Masai Mara.

Fly Into Masai Mara

Route Cost (Per Person)
Nairobi → Masai Mara (Morning flight) From $240
Nairobi → Masai Mara (Afternoon flight) From $185
Diani/Mombasa → Masai Mara From $320

Rates include airfare plus the cost of sending the safari vehicle and guide one day in advance to Masai Mara, and transport from your Nairobi hotel to the airport.

Fly Out of Masai Mara

Route Cost (Per Person)
Masai Mara → Nairobi (Early morning flight) From $240
Masai Mara → Diani/Mombasa (January to June) $490
Masai Mara → Diani/Mombasa (July to December) $595

Rates include additional Masai Mara park fees for late departures.

Intercity Flights

Route Cost (Per Person)
Diani → Nairobi (Morning flight) From $200
Nairobi → Diani (Afternoon flight) From $200

Important Notes:

  • Rates are indicative and subject to change based on airlines and group size.

  • Flights into Masai Mara typically land around 11:00 AM, with game drives starting soon after arrival.

  • Morning flights out of Masai Mara typically depart around 8:30 AM.


Meal Plan Summary

Day Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 1 ✗ ✓ ✓
Day 2 ✓ ✓ ✓
Day 3 ✓ ✓ ✓
Day 4 ✓ ✓ ✓
Day 5 ✓ ✓ ✗

Transfer Times Summary

Day Route Duration Distance
Day 1 Nairobi → Masai Mara 5.5 - 6 hours 284 km
Day 2 No transfers — —
Day 3 Masai Mara → Lake Nakuru 5 - 5.5 hours 250 km
Day 4 Lake Nakuru → Lake Naivasha 1.5 - 2 hours 67 km
Day 5 Lake Naivasha → Nairobi 2 - 2.5 hours 105 km

Note: These are estimated drive times. Actual times may vary based on traffic, accommodation locations, and other factors. Driving distances are approximate.


Inclusions

  • Meals as per itinerary

  • Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day)

  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide

  • 4×4 Land Cruiser or Safari Van

  • Daily game drives while on safari

  • Park fees (for non-residents)

  • Boat ride to Crescent Island and walking tour at Crescent Island (Day 5)

  • All taxes and VAT


Exclusions

  • International flights

  • Airport transfers (unless specified otherwise)

  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

  • Additional accommodation before and after the tour (unless specified otherwise)

  • Government-imposed increases in taxes or park fees

  • Tips (see tipping guidelines)

  • Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

  • Optional add-on activities


Payment Policy

Deposit Payment

  • Deposit is 50% of the total booking amount

  • Deposit can be paid via bank transfer or online card payment

  • A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges). This is non-refundable

  • Bank accounts are available in 10 different currencies for bank transfers

  • Once deposit payment is made, you will receive a booking confirmation

Balance Payment

  • Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or cash

  • Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior)

  • Card payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior)

  • A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges). This is non-refundable

  • Cash can be paid on arrival (US Dollars printed in or after the year 2009)


Cancellation Policy

Notice Period Cancellation Fee
120+ days before departure 5% of tour amount
119 – 90 days before departure 10% of tour amount
89 – 60 days before departure 20% of tour amount
59 – 31 days before departure 30% of tour amount
30 – 0 days before departure 50% of tour amount

Note 1: In all refund cases, card processing fees (5%) or wire transfer fees ($25) will be deducted.

Partial Cancellation Policy

  • If group size reduces, the above cancellation policy applies to canceling clients

  • In addition, the price per person for remaining clients may change based on the new group size

Note 2: Cancellation policy may differ for some packages based on accommodations included, particularly for Comfort, Superior, and Luxury packages, to match the respective accommodation providers' policies.


Add-On Activities

Masai Mara Add-Ons

Activity Cost (Per Person)
Hot Air Balloon Ride (1 hour) From $460 (Adult) / $330 (Child)
Masai Village Visit (1 hour) $25
Sundowner $35 – $100 (depending on hotel)

Lake Nakuru Add-Ons

Activity Cost (Per Person)
Boat Ride (up to 3 hours) $150 (Adult) / $80 (Child)

Hell's Gate National Park, Naivasha Add-Ons

Activity Cost (Per Person)
Hell's Gate National Park fees $50 (Adult) / $25 (Child)
Biking tour in Hell's Gate National Park $30 (Adult) / $30 (Child)
Walking tour in Hell's Gate National Park $25 (up to 4 pax)

Sanctuary Farm, Naivasha Add-Ons

Activity Cost (Per Person)
Horse Riding (1 hour) $50 (Adult) / $45 (Child)
Horse Riding (2 hours) $80 (Adult) / $75 (Child)

Mt. Longonot National Park, Naivasha Add-Ons

Activity Cost (Per Person)
Mt. Longonot Hike (up to 5 hours) $65 (Adult) / $40 (Child)

Please note that children's rates are applicable to specific age groups. For details on child policies for each activity, please contact us directly.

Tour Includes

  • Accommodation in luxury lodges
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Park entrance fees
  • Professional tour guide
  • Airport transfers

Tour Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Personal expenses (Tips, Souvenirs)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance