Wild Encounters: A 5-Day Safari Odyssey from Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara

Your safari begins with an early pickup in Nairobi, whether from your hotel, residence, or the airport, as we journey north to Lake Naivasha. The drive offers stunning scenery, with rugged ridges, rocky outcrops, and volcanic landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll visit Hells Gate National Park, one of the few places in Kenya where you can enjoy a cycling safari. Strap on your helmet and bike along a 7-kilometer route, passing herds of herbivores and dramatic volcanic rock formations. Alternatively, you can opt for a walking safari to get closer to the local wildlife and flora.

After this adventurous morning, you’ll be driven to your accommodation within the park, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see thousands of flamingos that flock here for feeding and mating. You’ll also explore Crescent Island on foot, where bird enthusiasts can get a close look at the lake’s diverse birdlife. Return to your camp or lodge in the evening for a delicious dinner.

After breakfast, depart for Lake Nakuru, another stunning destination in the Great African Rift Valley. Known for its incredible birdlife, Lake Nakuru is home to over 400 species of birds, including the famous flamingos. As you arrive, enjoy an early game drive to spot wildlife before heading to your accommodation for lunch.

The area around the lake is also home to black and white rhinos and Rothschild giraffes, among other animals. You’ll have the opportunity to take a walking safari along the shores of the lake to learn more about the wetland ecosystem. After a day of adventure, return to your lodge or camp for a hearty dinner and some relaxation.

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a drive to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. As you travel through the Great African Rift Valley, you’ll notice the dramatic change in scenery, with the dry grasslands of the Mara stretching before you. The Maasai Mara is home to some of Africa’s most abundant wildlife, including all of the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.

Upon arrival at the park, enjoy an afternoon game drive, followed by lunch at your chosen lodge or camp. Later, head back out to explore more of the park’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. After a fulfilling day, return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight rest.

Experience an unforgettable morning by starting your day with a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara at dawn. This optional activity, priced at $425 per person, offers stunning aerial views of the plains and an opportunity to spot wildlife from above. Following the balloon ride, enjoy a champagne breakfast with panoramic views of the savanna. If you prefer, you can opt for a morning game drive instead.

The rest of the day is dedicated to exploring more of the Maasai Mara, with a game drive through the park. Your guide will work closely with others to help you spot the Big Five and other wildlife you’re most eager to see. In the evening, enjoy your final dinner in the park, with scenic views of the Mara’s grasslands.

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Nairobi. As you leave the Maasai Mara, you’ll have one last opportunity to enjoy the wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. On the drive to Nairobi, you’ll pass through scenic rural areas before arriving in the city around lunchtime.

Upon arrival, you can enjoy a final meal at a restaurant of your choice before bidding farewell to your guide. Afterward, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or the international airport, depending on your onward travel plans.