Kenya Safari Itinerary: Big Five, Maasai Mara & Lakes

7 Days Safari.

Safari Overview.

Experience the ultimate 7-day Kenya safari, exploring the country’s most iconic wildlife reserves. Begin in Nairobi before heading to the Maasai Mara for thrilling game drives and Big Five sightings, with the chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Visit Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for flamingos, rhinos, and diverse wildlife, then continue to Lake Naivasha for a boat safari and encounters with hippos and birds. Explore Hell’s Gate National Park by bike or on foot, and enjoy a peaceful walk on Crescent Island among giraffes and zebras.

 

End your adventure in Nairobi with a farewell lunch at the Carnivore Restaurant before departure. This safari blends wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences, showcasing the best of Kenya’s natural wonders.

7 Days Safari.

Low Season (Green/Rainy Season)

March to May

1 Person
$ 2500
2 People
$ 2350
6 People
$ 2200

High Season (Peak Travel Months)

July to October

1 Person
$2700
2 People
$ 2500
6 People
$ 2400

Trip Itinerary: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Journey.

Day 01 Nairobi
Arrival in Nairobi – Start of Your 7-Day Kenya Safari

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where your professional safari guide will warmly welcome you to Kenya. Receive assistance with your luggage and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Nairobi. Spend the evening settling in, relaxing, and preparing for your 7-day Kenya safari adventure. If you arrive early, you may enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.

Accommodation: Nairobi hotel or similar
Meals: Dinner (for early arrivals)

Day 02 Maasai Mara
Journey to Maasai Mara – Safari Adventure Begins

After breakfast, depart Nairobi and travel to the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife destinations. The scenic drive passes through the stunning Great Rift Valley, offering breathtaking landscapes and photo opportunities along the way.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge or camp, such as Simba Lodge Maasai Mara, and enjoy a hearty lunch before setting out on your first thrilling Maasai Mara game drive. Explore the vast plains teeming with wildlife, from lions and elephants to zebras and giraffes, and begin your search for the Big Five in their natural habitat.

Return to your lodge or camp in the evening for dinner and relaxation, reflecting on your first exciting day in one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.

Accommodation: Simba Lodge Maasai Mara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03 Maasai Mara
Maasai Mara Balloon Safari & Full-Day Game Drive

Experience one of Africa’s most unforgettable adventures with a hot-air balloon safari over the Maasai Mara. Drift gently above the golden plains, winding rivers, and scattered forests as the sun rises, offering panoramic views of wildlife below. This magical journey concludes with a bush breakfast and a celebratory glass of Champagne, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

For travelers who prefer to skip the balloon safari, there’s the option to join a morning game drive or enjoy a leisurely sleep-in before breakfast.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day Maasai Mara game drive, exploring the reserve’s diverse ecosystems in search of lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo—the iconic Big Five. In the late afternoon, return to Simba Lodge Maasai Mara for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Simba Lodge Maasai Mara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: Balloon Safari (optional), Morning & Full-Day Game Drives

Day 04 Nakuru
Journey to Lake Nakuru – Flamingos, Rhinos & Wildlife Safari

After a hearty breakfast, depart the Maasai Mara and travel to Lake Nakuru National Park, a stunning Kenyan sanctuary famous for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. Enjoy the scenic drive through rural Kenya, passing picturesque villages, rolling hills, and lush countryside.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge, such as Lake Nakuru Lodge or a similar property, and enjoy a relaxing lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, where you can spot thousands of flamingos lining the shores, as well as rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife. The park’s diverse ecosystems—from dense forests to open grasslands—create a breathtaking setting for photography and wildlife observation.

Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and a restful night, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable wildlife encounters.

 

Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: Afternoon Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park

Day 05 Naivasha
Lake Naivasha – Boat Ride & Crescent Island Safari Walk

After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, a tranquil freshwater lake framed by rolling hills and scenic landscapes.

In the afternoon, embark on a peaceful boat ride on Lake Naivasha, spotting hippos, waterbirds, and other aquatic wildlife in their natural habitat. Glide along the calm waters while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

Next, experience the Crescent Island Walking Safari, a guided walk on this predator-free sanctuary where you can stroll among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, capturing unforgettable wildlife moments up close.

Return to your lodge, such as Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge or a similar property, for dinner and relaxation, reflecting on a day filled with wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery.

 

Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: Lake Naivasha Boat Ride, Crescent Island Walking Safari

Day 06 Hells Gate
Hell’s Gate National Park – Hiking, Cycling & Wildlife Exploration

After breakfast, head to Hell’s Gate National Park, one of Kenya’s most dramatic landscapes, renowned for towering cliffs, deep gorges, and abundant wildlife.

Choose between a guided hike or cycling adventure through the park, passing herds of zebras, giraffes, and gazelles, while exploring the striking Hell’s Gate Gorge and geothermal features. Capture stunning photos and immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking scenery.

After your outdoor adventure, return to your lodge for leisure. Enjoy the hotel facilities, relax by the pool, or take in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

 

Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities: Guided Hike or Cycling in Hell’s Gate National Park

Day 07 Nairobi
Nairobi – Farewell Lunch at Carnivore Restaurant & Departure

Start your day with a leisurely morning by Lake Naivasha, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and reflecting on your Kenyan safari experiences.

After breakfast, depart for Nairobi, where you’ll savor a farewell lunch at the renowned Carnivore Restaurant. Indulge in a wide variety of roasted meats and local delicacies in a vibrant and lively atmosphere, celebrating the highlights of your 7-day adventure.

Following lunch, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your departure, concluding your unforgettable Kenya safari with memories of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences that will last a lifetime.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Activities: Farewell Lunch at Carnivore Restaurant

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions.
What's Included.
What's excluded.

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Accommodation Tiers

Discover Your Ideal Stay with Our Tiered Accommodations
Whether you’re looking for comfort on a budget or indulgent luxury, our tiered accommodations offer something for every traveler. From essential amenities to premium experiences, each level is designed to match your expectations and elevate your journey.

Silver Tier – Comfort Accommodations

Silver-tier accommodations offer reliable, clean, and comfortable lodging for travelers on a budget or seeking simple, quality stays. These properties often include basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, and friendly service. Ideal for short stays, business trips, or budget-conscious tourists who value functionality over luxury.

Typical Examples:

  • 2–3 star hotels

  • Budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels

  • Basic Airbnb rentals

Best for:
Solo travelers, students, backpackers, or families seeking affordable travel.

Gold Tier – Premium Accommodations

Golden accommodations provide a higher level of service and comfort, featuring stylish rooms, quality furnishings, and enhanced amenities such as dining options, fitness centers, concierge service, and possibly pools or spas. These are often found in prime locations and cater to guests who want a balance of quality and value.

Typical Examples:

  • 4-star hotels

  • Upscale resorts or boutique hotels

  • High-end vacation rentals

 

Best for:
Couples, business travelers, families on vacation, or guests seeking extra comfort.

Platinum Tier – Luxury Accommodations

Platinum accommodations represent the highest standard of hospitality, offering personalized services, opulent designs, and world-class amenities. Expect features such as private butlers, gourmet dining, spa treatments, VIP check-in, and exclusive experiences. These properties focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Typical Examples:

  • 5-star hotels and resorts

  • Luxury villas

  • High-end boutique or heritage properties

Best for:
Luxury travelers, honeymooners, corporate executives, or guests seeking exclusivity and indulgence.

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