6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and Masai Mara Mid-Range Safari
6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and Masai Mara Mid-Range Safari
Embark on a six-day journey that promises an unforgettable African adventure through Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. This meticulously curated itinerary takes you from the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park, to the serene waters of Lake Naivasha, and finally, to the wildlife-rich plains of the Masai Mara.
Day 1 Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Amboseli National Park
Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from Nairobi. The journey to Amboseli National Park, approximately four hours south of Nairobi, offers glimpses of rural Kenya, a tapestry of bustling markets, small towns, and stretches of open savannah.
Amboseli National Park – The Land of Giants
Amboseli is celebrated for its unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Once you arrive, you’ll have lunch at your mid-range lodge, set against the stunning backdrop of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit. The afternoon game drive reveals Amboseli’s abundance of elephants, often seen against this majestic mountain. Besides elephants, the park shelters a diverse array of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, and an array of bird species.
Evening Relaxation
Conclude your day with a sundowner overlooking the park’s vast plains before a hearty dinner. As the night unfolds, savor the symphony of nature under the starlit African sky.
Day 2 Explore Amboseli National Park
The morning begins early, as the golden hour light illuminates Amboseli’s diverse ecosystems. This is the prime time for wildlife viewing, especially as animals are most active in the cooler hours. With the backdrop of Kilimanjaro, photographers have the chance to capture picture-perfect moments.
The Unique Elephant Herds
Amboseli is renowned for its large herds of elephants, which have been the subject of extensive research. You’ll have an opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close, observing their social dynamics and the gentle way they move through the landscape.
Swamps and Birdlife
Explore the park’s swamps, fed by underground rivers stemming from Kilimanjaro. These wetlands provide a lifeline for hippos and a host of water birds such as herons, pelicans, and African jacanas. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at your lodge before embarking on an afternoon game drive.
Cultural Experience
For those interested, an optional visit to a Maasai village can be arranged. The Maasai people, with their vibrant traditions and rich culture, offer a fascinating glimpse into life on these ancient lands.
Day 3 Amboseli to Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Lake Naivasha, traversing the Great Rift Valley. This journey offers awe-inspiring views, with numerous stops to admire the escarpments and volcanic landscapes.
Arrival and Lunch at Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake fringed by papyrus, is a sanctuary for birds and a tranquil haven for water-based activities. After settling into your mid-range accommodation, you’ll enjoy lunch while observing the serene lakeshore, often dotted with grazing hippos.
Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha
An afternoon boat safari unveils the lake’s vibrant avian life. Watch African fish eagles swoop down to catch fish with astonishing precision, and marvel at the herons, cormorants, and kingfishers. The cruise also provides close encounters with hippos, their massive forms partially submerged in the water.
Nature Walk at Crescent Island
Disembark for a guided nature walk on Crescent Island, a private sanctuary. Here, you can walk alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelopes in an environment where predators are absent, making it a safe and unique experience.
Day 4 Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara National Reserve
Depart Lake Naivasha after breakfast and head to the world-renowned Masai Mara. This drive showcases more of the Rift Valley’s dramatic terrain, and you’ll have a stop to enjoy lunch en route.
Arrival at the Masai Mara
Upon arrival, you’ll check into your mid-range tented camp or lodge, strategically located to offer access to the Mara’s bountiful wildlife. The afternoon game drive begins with a flourish, as the Masai Mara’s rich biodiversity becomes immediately apparent. Witness herds of wildebeests, gazelles, and zebras dotting the plains, and keep an eye out for predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
The Great Migration (Seasonal Highlight)
If your visit coincides with the Great Migration (July to October), you’ll have the chance to see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Thousands of wildebeests and zebras cross the crocodile-infested Mara River, driven by an age-old quest for greener pastures.
Evening Campfire Experience
End your day around a campfire, swapping stories with fellow travelers as the Maasai warriors regale you with tales of the bush. The sounds of the wild provide a captivating soundtrack to your evening.
Day 5 Full-Day Game Drive in the Masai Mara
A full day in the Masai Mara allows you to explore its diverse landscapes, from open savannahs to riverine forests. You’ll set out with a packed picnic, maximizing your time in search of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Iconic Wildlife Encounters
From prides of lions lounging in the grass to the elusive leopard draped over a tree branch, the Masai Mara’s wildlife diversity is staggering. The reserve is also a haven for cheetahs, often seen perched on termite mounds, scanning the horizon for prey.
The Mara River
You’ll visit the Mara River, infamous for its deadly crossings during the Great Migration. Even outside migration season, the river teems with crocodiles and hippos, offering thrilling wildlife encounters.
Birdwatching and Scenic Vistas
The Masai Mara is home to over 470 bird species. Enthusiasts can spot everything from the striking lilac-breasted roller to the towering Masai ostrich. Return to your camp as the sun sets, painting the sky in vivid hues, and savor a sumptuous dinner under the stars.
Day 6 Morning Game Drive and Return to Nairobi
The final day begins with a morning game drive, your last chance to soak in the magic of the Mara. After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll pack your bags and bid farewell to this wildlife paradise.
Scenic Drive Back to Nairobi
The drive back to Nairobi is an opportunity to reflect on your incredible journey. Upon arrival, you’ll either be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of a transformative safari experience.