Iconic predator territories, serene freshwater landscapes, Kilimanjaro-framed elephant encounters and dramatic volcanic wilderness – culminating in a seamless Indian Ocean escape.
Overview
This six-day safari presents a rich and immersive journey across Kenya’s most captivating landscapes, combining the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, the tranquil beauty of Lake Naivasha, the elephant-filled plains of Amboseli National Park, and the dramatic volcanic terrain of Tsavo West National Park.
From the predator-rich savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the calm freshwater shores of Lake Naivasha, this safari blends exhilarating wildlife encounters with moments of quiet reflection. The journey continues south to Amboseli, where vast elephant herds roam beneath the towering presence of Mount Kilimanjaro, before transitioning into the rugged and diverse landscapes of Tsavo West – a park defined by lava flows, natural springs and striking scenery.
The experience concludes with a seamless transfer to Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline, offering the perfect contrast between wild adventure and coastal relaxation.
Trip Highlights
- Big Five safari experience in Maasai Mara
- Optional walking safari at Crescent Island
- Iconic elephant encounters in Amboseli
- Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Shetani lava flows and Mzima Springs in Tsavo West
- Scenic journeys across the Great Rift Valley
- Seamless safari-to-beach transition
Itinerary
This six-day safari begins in Nairobi with a journey into the Maasai Mara, followed by a scenic transfer to Lake Naivasha. The adventure continues south to Amboseli beneath Mount Kilimanjaro, then into the rugged terrain of Tsavo West before concluding with a transfer to the Kenyan coast.
Distance: Approx. 270 km
Drive Time: Approx. 5 - 6 hours
07:30 a.m. - 08:00 a.m. | Pickup from Nairobi
Depart Nairobi and descend into the Great Rift Valley, where dramatic escarpments and sweeping views provide a stunning introduction to your safari. As you journey onwards, the landscape gradually opens into the iconic savannah plains of the Maasai Mara, dotted with acacia trees and wildlife.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge or camp in the Maasai Mara and enjoy a relaxed lunch. The surrounding plains often host zebras, antelope and other wildlife, offering your first glimpse into this remarkable ecosystem.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Head out for your first game drive across the Mara’s vast plains. The late afternoon light enhances the scenery as predators begin to emerge and herbivores gather in open areas.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Lions resting or preparing to hunt
-Cheetahs scanning the plains
-Elephants moving in family groups
-Zebras and wildebeests grazing
-Hyenas and jackals
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Return to camp as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in rich hues. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in a tranquil setting, accompanied by the distant sounds of wildlife at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
.Option 1: Budget Rhino Tourist Camp | Lenchada Tourist Camp | Mara Ntulele Camp | Enchoro Wildlife Camp | Sunset Camp Masai Mara | Greenwood Safari Camp
Option 2: Standard Jambo Mara Safari Lodge | Aruba Mara Camp | Osero Camp | Enkorok Mara Camp | Simba + Oryx Nature Camp
Option 3: Luxury Mara Sopa Lodge | Sentrim Maasai Mara | AA Lodge | Sekenani Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury Sarova Mara Game Camp | Ashnil Mara Camp | Muthu Keekorok Lodge | Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Mara Simba Lodge | Fig Tree Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Hot air balloon safari (subject to availability)
-Maasai cultural village visit
06:30 a.m. - 08:30 a.m. | Sunrise Game Drive
Set out early to experience the Mara at its most active. The cool morning air carries the sounds of wildlife, and predators are often on the move after a night of hunting. The golden light enhances the beauty of the savannah, making this one of the most rewarding times for photography.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Lions and cheetahs on the move
-Elephants crossing open plains
-Giraffes browsing acacia trees
-Seasonal wildebeest herds
08:30 a.m. - 09:30 a.m. | Breakfast at Camp
Return to camp for a relaxed breakfast while taking in uninterrupted views of the surrounding wilderness.
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Leisure and Lodge Experience
Enjoy time to unwind at the lodge. Relax by the pool, take in the scenery, or observe wildlife from the comfort of your camp.
12:30 p.m. | Lunch at Camp
A freshly prepared lunch is served, offering a welcome break before the afternoon exploration.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Continue exploring different regions of the reserve, discovering new wildlife interactions and landscapes as the sun begins to set over the plains.
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Return to camp for your final evening in the Mara, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable sightings for dinner and overnight at the accommodation options below.
Option 1: Budget | Rhino Tourist Camp | Lenchada Tourist Camp | Mara Ntulele Camp | Enchoro Wildlife Camp | Sunset Camp Masai Mara | Greenwood Safari Camp
Option 2: Standard | Jambo Mara Safari Lodge | Aruba Mara Camp | Osero Camp | Enkorok Mara Camp | Simba + Oryx Nature Camp
Option 3: Luxury | Mara Sopa Lodge | Sentrim Maasai Mara | AA Lodge | Sekenani Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury | Sarova Mara Game Camp | Ashnil Mara Camp | Muthu Keekorok Lodge | Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Mara Simba Lodge | Fig Tree Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Hot air balloon safari (subject to availability)
-Guided nature walk
Distance: Approx. 250 km
Drive Time: Approx. 5 - 6 hours
07:00 a.m. - 08:00 a.m. | Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at camp as the morning light reveals the beauty of the Mara one last time.
08:00 a.m. - 01:00 p.m. | Scenic Drive through the Rift Valley
Depart the Mara and journey through rolling hills, rural settlements and fertile farmlands. The drive offers scenic views of the Great Rift Valley as you make your way towards Lake Naivasha.
01:30 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge near Lake Naivasha and enjoy lunch in a serene lakeside setting, often with views of grazing wildlife and birdlife.
03:30 p.m. - 05:30 p.m. | Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
Enjoy a relaxing boat safari across the calm waters of the lake, where hippos can be seen resting and a variety of bird species thrive along the shoreline.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Hippos in the water
-Fish eagles and other bird species
-Giraffes and zebras along the shores
05:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Optional Visit to Crescent Island
Take a guided walking safari on Crescent Island, offering a unique opportunity to walk among giraffes, zebras and antelope in a safe and scenic environment.
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the accommodation options below.
Option 1 : Budget | Hotel Chambai Safari
Option 2 : Standard | Panorama Hotel
Option 3 : Luxury | Naivasha Crescent Camp
Option 4 : Above Luxury | Sawela Lodge | Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort | Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Guided walking safari at Crescent Island
-Bird watching experience
Distance: Approx. 320 km
Drive Time: Approx. 6 - 7 hours
06:30 a.m. - 07:30 a.m. | Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast overlooking the calm waters of Lake Naivasha, with birds active along the shoreline.
08:00 a.m. - 02:00 p.m. | Scenic Journey South via Nairobi
Travel south through Nairobi and onward towards Amboseli. The landscape transitions from lush highlands to open plains, offering a glimpse into Kenya’s diverse geography and rural life.
02:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge in Amboseli National Park and enjoy lunch with views of the plains, often framed by Mount Kilimanjaro.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Explore Amboseli’s unique ecosystem of swamps and open plains, where wildlife gathers around water sources.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Large elephant herds
-Lions resting in the grasslands
-Buffalo, giraffes and zebras
-Wildebeests and antelope
-Abundant birdlife
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget Rhino Tourist Camp | Lenchada Tourist Camp | Mara Ntulele Camp | Enchoro Wildlife Camp | Sunset Camp Masai Mara | Greenwood Safari Camp
Option 2: Standard Jambo Mara Safari Lodge | Aruba Mara Camp | Osero Camp | Enkorok Mara Camp | Simba + Oryx Nature Camp
Option 3: Luxury Mara Sopa Lodge | Sentrim Maasai Mara | AA Lodge | Sekenani Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury Sarova Mara Game Camp | Ashnil Mara Camp | Muthu Keekorok Lodge | Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Mara Simba Lodge | Fig Tree Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Maasai cultural village visit
-Guided nature walk
Distance: Approx. 160 km
Drive Time: Approx. 3 - 4 hours
07:00 a.m. - 08:00 a.m. | Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast with views of Amboseli’s plains, often with wildlife visible in the distance as the day begins.
08:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Scenic Drive to Tsavo West
Depart Amboseli and journey towards Tsavo West National Park, where the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic, characterised by volcanic formations and rolling hills.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge and enjoy lunch surrounded by the unique scenery of Tsavo West.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive and Visit to Mzima Springs
Explore the park’s diverse terrain, including a visit to the famous Mzima Springs, where crystal-clear waters attract hippos and crocodiles.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Elephants and buffalo
-Lions and leopards
-Hippos and crocodiles at Mzima Springs
-Giraffes and antelope species
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight in the heart of this dramatic wilderness at the accommodation of your choice as per the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Tsavo Inn Lodge
Option 2: Standard | Ngulia Safari Lodge
Option 3: Luxury | Voyager Ziwani Camp | Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge | Severin Safari Camp
Option 4: Above Luxury | Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Guided visit to Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary
-Sundowner overlooking the hills
Distance: Approx. 250 - 300 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 6 hours
07:00 a.m. - 08:00 a.m. | Breakfast
Enjoy your final breakfast surrounded by the rugged beauty of Tsavo West, with the sounds of nature providing a memorable farewell to the safari.
08:00 a.m. | Departure
Depart the park and begin your journey towards the Kenyan coast.
01:00 p.m. - 02:00 p.m. | Lunch Stop En Route
Optional stop for lunch along the way, offering time to relax as the scenery transitions towards coastal vegetation.
02:00 p.m. - 03:30 p.m. | Arrival at Coastal Destination
Arrival and drop-off at your beach hotel in Mombasa, Diani, Kilifi, Malindi or Watamu.
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Souvenir shopping stop en route
Inclusions / Exclusions
Package includes
- Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- All park entrance fees
- 5 nights accommodation
- All meals as per itinerary
- Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
- Bottled mineral water during game drives
- Government taxes and levies
Excludes
- International flights
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Optional activities
- Lunch on Day 6 (unless specified)
- Tips and gratuities (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it combines Kenya’s most iconic parks with varied landscapes and experiences, making it ideal for first-time travellers.
Tsavo West is known for its rugged terrain, volcanic landscapes, Mzima Springs and diverse wildlife habitats.
Expect lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles and a wide range of bird species.
There is a strong chance, especially in the Maasai Mara, though sightings are not guaranteed.
It offers a unique freshwater ecosystem with boat safaris and walking experiences not found in most parks.
Yes, it is conducted by experienced guides with safety measures in place.
Kilimanjaro is often visible in Amboseli during clear mornings and evenings.
Some journeys are longer but are scenic and form part of the overall safari experience.
Light, neutral-coloured clothing, a warm layer, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and a camera.
Yes, it is suitable for families with appropriate supervision.
Yes, the itinerary ends at the coast, making it easy to extend your beach holiday.
Yes, accommodation levels and activities can be tailored to suit your preferences.
