From rare rhinos and chimpanzees in a private conservancy to flamingo-fringed lakes and the untamed drama of the Maasai Mara – a richly layered safari through Kenya’s most diverse ecosystems.
Overview
This six-day safari is a diverse and immersive journey through central Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife regions, combining conservation-focused experiences with classic savannah game viewing. The itinerary features Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha and the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Beginning and ending in Nairobi, the safari unfolds across the lush highlands of Laikipia, the dramatic Great Rift Valley and the vast plains of the Mara, offering a seamless progression of landscapes and wildlife encounters.
From tracking endangered rhinos and visiting the last remaining northern white rhinos at Ol Pejeta, to witnessing flamingos and big cats at Lake Nakuru, enjoying tranquil lakeside experiences at Naivasha, and finally experiencing the unmatched wildlife density of the Maasai Mara – this itinerary delivers a comprehensive and deeply rewarding safari experience.
Trip Highlights
- Visit to a leading conservation area at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Opportunity to see endangered rhinos and chimpanzees
- Flamingos and rhinos at Lake Nakuru
- Boat safaris and walking experiences at Lake Naivasha
- Big Five safari experience in Maasai Mara
- Scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley
Itinerary
This six-day safari unfolds as a richly varied journey through Kenya’s highlands, lakes and savannahs, offering a balance of conservation, scenic beauty and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Drive Time: Approx. 4 - 5 hours
07:30 a.m. - 08:30 a.m. | Pickup from Nairobi Hotel / Residence
Your safari begins with a scenic drive north from Nairobi into the fertile highlands of central Kenya.
The journey takes you past coffee plantations, rolling hills and small rural towns, with the landscape gradually becoming greener and cooler as you approach Laikipia.
On clear days, Mount Kenya may be visible in the distance, adding a dramatic backdrop to the journey.
12:30 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge within or near Ol Pejeta Conservancy and enjoy lunch overlooking the surrounding plains.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive and Conservancy Experience
Set out on your first game drive within this renowned private conservancy, known for its strong conservation efforts and high wildlife density.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Black and white rhinos, including some of the highest concentrations in Kenya
-Lions, elephants and buffalo
-Giraffes, zebras and various antelope species
A highlight of Ol Pejeta is the opportunity to visit the last remaining northern white rhinos, offering a rare and meaningful conservation experience.
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight, surrounded by the peaceful highland environment and distant sounds of wildlife at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1: Budget | Riverside Villas Nanyuki | The Glacier Hotel
Option 2: Standard | Sarova Maiyan Hotel | Peaks Hotel Nanyuki | Esiankiki Resort | lifestyle Villas Nanyuki
Option 3: Luxury | Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Maisha Sweetwaters Camp | Ol Pejeta House
Option 4: Above Luxury | Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club | Kicheche Valley Camps | Tambarare Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Chimpanzee sanctuary visit
-Night game drive within the conservancy
-Guided bush walk
Distance: Approx. 160 km
Drive Time: Approx. 3 - 4 hours
06:30 a.m. - 07:30 a.m. | Breakfast in the Highlands
Enjoy breakfast with views of the surrounding plains and, on clear mornings,
08:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Scenic Drive to the Great Rift Valley
Depart Ol Pejeta and travel south into the Great Rift Valley, descending through dramatic escarpments with sweeping panoramic views.
01:00 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge near Lake Nakuru National Park and enjoy lunch overlooking the park’s landscapes.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Game Drive
Explore Lake Nakuru, a compact yet wildlife-rich park known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-White and black rhinos
-Flamingos and other water birds along the lake shores
-Lions and leopards
-Rothschild giraffes and buffalo
The lake’s shimmering waters and surrounding acacia woodlands create a visually striking safari environment.
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the lodge within the tranquil setting of the Rift Valley at the accommodation of your choice from the options below.
Option 1 : Standard | Lake Nakuru Lodge | Flamingo Hill Camp
Option 2 : Luxury | Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge | Sarova Lion Hill
Option 3 : Above Luxury | The Cliff, Nakuru,
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Guided nature walks
-Birdwatching excursions
Distance: Approx. 70 km
Drive Time: Approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
06:30 a.m. - 08:30 a.m. | Morning Game Drive and Breakfast
Begin the day with a morning game drive, capturing the park at its most active before returning for breakfast.
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Transfer to Lake Naivasha
A short scenic drive takes you deeper into the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha.
12:30 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lakeside lodge and enjoy lunch surrounded by acacia trees and abundant birdlife.
03:30 p.m. - 06:30 p.m. | Afternoon Lake Experience
The environment shifts to a more tranquil and intimate safari setting.
Expect to encounter:
-Hippos along the lake shores
-Fish eagles soaring overhead
-Giraffes, zebras and antelope grazing nearby
-A wide variety of bird species
Evening | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight at the lodge, with the calm atmosphere of the lake providing a relaxing contrast to the previous days.
Options 1 : Budget | Hotel Chambai Safari
Options 2 : Standard | Panorama Hotel
Options 3 : Luxury | Naivasha Crescent Camp
Optional Activities (at Extra Cost):
-Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha
-Guided Walking Safari on Crescent Island
-Cycling or Hiking in Hell’s Gate National Park
-Visit Olkaria Geothermal Spa
-Birdwatching Experience
06:30 - 07:30 | Breakfast by the Lake
Enjoy breakfast with views of the tranquil lake and surrounding wildlife.
08:00 - 01:00 | Scenic Drive to Maasai Mara
Depart Naivasha and travel through the highlands and Maasai countryside.
The landscape gradually opens into vast savannah plains as you approach the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve.
01:30 p.m. | Arrival and Lunch
Arrive at your lodge or camp and enjoy lunch before a short rest.
03:30 - 06:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Your first game drive in the Mara introduces you to one of Africa’s richest wildlife ecosystems.
Wildlife commonly observed includes:
-Lions in prides
-Cheetahs scanning the plains
-Elephants moving in herds
-Zebras and wildebeests grazing in large numbers
19:30 - 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner and overnight in the heart of the savannah in 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
-Private guided game drive
06:30 – 08:30 | Early Morning Game Drive
Set out at sunrise when wildlife is at its most active. This is prime time to witness predator behavior — lions returning from night hunts, hyenas on patrol, and cheetahs preparing for morning pursuits. The golden morning light offers spectacular photographic opportunities.
08:30 – 09:30 | Breakfast
Return to camp for a relaxed breakfast or enjoy a picnic breakfast in the bush, depending on wildlife movement and your preference.
10:00 – 13:00 | Extended Game Viewing
Explore different sections of the reserve, including riverine habitats where hippos wallow and Nile crocodiles bask along riverbanks. During migration season (typically July–October), vast herds of wildebeest and zebra may be observed traversing the plains in one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
13:00 – 14:00 | Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch under a shaded tree or return to the lodge for a hot meal and short rest.
15:30 – 18:30 | Afternoon Game Drive
Continue tracking wildlife in areas not yet explored. The Maasai Mara’s density of predators increases your chances of spotting the Big Five — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Your guide shares insights into animal behavior, conservation efforts, and Maasai traditions connected to the land.
19:30 – 21:00 | Dinner and Overnight
Dinner at the lodge followed by leisure time around the campfire, reflecting on the day’s remarkable sightings 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)
-Early morning Hot Air Balloon Safari
-Maasai cultural village visit
-Private sundowner experience
Distance: Approx. 270 km
Drive Time: Approx. 5 - 6 hours
06:30 a.m. - 07:30 a.m. | Breakfast with Savannah Views
Enjoy your final morning overlooking the Mara plains.
08:00 a.m. | Departure with Optional Game Viewing
Depart with a chance for final wildlife sightings.
01:00 p.m. - 02:00 p.m. | Lunch Stop En Route
Optional lunch stop during the journey.
03:00 p.m. - 04:00 p.m. | Arrival in Nairobi
Drop-off at your hotel, residence or airport.
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
- Park entrance fees for all parks and conservancies
- Accommodation for 5 nights
- All meals as per itinerary
- Game drives as per itinerary
- 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
Ol Pejeta is a private conservancy focused on conservation, offering closer wildlife encounters, night game drives and unique experiences such as visiting the last northern white rhinos.
Yes, Ol Pejeta hosts a chimpanzee sanctuary, the only one in Kenya, where rescued chimpanzees are cared for in a protected environment.
Flamingo numbers vary depending on water levels, but the park consistently offers excellent birdlife and reliable rhino sightings.
It is a freshwater lake offering boat safaris, walking safaris and close encounters with hippos and birdlife, unlike traditional savannah parks.
Yes, it is one of the best locations in Africa for spotting lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos.
The Mara offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, with the Great Migration typically between July and October.
Yes, it provides a comprehensive and well-balanced introduction to Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife.
Pack light clothing in neutral colours, a warm layer for mornings, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera.
Yes, accommodation levels, activities and duration can be tailored to suit your preferences.
