5-Day Kenya Safari: Aberdare, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Adventure
5-Day Kenya Safari: Aberdare, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Adventure
Why This Safari Is Perfect for First-Time Visitors
Embark on a compact but unforgettable 5-day journey through three distinct wild Kenya landscapes. From misty forest waterholes and majestic highland waterfalls to flamingo-dusted Rift-Valley lakes and the iconic savannah of Masai Mara — this safari packs Kenya’s must-see highlights into one seamless trip. With full board lodges, expert guides, and all park fees included, you get comfort, convenience and incredible wildlife in one easy package.
Itinerary Overview
Day | Route & Key Activities | Wildlife & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nairobi → Aberdare National Park • Depart Nairobi after breakfast. • Scenic drive through Kenyan highlands — tea & coffee plantations, Mt. Kenya views. • Lunch at Outspan Hotel. • Afternoon transfer to Treetops Lodge or The Ark Lodge. Evening arrival. • Night-time observation at floodlit waterholes — ideal for photography under soft lights. | Elephants, buffalo, rhinos, bushbuck, warthogs, night birds, possibly lions. |
| Day 2 | Aberdare → Nyahururu (Thompson’s Falls) → Lake Nakuru • Early breakfast and drive north through Aberdare’s forested slopes. • Stop at Thompson Falls (Nyahururu) for a short walk & photos. • Continue into the Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru Lodge or similar accommodation. Afternoon game-drive at Lake Nakuru National Park. | Millions of flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, storks. Large mammal sightings: Rothschild giraffes, black & white rhino, warthogs. Rich birdlife (400+ species). |
| Day 3 | Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara National Reserve • After breakfast, depart Rift Valley and drive towards Masai Mara. • Arrival by lunchtime; check-in at your camp or lodge. • Afternoon game drive — begin exploring Mara’s vast plains. | Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elephants, antelopes, large predators (lion, leopard, hyena), hippos in rivers, diverse birdlife. |
| Day 4 | Full Day in Masai Mara • Sunrise game drive (golden hour). • Midday rest/lunch at camp. • Afternoon game drive or optional add-ons (balloon safari, cultural visit to a Maasai village). • Sun-down game drive — perfect for photography of savannah sunset. | Lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs or wild dogs (rare), antelopes, warthogs, many bird species. Optionally river hippos/crocodiles if near Mara River. |
| Day 5 | Morning game drive → Return to Nairobi • Early morning drive for final wildlife viewing. • Breakfast, depart camp. • Drive back to Nairobi, reaching mid-afternoon / early evening. | Final chance for sightings (maybe elephants, giraffes, birds), farewell to Kenyan wilderness. |
What’s Included & What’s Not
Included:
Comfortable safari land cruiser (pop-up roof) with English-speaking guide
All park entrance fees & government levies
Full-board accommodation (camp or lodge) for 4 nights
3 meals per day (vegetarian & non-vegetarian options)
Bottled drinking water during safari
Wildlife drives as per itinerary
Excluded / Optional:
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
Soft drinks & alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance (recommended)
Gratuities/tips for guide & staff
Optional visits (e.g. Maasai village, hot-air balloon ride, upgrades)
Why Choose This 5-Day Safari
✅ Diverse Landscapes & Wildlife: From Aberdare’s forests and waterholes to Rift-Valley lakes and Masai Mara savannahs — in one trip.
✅ Compact but Comprehensive: Ideal for travellers with limited time but who want to experience Kenya’s top safari highlights.
✅ Comfort & Convenience: Lodges/camps, meals, transport all arranged — minimal hassle for you.
✅ Flexibility & Customization: Option to upgrade accommodations, add extras (balloon ride, cultural visit), tailor meals, etc.
✅ Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides who know the parks and wildlife behaviours — maximising your chances for great sightings.
✅ Best Time to Go & What to Pack
Best Time:
Dry season (June–October) for easier wildlife viewing & comfortable drives.
Flamingo season at Lake Nakuru (often visible November–April, but check recent local reports).
What to Pack (suggested):
Neutral-coloured safari clothes, light jacket or fleece (Aberdare nights can be cool)
Binoculars, camera, extra camera batteries & memory cards
Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent
Closed shoes for forest & waterfall visits; sandals/flip-flops for lodge
Reusable water bottle, small daypack
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need prior safari experience for this trip?
A: No. This itinerary is designed for first-time and experienced travellers alike. Our guides will brief you on wildlife viewing etiquette and photography best practices.
Q: How far is the drive from Nairobi to Aberdare / Masai Mara?
A: Nairobi → Aberdare takes around 2.5–3 hours depending on traffic. Nairobi → Masai Mara (on Day 3) takes approx. 5–6 hours by road.
Q: Are children allowed?
A: At Treetops Lodge and The Ark, children under 7 are typically not permitted — please enquire about child policies when booking.
Q: What happens if there are no wildlife sightings?
A: Safari sightings depend on nature. However, we maximise chances with multiple game drives at prime times (early morning, late afternoon) and guides experienced in tracking animals.
Q: Can the itinerary be customised or extended?
A: Yes. You can request lodge upgrades, extra nights, balloon safaris, Maasai village visits, or combine with coastal beach holidays.
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Tour Contact
- Lake Nakuru
- info@saferidesafaris.com
- +254722496558
- https://www.saferidesafaris.com