Tour Gallery
Overview
This 4-day safari offers a delightful combination of Lake Naivasha's serene beauty and the Masai Mara's thrilling wildlife action. It's an ideal short trip for those with limited time but a desire to experience two of Kenya's diverse and rewarding ecosystems, staying in comfortable mid-range accommodations and guided by knowledgeable local experts.
Tour Suitability:
- Traveler Profile: Perfect for couples, families, and small groups looking for a quick but comprehensive Kenyan safari experience. Suitable for first-timers.
- Pace of Travel: Moderate to Action-Packed, designed to maximize experiences within a 4-day timeframe.
- Interests: Birdwatching and boat rides at Lake Naivasha, Big Five game viewing in Masai Mara, scenic Rift Valley views, and optional cultural interactions.
- Comfort Level: Mid-Range, featuring well-appointed Sopa Lodges or similar, known for their good service and locations.
- Focus: A balanced short safari covering both lake and savannah ecosystems with quality mid-range comfort.
Key Tour Highlights
- Lake Naivasha Experience: Enjoy the tranquil freshwater lake, rich birdlife, and optional boat rides.
- Masai Mara Adventure: Two full days dedicated to exploring the world-renowned Masai Mara, home to the Big Five and incredible wildlife density.
- Comfortable Mid-Range Lodges: Stay at reputable lodges like Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort and Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.
- Scenic Drives: Journey through the Great Rift Valley with picturesque views.
- Experienced Local Guides: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of local guides who enhance your wildlife spotting and overall experience.
Accommodation Style
Your stays will be at well-regarded mid-range lodges such as Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort and Masai Mara Sopa Lodge, or similar establishments chosen by local operators. These lodges offer comfortable rooms, good amenities, pleasant dining experiences, and are strategically located for easy access to park activities, providing a relaxing and enjoyable safari base.
Featured Destinations & Attractions
- Lake Naivasha: A freshwater Rift Valley lake known for abundant birdlife, hippos, and surrounding acacia forests. Optional boat rides are a popular activity.
- Masai Mara National Reserve: Kenya's flagship park, offering unparalleled opportunities to see lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, cheetahs, and the Great Migration (seasonal).
- Great Rift Valley Viewpoints: Stops for scenic photography en route.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or pick-up from your Nairobi hotel, you will be met by your local guide. Proceed to Lake Naivasha, a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley. You may opt for a boat ride on the lake (optional, extra cost) to see hippos and diverse birdlife. After lunch, check into your lodge. (Meals: All meals included)
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort or similar mid-range hotel.
After breakfast, depart from Lake Naivasha and drive towards the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya's most famous wildlife area. The journey takes you through scenic Rift Valley landscapes. Arrive at your lodge in the Masai Mara in time for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first exhilarating game drive in search of the Big Five and other plains game. (Meals: All meals included)
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge or similar mid-range lodge.
Enjoy a full day dedicated to exploring the vast Masai Mara. With picnic lunch boxes provided, you'll venture deep into the reserve for extensive morning and afternoon game drives. Your local guide will use their expertise to help you track lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a host of other animals. An optional visit to a local Maasai village can be arranged in the afternoon (extra cost). (Meals: All meals included)
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge or similar mid-range lodge.
Embark on an early sunrise game drive in the Masai Mara for a final chance to spot wildlife when they are most active. Return to the lodge for breakfast. Afterwards, check out and begin your drive back to Nairobi (approximately 5-6 hours). Enjoy a late lunch upon arrival in Nairobi. You may have some time for souvenir shopping (time permitting) before being transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your departure flight or to your Nairobi hotel. (Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour).
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
- Professional guide
- Activities (as written in the itinerary)
- Entry fee
- Taxes
- A bottle of drinking water
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas