5 DAYS MASAI MARA & LAKE NAKURU SAFARI

5-Day Masai Mara Lake Nakuru Safari Overview

Explore two of Kenya’s most rewarding wildlife destinations on this 5-day Masai Mara Lake Nakuru safari from Nairobi.

The journey begins with three nights in the Masai Mara region. An arrival-day game drive, a full safari day, and an additional morning wildlife drive provide more game-viewing time than shorter two-night itineraries. The Mara’s open grasslands support predators, elephants and large populations of plains wildlife. Depending on the travel season and natural conditions, wildebeest and zebra migration herds may also be present in the wider ecosystem.

Next, travel through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. This compact park offers opportunities to search for black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes and diverse birdlife within woodland, grassland and lakeshore habitats. The standard package operates as a group-joining safari using a shared safari van. Private transport, a 4×4 Land Cruiser, and upgraded accommodation can also be arranged.

This itinerary suits solo travelers, couples, families, friends, photographers, and first-time safari guests seeking an affordable Kenya safari from Nairobi.

Safari at a Glance

• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Destinations: Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru
• Route: Nairobi → Masai Mara → Lake Nakuru → Nairobi
• Start and end point: Nairobi
• Safari type: Group-joining Kenya safari
• Private option: Available on request
• Transport: Shared safari van with a pop-up roof
• Vehicle upgrade: Private customized 4×4 Land Cruiser
• Accommodation: Budget, standard, midrange, or luxury
• Meals: According to the confirmed itinerary
• Game drives: Shared and professionally guided
• Masai Mara stay: Three nights
• Lake Nakuru stay: One night
• Suitable for: Solo travelers, couples, families, friends, and photographers
• Customization: Private versions can be customized
• Starting price: From USD 600 per person sharing

Safari Route

Nairobi → Masai Mara National Reserve → Lake Nakuru National Park → Nairobi

Why This Safari Route Works

This itinerary follows a practical circuit through Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. It travels southwest from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, then continues northeast to Lake Nakuru and returns directly to Nairobi.

Three nights in the Masai Mara provide more wildlife-viewing time than a short two-night program. Guests have an arrival drive, a full safari day, and an additional morning experience before departing for Lake Nakuru. Lake Nakuru adds a different ecosystem and strong rhino-viewing potential. Its location also provides a convenient final safari stop before returning to Nairobi.

The route avoids unnecessary travel to distant national parks. As a result, it is well suited to travelers who have five days available but still want extended time in the Masai Mara.

Group-Joining Safari Information

The starting package operates primarily as a group-joining safari. Guests share the vehicle, driver-guide, and scheduled program with other confirmed travelers following the same or a compatible route.

Group joining helps reduce vehicle and guide costs. However, pickup times, comfort stops, meal arrangements, and game-drive schedules offer less flexibility than a private safari. Arrive at the confirmed meeting point on time and travel with compact, soft-sided luggage. Storage space in a shared safari vehicle may be limited, particularly when the departure has several guests. The vehicle may collect or drop off travelers at different accommodation properties. Therefore, minor delays can occur during transfers.

A private safari is recommended for families, photographers, honeymooners and travelers who prefer exclusive vehicle use or a personalized daily schedule.

Accommodation Options

Tunza Tours can arrange budget, standard, midrange, or luxury accommodation. Exact camps, lodges, and hotels depend on your travel dates, group arrangement, room requirements, and availability.

Masai Mara

The package may use a permanent tented camp, safari lodge, or hotel in the wider Masai Mara region. Properties near reserve gates often provide good value, while lodges inside the reserve or private conservancies usually have higher rates.

Accommodation location may affect daily transfer times and access to specific game-viewing areas. Your quotation will clearly identify the proposed property and meal plan.

Lake Nakuru

Accommodation may consist of a hotel in Nakuru town, a lodge near the park, or a safari lodge inside the protected area. Hotels outside the park often provide a more affordable option, while properties closer to the park may reduce transfer time.

The final accommodation will appear in your booking confirmation. If a selected property becomes unavailable, Tunza Tours will recommend a comparable alternative and notify you before confirming a significant substitution.

Safari Price

Starting From USD 600 Per Person Sharing

The advertised amount is an indicative low-season rate for a group-joining safari using a shared safari van and budget or value accommodation.

Your final safari price will depend on:

• Travel dates and safari season
• Availability of a compatible group departure
• Number of adults and children traveling
• Room occupancy and sleeping arrangements
• Selected accommodation category
• Camp, lodge, and hotel availability
• Exact accommodation locations
• Current park entry fees
• Safari vehicle type
• Optional activities
• Private safari upgrade
• Additional transfers or Nairobi accommodation

The starting price assumes that travelers share accommodation. A single-room supplement may apply to solo travelers who require a private room.

Private transport, a 4×4 Land Cruiser, midrange lodges, luxury camps, and peak-season departures will increase the final price. Every Tunza Tours quotation will clearly show the included, excluded, and separately payable services.

Optional Safari Add-Ons

Masai Mara Add-Ons

• Sunrise hot-air balloon safari
• Bush breakfast after the balloon flight
• Maasai village visit
• Private bush breakfast
• Bush lunch or sundowner
• Specialist photography experience
• Conservancy game drive
• Additional night in the Masai Mara

Great Rift Valley Add-Ons

• Lake Naivasha boat ride
• Crescent Island nature walk
• Hell’s Gate National Park visit
• Hell’s Gate cycling experience
• Additional Lake Naivasha night

Safari Extensions

• Amboseli National Park
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Samburu National Reserve
• Tsavo East or Tsavo West
• Diani Beach
• Mombasa or Watamu
• Lamu
• Zanzibar
• Tanzania safari extension

Optional experiences require additional payment unless they appear in the confirmed quotation. Availability, weather, and local operating conditions may affect final arrangements.

Park Fees, Taxes, and Possible Additional Charges

Your confirmed quotation will show the applicable park fees, activity charges, and government taxes. The displayed starting price should not be treated as a fixed amount for every date, room arrangement, or accommodation category.

Possible additional charges may include:

• Masai Mara hot-air balloon safari (USD 450 per person)
• Maasai village visit (USD 15 per person)
• Private conservancy fees
• Lake Naivasha boat ride (USD 12 per person)
• Crescent Island entry and guiding fees
• Hell’s Gate entry or bicycle hire (USD 80 per person)
• Private safari upgrade
• Private 4×4 Land Cruiser upgrade
• Midrange or luxury accommodation
• Single-room supplement
• Peak-season or festive-season supplement
• Airport or hotel transfers
• Additional nights in Nairobi
• Specialist photography services
• Special dietary arrangements where suppliers apply a fee

If park fees, government taxes, or mandatory supplier charges change after confirmation, Tunza Tours will explain any required adjustment before travel.

What to Expect

This itinerary combines shared road transport, professionally guided game drives and four nights of safari accommodation. Guests should expect early starts on selected days, changing road conditions, and a scheduled group program. Three nights in the Masai Mara allow more wildlife-viewing time than many short Kenya safari packages. Lake Nakuru then adds rhino-viewing opportunities, birdlife, and Great Rift Valley scenery.

Group safaris require patience and cooperation because travelers may have different interests, photography needs, and preferred comfort stops. Your driver-guide will manage the program while considering park hours, wildlife activity, and the group’s needs. Wildlife moves freely in natural environments. Therefore, Tunza Tours cannot guarantee sightings of the Big Five, particular predators, rhinos, migration herds, or Mara River crossings.

Customize or Upgrade This Safari

The standard product follows a group-joining program. However, Tunza Tours can arrange a private and fully customized version.

Available options include:

• Private safari vehicle
• Private customised 4×4 Land Cruiser
• Budget accommodation
• Standard or midrange accommodation
• Luxury lodges and tented camps
• Extra night in the Masai Mara
• Additional Lake Nakuru night
• Masai Mara hot-air balloon safari
• Maasai cultural experience
• Private photographic guide
• Lake Naivasha extension
• Crescent Island nature walk
• Hell’s Gate experience
• Family-friendly accommodation
• Honeymoon or anniversary arrangements
• Domestic flight from the Masai Mara
• Kenya Coast or Zanzibar extension
• Combined Kenya and Tanzania safari

Share your preferred dates, number of travelers, children’s ages, room requirements, vehicle preference and accommodation category. The Tunza Tours team will prepare a personalized itinerary and quotation based on those details.

Best Time to Take This Safari

This safari operates throughout the year, although weather, wildlife conditions, visitor numbers and accommodation prices vary by season.

July to October

These months are popular for dry-season wildlife viewing. Migration herds may enter the wider Masai Mara ecosystem, while demand for vehicles and accommodation is usually high. Book early when traveling during this period. Exact herd locations and Mara River crossings cannot be guaranteed because they depend on rainfall, grazing conditions and wildlife movements.

January to March

These months are generally warm and relatively dry. Wildlife viewing can be rewarding in both destinations, while clearer conditions may provide good photography opportunities.

April to June

The long-rain season brings greener landscapes and fewer visitors. Selected camps and lodges may also offer attractive seasonal rates. However, heavy rainfall can affect roads, transfer times and access to some game-viewing areas. Travelers should carry waterproof clothing and suitable footwear.

November to December

The short rains refresh the landscape while generally allowing rewarding safari experiences. Conditions vary each year so that minor program adjustments may be necessary.

Great Migration Note

The Great Migration moves continuously through the wider Serengeti–Masai Mara ecosystem. Consequently, no guide or tour operator can guarantee herd locations or a river crossing on a specific date.

Lake Nakuru Birdlife Note

Bird numbers and distribution depend on rainfall, lake levels, and food availability. Flamingos may be present, but large concentrations cannot be guaranteed during every visit.

Professional Support Before, During, and After Your Safari

Before Your Safari

Before departure, the Tunza Tours team will explain the route, group arrangements, accommodation, and payment schedule. We can also arrange Nairobi accommodation, airport transfers, optional activities, and safari extensions.

Your quotation will clearly identify the accommodation, meal plan, transport, park fees, and included activities. The team will also provide luggage and packing guidance before travel.

During Your Safari

Your professional driver-guide will handle road transfers, game drives, and the daily program. The guide will coordinate with accommodation providers, park staff, and other travelers in the group.

Meanwhile, the Tunza Tours operations team will remain available whenever you require assistance. Support continues throughout the journey until your final Nairobi drop-off.

After Your Safari

After the safari, we can assist with airport transfers, extra Nairobi accommodation, beach extensions, or onward travel. We also welcome feedback about your experience.

Our Commitment to Responsible Safari Travel

Tunza Tours believes that safari travel should protect Kenya’s wildlife, landscapes and communities.

We aim to:

• Work with responsible guides, camps, lodges, and local suppliers
• Follow park and reserve regulations
• Maintain safe distances from wildlife
• Avoid disturbing animals or blocking their movement
• Avoid prohibited off-road driving
• Reduce unnecessary waste and single-use plastics
• Encourage guests to carry reusable water bottles
• Promote respectful cultural experiences
• Encourage responsible purchasing from local communities
• Support water and energy conservation
• Share practical conservation guidance with travelers

Responsible travel helps protect Kenya’s ecosystems for wildlife, communities and future generations.

What to Carry

We recommend packing:

• Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing
• Warm jacket or fleece
• Comfortable closed shoes
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Camera, memory cards, and spare batteries
• Binoculars
• Personal medication
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Small day bag
• Passport and travel documents
• Travel insurance details
• Power bank and charging adaptors
• Light rain jacket during the rainy season
• Personal toiletries
• Small torch or headlamp

Use compact, soft-sided luggage because storage space in a shared safari vehicle may be limited.

Safari and Accommodation Safety

• Follow your driver-guide’s instructions inside the parks, reserve and accommodation areas. Remain inside the safari vehicle unless your guide confirms that it is safe to exit.
• Never approach, call, or feed wildlife. Do not leave designated camp or lodge areas after dark without permission or an escort.
• Keep lodge rooms and permanent safari tents closed when unattended. Avoid leaving food where it may attract monkeys, insects, or other animals.
• Parents and guardians should supervise children throughout the safari. Inform Tunza Tours before booking if any guest has mobility, dietary or medical requirements that may affect the program.

Booking and Payment

To request a booking or personalized quotation, provide:

• Preferred travel dates
• Number of adults
• Number and ages of children
• Required rooms
• Nationality of each traveler
• Group-joining or private safari preference
• Safari van or 4×4 Land Cruiser preference
• Preferred accommodation category
• Dietary, mobility, or medical considerations
• Optional activities you would like included
• Nairobi pickup and drop-off details
• Safari or beach extensions you are considering

Once Tunza Tours receives the required deposit, the team will issue a written booking confirmation. Your invoice will show the deposit amount, balance due date, and accepted payment methods.

Group departures, accommodation and optional experiences remain subject to availability. Wait for written confirmation before booking non-refundable international or domestic flights.

Changes and Cancellation

Changes to travel dates, guest numbers, rooms, accommodation, vehicle, or activities may affect the final safari price.

Cancellation charges depend on:

• The date Tunza Tours receives the cancellation
• Camp, lodge, and hotel policies
• Park-fee payment conditions
• Transport arrangements
• Activity-provider terms
• Travel season
• Services already reserved or paid for
• Group-departure requirements

Tunza Tours will provide the applicable cancellation terms before payment. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for cancellation, medical emergencies, delays, lost luggage, and other unexpected events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private or group-joining safari?

The starting package operates as a group-joining safari. You will share the vehicle and the scheduled program with other confirmed travelers. A private version is available at a different price.

What type of safari vehicle is included?

The starting package uses a shared customized safari van with a pop-up roof. A private 4×4 Land Cruiser is available at an additional cost.

Where does the safari start and end?

The safari starts and ends in Nairobi. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged at a hotel, residence, airport, or designated meeting point.

How many nights are spent in the Masai Mara?

The itinerary includes three nights in the Masai Mara region. This provides time for an arrival game drive, a full-day safari, and another morning wildlife drive.

Is the Maasai village visit included?

The village visit is optional unless your confirmed quotation specifically lists it as included. An additional community fee normally applies.

Is the itinerary customizable?

The group-joining itinerary follows a scheduled program and offers limited flexibility. A private version can be customized according to your preferred accommodations, activities, and travel schedule.

Are park fees included?

The applicable park fees shown in your confirmed quotation are included. Optional conservancy, cultural and specialist activity fees remain payable separately unless specifically listed.

Are taxes included?

Government taxes applicable to the confirmed services are included unless the quotation states otherwise.

What accommodation is included?

The accommodation category depends on your selected package. Tunza Tours can arrange budget, standard, midrange, or luxury camps, lodges, and hotels.

Are meals included?

Meals are included according to the daily itinerary and confirmed accommodation meal plans. Drinks and meals not specifically listed may require additional payment.

Is this safari suitable for solo travelers?

Yes. Group joining helps solo travelers share transport and driver-guide costs. However, a single-room supplement may apply.

Is the safari suitable for children?

Yes. Share the children’s ages before booking so Tunza Tours can confirm suitable rooms, meals, seats and activity arrangements.

How much driving is involved?

Transfer days generally involve about 3 to 6 hours of driving. Actual journey times depend on traffic, weather, road conditions, accommodation locations, and scheduled stops.

Will I see the Big Five?

The itinerary provides opportunities to search for Big Five species. However, animals move freely, so specific sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Will I see rhinos at Lake Nakuru?

Lake Nakuru offers good opportunities to spot black and white rhinos. Sightings remain dependent on wildlife movements and conditions during your visit.

Will I see flamingos at Lake Nakuru?

Flamingos may be present depending on water levels, food availability, and seasonal conditions. Large concentrations cannot be guaranteed.

When is the Great Migration in the Masai Mara?

Migration herds commonly enter the wider Masai Mara ecosystem between approximately July and October. Exact timing depends on rainfall, grazing conditions and herd movements.

Can I add a hot-air balloon safari?

Yes. A sunrise Masai Mara balloon safari can be arranged, subject to availability and weather, for an additional fee.

Can I add Lake Naivasha?

Yes. A private itinerary can include a Lake Naivasha boat ride, a Crescent Island walk or a Hell’s Gate experience. I recommend adding a night to avoid rushing the program.

Can I upgrade to a private safari?

Yes. Tunza Tours can arrange exclusive use of a vehicle and a more flexible daily program.

Can I upgrade the accommodation?

Yes. Midrange and luxury camps or lodges are available according to your travel dates and budget.

Can I add a beach holiday?

Yes. You can combine the safari with a stay in Diani, Mombasa, Watamu, Lamu, or Zanzibar.

Can airport transfers be arranged?

Yes. Nairobi airport pickup and drop-off can be included in your personalized quotation.

Why Book With Tunza Tours?

• Locally based Kenya safari specialists
• Three nights in the Masai Mara region
• Extended Masai Mara game-viewing program
• Rhino-viewing opportunities at Lake Nakuru
• Professional safari driver-guides
• Group-joining and private safari options
• Safari van and 4×4 Land Cruiser choices
• Budget, standard, midrange, and luxury accommodation
• Flexible safari extensions and optional experiences
• Clear quotations with inclusions and exclusions
• Professional support before, during, and after the safari
• Responsible approach to wildlife and communities
• Direct assistance from inquiry to final Nairobi drop-off

Your 5-day Masai Mara Lake Nakuru safari can be personalized according to your travel dates, accommodation preference, group size, and optional activities.

Request Your Personalized Safari Quote

Spend three nights exploring the wildlife-rich Masai Mara before traveling to Lake Nakuru for rhinos, giraffes, birdlife and Great Rift Valley scenery.

Send us your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, children’s ages, room requirements and accommodation preferences. The Tunza Tours team will confirm availability and prepare a personalized quotation.