5-Day Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha & Lake Nakuru Safari from Nairobi
Three landscapes, five days, endless variety. This safari combines the big-game plains of the Masai Mara with the freshwater beauty of Lake Naivasha and the rhino-rich shores of Lake Nakuru — a well-rounded trip that shows you the best of Kenya’s Rift Valley.
Quick facts
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Parks: Masai Mara · Lake Naivasha · Lake Nakuru
- Starts from: Nairobi
- Highlights: Big Five · hippos · rhinos · flamingos · boat ride
- Vehicle: 4×4 pop-up roof
- Adds a relaxed water-based day to the classic circuit
The experience
The trip opens in the Masai Mara with full days of game drives across the savannah — lions, elephants, cheetahs, and plains herds. From there you head to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake that brings a complete change of pace: a boat ride among hippos and fish eagles, with the option to visit Crescent Island to walk among grazing wildlife. The journey closes at Lake Nakuru, one of Kenya’s most reliable spots for black and white rhino, Rothschild’s giraffe, and flamingo-lined shores.
Why guests love it
→ Three distinct ecosystems in one trip — plains, freshwater lake, and soda lake → A boat safari on Naivasha breaks up the game drives → Strong chances at the Big Five plus reliable rhino sightings → Optional walking safari on Crescent Island → Flexible lodging from tented camps to luxury lodges
Getting there
Nairobi to the Mara is a scenic 5–6 hour drive past the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Naivasha and Nakuru sit closer to the city and to each other, so the second half of the trip flows with shorter, easier transfers. Light-aircraft transfers are available if you’d rather save time.
Best time to go
Great year-round. Migration river crossings in the Mara typically run July–October. Naivasha’s boat rides and Nakuru’s rhinos and birdlife are rewarding in every season. Dry months make wildlife easier to spot; green season brings fewer crowds and lush scenery.
Plan your safari
Tell us your dates and we’ll tailor the lodges, routing, and pace to suit you.
