5-Day Kenya Safari: Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Big-Five Expedition
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
You should be comfortable with long vehicle transfers, short walks and early mornings; no strenuous hiking required.
Overview
Move from Nairobi’s city hum to the wild clarity of the Rift Valley on a five-day loop through Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara. Expect boat rides, flamingo beaches, and Big Five game drives—with practical tips on timing, terrain and what to pack.
5-Day Kenya Safari: Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Big-Five Expedition
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You arrive in Nairobi at dusk and the city exhales—horns, vendors, and the low thrum of engines—before the road unspools northwest into the Rift Valley. By the time the headlights pick out reeds and water, Lake Naivasha is a black mirror punctuated by hippo eyes. A late-afternoon boat ride here is deliberate and intimate: the skiff slips between papyrus, fish eagles hover like sentries, and a giraffe can appear at the water’s edge as casually as an island emerging.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Early-morning drives are best
Wildlife is most active at dawn; expect game drives to leave by 5–6 a.m. and dress in layers for cold mornings and hot midday sun.
Carry small bills for tips and village purchases
ATMs are scarce outside Nairobi—bring cash in Kenyan shillings for park fees, tips and local crafts.
Stay hydrated and protect from sun
High elevation plus strong equatorial sun means you’ll dehydrate quickly—bring a 1–2L water bottle and broad-brim hat or sunscreen.
Respect wildlife and keep distance
Do not leave vehicles during game drives unless your guide says it’s safe; rivers and hippo zones are deceptively dangerous.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- African fish eagle
- Rothschild’s giraffe
History
The Rift Valley formed over millions of years; colonial-era conservation efforts in the mid-20th century led to protected areas like Lake Nakuru National Park (established 1961).
Conservation
Community conservancies around the Mara have expanded wildlife corridors and revenue-sharing with Maasai communities; stick to designated paths and support local guides and craft vendors.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
A 8x–10x pair brings birds and distant predators into clear view on game drives.
Sun hat and sunscreen
High-altitude equatorial sun is intense—cover up and reapply SPF frequently.
summer specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable shoes with good grip work for lodge walks and short nature trails.
Light rain jacket
March–May long rains and brief showers in the short-rain season can come suddenly; a packable jacket helps.
spring specific