6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari — Big Five, Rift Valley and Kilimanjaro Views
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Basic mobility and tolerance for multi-hour vehicle transfers; able to do short walks and board safari vehicles repeatedly.
Overview
A six-day circuit from Nairobi to Amboseli, Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara delivers close-up elephant encounters beneath Kilimanjaro, boat trips on Lake Naivasha and classic Mara game drives. Read on for what to expect, when to go and how to prepare.
6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari — Big Five, Rift Valley and Kilimanjaro Views
Select participants and date
You step out of Nairobi predawn and the highway dissolves into the slow, sunburnt rhythm of the Kenyan lowlands. Dust lifts in sheets as the vehicle eases toward Amboseli; ahead, Kilimanjaro keeps its silent watch, a snow-capped cliff that seems to shepherd herds of elephants across the scrub. Over six days you trade the city’s hum for the crisp punctuations of bird calls, diesel engines, and the low, patient breathing of the savanna.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Early starts are worth it
Dawn and dusk are the most active wildlife hours — be ready to leave before sunrise and pack a warm layer for early game drives.
Hydrate and protect
Bring a refillable water bottle and high-SPF sunscreen; shade is limited during open-vehicle drives.
Respect viewing distances
Stay inside the vehicle unless instructed, and keep noise to a minimum to improve sightings and safety.
Carry small cash
Have Kenyan shillings for tips, small purchases and optional village visits; ATMs can be scarce in rural areas.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- African elephant
- lion
History
The Rift Valley’s faults formed over millions of years and created the basins that collect wildlife; Maasai pastoral culture has shaped land use and many modern conservancies.
Conservation
Community conservancies and lodge partnerships fund anti-poaching and local development; travel choices directly support on-the-ground conservation and livelihoods.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars (8x42)
Improves distant wildlife viewing and bird identification from game vehicles.
Telephoto camera lens (200–400mm)
Helps capture close-up shots of animals without disturbing them.
Lightweight insulating layer
Mornings and evenings on game drives can be cold; layerable warmth is vital.
Insect repellent & sunscreen
Protects against mosquitoes and the strong equatorial sun during midday drives.