
moderate
7 days
Suitable for travelers in average fitness — expect long drives, short walks, and getting in/out of a Land Cruiser several times a day.
Travel from Nairobi through the Rift Valley to Masai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha and Amboseli on a private 7-day open-roof jeep safari. Expect five-star lodges, early-morning game drives for Big Five sightings, a Hell’s Gate bike ride and a boat trip on Lake Naivasha.
The Land Cruiser slid out of Nairobi before sunrise, headlights catching the spilled color of a city still folding in on itself. Roads gave way to the ragged shoulders of the Great Rift Valley: a long, low wound in the earth that frames this safari route and announces the scale of what’s to come. Over seven days, the 4WD with an open roof becomes both transport and theater — a mobile vantage point for close encounters with elephants in Amboseli, a crocodile basking on the Mara River, and the pale sweep of flamingos on Lake Nakuru.

Dawn and late afternoon are the most active times for predators and grazers — be ready in the jeep 30 minutes before first light.
Mornings can be cool at higher elevations while midday is hot; pack a light insulated layer and a breathable mid-layer.
Carry lens cloths, sealed camera bags, and zip-locks — dust is ubiquitous on unpaved game trails.
Stay in the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise and maintain safe distances from wildlife to avoid disturbing animals.
Many reserves around the Mara and Rift were formalized in the 20th century during colonial administration; today community conservancies play a larger role in land stewardship.
Local operators work with Maasai conservancies to channel tourism revenue into anti-poaching, community projects and grazing management to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Essential for spotting distant wildlife and getting crisp views without disturbing animals.
Closed shoes are needed for short walks, rocky viewpoints and Hell’s Gate cycling access points.
Strong equatorial sun makes shade scarce; protect skin and eyes during mid-day drives.
summer specific
Cool early mornings at higher elevations call for a warm layer for pre-dawn drives.
winter specific