Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha – Freshwater Escape
Your affordable safari packages adventure begins upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where you’ll be welcomed by your safari guide. After a short briefing, you’ll set off on a two-hour scenic drive to Lake Naivasha, one of the jewels of the Rift Valley. Along the way, enjoy views of escarpments, fertile farmlands, and bustling roadside markets.
By midday, you’ll arrive at Oloiden Flamingo Camp, a charming camp set near the shores of the lake. After a warm welcome and lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore. Your guide will present a range of optional activities (at extra cost), such as:
- Boat ride on Lake Naivasha – Glide across calm waters to Crescent Island, spotting hippos, fish eagles, and pelicans before enjoying a guided nature walk among giraffes and zebras.
- Cycling in Hell’s Gate National Park – Ride alongside gazelles and giraffes in this dramatic landscape of cliffs and gorges.
- Horseback safari – Explore the Naivasha plains on horseback, getting closer to wildlife in a unique way.
- Crater Lake Sanctuary – Hike around a volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush forests and wildlife.
As the sun begins to set, return to camp for dinner. The evening is peaceful, with the sounds of crickets and the lapping waters of the lake nearby. Overnight at Oloiden Flamingo Camp.
Accommodation: Oloiden Flamingo Camp
Day 2: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara – Into the Wild Heart
After breakfast, depart Naivasha for the Masai Mara National Reserve, a drive of approximately four hours. The journey takes you deeper into Kenya’s countryside, with rolling hills, Maasai villages, and herds of cattle along the way.
By midday, you’ll arrive at Enkorok Mara Camp, a comfortable safari camp set in a beautiful natural location. After a hearty lunch and some rest, it’s time for your first evening game drive in the Mara.
The Masai Mara is famous for its wildlife density. Within just a few hours, you might spot elephants browsing, prides of lions on the hunt, cheetahs scanning the plains, or rhinos grazing quietly. The golden light of late afternoon adds magic to the landscape, making every sighting unforgettable.
As the sun sets, return to camp for dinner and overnight. The night is filled with the sounds of the bush — distant roars of lions, the calls of night birds, and the crackle of the campfire.
Accommodation: Enkorok Mara Camp
Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara – Big Five Adventure
Rise early for breakfast and set out for a full-day safari in the Masai Mara. With picnic lunch packed, you’ll spend the day exploring different areas of the reserve.
Highlights of the day include:
- Searching for the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
- Visiting the Mara River, where crocodiles and hippos thrive, and where dramatic wildebeest crossings occur during migration season.
- Spotting cheetahs on the open plains, hyenas scavenging, and vultures circling overhead.
- Birdwatching — with over 450 species recorded, from lilac-breasted rollers to secretary birds.
Optional: Begin your day with a hot air balloon safari (extra cost), drifting silently above the savannah at sunrise before enjoying a champagne bush breakfast.
Return to camp in the evening for dinner, often accompanied by Maasai cultural performances. Overnight at Enkorok Mara Camp.
Accommodation: Enkorok Mara Camp
Day 4: Masai Mara to Nairobi – Farewell to the Wild
On your final morning, enjoy a last sunrise game drive in the Masai Mara. The early hours are prime time for predators and offer breathtaking photography opportunities.
After breakfast, check out and begin your return journey to Nairobi. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or transferred to the airport for your onward flight. If time allows, you can also arrange optional Nairobi city tours, such as visiting the Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum.
This marks the end of your 4-Day Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari, an affordable safari package that proves you don’t need weeks or a huge budget to experience Kenya’s incredible wildlife and culture.
