5-Days Nairobi national park and Masai Mara safari tour itinerary
This 5-days Nairobi National Park and Masai Mara safari tour trip will kick off with an exciting Kenya safari adventure in the magnificent Nairobi National Park, the only national park in the entire world where you can experience a unique wildlife safari right in the heart of the city, located less than 5 miles from the city center, this park is the only national park within close proximity to an urban area, providing a stunning wildlife backdrop of the skyscrapers and the Nakuru-Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway that winds across the park.
During your game drive safari in Nairobi National Park, you are likely to spot a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, as well as zebras, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. This makes Nairobi National Park an ideal starting point for your Kenya wildlife safari holiday.
This 5-days Kenya tour will then continue to Masai Mara National Reserve, situated approximately 280 kilometers southwest of Nairobi. This renowned African safari reserve is famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of greener pastures, typically occurring from July to October.
Throughout this 5-day Nairobi National Park and Masai Mara safari tour, you will have the chance to engage with the Masai people and share experiences with local communities. This 5 day itinerary can be adjusted to include different destinations, modify the number of days, or accommodate your travel budget.
Tour highlights
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara
Day 3: Full Game Drive in Masai Mara
Day 4: Another Day of Masai Mara Game Drive and Masai Community Visit
Day 5: Masai Mara to Nairobi and end of the trip
Price Includes:
- Airport pick-ups and drop-offs
- A private, well-versed tour guide, Kenyan and multi-lingual
- Round-trip transport to all attractions and destinations as per the itinerary (4×4 Jeep)
- Budget (economy), comfort, superior comfort, or luxury hotels, lodges, or tented camps
- Meals on safari (half board or full board depending on the budget)
- Masai Mara game reserve entrance fees
- Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
- Game viewing drives
Price Excludes:
- Pre-travel expenses (e.g. Passports and visas)
- Travel insurance
- Expenses such as baggage fee, laundry charges, luxury drinks such as champagne etc.
- Tips and gratuities
- Items and services of a personal nature
Itinary in details
- Day1Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for 5-days Nairobi National Park and Masai Mara safari tour, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Nairobi for check-in and refreshment. After settling in, the adventure begins with a visit to Nairobi National Park, just a short drive away. Here, you'll embark on a half-day game drive, where you can spot an array of wildlife, including majestic lions, towering giraffes, and rare rhinos, all set against the striking backdrop of the city skyline. The experience is a perfect introduction to Kenya's rich biodiversity. In the evening, savor delicious Kenyan cuisine at a local restaurant, immersing into the flavors of the region. Finally, return to your hotel for a restful night, preparing for the exciting days ahead.
- Day2Nairobi to Masai Mara
After breakfast, the journey to Masai Mara begins. You can choose to travel by road, taking in the scenic landscapes, or opt for a short flight for a quicker arrival. The drive typically takes about 5-6 hours, offering glimpses of rural life and the beautiful countryside. Upon reaching Masai Mara, check into your chosen lodge or tented camp, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, in the afternoon, set out on your first game drive in this iconic reserve.
The Masai Mara is famed for its diverse wildlife, and you'll have the chance to observe elephants, zebras, and perhaps even a pride of lions. As the sun sets, return to your accommodation for dinner and relax under the starry African sky.
- Day3Full Game Drive in Masai Mara
Start your day early with a morning game drive, as the savannah comes alive with activity at dawn, witness the breathtaking sunrise while spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, a truly magical experience.
After a rewarding morning, return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast, the afternoon offers options for exploration; you can join a guided walking safari to learn about the ecosystem or opt for hot air balloon which is optional. As the day winds down, embark on a sunset game drive, capturing stunning photographs of wildlife against the vibrant sky before returning to your lodge for dinner and sharing stories with fellow travelers.
- Day4Another Day of Masai Mara Game Drive and Masai Community Visit
On this day, continue your exploration of the Masai Mara with a morning game drive, focusing on different areas to maximize your wildlife sightings. The thrill of encountering the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—adds to the excitement. After lunch, immerse yourself in Masai culture with a visit to a local community.
Participate in traditional dances, learn about their customs, and perhaps even try your hand at bead work. This engagement provides a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions of the Masai people. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner, reflecting on the day's adventures and the unique experiences you’ve had, all while enjoying the sounds of the African wilderness around you.
- Day5Masai Mara to Nairobi and end of the trip
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive to capture any last glimpses of wildlife before departing Masai Mara. This is your chance to see any animals you may have missed during your previous drives. Afterward, begin your journey back to Nairobi, with options for road travel or a short flight. Upon arrival, indulge in lunch at a local restaurant and take some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting the Nairobi giraffe center and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to learn about elephant conservation efforts. As your safari adventure comes to an end, transfer to the airport for your departure flight or opt to stay overnight at your hotel, cherishing the memories of an unforgettable Kenya safari holiday.