4 Day Safari Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha

A 4-day journey through Kenya’s top wildlife spots, the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha, offers a well-rounded safari experience. Priced at $2,300 per person, this tour combines guided game drives, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to see iconic animals like the Big 5, along with rhinos, flamingos, and hippos. Starting from Nairobi, it spans approximately four days, making it perfect for those wanting an immersive wildlife adventure without an overly long trip.

The tour features pickup from your hotel in Nairobi and includes group discounts and a mobile ticket option for convenience. While it covers some of Kenya’s most celebrated parks and lakes, the highlight remains the guided game safaris in Maasai Mara, where the chance to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat is unbeatable. This tour suits travelers who appreciate well-organized, informative excursions and are eager to see Kenya’s renowned wildlife.

Key Points

• 4-day safari exploring Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha
• Guided game drives in Maasai Mara with opportunities to see the Big 5
• Visit Lake Nakuru to spot rhinos and flamingos
• Explore Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park, with bicycle exploration
• Pickup and drop-off included from Nairobi hotels
• Affordable group rates and flexible cancellation policy

Maasai Mara National Reserve: The Main Wildlife Destination

The Maasai Mara is the centerpiece of this safari, offering guided game drives that give travelers an excellent chance to see big cats, elephants, zebras, and other wildlife. The tour begins with a scenic stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, which provides a stunning photo opportunity before arriving in the reserve in time for lunch.

The afternoon game drive in Maasai Mara is a highlight, as guides drive through the expansive landscape, increasing the chance to encounter wildlife in their natural environment. The 7-hour visits allow ample time to explore this iconic reserve, renowned for its healthy populations of Big Five animals and vibrant birdlife. The guides are knowledgeable and focus on giving clear, engaging explanations about the animals and ecosystems.

Full-Day Maasai Mara Experience with Packed Lunch

The second day in the Maasai Mara provides a full-day safari, starting early with a packed lunch. This extensive exploration maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities, as guides drive near the animals across different park areas. The focus is on seeing as much wildlife as possible, including predators and herds of herbivores.

This longer day emphasizes the authentic safari experience, with plenty of chances to observe lion prides, elephants, and cheetahs. The guides’ expertise ensures you get the most out of your time in the reserve, with frequent stops for photos and animal sightings. The full-day structure makes this trip ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to capture the moment.

Lake Nakuru National Park: Rhinos, Flamingos, and More

After the Maasai Mara, the tour heads to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its large populations of rhinos and pink flamingos. Early morning departures with packed lunches allow for a full-day exploration of the park, which is known for its alkaline lake and diverse birdlife.

In the afternoon, visitors check into a local lodge for some rest before continuing their adventure. The park’s landscape is characterized by dramatic cliffs and geothermal features, offering excellent photo opportunities. Expect to see rhinos roaming freely and flocks of flamingos coloring the lake’s surface, creating a vibrant scene.

Exploring Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park

Following Nakuru, the journey continues to Lake Naivasha, where the landscape changes to lush wetlands and spectacular scenery. The highlight here is Hell’s Gate National Park, where visitors explore on bicycles—a unique way to see the park’s geothermal features and dramatic cliffs.

This part of the tour doesn’t include entry fees or bicycle rentals, which are optional extras. The landscape’s beauty and the opportunity for an active exploration make this stop memorable. Visitors may see hippos in the lake and other wildlife along the scenic trails.

Transportation, Logistics, and Meeting Points

The entire tour starts at Archives Tower in Nairobi, with pickup at 7:30 am. The driver/guide handles all transportation, ensuring smooth transfers between parks and lakes. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, providing a hassle-free experience.

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group size remains manageable, fostering a more personalized safari. The option for a mobile ticket and group discounts adds flexibility, while the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind—cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are driver/guide services, park entry fees for Maasai Mara and Lake Naivasha, game drives, and meals—breakfast, lunch, and optional dinner. Amenities like pickup and drop-off from your hotel simplify logistics.

However, some extras are not included, such as the boat ride at Lake Naivasha (costing USD $25), Hells Gate entry fee ($27), bicycle rental, and Crescent Island entry fee ($30). These optional activities can enhance your experience but will incur additional costs.

Real-World Experience and Guest Feedback

While official reviews are limited, the average rating of 5.0 out of 5 from two reviews reflects overall satisfaction. Comments highlight the amazing scenery and the hospitality of the guides, with specific praise for their kindness and expertise.

One review mentions the great time spent with family and the desire to return, signifying the tour’s enjoyable atmosphere. Another emphasizes knowledgeable guides, friendly service, and affordable rates, making it clear that this tour offers good value for money.

The Sum Up: A Balanced Safari for Wildlife and Scenery Enthusiasts

This 4-day safari delivers a comprehensive experience of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, balancing guided game drives, scenic viewpoints, and active exploration. The Maasai Mara provides the core wildlife encounter, with the chance to see Big 5 animals and vibrant birdlife.

The addition of Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha rounds out the trip with diverse ecosystems, offering encounters with rhinos, flamingos, and hippos, plus opportunities for bicycle adventures and nature photography. The affordable price and inclusive logistics make it suitable for travelers seeking a hassle-free, well-organized safari.

While some activities like boat rides and park fees are optional extras, the fundamental experience remains rich and rewarding. If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic diversity, and excellent value, this tour stands out as a solid choice for exploring Kenya’s iconic parks in just four days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this safari?
The tour costs $2,300 per person, covering most activities, park entry fees, and meals.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops, including Maasai Mara game drives and lake visits, last about 7 hours, providing ample time to explore.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and optional dinner are included in the tour package.

What activities are optional and require extra payment?
Extras include a boat ride in Lake Naivasha (USD $25), Hells Gate entry fee ($27), bicycle rental, and the Crescent Island entry fee ($30).

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Archives Tower in Nairobi and ends back at the same location.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel in Nairobi.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Safaris By Suzette, a trusted local operator.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with limited mobility should note the active nature of bike exploration and game drives.

Are there any age restrictions?
No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but physical activity like cycling is part of the experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of guided safaris, scenic stops like the Great Rift Valley, and the opportunity to see wildlife in diverse habitats makes it a well-rounded Kenyan safari.