7-Day Kenya’s Big Five Safari
Amboseli, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara
Embark on the ultimate 7-day Kenya safari adventure with Sunup Adventures. This expertly curated itinerary takes you from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli to the bird-rich waters of the Great Rift Valley and the world-renowned plains of the Masai Mara. Witness the “Big Five” in their natural habitat and experience the heart of East Africa.
Tour HIGHLIGHTS
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park – The Land of Giants
Your journey begins at 08:00 hrs with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). We head south in a customized safari vehicle, enjoying a scenic 4-hour drive to Amboseli National Park. Upon entering the park, you are immediately captivated by the stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing a picturesque backdrop to the wide-open plains. After checking into your lodge and enjoying a fresh lunch, you will venture out on an afternoon game drive to spot large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators such as lions and cheetahs.
Day 2: Full Day Exploring Amboseli National Park
Rise early to catch the spectacular sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro before setting off on a full day of exploration. The morning hours provide excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings as animals are most active during this time. You will visit various waterholes and the park’s famous swampy areas, which are particularly attractive to elephants socializing in the muddy waters. Throughout the day, your expert guide shares extensive knowledge about the ecosystem and wildlife behavior. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit a Maasai village to learn about traditional customs and their deep connection with the land.
Day 3: Amboseli to Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, depart Amboseli and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, situated in the Great Rift Valley. This park is famous for its alkaline lake, which attracts a vast number of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. Besides the birdlife, Lake Nakuru is a premier sanctuary for both Black and White Rhinos. Enjoy a comprehensive game drive through lush forests and acacia woodlands, keeping an eye out for leopards, lions, and the rare Rothschild’s giraffe.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve
Leave the Rift Valley behind after breakfast and make your way to the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. The Mara is known for its abundant resident wildlife and the dramatic annual wildebeest migration. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling game drive across the rolling savannahs. Witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Mara, defined by its vast plains and meandering rivers, while spotting your first big cats of the region.
Day 5 & 6: Full Days of Adventure in the Masai Mara
Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife-rich plains of the Masai Mara. With its high concentration of predators, this reserve offers unparalleled opportunities to witness thrilling big cat encounters. We venture out on morning and afternoon game drives guided by experienced wildlife experts who help track down elusive felines. Be prepared to witness incredible hunts, dramatic displays of power, and the diverse birdlife that makes this ecosystem world-famous.
Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi City
On your final day, savor a leisurely morning breakfast and bid farewell to this remarkable wilderness. Reflect on the incredible memories made during your safari as we begin the journey back to Nairobi. You may stop at a local curio shop to pick up handcrafted souvenirs before reaching the city in the afternoon. We provide a seamless transfer to the airport or your hotel, marking the end of your 7-day Kenya’s Big Five Safari Adventure.
✅ What is Included in Your 7-Day Safari
We provide a comprehensive, high-quality experience so you can focus on the adventure. Your Sunup Adventures package includes:
Professional Transport: Full use of a customized 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for 360-degree wildlife viewing and guaranteed window seats.
Expert Guiding: Services of a professionally certified, English-speaking driver-guide with extensive knowledge of Kenya’s ecosystems and Big Five tracking.
Full-Board Accommodation: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at carefully selected lodges or tented camps from Day 1 to Day 7.
Comprehensive Game Drives: All internal game drives as per the itinerary in Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara.
Hydration: Complimentary bottled mineral water provided in the safari vehicle throughout the duration of the trip.
Seamless Logistics: All government taxes, fuel surcharges, and pickup/drop-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or your Nairobi hotel.
❌ What is Excluded from Your Safari Package
To maintain flexibility for international travelers, the following items are not included in the standard base price:
International Travel: Round-trip international flight tickets to Nairobi and the mandatory Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) fees.
Park Entrance Fees: National park and reserve entry fees (quoted separately to ensure accuracy against current government rates).
Personal Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance (highly recommended for all 2027 and 2028 bookings).
Optional Experiences: Fees for unique excursions, such as an authentic Maasai Village visit or a Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Mara.
Beverages & Laundry: Alcoholic drinks, sodas, and specialized laundry services at the lodges or camps.
Gratuities: Tips for your professional safari guide and lodge staff, which are customary in the Kenyan tourism industry.
Frequently Asked Questions: Planning Your Kenya Safari
When is the best time to book this 7-day safari?
While Kenya is a year-round destination, the dry season from June to October is widely considered the best time for wildlife viewing. This period offers the clearest views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli and coincides with the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara. For those interested in birdwatching and lush green landscapes, the “Green Season” from January to March offers excellent photography opportunities and fewer crowds.
What should I pack for a safari in Amboseli and the Mara?
We recommend packing lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral earth tones like khaki, tan, or olive to blend into the environment. Because early morning game drives can be chilly, it is essential to bring a warm fleece or light jacket. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a good pair of binoculars. Since we utilize rugged 4×4 Land Cruisers with plenty of space, soft-sided duffel bags are preferred over hard-shell suitcases for easier stowing.
Do I need a visa or specific vaccinations to enter Kenya?
As of 2024, all international visitors (except those from exempt EAC countries) must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) via the official government website before arrival. Regarding health, we recommend consulting your doctor about malaria prophylactics. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is only mandatory if you are arriving from an endemic country, but it is always wise to keep your routine vaccinations up to date.
What is the advantage of a 4×4 Land Cruiser over a safari van?
At Sunup Adventures, we prioritize your comfort and safety. Our 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers offer superior off-road performance, especially when navigating the rugged terrain of the Masai Mara or the swampy areas of Amboseli. With better suspension, higher ground clearance, and guaranteed window seats for every guest, the Land Cruiser provides a more stable and immersive photography platform than a standard van.
Are meals and drinking water included in the itinerary?
Yes, this 7-day itinerary is based on a full-board arrangement. This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your lodges or camps, as well as picnic lunches during full-day game drives in the wilderness. We provide complimentary bottled mineral water inside our safari vehicles throughout the journey to ensure you stay hydrated while exploring the parks.
Still have questions?
Our team is ready to provide all the details you need for your 2027 or 2028 adventure. Contact Sunup Adventures today to speak with a safari expert.