6-Day Kenya Gold Circuit: Amboseli, Rift Valley Lakes & Masai Mara
Safari Overview
Experience the ultimate Kenyan wilderness odyssey. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the predator-rich plains of the Masai Mara, this 6-day guided safari offers a masterclass in African biodiversity.
Quick Trip Overview
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Start/End: Nairobi (Hotel or JKIA)
Transport: Custom 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
Highlights: Big Five sightings, Walking Safari at Crescent Island, Hell’s Gate Gorges, and the Great Migration (seasonal).
Experience the Big Five and the majesty of Kilimanjaro with Kenya’s wilderness experts
No Hidden Fees: Park entries and 4×4 transport included.
Local Expertise: 100% Kenyan-owned and operated.
Flexible Booking: Change your dates up to 30 days before departure
THE DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park – Land of Giants
Your adventure begins at 08:00 hrs with a pickup from Nairobi. We head south to Amboseli National Park, famous for having the world’s best views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Experience: Afternoon game drives through swampy grounds where massive “Tuskers” (elephants) bathe.
Wildlife: Large elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, and over 400 bird species.
Stay: Premium Safari Lodge/Camp
Day 2: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha – The Great Rift Valley
After a final sunrise view of Kilimanjaro, we descend into the Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha.
The Experience: A private boat ride across the freshwater lake to spot pods of hippos.
Crescent Island: Step out of the vehicle for a walking safari. Walk alongside giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests in a sanctuary with no predators—an intimate way to see nature.
Day 3: Hell’s Gate Adventure & The Rhinos of Lake Nakuru
Today is about dramatic landscapes and rare species.
Hell’s Gate National Park: Explore towering cliffs and deep gorges on foot or by bicycle. Experience the geothermal steam of Olkaria before heading to Lake Nakuru National Park.
The Experience: A “pink” horizon of flamingos and a sanctuary for both Black and White Rhinos.
Key Sightings: Rare Rothschild giraffes, leopards, and lions.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru to the Iconic Masai Mara
We journey to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve, the crown jewel of African safaris.
The Experience: Arrive for an afternoon game drive across the vast rolling savannahs.
The Great Migration: If visiting between July and October, witness the spectacular wildebeest crossing.
Wildlife: The “Big Five” (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino).
Day 5: Full Day Immersion in the Masai Mara
A dedicated day to track the predators of the Mara.
Morning & Afternoon Drives: Maximize your chances of seeing a hunt or the elusive leopard.
Cultural Add-on: Optional visit to a Maasai Village to experience the traditions, dancing, and beadwork of the Maasai people.
Optional: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Safari over the plains (highly recommended).
Day 6: Final Plains Drive & Return to Nairobi
Savor your final breakfast in the wild. We enjoy a morning game drive as we exit the reserve, heading back toward the capital.
Souvenirs: Stop at local curio shops for hand-carved African art.
Drop-off: Afternoon arrival in Nairobi for your flight home or hotel stay.
🏁 Safari Package Details: What’s Covered?
✅ What’s Included (The Essentials)
We believe in a “no-stress” safari. Your booking with Sunup Adventures covers:
Professional Transport: Use of a custom-built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for 360° game viewing and photography.
Expert Guiding: Services of a highly experienced, English-speaking Gold-Level Silver-certified Driver-Guide.
Park & Conservatory Fees: All entrance fees for Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, and the Masai Mara.
Accommodation: 5 Nights stay in hand-picked mid-range or luxury safari lodges/tented camps (based on your selection).
Meal Plan: Full board basis (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) starting from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6.
Hydration: Unlimited supply of chilled bottled mineral water in the safari vehicle throughout the journey.
Activities as Detailed: Boat ride at Lake Naivasha.
Walking safari at Crescent Island.
Hiking/Cycling entry at Hell’s Gate.
- Bicycle Hire at Hell’s Gate National Park.
Emergency Evacuation: Enrollment in the AMREF Flying Doctors emergency air evacuation cover (to Nairobi).
Transfers: Pickup and drop-off at Nairobi hotels or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
❌ What’s Excluded (Personal Costs)
To keep our base prices competitive and flexible, the following are not included:
International Flights: Airfare from your home country to Nairobi.
Visa Fees: Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) fees.
Tips & Gratuities: Recommended for your driver-guide and lodge staff (standard is approx. $10–$20 per day).
Personal Insurance: Travel, medical, and luggage insurance.
Alcoholic Drinks: Sodas, beers, wines, and spirits at the lodges.
Optional Activities:
Masai Mara Balloon Safari: ($490 per person).
Maasai Village Visit: ($30 per person).
Personal Items: Laundry services, telephone calls, and souvenirs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a visa to visit Kenya in 2026?
As of 2026, Kenya has replaced traditional visas with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). All visitors (including infants) must apply at the official government portal at least 3 days before travel. The fee is approximately $30 USD, and your eTA is usually valid for a single entry.
2. When is the best time to see the Great Migration?
While wildlife is abundant year-round, the iconic Mara River crossings typically occur between July and October.
July – August: Peak arrival and dramatic river crossings.
September: Large herds settled in the Masai Mara.
October: Herds begin their journey back south to the Serengeti.
3. What should I pack for a 6-day safari?
Kenya’s weather varies by region. Amboseli can be hot, while the Masai Mara has chilly mornings.
Clothing: Layers are key. Pack neutral colors (khaki, olive, beige). Avoid dark blue/black (attracts tsetse flies) and bright white (gets dusty).
Gear: High-quality binoculars, a camera with at least a 200mm–400mm lens, and a universal power adapter.
Essentials: SPF 50+ sunscreen, insect repellent with DEET, and a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap for windy game drives.
4. What is the tipping etiquette in Kenya?
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation for the hard work of your safari team.
Driver-Guide: Standard is $15–$25 USD per guest, per day, usually given at the end of the trip.
Lodge Staff: Most camps have a “Communal Tip Box.” We recommend $10–$15 USD per guest, per day, which is shared among the kitchen, housekeeping, and security teams.
Note: If tipping in USD, ensure bills are crisp and printed after 2013 (older bills are often rejected by local banks).
5. Is this safari safe for families and children?
Absolutely. This “Gold Circuit” itinerary is one of our most family-friendly routes. We use closed 4×4 Land Cruisers for safety, and the walking safari at Crescent Island is a highlight for children as there are no predators in that specific sanctuary.
6. Is the “Flying Doctors” insurance included?
Yes. Sunup Adventures includes AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation cover in every package. This ensures that in the unlikely event of a medical emergency, you are airlifted to a world-class hospital in Nairobi. (Note: This does not replace standard travel insurance).