7 Day Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya

7-Day Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya

Embark on a thrilling Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya, an unforgettable 7-day journey through some of Kenya’s most iconic game reserves and national parks. This well-rounded wildlife safari starts in Nairobi and takes you north to Samburu, then south through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru, and finally into the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve — one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Witness incredible wildlife, vibrant birdlife, and, during the right season, the awe-inspiring Wildebeest Great Migration.

Quick Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
Day 2: Full Day in Samburu
Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru
Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
Day 5-6: Game Drives in Masai Mara
Day 7: Masai Mara to Nairobi

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve

Your 7-Day Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya begins with a morning departure from Nairobi. Drive north past Mount Kenya to the arid landscapes of Samburu National Reserve. After lunch at your lodge, enjoy your first game drive through Samburu’s rugged terrain, known for unique wildlife such as the Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich. Overnight at a lodge inside the reserve.

Day 2: Game Viewing in Samburu

Spend a full day exploring Samburu National Reserve. Search for rare species including gerenuks, oryx, and reticulated giraffes. With over 365 bird species, the park offers excellent birdwatching. Look out for elephants, crocodiles, and possibly even leopards. Learn about the local Samburu culture for a deeper insight into this fascinating region.

Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru National Park

After breakfast, head south towards Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley. This compact but diverse park is a haven for bird enthusiasts and a sanctuary for endangered rhinos. Enjoy an afternoon game drive around the lake, spotting flamingos, pelicans, and wildlife such as buffalo, baboons, and Rothschild’s giraffes. Overnight inside Lake Nakuru National Park.

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

Continue your safari journey south to the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Travel through the scenic Rift Valley and arrive at a luxury tented camp located in a private conservancy near the park. Relax at the camp and prepare for the thrilling wildlife encounters that lie ahead.

Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara

Spend the day exploring the Masai Mara’s vast plains and riverine woodlands. The reserve is home to a rich concentration of big cats, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, and much more. If visiting during July to October, you may witness the Wildebeest Great Migration — one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Optional hot-air balloon safaris can be arranged for a bird’s-eye view of the savannah.

Day 6: Another Day in Masai Mara

Enjoy another full day of game viewing in the Masai Mara. The landscape is teeming with wildlife, including topis, jackals, zebras, giraffes, and predators such as lions and cheetahs. Capture breathtaking sunset scenes and immerse yourself in the rhythm of Africa’s wilderness.

Day 7: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, depart Masai Mara and drive back to Nairobi, bringing your Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya to a close. You’ll arrive in the city by afternoon — with unforgettable memories of your African adventure.

Safari Accommodation

Masai Mara

Stay in a luxury tented camp nestled in a 30-acre private conservancy near the Masai Mara Reserve. Each permanent walk-in tent has an en-suite bathroom, hot showers, and a veranda overlooking the Oloolotikoshi Hills. Facilities include a bar, lounge, restaurant, and shop stocked with local crafts.

Samburu

Accommodation is at a scenic lodge inside Samburu Reserve with views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodge offers comfort, leafy gardens, and bushveld ambiance.

Lake Nakuru

Enjoy a comfortable lodge stay inside Lake Nakuru National Park. Rooms are en-suite with views of the park and gardens. Amenities include two bars, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.

Transport on Safari

This Samburu, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari in Kenya uses custom 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for optimal wildlife viewing. All vehicles are equipped with fridges and guarantee a window seat for each guest. Group size is limited to six participants for a personalized experience.

Optional Activities

Hot-air balloon safari over Masai Mara
Cultural visits to a traditional Maasai village

Wildebeest Great Migration (Seasonal Highlight)

The Great Migration is a natural phenomenon where over a million wildebeest and other herbivores cross between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara in search of greener pastures. The timing is unpredictable, but the spectacle is typically seen in Masai Mara between July and October. Speak with our safari experts for advice on the best travel dates.