5-Day Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha - Imvelo Safaris

Overview—5-Day Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha

This 5-day classic safari combines two of Kenya’s most celebrated destinations—Lake Naivasha and the legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve—offering travelers a rich blend of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural encounters. Beginning with the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha, you’ll explore freshwater ecosystems, enjoy boat rides spotting hippos and water birds, and discover Hell’s Gate National Park with its dramatic gorges and geothermal features. The experience balances adventure with relaxation, allowing you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley before venturing deeper into the wild.

The journey then continues to the world-famous Maasai Mara, home to the Big Five and one of the densest concentrations of wildlife on Earth. Across two full days of game drives, you’ll witness lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and—if luck allows—the elusive leopard and cheetah. If traveling during the Great Migration season (July–October), the sight of wildebeest crossing the Mara River is an unforgettable highlight. At night, unwind at carefully selected lodges or tented camps where the sounds of the bush create a perfect safari ambiance. This safari is designed to capture the essence of Kenya in just five days, blending lakeside tranquility with thrilling wildlife adventures.

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Detailed Itinerary —5-Day Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Transfer to Lake Naivasha

Your safari begins with a pick-up from Nairobi in the morning, followed by a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley. Arrive at Lake Naivasha by midday and check into your lodge. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on the freshwater lake, spotting hippos, cormorants, kingfishers, and fish eagles. The lake’s tranquil setting is perfect for photography and relaxation. Overnight at your lodge by the lakeshore.

Day 2: Lake Naivasha – Hell’s Gate National Park Excursion

After breakfast, set out for Hell’s Gate National Park, renowned for its striking cliffs, deep gorges, and geothermal activity. Unlike other parks, Hell’s Gate allows walking and cycling safaris, offering a chance to explore the terrain up close. Expect to see zebras, gazelles, and giraffes roaming freely. After the excursion, return to your lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure or take an optional visit to Crescent Island Sanctuary for more wildlife encounters. Dinner and overnight at your Lake Naivasha lodge.

Day 3: Lake Naivasha – Transfer to Maasai Mara & Afternoon Game Drive

Today, after an early breakfast, depart Lake Naivasha and journey across the Rift Valley floor toward the Maasai Mara. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge or tented camp and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in the reserve, with chances of spotting elephants, lions, and herds of antelope grazing on the open plains. Return to camp in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive in Maasai Mara

After breakfast, set out on a full-day game drive with picnic lunch packed for maximum exploration. Traverse the Mara’s diverse habitats, from open savannahs to riverine forests, while tracking the Big Five and other wildlife. During migration season, witness the thrilling wildebeest crossings as they brave the crocodile-filled Mara River. Bird enthusiasts will also delight in the reserve’s abundance of raptors and colorful species. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Morning Game Drive – Return to Nairobi

Rise early for a sunrise game drive, capturing the magic of the Mara as predators prowl and grazers stir to life. After breakfast back at your lodge, check out and depart for Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon. The safari concludes with unforgettable memories of Kenya’s lakeside beauty and iconic savannah landscapes.

5-Day Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha