Combining Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli into a safari itinerary offers an excellent mix of experiences, from abundant wildlife to breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a detailed guide based on your feedback and others’ shared experiences:
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Masai Mara
- Travel: Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive to Masai Mara (5–6 hours).
- Activities: Afternoon game drive in the Mara Reserve or the Mara Triangle.
- Accommodation: Stay at a lodge or camp in the Mara (e.g., Ashnil Mara, Kichwa Tembo, or Mara Serena).
- Highlights: Start your journey with sightings of the Big Five, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs.
Day 2 & 3: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara
- Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives. Opt for a balloon safari on one of the mornings for a unique aerial view of the Mara.
- Highlights: Explore various parts of the Mara, including the Triangle for fewer vehicles and off-road experiences.
- Accommodation: Continue at your Mara lodge or camp.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
- Travel: Drive from Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru (5–6 hours).
- Activities: Afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Highlights: Spot rhinos, flamingos, and other bird species.
- Accommodation: Stay at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge or Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Amboseli
- Travel: Early morning departure from Nakuru to Amboseli (7–8 hours). Consider stopping briefly at Nairobi for lunch.
- Activities: Evening game drive in Amboseli.
- Highlights: Herds of elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
- Accommodation: Stay at Kibo Safari Camp or Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge.
Day 6: Full-Day Amboseli Safari
- Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives. Relax at the lodge during mid-day.
- Highlights: Capture iconic shots of elephants against Mount Kilimanjaro, visit Observation Hill for panoramic views, and look for lions, zebras, and wildebeest.
- Accommodation: Continue at your Amboseli lodge or camp.
Day 7: Departure
- Travel: Drive back to Nairobi (4–5 hours).
- Activities: Depending on your flight timing, visit the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi.
Important Considerations
1. Road Conditions
- Kenya’s roads between parks can be rough, especially the stretches from Mara to Nakuru and Nakuru to Amboseli. Consider flying between some destinations if your budget allows (e.g., Mara to Amboseli via Nairobi).
2. Vehicle Type
- A 4WD Safari Land Cruiser is essential for comfort and accessibility, especially during the rainy season. Avoid vans if possible.
3. Travel Time
- Plan for long travel times between parks. Start early in the mornings to maximize your time in each destination.
4. Wildlife Expectations
- Masai Mara: Big cats (lions, cheetahs, leopards), elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and occasionally rhinos.
- Lake Nakuru: Rhinos, flamingos, buffalo, and unique birdlife.
- Amboseli: Elephants, Mount Kilimanjaro views, and diverse plains wildlife.
5. Big Five Strategy
- You may not see rhinos in the Mara or Amboseli, but Lake Nakuru is an excellent spot for these elusive animals.
Additional Tips
- Budget: Allow extra for park fees, private vehicle hire, and optional experiences like a balloon safari in the Mara (~$450).
- Packing: Pack light but include essentials like binoculars, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a good camera.
- Timing: Late February is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is typically dry, and animal sightings are plentiful.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of Kenya’s top wildlife destinations and ensures you make the most of your travel time. Would you like help customizing this further or finding accommodations and transport options?