7-Day Aberdare & Maasai Mara Safari From Mombasa to the Highlands and the Plains

Discover Kenya from the white sands of Mombasa to the misty forests of Aberdare and the world renowned plains of the Maasai Mara.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN MOMBASA

Arrive in Mombasa in the evening, where you’ll be warmly greeted by your professional driver-guide and escorted to your coastal accommodation. Whether you’ve chosen the vibrant shores of Diani Beach or the conveniently located Nyali Beach, your journey begins with comfort and care. After check-in, take time to settle into your surroundings and unwind. A light welcome dinner awaits, allowing you to savor your first taste of coastal Kenyan cuisine. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your hotel, enjoying the ocean breeze, perhaps taking a short walk along the beach, or simply resting after your travels in preparation for the exciting days ahead.

DAY 2: MOMBASA TO TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK

After an early breakfast, depart from the coast for Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya’s largest and oldest national parks. The scenic drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your safari lodge or camp near Voi Gate, followed by lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive across Tsavo’s vast red-dust plains, where you may spot elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and other wildlife. Return to your lodge in the early evening for dinner and a relaxing night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

DAY 3: FULL-DAY SAFARI IN TSAVO EAST

Begin your day with a sunrise game drive, the best time for spotting predators and other active wildlife before the heat of the day sets in. Return to the lodge for breakfast, then continue your exploration of the park with visits to wildlife-rich areas such as Aruba Dam, where animals often gather to drink. Enjoy lunch back at the lodge or as a picnic in the bush. In the afternoon, take another game drive to maximize your wildlife sightings. End the day with sundowners and a delicious dinner at the lodge.

DAY 4: TSAVO EAST TO ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK

Enjoy an early breakfast and check out. Depart Tsavo and begin your overland journey north to Aberdare National Park, a lush highland destination known for its misty forests, scenic waterfalls, and forest-dwelling wildlife. The drive offers a spectacular change in terrain, from red plains to green highlands. Arrive in Aberdare in the afternoon and check in at a tree lodge such as The Ark or Treetops, uniquely designed to overlook wildlife-rich waterholes. Spend the evening watching elephants, buffalos, and perhaps leopards from the comfort of the lodge. Dinner and overnight in Aberdare.

DAY 5: ABERDARE TO MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

After breakfast in the cool mountain air, depart Aberdare National Park and descend into the Rift Valley en route to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a scenic drive of approximately 6 hours. Arrive in time for lunch at your safari lodge or camp, followed by an afternoon game drive across the rolling plains. The Mara is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, buffalo, and more. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and a relaxed overnight stay.

DAY 6: FULL-DAY SAFARI IN MAASAI MARA

Spend the entire day exploring the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s richest wildlife destinations. Begin with an early morning game drive when the animals are most active, followed by breakfast in the bush or back at the lodge. Continue your safari with midday and afternoon drives, offering ample chances to witness the Big Five and other fascinating species in their natural habitat. Optional activities include a visit to a traditional Maasai village or a hot air balloon safari at an additional cost. Return to camp for a cozy evening and dinner under the stars.

DAY 7: MAASAI MARA TO MOMBASA VIA NAIROBI AND DEPARTURE

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara by 4×4 safari cruiser, enjoying a scenic road transfer back to Nairobi (approx. 6 hours). Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to catch your domestic flight to Mombasa. Upon landing, connect to your international flight or optionally transfer to your beach hotel for extended coastal relaxation.

END OF SAFARI