6- day aberdare national park, rift valley lakes & masai mara classic Safari

Embark on a thrilling 6 day journey through some of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes from the mist covered forests of Aberdare National Park, to the bird filled shores of Lake Nakuru and the calm waters of Lake Naivasha, before culminating in the world-renowned plains of the Masai Mara. These well curated itinerary blends diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and cultural encounters for a truly enriching safari experience.

DAY 1: NAIROBI – ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK

Your safari adventure begins with a morning departure from Nairobi, heading north through fertile highlands, where you’ll pass rows of tea and coffee plantations blanketing the hillsides. As the landscape transforms into misty mountain forests, you’ll enter the Aberdare National Park a lush, elevated ecosystem home to some of Kenya’s most elusive wildlife.

On arrival, you’ll check in to a unique tree lodge The Ark, built to overlook a floodlit waterhole. The rest of the day is spent relaxing in the serene forest environment. From the lodge’s viewing decks, watch as wildlife including elephants, giant forest hogs, buffalo, and even leopards visit the waterhole throughout the afternoon and into the night.

As dusk falls and mist rolls over the treetops, you’ll enjoy a truly magical atmosphere a quiet yet dramatic start to your safari.

DAY 2: ABERDARE – LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast in the cool mountain air, depart the Aberdares and descend into the Great Rift Valley, a geological wonder stretching across East Africa. En route, stop at a scenic viewpoint to take in the dramatic escarpments and vast floor below.

Arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya’s premier birding destinations and home to a large population of white and black rhinos. After lunch at your lodge, head out for an afternoon game drive around the lake and through its acacia woodlands.

Here, you might spot tree-climbing lions lounging in yellow-barked trees, herds of buffalo, warthogs trotting across the road, and elegant Rothschild giraffes browsing quietly. Along the lake’s edge, marvel at flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and a kaleidoscope of other bird species feeding and flying in formation over the water.

As the sun dips behind the escarpment, the lake glows pink and gold a photographer’s dream.

DAY 3: LAKE NAKURU – LAKE NAIVASHA

After a leisurely breakfast, depart Lake Nakuru for a short drive to Lake Naivasha, a tranquil freshwater lake framed by ancient acacia trees and towering volcanic peaks. Your lodge sits along the lake’s shore, offering a peaceful setting and views of resident hippos wallowing in the shallows.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided boat safari, where you’ll glide across the calm waters past pods of hippos and colorful kingfishers. Watch African fish eagles dive dramatically for their catch, and spot giraffes and waterbuck grazing along the shoreline.

Later, embark on a walking safari at Crescent Island Sanctuary, a private peninsula home to freely roaming wildlife. With no predators, it’s safe to walk among giraffes, zebras, impalas, and wildebeest a rare and intimate experience.

As the day ends, the lake comes alive with birdsong, and the sky reflects in the still waters a perfect moment of calm.

DAY 4: LAKE NAIVASHA – MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

Today, you journey to the jewel of Kenya’s safari circuit the Masai Mara National Reserve. Depart early, passing through Narok town and traditional Masai lands, where red-cloaked herders tend to their cattle under endless skies.

By midday, you’ll arrive in the legendary Mara a vast expanse of golden savannah, meandering rivers, and scattered acacia trees. After checking in and enjoying lunch at your camp or lodge, set off on your first afternoon game drive in one of the most wildlife-rich regions on Earth.

Your expert guide will track lions lazing in the grass, elephants crossing the plains, and herds of wildebeest kicking up dust as they graze. The landscape is alive with drama and wonder, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into nature.

Return to camp just before dark, where a warm meal and fire-lit evening under the stars await.

DAY 5: FULL DAY IN MASAI MARA

Wake up early to the sounds of the bush birds calling, hyenas laughing, and the distant roar of a lion. After coffee or tea, depart for a full day of game viewing with a packed picnic lunch. With the full day at your disposal, you’ll explore deeper areas of the Mara, from riverbanks where crocodiles bask to wide plains where predators hunt.

If traveling during the migration season (July to October), witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving crocodile-infested rivers in one of nature’s most dramatic events the Great Migration.

Beyond the game, take time to visit a traditional Masai village (optional), where you’ll be welcomed with song and dance, and learn about this proud tribe’s customs, architecture, and way of life. As the sun sets over the endless plains, return to camp filled with awe and appreciation for the raw beauty of Africa.

DAY 6: MASAI MARA – NAIROBI

Begin your final day with an optional early morning game drive, catching the last glimpses of wildlife before they retreat from the midday sun. After breakfast, bid farewell to the Mara and start your journey back to Nairobi, once again traveling through rural landscapes dotted with villages and farmlands.

Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon, where your safari ends. Depending on your travel plans, you may be transferred to your hotel, the airport, or enjoy a final meal in the city. As you reflect on your six-day journey through Kenya’s heartland, you’ll carry home unforgettable memories, photographs, and a deep connection to the wild.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

1 Night accommodation in Abadares
1 Night accommodation in Nakuru
1 Night accommodation in Naivasha
2 Night’s accommodation in Maasai Mara Park fees for Abadares, Naakuru and Maasai Mara
1 Comprehensive game drives in Abadares
1 Comprehensive game drives in Nakuru
2 Comprehensive game drives in the Mara
Transport in a 4 by 4 Mini Van
Services of a professional English speaking driver/guide
Entry fee for the vehicle and guide All ground transportation
All applicable Taxes and VAT Roundtrip airport transfers Meals (as specified in the itinerary)

WHAT’S EXCLUDED

International flights Additional accommodation before and after the safari Tips (recommended: approx. US$10 per person per day)
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees Some meals (as specified in the itinerary)

Cost: $2,300 per person Sharing

$3,300 per person in a single

Dates: 1st July to Oct 30th

KINDLY NOTE:

Rooms and flights are subject to availability In case of any cancellations the money is non refundable Payment to be cleared a week to your travel dates

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Deposit: A 50% non-refundable deposit Availability: All rooms and services are subject to availability at the time of booking. Deposit: A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm any booking. Full Payment: Must be cleared at least 7 days before travel. Bookings made within 7 days require full payment upfront.

CANCELLATIONS:

Deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations within 7 days of travel attract a 100% cancellation fee. No refunds for no-shows or unused services.

CHANGES:

Date or itinerary changes must be requested 10 days in advance. Changes are subject to availability and may incur fees. Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended. Afrisun is not liable for delays, medical issues, or lost property.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:

Clients must ensure valid passports, visas, and health documents. Afrisun is not responsible for denied travel due to incomplete documentation.

CONDUCT:

Clients must follow local laws and customs. Afrisun may terminate services for misconduct without a refund.