Magic Of Mara Safari
Journey Highlight:
- Experience the cool highlands and dense forests of Aberdare, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts
- Explore the rugged beauty of Samburu, home to unique species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
- Witness the Big Five and visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary in one of Kenya’s premier wildlife conservancies.
- Enjoy a tranquil boat ride and a walking safari in the peaceful surroundings of Lake Naivasha.
- Marvel at the spectacular flamingos and search for rhinos in this iconic Rift Valley lake.
Day 1: Arrival and Journey to Amboseli—Into the Wild
Your adventure begins the moment you land in Nairobi, where a Thompson Gazelle Safaris representative will greet you with a warm welcome. From Nairobi, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Amboseli National Park, passing through rural landscapes and small villages. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch. The afternoon offers an opportunity to stretch your legs with a nature walk. As you wander through the park, keep an eye out for elephants and other wildlife against the backdrop of Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. The day ends with a serene sunset, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink
Accommodations: lodge / Camp [full board]
Details : Aberdare National Park.
Day 2: Explore Amboseli’s Giants—A Day Among Elephants
Wake up to the breathtaking sight of Mount Kilimanjaro as the morning mist begins to clear. After a hearty breakfast, set off on a morning game drive through Amboseli’s diverse ecosystems. The park is famous for its large elephant herds, and you’re likely to see these majestic creatures up close, their large tusks glistening in the morning sun. As you explore the park, you’ll also have the chance to spot lions, hyenas, and a variety of bird species. After a leisurely lunch back at your lodge, enjoy some downtime before heading out on an afternoon game drive. The late afternoon light is perfect for photography, capturing the beauty of Amboseli’s landscapes and wildlife.
Accommodations: Lodge / Camp [full board]
Details: Amboseli National Park
Day 3: From Amboseli to the Tranquil Lake Naivasha—Water and Wildlife
After breakfast, bid farewell to Amboseli and embark on a picturesque drive to Lake Naivasha. The journey takes you through the Great Rift Valley, offering stunning views of escarpments and valleys. Upon arrival at Lake Naivasha, you’ll check in at your lodge before enjoying lunch with a view of the tranquil waters. In the afternoon, embark on a boat ride to Crescent Island, a sanctuary for wildlife. As you glide across the lake, watch for hippos lazily basking in the shallows and a variety of water birds. Once on Crescent Island, take a guided nature walk among giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife that roam freely here. The serene environment offers a perfect contrast to the wild adventures ahead.
Accommodations: Lodge / Camp [full board]
Meal Plan : Full Board
Destination: Lake Naivasha
Day 4: Discover Lake Nakuru National Park – Flamingos and Rhinos
After a peaceful breakfast by the lake, set out for Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its shimmering pink flamingos that flock to the soda-rich waters. The park is also a sanctuary for rhinos, and you may spot these powerful creatures grazing in the savannah. As you drive through the park, be on the lookout for Rothschild giraffes, leopards, and baboons. Lunch will be served at a scenic spot within the park, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty. The afternoon game drive provides more opportunities to explore the park’s diverse habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands.
Accommodations: Lodge / Camp [full board]
Details: Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 5: Journey to Maasai Mara—The Heart of the Savannah
After breakfast, you’ll depart for the legendary Maasai Mara Game Reserve, driving through the rolling hills of Kenya’s interior. The Maasai Mara, with its endless golden savannahs, is one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your camp and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in the Mara, where you’ll likely encounter elephants, giraffes, and possibly even a pride of lions. The Maasai Mara is also home to the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet. In the evening, return to your camp to relax by the campfire and share stories of the day’s adventures.
Accommodations : Lodge / Camp [full board]
Details : Maasai Mara Game Reserve
Days 6 & 7: Immersive Game Drives in Maasai Mara—Where the Wild Things Are
Spend two full days exploring the Maasai Mara, with morning and afternoon game drives that take you deep into the heart of the reserve. The Mara’s gentle grasslands ensure that animals are never out of sight. Watch as cheetahs sprint across the plains in pursuit of gazelles, or witness the raw power of a lion pride on the hunt. The Maasai Mara is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species recorded, including ostriches, secretary birds, and crowned cranes. For an unforgettable experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride at dawn, floating silently above the Mara as the sun rises, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Alternatively, visit a Maasai village to learn about the culture and traditions of the Maasai people, who have lived in harmony with the wildlife for centuries.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Details: Maasai Mara Game Reserve
Day 8: Return to Nairobi—Until Next Time
After breakfast, you’ll take one last game drive as you make your way out of the Maasai Mara. The drive back to Nairobi offers time to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had. Upon arrival in Nairobi, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, or you can opt for an additional night in the city to explore more of Kenya’s vibrant capital. Either way, you’ll depart with memories of a lifetime.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Details: Nairobi
What’s Included?
- Accommodation and meals as stipulated in the itinerary.
- Transport in a chauffeur-driven Land cruiser with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing & photography.
- Services of an English-speaking driver-guide.
- Game viewing drives and park entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
- All Government taxes and levies.
- Mineral water during drives only.
- All meet and greet services.
- All arrival and departure transfers.
- 24-hour stand-by contact number.
What’s Excluded?
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- All items of personal nature e.g., telephone call bills, fax/email bills, etc.
- Tips and gratuities to hotel, lodges, camp staff, and driver-guide (s)
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Any local or international flight and departure taxes.
- Laundry services.
- Holiday supplement over Easter, Christmas, and New Year.
- Any other item(s) not included in our itinerary.
