Wild Kenya: Maasai Mara, Amboseli & Naivasha Safari
A thrilling Kenyan safari journey through Amboseli, the Rift Valley lakes, and the vast plains of Maasai Mara
Best time to travel
July to October
Places covered
Nairobi | Maasai Mara | Amboseli | Naivasha
Tour duration
8-10 days
Starting From
$ 1,780 / per person
Tour Highlights
Discover Wild Kenya on a slow-paced Kenya safari through Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, and the Maasai Mara. This immersive Kenya wildlife safari blends iconic landscapes with close wildlife encounters, from elephant herds beneath Mount Kilimanjaro to game drives across the Great Rift Valley and the endless plains of the Maasai Mara. Designed as a balanced Kenya safari itinerary, it combines comfort, guided game drives, and unhurried exploration of Kenya’s most celebrated national parks. Ideal for travellers seeking a Maasai Mara safari experience with depth, this journey offers a seamless blend of nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes across Kenya’s most iconic safari circuit.
Amboseli Elephant Encounters
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Lake Naivasha Boat Safari
Mount Kilimanjaro Views
Who is this tour for....
Wildlife enthusiasts seeking close encounters with Africa’s iconic animals in natural habitats
Nature lovers wanting a slow, immersive escape across diverse Kenyan landscapes and ecosystems
Photography enthusiasts drawn to dramatic light, wildlife action, and sweeping savannah backdrops
Travellers seeking a scenic nature getaway combining lakes, plains, and mountain vistas
Why this journey is a must-do
Wild Kenya brings together some of East Africa’s most powerful safari experiences into one thoughtfully paced journey. In the Maasai Mara, you are in one of the best regions to witness the Great Migration, where vast herds of wildebeest and zebra move across the plains in a timeless cycle of survival and movement. A hot air balloon safari at sunrise adds a completely different perspective, drifting silently above the savannah as the landscape slowly comes alive below. Across Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and the Mara, game drives unfold in changing ecosystems where every turn can reveal elephants, lions, giraffes, and rich birdlife. It is a journey shaped by scale, silence, and spectacle, designed for those who want to experience Kenya not just on the ground, but from above and within its most iconic natural moments.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival into Kenya & Onward to Amboseli
You will be met on arrival at Nairobi Airport and transferred to a Hotel, where you can freshen up and ease into the journey ahead. Light refreshments will be served, followed by a short safari briefing to help you understand what to expect over the coming days — especially helpful when travelling with children.
From here, begin your drive towards Amboseli National Park, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its vast open plains and seasonal swamps, Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to observe large herds of elephants up close, often seen walking gracefully across the landscape with Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Arrive in time for lunch at the lodge, followed by some rest before heading out for your first game drive. Along with elephants, keep an eye out for zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and a variety of birdlife that thrives around the wetlands.
Day 2: Exploring Amboseli at a Comfortable Pace
Today is spent exploring Amboseli with morning and afternoon game drives, timed around when wildlife is most active. The park’s relatively open terrain makes it easier for first-time safari-goers, especially children, to spot animals without long waits.
You may also come across buffalo, hyenas, and if you’re lucky, predators such as lions moving through the plains. The swamps often attract a concentration of wildlife, making sightings frequent and rewarding.
In between drives, return to the lodge to relax, enjoy meals, and keep the pace easy and comfortable.
Day 3: Amboseli to Lake Naivasha – Changing Landscapes
After an early breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, driving through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. The journey itself is scenic and varied, offering a different side of Kenya beyond the savannah.
Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch, followed by a relaxed afternoon. You may choose to simply unwind, or opt for additional experiences such as a guided nature walk or a boat ride on the lake — both available at an extra cost and payable directly on ground. These are gentle, family-friendly experiences that offer a closer look at birdlife and the surrounding ecosystem.
Day 4: Into the Maasai Mara
After breakfast, continue your journey towards the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. The drive takes you deeper into open plains, building anticipation for what lies ahead.
Arrive in time for lunch at the lodge, followed by some rest before heading out for an afternoon game drive. The Mara is known for its abundant wildlife, and even a single drive can offer memorable sightings. The vastness of the landscape itself is part of the experience, creating a sense of scale that stays with you.
Day 5: A Day in the Mara – Choose Your Pace
Begin the day with an early morning game drive, when the reserve is at its most active, followed by breakfast back at the lodge. The rest of the morning is kept free, allowing time to relax and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.
For those looking to elevate the experience, an optional hot air balloon safari can be arranged at an additional cost, offering a completely different perspective of the Mara followed by a bush breakfast — a memorable experience, though entirely optional.
In the afternoon, head out for another game drive, building on the sightings from earlier and allowing for a deeper exploration of the reserve.
Day 6: Return to Nairobi
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Nairobi by road, a drive of approximately 5 hours. Alternatively, you may choose to fly from the Mara to Nairobi (at an additional cost), which significantly reduces travel time and can be more comfortable, especially when travelling with children.
On arrival in Nairobi, you will check-in at your hotel and relax. Depending on time available you can step out a sightseeing tour of the city.
Day 7: Nairobi Departure
Early this morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward international flight, or to continue with any further travel plans — carrying with you memories of vast open landscapes, close wildlife encounters, and moments in the wild that quietly stay with you long after the journey ends.
Traveller Notes
- Yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry into Kenya and should be checked in advance of travel
- Malaria precautions are strongly advised, including preventive medication and mosquito protection measures during the safari
- Travel involves extended road journeys between parks, so comfortable clothing and motion comfort awareness are recommended
- Pack light, breathable clothing along with warm layers for early morning and evening game drives
- Safari lodges are located in remote regions with limited connectivity, supporting a true off-grid experience
4 Reasons to Choose This Kenyan Adventure with AEJ
Handpicked Safari Stays
Handpicked safari lodges ensuring comfort, location, and immersive wildlife access
Expert Safari Guidance
Experienced local guides offering deep knowledge of wildlife behaviour and landscapes
Journey For Every Traveller
Flexible itineraries tailored to pacing, interests, and travel preferences
End-to-End Design
Seamless travel support from arrival to departure across Kenya
Inclusions
- 10 nights’ accommodation on BB basis (daily breakfast)
- Private transportation as per itinerary by air-conditioned coach
- High-speed train between Seville and Madrid (Economy Class)
- Guided Tours as per the itinerary
- Flamenco Experience in a cave including one drink
- Olive oil visit and tasting in Ronda
- Half-day attendance at the Bienal de Flamenco (schedule and tickets subject to availability and official program)
- Madrid Tapas tour and Shopping time at Gran Vía
- Baggage Tags for the entire group
- Procurement of Schengen Visa for Spain
- All the applicable services charges, government taxes, and TCS
Exclusions
- Any International flights
- Airport transfers in Málaga and Madrid as per flights chosen as per actuals
- Personal Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners unless specifically mentioned in inclusions
- Personal incidental expenses
- Any other services not mentioned as included
- Tips and gratuities (Driver/Guide/Boatmen/naturalists)
- Blocking of seats and meals on board flights on actuals if requested
Combine this tour with..
North India
This classic Golden Triangle circuit, with the addition of Ranthambore, offers an ideal balance of history, culture, and wildlife. Explore the bustling streets of Delhi, marvel at the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, soak in the royal grandeur of Jaipur, and venture into the wild at Ranthambore in search of the elusive tiger. This route beautifully weaves together India’s vibrant heritage, architectural wonders, and thrilling safaris, creating a seamless journey that captures the heart of North India.
Suggested Routing: Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Delhi
Ideal Duration: 8-10 days
Bhutan
Bhutan’s compact yet diverse circuit promises a serene and immersive experience in the Himalayan kingdom. From the cultural richness of Paro to the modern capital of Thimphu and the lush valleys of Punakha, this route offers a peaceful flow through ancient monasteries, mountain vistas, and traditional Bhutanese life. The short driving distances allow for relaxed exploration, while the spiritual ambience and pristine natural beauty create a fulfilling journey that feels both intimate and profound.
Suggested Routing: Paro – Thimpu – Punakha – Paro
Ideal Duration: 8 days
Thailand
This Thai route effortlessly blends urban excitement, pristine jungle, and tropical beaches. Begin in dynamic Bangkok with its vibrant street life and royal landmarks, continue to the untouched rainforests and tranquil lakes of Khao Sok National Park for a nature escape, and unwind on the stunning beaches of Phuket. It’s a thoughtfully paced itinerary that transitions from cultural immersion to natural wonder to coastal relaxation, offering something for every kind of traveler in one beautifully connected journey.
Suggested Routing: Bangkok – Khao Sok – Phuket
Ideal Duration: 8 days
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make this circuit a perfect introduction to the island. Start with the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, move to the spiritual city of Kandy, and immerse yourself in the cool tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. The journey flows south to the golden beaches of Mirissa for a coastal finale before returning to Colombo. This combination delivers ancient history, lush mountains, cultural treasures, and seaside serenity, capturing the island’s multifaceted charm in one comprehensive route.
Suggested Routing: Colombo – Anuradhapura – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Mirissa – Colombo
Ideal Duration: 8 days