5-Day Mid-Range Naivasha, Nakuru & Mara Safari

Safari Overview

This 5-Day Mid-Range Lake Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari takes you through three of Kenya's most iconic destinations, with a step up in comfort from our budget itinerary covering the same route. You'll spend a full night at Lake Naivasha before continuing on, rather than passing straight through, giving you more time to enjoy the lake at your own pace.

Highlights include a boat ride and walking safari at Lake Naivasha, a cycling safari at Hell's Gate National Park, rhino and flamingo country at Lake Nakuru, and two full days in the Masai Mara. You'll travel in a private Pop-Up Minivan with an experienced driver-guide, staying at Avian Court Hotel, Ziwa Bush Lodge and Zebra Plains Mara Camp along the way.

All park entry fees, transport from Nairobi, and accommodation are arranged by PMK Tours. You just show up and enjoy.

Safari Highlights

Overnight at Lake Naivasha: a full night by the lake, not just a stop along the way

Boat Ride & Walking Safari: spot hippos and waterbirds, then walk among giraffe and zebra at the animal sanctuary

Cycling Safari at Hell's Gate: pedal beneath towering cliffs and geothermal steam vents

Rhino Country: Lake Nakuru National Park, home to hundreds of black and white rhino

Two Full Days in the Masai Mara: more time on the plains for the Big Five and, in season, the Great Migration

Upgraded Stays: Avian Court Hotel, Ziwa Bush Lodge and Zebra Plains Mara Camp

Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha

Day 1

You'll be picked up from Nairobi and head for Lake Naivasha, arriving in the afternoon in time for lunch. From there, choose a boat ride on the lake followed by a walking safari in the animal sanctuary, or take the afternoon relaxing at your hotel along the shores of the lake. Freshen up and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, then overnight at Avian Court Hotel. Guests on a boat safari on Lake Naivasha

Guests on a boat safari on Lake Naivasha

Day 2: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru

Day 2

Breakfast at the hotel, then head to Hell's Gate National Park for a cycling safari and a walking safari through its dramatic gorges. Named for its intense geothermal activity, Hell's Gate is one of the most atmospheric parks in Africa: towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges and belching plumes of steam, with the chance to spot raptors and other wildlife along the way. In the afternoon, continue the drive to Lake Nakuru, arriving in time to freshen up before dinner and your overnight stay at Ziwa Bush Lodge.

Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

Day 3

Breakfast, then an early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, home to hundreds of black and white rhino, along with flamingos and a wide variety of other wildlife. Afterwards, set off for the Masai Mara, arriving in time for lunch and a chance to relax after the drive. At 5pm, you'll be collected from your camp by Maasai Morans (warriors) for a guided walking safari through the Mara, followed by a cultural visit to a traditional Maasai homestead. Return to camp for dinner and your first overnight stay at Zebra Plains Mara Camp.

Day 4: Full Day Game Drive in the Masai Mara

Day 4

Today belongs entirely to the Mara. Wake up with cameras charged and binoculars ready, and head out with your guide and a picnic lunch for a full day exploring the reserve, with no rushing back to camp at midday. Your guide will use their knowledge of the terrain and recent sightings to track down the Mara's icons: lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippo and, with some luck, leopard. Between July and October you may also catch part of the Great Migration. Stop for a picnic lunch out on the plains, surrounded by nothing but the landscape, then keep exploring as the afternoon light softens over the grasslands before heading back to Zebra Plains Mara Camp for dinner and your second overnight stay.

Day 5: Masai Mara to Nairobi

Day 5

Enjoy one last sunrise game drive before breakfast at camp (optional: sleep in if you'd rather). Check out and begin the drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the evening with drop-off at your hotel, JKIA, or any city-centre location.

What's Included & Excluded

✓ Included

Private Pop-Up Minivan for the whole safari
Professional English-speaking guide/driver
All park entrance fees (Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara)
Accommodation as per itinerary (4 nights)
All meals (full board) at hotels/camps
Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
Cycling safari at Hell's Gate National Park
Maasai cultural village visit
Drinking water during game drives
Airport/hotel pick-up and drop-off
PMK 24/7 support throughout

✗ Excluded

International flights
Kenya visa fees
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Tips for guides and camp staff
Personal expenses & souvenirs
Hot air balloon safaris (optional add-on)
Alcoholic beverages

Why Book This Safari With PMK?

Private From Start to Finish

Your own 4x4 safari vehicle, professional guide and flexible daily rhythm—never a shared group departure.

Planned by a Nairobi Team

Work directly with local specialists who know Naivasha, Nakuru and the Masai Mara first-hand.

Clear, Practical Pricing

Your quotation clearly explains accommodation, park fees, transport, activities and optional upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this 5-day Kenya safari private?

Yes. You travel in a private 4x4 safari vehicle with your own professional guide, and the daily pace can be adjusted to your interests.

What is included in the safari price?

Your tailored quote clearly lists private transport, guide services, park entry fees, mid-range accommodation, itinerary meals, drinking water and Nairobi transfers.

Is the Lake Naivasha boat safari included?

A Lake Naivasha boat safari can be included in your tailored itinerary. PMK will confirm the activity and any optional Crescent Island walk in your quotation.

Can this five-day safari be customized?

Yes. Travel dates, accommodation, activities and the route can be adjusted before booking.

5-Day Mid-Range Lake Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari