Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Start your trip by arriving in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. It’s likely where your international flight will land.
Spend your first day exploring the city’s highlights. Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned elephants are raised. It’s an uplifting and educational experience.
Next, head to the Giraffe Centre. Here, you can get up close with endangered Rothschild giraffes. Feed and interact with them while learning about conservation efforts.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. The house is beautiful, and fans of “Out of Africa” will love discovering more about the author.
Day 2: Nairobi National Park
Get an early start and explore Nairobi National Park. It’s one of the few parks in the world that’s so close to a capital city.
Look for lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline. It’s the perfect introduction to Kenyan wildlife without straying far from the city.
In the afternoon, explore local markets like Maasai Market, where you can pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs. It changes its location, so check ahead to know where it’ll be that day.
Day 3: Travel to Lake Naivasha
It’s time to leave Nairobi and head to Lake Naivasha, located a couple of hours northwest of the city. You can take a bus or private transport.
Once you arrive, enjoy a boat ride on the lake. You’ll spot hippos and various birds, including pelicans and fish eagles.
If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Crescent Island. It’s a calm place where animals roam freely, and you can take a walking safari.
Day 4: Hell’s Gate National Park
Set aside some time for Hell’s Gate National Park. This park is unique because visitors can cycle through it. You can rent a bike at the entrance and enjoy stunning views of cliffs and wildlife like zebras and antelopes.
If you’re up for it, hike the Ol Njorowa Gorge. The scenery is stunning, but make sure to go with a guide for safety.
After a full day of outdoor activities, spend the evening relaxing by the lake. Many lodges offer great views where you can unwind in peace.
Day 5: Naivasha to Maasai Mara
Travel south to the Maasai Mara. This is one of Kenya’s most famous and best-known parks thanks to its open savannahs and big cat sightings.
The drive takes around five to six hours depending on your starting point. Once you arrive, relax at your lodge or take a short game drive in the afternoon if time allows.
Day 6: Full Day in Maasai Mara
Dedicate today to exploring the Maasai Mara. Whether you booked a safari through your accommodation or an independent company, you’ll likely be up before sunrise for a game drive.
Enjoy looking for the “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes. The wildlife in Maasai Mara is extraordinary, and it’s common to see animals like cheetahs, wildebeest, and giraffes too.
Don’t miss out on learning about the Maasai people. Many tours will include a visit to a local Maasai village, where you’ll learn about their culture and lifestyle.
Day 7: Final Game Drive and Return to Nairobi
Wake up early for one last game drive in Maasai Mara. The early morning is the best time to spot predators moving around.
Around mid-morning, start your drive back to Nairobi. It’s a long ride, so be sure to leave enough time if you’ve got an evening flight out.
If your flight’s later in the evening, consider stopping at the Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative in Nairobi. It’s a great way to support local crafts and pick up a unique souvenir from your trip.
After an unforgettable week in Kenya, it’s time to bid goodbye. End your journey knowing you’ve had a well-rounded experience of one of Africa’s most beautiful destinations.
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