Kenya 7-Day Safari Itinerary: Nairobi, Rift Valley Lakes and the Masai Mara
Seven days is the classic length for a Kenya safari, long enough to combine the Rift Valley lakes with the Masai Mara without feeling rushed.
A week gives you time to settle into the rhythm of safari life. You can enjoy contrasting landscapes, add a lake, and spend at least three nights in the Mara, the point at which game drives stop feeling like transfers and start feeling like exploration.
The main plan below is the most popular route. A variation follows for travellers who prefer Amboseli, together with pacing advice and notes on what is included.
This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- Length: Seven days, six nights
- Route: Nairobi, Nakuru, Naivasha, Mara
- Variation: Amboseli and the Mara
- Best for: First and second safaris
- Tip: Spend three nights in the Mara
Main Route: Day by Day
- Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Use the evening to rest and, if you land early, visit an attraction from the Nairobi things to do list.
- Day 2: Drive into the Rift Valley and on to Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy an afternoon drive among rhinos, buffalo and birds. See the Lake Nakuru wildlife guide.
- Day 3: A morning drive at Nakuru, then continue to Lake Naivasha for lunch and a boat trip or a walk, spending the night by the lake.
- Day 4: Drive to the Masai Mara, arriving for lunch and an afternoon game drive. This is the longest transfer day.
- Day 5: A full day in the Mara with dawn and late-afternoon drives, and a possible picnic lunch in the reserve.
- Day 6: Another full day; consider a hot air balloon at sunrise or a visit to a conservancy. See the hot air balloon safari page.
- Day 7: A final morning drive, then return to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon for your departure or onward flight.
Variation: Amboseli and the Mara
Travellers who prioritise elephants and mountain views can swap Nakuru and Naivasha for Amboseli. Spend the first night in Nairobi, drive to Amboseli for two nights, return to Nairobi or fly to the Mara, then spend three nights in the reserve before heading home. This version has a stronger focus on photography and big mammals, though it lacks the lakes and birdlife of the Rift Valley. Read the Amboseli best time to visit page to judge dates.
Pacing and Flights
The main route includes three long-ish driving days, but each ends at a lodge with time to relax. If you prefer fewer hours on the road, fly between Nairobi and the Mara and cut one Rift Valley stop. Scheduled flights are covered in Flying safaris and air safaris in East Africa. Keep the Mara at three nights regardless of other changes.
Who This Itinerary Suits
The seven-day plan is the best all-rounder for couples, small groups and families with older children. It balances wildlife, scenery and comfort without overloading the schedule. It suits first-timers, yet it is varied enough to satisfy repeat visitors. For travellers with very specific interests, consider Kenya big cat safari itinerary or Kenya birding safari itinerary.
What Is Usually Included
Typical inclusions are accommodation, meals as specified, a private or shared safari vehicle with a driver-guide, park entry, bottled water and airport transfers. Balloon rides, drinks, tips and international flights are normally extra. Ask your operator for a written list and remember that official park tariffs apply.
Optional Swaps and Add-Ons
Add Samburu for northern species, Ol Pejeta for rhinos, or finish at Diani for a beach break. See Samburu National Reserve guide, Ol Pejeta and Laikipia and Diani Beach guide. Each addition adds travel time, so extend the trip rather than compress it.
Season and Packing
The Mara is at its busiest from July to October, so book early for those months. January and February offer pleasant weather and lighter crowds. For general advice, consult Kenya best time to visit and the East Africa packing list.
Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Kenya Safari Itineraries: 3, 5 and 7 Day Ideas for the Mara, Amboseli and the Coast
- Masai Mara National Reserve: Great Migration, Wildlife and Best Time to Visit
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Flamingos, Rhinos and Rift Valley Scenery
- Kenya 10-Day Safari Itinerary: Amboseli, the Rift Valley, Samburu and the Masai Mara
- Kenya First-Time Safari Itinerary: A Simple Seven-Night Plan for Beginners
- Kenya 14-Day Safari Itinerary: Northern Wildlife, Rift Valley, Mara and the Coast
- Kenya Big Cat Safari Itinerary: Lions, Leopards and Cheetahs Across Four Parks
- Kenya Safari and Travel Guides: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu and the Coast
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