4 Days Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Safari

The Masai Mara is home to all of the Big Five: lions (over 250 individuals in several prides), leopards (often found in riparian forests), elephants (large herds with young animals), buffalo (huge herds, often numbering in the thousands), and white rhinos (a small population of around 30 to 40 animals). Cheetahs are common in open plains. Zebras, wildebeests, Thomson’s gazelles, Grant’s gazelles, impalas, topis, Masai giraffes, and waterbucks are present in large numbers. Hippos and Nile crocodiles live in the rivers. Spotted hyenas, jackals, and various species of vultures are also common. From July to October, about two million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras join them during migration.

The wildebeest migration takes place in the Masai Mara from July to October. During these months, around two million wildebeests, 300,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of Thomson’s gazelles cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in Tanzania. The spectacular river crossings are most frequently observed from August to September, when the herds commute back and forth between both sides of the river. The crossings are dramatic: wildebeests plunge into raging currents while Nile crocodiles lurk in the water. However, the Mara is also excellent for wildlife sightings outside of the migration season – the density of big cats is high all year round.

Lake Nakuru is home to over 100 rhinos: around 70 black rhinos and 30 white rhinos. The park has one of the highest densities of leopards in Kenya – leopards often rest in fever trees and can be spotted with patience. Rothschild’s giraffes (one of the rarest subspecies) have been successfully reintroduced here. Large herds of buffalo, zebras, waterbucks, impalas, and baboons are common. Seasonally, millions of flamingos rest on the lake – lesser and greater flamingos color the shore pink. Pelicans, cormorants, African fish eagles, goliath herons, and over 450 bird species live in the park.

The chances of seeing all of the Big Five during this four-day safari are very high. Lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo are almost guaranteed in the Masai Mara—the density of big cats is one of the highest in Africa. White rhinos are rarer, but there are around 30 to 40 animals in the reserve. Lake Nakuru has over 100 rhinos, which further increases the chances. Leopards are more common in Nakuru than in the Mara due to the higher density. Overall, the probability of seeing all of the Big Five is over 80 percent, and even higher with good conditions and experienced guides.

Accommodations in the Masai Mara range from authentic tented camps to comfortable lodges. Typical safari camps offer spacious tented suites with private bathrooms, hot showers, verandas, and views of the plains or river courses. Many camps are located directly on the banks of the Mara or Talek Rivers, where hippos grunt at night. Lodges offer permanent buildings with similar comforts. All accommodations offer full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner), campfires in the evening, and often sundowners. Categories range from budget to mid-range to luxury. Jungle Roar Safaris works with various camps and lodges depending on budget and preference.

Day 1 Nairobi to Masai Mara: 270 km, approx. 5 to 6 hours with breaks at the Rift Valley Viewpoint and in Narok. Day 2 Full day in the Mara, no transfers. Day 3 Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru: 235 km, approx. 5 hours with lunch break in Narok. Day 4 Lake Nakuru to Nairobi: 160 km, approx. 2.5 hours with short breaks. Total distance 665 km over 4 days. All driving times are calculated realistically and include breaks for breakfast, toilet stops, and photo stops. Vehicles are Land Cruisers / Jeeps with pop-up roofs and guaranteed window seats.

Safaris are possible all year round, but the best months depend on your priorities. For the wildebeest migration: July to October (river crossings, but higher prices and more visitors). For fewer visitors and good wildlife viewing: January to March (green landscapes, lots of young animals, fewer guests). Dry seasons (January-March, July-October) offer the best animal concentrations at waterholes and good roads. Rainy seasons (April-June, November) bring lush green landscapes and active birdlife, but muddy roads. Lake Nakuru: Flamingos are seasonal – July to November are the best months for millions of birds.

Yes, optional hot air balloon safaris are available in the Masai Mara in the early morning – an unforgettable experience over the plains at sunrise, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Costs around $450 to $500 per person. Visits to local Masai villages can be arranged – insights into traditional life, dances, and crafts. Costs around $20 to $30 per person. Guided bush walks with armed rangers are available in some conservancies around the Mara. Guided hikes at Baboon Cliff can be arranged in Lake Nakuru. All additional activities should be requested at the time of booking.

Game drives are very safe when the rules are followed. Guests always remain in the vehicle, except at designated picnic areas or when accompanied by a ranger. Guides are experienced and know the behaviour of the animals inside out. Lions and other big cats usually ignore vehicles – they see the vehicle as a unit, not as prey. Distance from elephants and buffalos is always maintained. Vehicles have pop-up roofs for optimal visibility and photography. Armed askaris (guards) are present at the camp at night, and guests are accompanied to their tents after dark.

The tour price includes: Transportation in a Toyota Land Cruiser 4×4 with pop-up roof and guaranteed window seat, all park fees (Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru), full board in all accommodations (breakfast, lunch, dinner), all game drives as described in the itinerary, experienced English-speaking driver-guide, drinking water in the vehicle, and visit to a Maasai village, Guided nature walk in the Lake Nakuru area.