Kenya’s Complete Wildlife Circuit: Big Cats, Rhinos, Rift Valley Adventures & Kilimanjaro Views
This 7-day safari is designed for travelers who want the full spectrum of Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife in one carefully paced journey. You begin in the predator-rich plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve, transition to the rhino stronghold of Lake Nakuru National Park, shift into active exploration at Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park, and finish in Amboseli National Park, famous for its vast elephant herds and iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
It’s not just a checklist of parks—it’s a progression of ecosystems and safari styles:
- Masai Mara: scale, predators, classic savanna drama
- Lake Nakuru: conservation, rhinos, forests and lake habitats
- Naivasha & Hell’s Gate: walking, cycling, volcanic scenery, lakeside wildlife
- Amboseli: elephants, wetlands, open plains, and Africa’s most famous mountain backdrop
Together, these four destinations create one of the most complete and varied safari circuits in East Africa.
Safari Snapshot
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Route: Nairobi → Masai Mara → Lake Nakuru → Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate → Amboseli → Nairobi
- Safari Style: 4×4 game drives + walking safari + cycling + optional gorge hike
- Default Accommodation:
- Masai Mara: Kambu Mara Camp (2 nights)
- Lake Nakuru: Punda Milias Nakuru Camp (1 night)
- Naivasha: Camp Carnelley’s or Fisherman’s Camp (1 night, lakeside)
- Amboseli: Manjaro Tented Camp (2 nights)
- Best For: First-time Kenya visitors, wildlife lovers, photographers, and travelers who want both classic safari and active nature experiences
- Starts / Ends: Nairobi
Why This 7-Day Safari Works
- Logical geographic flow from western Kenya (Mara/Nakuru/Naivasha) to southern Kenya (Amboseli)
- No rushed highlights: each park is visited with a clear purpose and enough time to matter
- Multiple safari styles: vehicle-based big-game drives, walking safaris, cycling, and optional hiking
- Maximum ecosystem diversity: savanna plains, Rift Valley lakes, volcanic landscapes, swamps and mountain backdrops
- Ideal for photography and learning: changing habitats mean changing light, species, and behavior to observe
Highlights of the Four Destinations (At a Glance)
| Destination | Landscape & Setting | Wildlife Highlights | Signature Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masai Mara National Reserve | Vast open savanna, Mara & Talek rivers, rolling plains | Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest; Great Migration (seasonal) | Classic big-game drives, predator tracking, migration river drama |
| Lake Nakuru National Park | Rift Valley lake, forests, escarpments | White & black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffe, buffalo, rich birdlife | Rhino tracking, compact high-density game drives, birding |
| Naivasha & Hell’s Gate | Freshwater lake, volcanic cliffs, gorges, crater landscapes | Giraffes, zebras, antelope, hippos, abundant birds | Crescent Island walking safari, cycling in Hell’s Gate, optional gorge hike |
| Amboseli National Park | Open plains, swamps, Kilimanjaro backdrop | Large elephant herds, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, predators | Elephant-focused game drives, classic Kilimanjaro photography |
Accommodation Overview (Default)
Masai Mara – Kambu Mara Camp (2 Nights)
A comfortable, well-located tented camp near the Masai Mara, focused on maximizing time on safari rather than unnecessary luxury. Expect proper beds, good meals, early starts, and a relaxed safari atmosphere—ideal for travelers who prioritize wildlife over frills.
Lake Nakuru – Punda Milias Nakuru Camp (1 Night)
A practical, comfortable base for exploring Lake Nakuru National Park, with easy access for early morning game drives and a calm setting to rest between activities.
Naivasha – Camp Carnelley’s or Fisherman’s Camp (1 Night)
Classic lakeside camps directly on Lake Naivasha, known for their relaxed atmosphere, resident wildlife, and campfire evenings by the water—perfect after active days.
Amboseli – Manjaro Tented Camp (2 Nights)
A comfortable tented camp well-suited for exploring Amboseli’s elephant country, offering a classic safari feel with good access to the park’s core wildlife areas.
Optional Accommodation Upgrades (By Destination)
You are free to upgrade your accommodations. Simply let us know your preference when making your inquiry or booking, and we’ll tailor the itinerary and price accordingly.
Masai Mara
Comfort: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Sentrim Mara Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge
Luxury: Angama Mara, Governor’s Camp / Il Moran, Mara Plains Camp
Lake Nakuru Area
Comfort: Lake Nakuru Lodge, Flamingo Hill Tented Camp, Ziwa Bush Lodge
Luxury: The Cliff Nakuru, Mbweha Camp, Sarova Lion Hill
Naivasha / Hell’s Gate Area
Comfort: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge, Naivasha Simba Lodge, Enashipai Resort
Luxury: Chui Lodge, Loldia House, Kiboko Luxury Camp
Amboseli
Comfort: Amboseli Sopa Lodge, AA Lodge Amboseli, Kibo Safari Camp
Luxury: Tortilis Camp, Tawi Lodge, Ol Donyo Lodge
Detailed 7-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi → Masai Mara | Into the Great Plains
- Early morning pick-up from Nairobi (hotel or airport)
- Drive through the Great Rift Valley with scenic viewpoints and brief stops
- Continue via Narok into the Masai Mara region
- Arrive at Kambu Mara Camp in time for lunch or late lunch
- Short rest and safari briefing with your driver-guide
- Afternoon game drive in the Masai Mara:
- First introduction to the open plains and large herbivore herds
- Good chances of seeing elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras—and often lions or cheetahs on the very first drive
- Return to camp before sunset
- Dinner and overnight at Kambu Mara Camp
Day 2: Masai Mara | Full-Day Big Game Safari
- Early breakfast and depart for a morning game drive
- Focus on predator-rich areas and open plains:
- Lions resting or returning from hunts
- Cheetahs scanning for prey
- Hyenas, jackals, and large herds of grazing herbivores
- Explore different sectors of the Reserve depending on wildlife movements and recent sightings
- Picnic lunch in the park or return to camp (depending on your preference)
- Afternoon game drive:
- Continue searching for big cats and interesting wildlife behavior
- In migration season, time may be spent near the Mara River watching for crossing attempts
- Return to camp in the evening
- Dinner and overnight at Kambu Mara Camp
Day 3: Masai Mara → Lake Nakuru | From Savanna to Forest & Lake
- Breakfast and depart the Masai Mara
- Scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park in the Rift Valley
- Check in at Punda Milias Nakuru Camp and have lunch
- Afternoon game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park:
- Search for white and black rhinos, one of the park’s main conservation success stories
- Look out for Rothschild’s giraffe, buffalo, zebra, and various antelope
- Explore contrasting habitats: lakeshore, forest, bushland, and open areas
- Excellent birdlife, including pelicans and many waterbirds
- Return to camp before sunset
- Dinner and overnight at Punda Milias Nakuru Camp
Day 4: Lake Nakuru (Morning) → Naivasha | Birds, Walking Safari & Lakeside Evening
Early Morning in Lake Nakuru
- Early start for birding and general wildlife viewing
- Morning is the best time because:
- Birds are most active and vocal
- Light is soft and ideal for photography
- Mammals are more active before the heat builds
- Continue exploring different park zones and habitats
- Late breakfast and depart around 11:00 AM for Naivasha
Midday: Drive to Lake Naivasha
- Arrive around lunchtime
- Lunch at your camp or a nearby restaurant
Afternoon: Crescent Island Walking Safari
- Head to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary
- Take a boat ride across Lake Naivasha
- Enjoy a guided ~1.5-hour walking safari among:
- Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and antelope
- Open grassland with lake views and no large predators
- This is one of Kenya’s best and safest ways to experience wildlife on foot
Evening: Lakeside Relaxation
- Check in at Camp Carnelley’s or Fisherman’s Camp
- Relax by the lake, enjoy resident birdlife and hippos in the distance
- Dinner and campfire evening by the water
- Overnight at the camp
Day 5: Hell’s Gate → Amboseli | From Volcanoes to Elephant Country
Morning: Hell’s Gate National Park
- Early breakfast
- Drive to Hell’s Gate National Park
- Rent bicycles and enjoy ~3 hours of cycling:
- Ride among zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and antelope
- Pass dramatic cliffs, geothermal features, and volcanic formations
Optional Extension:
- Add a guided gorge hike, extending the activity to ~5 hours total, exploring the park’s narrow canyon and geothermal landscape
Lunch & Transfer
- Finish activities by late morning
- Early lunch in Naivasha town or nearby
- Begin the drive to Amboseli National Park
- Arrive at Manjaro Tented Camp in the evening
- Dinner and overnight at the camp
Day 6: Amboseli | Full Day with Elephants & Kilimanjaro
- Early morning game drive:
- Best time to see elephants, predators, and (weather permitting) clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Return to camp for breakfast
- Late morning at leisure or short rest
- Lunch at camp
- Afternoon game drive:
- Focus on swamp areas and open plains where elephants, buffalo, and giraffes gather
- Excellent opportunities for classic photography with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop
- Return to camp before sunset
- Dinner and overnight at Manjaro Tented Camp
Day 7: Amboseli → Nairobi
- Optional early morning game drive or relaxed breakfast
- Check out and begin the return journey to Nairobi
- Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon or early evening
What You’ll See on This Safari
- Masai Mara: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles; Great Migration in season
- Lake Nakuru: White & black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffe, buffalo, diverse birdlife
- Naivasha & Hell’s Gate: Walking among plains game, cycling with wildlife, volcanic landscapes, crater scenery, lakeside birds and hippos
- Amboseli: Large elephant herds, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, predators, and iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro
Best Time to Go
- July–October: Best for dry-season game viewing and possible Great Migration in the Mara (busiest period)
- January–February: Excellent wildlife, fewer crowds, warm and dry conditions
- March–May: Lush scenery and fewer tourists, but some roads can be slow after rains
- November–December: Good balance of greenery, wildlife, and moderate visitor numbers
In short: This itinerary works year-round, but July–October is best for migration seekers, while January–February is ideal for fewer crowds and great all-round conditions.
What to Expect (Safari Style & Pace)
- Early mornings and some long driving days between parks
- A mix of intense game-viewing days (Mara, Amboseli) and lighter, active days (Naivasha, Hell’s Gate)
- Comfortable but simple safari camps by default, with upgrade options available
- Changing landscapes and climates as you move across Kenya’s Rift Valley and southern plains
- A safari that prioritizes wildlife time, scenery, and experience over luxury excess
What to Pack
- Light layers + warm jacket/fleece for early mornings
- Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige)
- Comfortable walking shoes (Crescent Island, Crater Lake, gorge hike)
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Binoculars (strongly recommended)
- Camera + extra batteries/memory cards
- Power bank
- Light rain jacket (especially Mar–May, Nov)
- Small daypack and refillable water bottle
Expert Tips for Visiting These Destinations
- Don’t rush the Mara: Two nights is the minimum that makes the drive worthwhile; focus on quality sightings, not ticking boxes.
- Mornings matter: The best light and wildlife activity are almost always early in the day—embrace the early starts.
- Bring binoculars: They dramatically improve your experience, especially in the Mara and Amboseli.
- Expect contrasts: You’ll go from cool Mara mornings to warm Amboseli afternoons—pack layers.
- Think in ecosystems, not highlights: The real magic is watching behavior and interactions, not just spotting species.
- Upgrade if you value location or exclusivity: Especially in the Mara and Amboseli, lodge location and guiding quality can make a big difference.
Estimated Pricing (7-Day Kenya Safari)
| Option | Estimated Total Package Cost (USD) | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person in Comfort Tent | $3,520 | MMS01LC-7D |
| 2 People Sharing 1 Comfort Tent | $3,590 | MMS02LC-7D |
| 2 People, 1 Family Tent | $3,710 | MMS03LC-7D |
| 2 People, 2 Comfort Tents | $3,750 | MMS04LC-7D |
| 3 People Sharing 1 Family Tent | $3,755 | MMS05LC-7D |
| 3 People, 2 Comfort Tents | $3,795 | MMS06LC-7D |
| 4 People, 1 Family Tent | $3,795 | MMS07LC-7D |
| 4 People, 2 Family Tents | $4,075 | MMS08LC-7D |
| Up to 5 People, Extended Family Tent | $3,995 | MMS09LC-7D |
| Up to 6 People, Extended Family Tent | $4,035 | MMS10LC-7D |
| Up to 7 People, Extended Family Tent | $4,075 | MMS11LC-7D |
| Up to 8 People, Extended Family Tent | $4,350 | MMS12LC-7D |
What’s Included (Typical)
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional driver-guide
- 6 nights accommodation (Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli)
- Meals as per itinerary
- All scheduled game drives
- Crescent Island boat & walking safari
- Hell’s Gate cycling
- All inter-park transfers
What’s Not Included (Typical)
- Park entry fees (Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, Amboseli, Crescent Island)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not specified
How to Book This Safari
To check availability and receive your exact confirmed quote, contact us at:
Please include:
- Your preferred travel dates
- Number of people in your group
- Any accommodation upgrade preferences
- Your pick-up location in Nairobi
Booking Terms (Kambu-style):
- A 50% deposit is required to confirm the safari
- The balance is payable on arrival (card or MPesa)
- Once your deposit is received, we’ll send you:
- Your confirmed itinerary
- Accommodation details
- Pick-up time and meeting point
- Driver-guide contact details
You’re also welcome to pay 100% in advance if you prefer.
Final Perspective: A True Kenya Grand Circuit
This 7-day Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Hell’s Gate & Amboseli Safari is a journey through Kenya’s greatest wildlife landscapes:
- Masai Mara for predators and savanna drama
- Lake Nakuru for rhinos and birdlife
- Naivasha & Hell’s Gate for walking, cycling, and volcanic scenery
- Amboseli for elephants and Kilimanjaro views
It’s a safari that delivers scale, diversity, activity, and iconic scenery—and one that shows, in just one week, why Kenya remains one of the world’s great safari destinations.