5-Day Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara & Serengeti Mid-Range Safari
Overview
Experience the ultimate East African wildlife circuit on this fast-paced 5-day mid-range safari. This incredible journey takes you from the pink-flamingo shores of Lake Nakuru in Kenya, across the legendary plains of the Masai Mara, and into the endless savannah of the Serengeti in Tanzania. While the itinerary is ambitious, it maximizes your time and wildlife viewing opportunities without sacrificing comfort. Instead of basic camping, you will stay in mid-range lodges and permanent tented camps, ensuring you enjoy en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and delicious meals after a day of adventure.
Safari Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Nairobi to Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara
After an early morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel, you will drive down the Great Rift Valley escarpment to Lake Nakuru National Park (approximately 3–4 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive in this park famous for its flocks of flamingos and both White and Black Rhinos. After a scenic picnic lunch within the park, you will exit and drive towards the Masai Mara. The journey continues through the Great Rift Valley, arriving at your mid-range lodge or tented camp in the late evening. Check in and enjoy a delicious dinner before resting.
Full Day in Masai Mara
Wake up to the sounds of the bush and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Today is dedicated to exploring the Masai Mara, renowned for its exceptional population of big cats and the annual Great Migration. You will enjoy a full day of game driving with a picnic lunch, searching for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and herds of wildebeest. You will also have the option to visit a local Maasai village (optional extra) to learn about their rich culture. Return to the lodge in the evening for a sundowner, dinner, and overnight.
Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
After a final morning game drive and breakfast in the Mara, you will head to the Isebania/Sirari border post to cross into Tanzania. Complete customs and immigration formalities (ensure you have your visa). Your Tanzanian guide will meet you on the other side. You will then enter the Serengeti via the Ndabaka or Western Corridor gate. Enjoy a game drive as you drive to your mid-range lodge or permanent tented camp, likely in the central Seronera area. Arrive in time for dinner and overnight.
Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Enjoy a full day of game driving in the Serengeti. Depending on the season, your guide will navigate towards the best wildlife areas—perhaps the Southern Plains for the calving season (Dec–March) or the Northern reaches for river crossings (July–Oct). The Serengeti offers unparalleled opportunities to see predators in action amidst the "endless plains." You will stop for a scenic picnic lunch in the wilderness. In the evening, return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.
Serengeti to Arusha
Rise early for a final morning game drive in the Serengeti to catch the animals at their most active. After breakfast, you will drive to Arusha. You will exit the park and drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area highlands, enjoying views of the crater rim if time permits, and continuing via the town of Karatu. You will arrive in Arusha in the afternoon, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your cross-border mid-range adventure.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Professional safari guide & transport by 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof.
- All game drives & park entry fees (Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti).
- Mid-range accommodation (Permanent Tented Camps or Safari Lodges).
- Full-board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Daily bottled water (1.5L per person per day).
- Airport pick-up and drop-off.
Excluded
- Visa fees (Kenya and Tanzania) – East African Tourist Visa recommended if eligible.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guide, cook, and lodge staff.
- Personal items and souvenirs.
- Optional activities (Balloon safari, Maasai Village visit, Olduvai Gorge).
- Alcoholic drinks, premium soft drinks, and extra bottled water.