9 Days Masai Mara, Nakuru & Naivasha, Amboseli, Tsavo West & Tsavo East Safari
Safari Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable 9-day Kenya Explorer safari adventure through some of Kenya’s most iconic national parks and scenic landscapes with Ottawa World Travels. From the legendary Masai Mara to the bird-filled shores of Lake Nakuru, the rugged beauty of Hell’s Gate, the majestic Amboseli with its views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the expansive wilderness of Tsavo West and Tsavo East National Parks, each day promises thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery.
Join us on this journey to explore Kenya’s rich biodiversity, encounter the Big Five in their natural habitats, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the Maasai and other local communities. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or embarking on your first African adventure, this meticulously crafted itinerary ensures an authentic and enriching safari experience. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime amidst Kenya’s untamed wilderness and natural wonders.
Tour Highlights
Masai Mara
- Great Migration: Witness one of nature's most incredible spectacles, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. (Seasonal: July to October)
- Big Five: The park is renowned for its high concentration of the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos.
- Scenic Landscapes: Marvel at the vast savannahs, rolling hills, and picturesque acacia trees that define the iconic African landscape.
- Maasai Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people through village visits and interactions with Maasai warriors.
- Bird Watching: Home to over 450 bird species, including ostriches, vultures, and numerous birds of prey.
- Predator Viewing: The Mara is one of the best places in Africa to see predators in action, with frequent sightings of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Nakuru
- Big Five Game Viewing: Encounter Africa's iconic wildlife including lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, both black and white, within the park's diverse habitats.
- Rhino Sanctuary: Visit one of Kenya's best places to see endangered black and white rhinos, with conservation efforts that have successfully increased their numbers.
- Birdwatcher's Paradise: Explore over 450 bird species recorded in the park, including pelicans, cormorants, and various birds of prey, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
- Makalia Waterfall: Hike to the scenic Makalia Falls, nestled within the park, offering a refreshing break and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Lake Nakuru from Baboon Cliff, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Lake Naivasha
- Boat Safaris: Popular for birdwatching and viewing hippos in their natural habitat.
- Crescent Island: A sanctuary for giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife, perfect for walking safaris.
- Hell's Gate National Park: Famous for its stunning landscapes, rock formations, and geothermal activities.
- Mount Longonot: A dormant volcano with a challenging hiking trail offering panoramic views.
- Adventure Activities: Including biking, rock climbing, and exploring caves within Hell's Gate National Park.
Amboseli
- Mt. Kilimanjaro Views: Amboseli is renowned for its stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The snow-capped summit provides a breathtaking contrast to the park's savannah.
- The park is famous for its large elephant populations. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures up close, often against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Observation Hill: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the park, including the swamps and marshlands that attract a variety of wildlife.
- Amboseli is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 400 bird species. Notable birds include pelicans, kingfishers, crakes, hammerkops, and 47 types of raptors.
- Cultural Experience: Interaction with the Samburu people, who share their rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, and crafts.
- Scenic Landscapes: Dramatic landscapes featuring rocky outcrops, dry riverbeds, and acacia woodland.
Tsavo East & West
- Aruba Dam: A man-made dam located on the Voi River, it is a popular spot for game viewing, especially during the dry season when animals congregate here to drink.
- Tsavo East is famous for its large elephant herds, often seen covered in red dust, giving them a unique appearance. The elephants here are known for their significant role in conservation efforts.
- Home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), Tsavo East also boasts a wide variety of other wildlife including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and numerous bird species.
- With over 500 species of birds, Tsavo East is a paradise for bird watchers. Species include the African fish eagle, martial eagle, and various species of kingfishers and hornbills.
- Galana River: One of Kenya's longest rivers, flowing through the park. The riverbanks are lush and green, contrasting with the arid surroundings and attracting diverse wildlife.
- Yatta Plateau: One of the world's longest lava flows, stretching over 300 kilometers. It offers a unique geological formation and is a significant landmark within the park.
- Mzima Springs: A series of natural springs providing a lush oasis in the middle of the park. Home to hippos and crocodiles.
- Rhino Sanctuary: A protected area within the park dedicated to the conservation of black rhinos.
- Lake Jipe: A picturesque lake straddling the Kenya-Tanzania border.
Safari Itinerary
Depart Nairobi for Masai Mara through the scenic Rift Valley.
Arrive in time for lunch. Check in at the lodge and relax for the evening drive.
Evening game drive in search of the big five, Giraffe, Impala, Zebra, and the big cats of Masai Mara (Lion, Leopard and Cheetah)
Overnight stay in Mara Sopa Lodge.
Full day game drives in Masai Mara with your picnic lunch in the heart of Masai Mara’s wilderness.
Optional visit to a local Maasai village can be scheduled.
Overnight stay in Masai Mara.
Morning game drive in Masai Mara.
Depart for Lake Nakuru & Naivasha.
Visit Lake Nakuru National Park for game viewing. Here you can see the tree-climbing lions, reticulated giraffe and the endangered rhinos among other wildlife.
Proceed to Lake Naivasha for an evening boat ride (optional).
Overnight stay in Lake Naivasha Sopa.
Visit Hell’s Gate National Park for a cycling or walking safari.
Proceed to Amboseli National Park.
Evening game drive in Amboseli.
Overnight stay in Amboseli Sopa Lodge.
Full day in Amboseli with morning and afternoon game drives.
Views of Mount Kilimanjaro (weather permitting).
Overnight stay in Amboseli Sopa Lodge.
Morning game drive in Amboseli.
Transfer to Tsavo West National Park.
Visit Mzima Springs and Shetani Lava Flow.
Evening game drive in Tsavo West.
Overnight stay in Tsavo West at Kilaguni Serena Lodge.
Morning game drive in Tsavo West.
Transfer to Tsavo East National Park.
Afternoon game drive in Tsavo East.
Overnight stay in Tsavo East at Voi Wildlife Lodge.
Full day in Tsavo East with morning and afternoon game drives.
Optional visit to the Lugard Falls and Aruba Dam.
Overnight stay in Tsavo East at Voi Wildlife Lodge
Morning game drive in Tsavo East.
Return to Nairobi or Mombasa for your beach holiday extension (your choice)
End of safari or transfer to your onward destination
Tour Price Includes
- 8 Nights Full Board Accommodation
- Services of an English speaking driver / guide
- Mineral water during game drives.
- Park entry fees
Tour Price Excludes
- All airport taxes, International airfares and Visas
- Insurance (trip cancellation medical insurances are recommended)
- Activities/Excursions not mentioned on itinerary
- Tips and Gratuities to driver/guide and hotels staff
- Premium Drinks / Beverages with meals
Please note that price reduces based on persons on a safari vehicle.