7-day itinerary exploring the best of Kenya’s safaris

Introduction

Kenya is a vibrant East African country known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and diverse cultures. It’s famous worldwide for its spectacular safaris, including iconic parks like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, where visitors can see the “Big Five” animals—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. Kenya also boasts beautiful lakes, savannahs, mountains like Mount Kenya, and a coastline along the Indian Ocean. The country is home to over 40 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, making Kenya a culturally rich and diverse destination.

Arrival and Nairobi Introduction

Your Kenyan safari adventure begins in Nairobi, the bustling capital city where modernity meets wildlife. Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll transfer to your hotel or safari lodge to relax after your flight. Nairobi offers a unique blend of urban excitement and nature, including the famous Nairobi National Park—one of the only parks located within a capital city’s limits. If time allows, a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see rescued baby elephants or the Giraffe Centre for up-close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes introduces Kenya’s conservation efforts.

Maasai Mara National Reserve – Gateway to the Big Five

On day two, you’ll head to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s premier safari destination known for its rich biodiversity and expansive savannahs. The drive or flight from Nairobi takes a few hours, leading you to the heart of the Mara. This reserve is synonymous with the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), and your first game drive will likely introduce you to some of these majestic animals. The Maasai Mara is also famous for its annual Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains between July and October, creating one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on earth.

Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing in Maasai Mara

Spend days three and four immersed in daily game drives within the Maasai Mara. Early morning and late afternoon drives are ideal for spotting predators at their most active and viewing animals in cooler parts of the day. Skilled guides track prides of lions, elusive leopards in the trees, and herds of elephants moving gracefully across the plains. The Mara’s diverse habitats—open grasslands, riverine forests, and acacia woodlands—support a wide variety of species, including cheetahs sprinting after prey and endangered black rhinos hidden deep within protected zones.

Maasai Cultural Experience

Beyond wildlife, the Maasai Mara is home to the Maasai people, whose rich traditions and culture add a unique dimension to your safari. On day five, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a Maasai village to learn about their way of life, age-old customs, vibrant beadwork, and pastoral lifestyle. This cultural encounter is a respectful exchange that offers insights into how the Maasai live in harmony with nature and protect their lands. It’s a meaningful addition to your safari, connecting you with Kenya’s indigenous heritage.

Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park

From the Maasai Mara, your safari continues to Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its shimmering alkaline lake and large flocks of flamingos that sometimes turn the shores pink. This park also offers excellent chances to see both black and white rhinos, along with diverse birdlife numbering over 400 species. The journey to Nakuru takes you through Kenya’s scenic Great Rift Valley, where dramatic escarpments and fertile farmlands create a stunning backdrop for your drive.

Exploring Lake Nakuru’s Wildlife

Day six focuses on game drives around Lake Nakuru National Park, which, despite its smaller size compared to the Mara, is packed with wildlife and scenic beauty. You can spot elusive leopards, buffalos, waterbucks, and baboons while enjoying spectacular views of the lake. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of waterfowl and the iconic pink flamingos when present. The park’s acacia forests also provide refuge for several species of monkeys and the endangered Rothschild giraffe.

Amboseli National Park – Elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro

On day seven, your safari takes you southeast to Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, just across the border in Tanzania. Amboseli’s dry plains and swampy areas create a unique ecosystem supporting a wide variety of animals. Game drives here offer exceptional photo opportunities, with elephants often framed against the snow-capped Kilimanjaro—a truly iconic image.

Amboseli Game Drives and Scenic Beauty

Spend your last full day on safari exploring Amboseli’s diverse habitats. The park’s large elephant families roam freely, and you might spot cheetahs, lions, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Birdlife is abundant, including species like the lilac-breasted roller and African fish eagle. Your experienced guides will share fascinating insights into the wildlife, geography, and Maasai culture of the region, enriching your experience. The park’s panoramic views of Kilimanjaro at sunrise and sunset offer unforgettable moments.

Return to Nairobi and Souvenir Shopping

After an early morning game drive in Amboseli, you’ll return to Nairobi for your final night or onward travel. Back in the city, consider visiting local markets or craft centers where you can purchase authentic Maasai beadwork, wood carvings, and other Kenyan souvenirs. Nairobi’s restaurants also offer delicious local and international cuisine, providing a pleasant conclusion to your safari adventure.

Departure and Reflecting on Your Safari Journey

On the final day, transfer to Nairobi’s airport for your flight home or onward journey. Reflecting on your 7-day Kenya safari, you’ll carry memories of breathtaking wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the dramatic vistas of Amboseli, this itinerary captures the essence of Kenya’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife, leaving you inspired and eager to return.

Where to stay in Kenya

Nairobi

Giraffe Manor — Iconic boutique hotel famous for resident giraffes visiting guests at breakfast.
Nairobi Serena Hotel — Comfortable luxury option in the city center.
Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages — Charming and cozy, near the Giraffe Centre.

Maasai Mara

Mara Serena Safari Lodge — Mid-range luxury lodge with stunning views over the plains.
Angama Mara — Ultra-luxury lodge perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley with panoramic views.
Keekorok Lodge — Classic safari lodge with a central Mara location.
Mara Intrepids Camp — Mid-range tented camp combining comfort with authentic bush experience.

Lake Nakuru

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge — Popular lodge offering beautiful views over the park.
Lake Nakuru Lodge — Classic accommodation near the lake shore.
Flamingo Hill Tented Camp — Budget-friendly camp close to the flamingos and park entrance.

Things to do in Kenya

Safari Game Drives

Explore iconic parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo to spot the Big Five and incredible wildlife in their natural habitats.

Great Migration Viewing

Witness the spectacular annual wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara (July to October), one of nature’s greatest wildlife events.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

Float over the Maasai Mara at sunrise for a breathtaking aerial view of the plains and wildlife — a magical, unforgettable experience.

Day trip from Kenya

Nairobi National Park

Just a 30-minute drive from the city center, this unique park offers a chance to see lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more against the Nairobi skyline. Great for a morning or afternoon game drive.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Visit the elephant orphanage to see baby elephants being cared for and learn about Kenya’s conservation efforts. Open to visitors for a couple of hours daily.