7-Day Classic Kenya Wildlife Safari
A 7-Day Classic Kenya Wildlife Safari takes you deep into Kenya’s most celebrated national parks and reserves—where the drama of the wild unfolds every sunrise. From the flamingo-filled lakes of the Rift Valley to the elephant herds beneath Mount Kilimanjaro and the endless plains of the Masai Mara, this safari captures the heart of Africa in one unforgettable journey. Perfectly paced and rich in variety, it offers a seamless blend of adventure, comfort, and breathtaking encounters with nature.
Safari Overview
This week-long safari introduces you to Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. You’ll explore Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli National Park, and the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Along the way, experience Kenya’s landscapes—from acacia-dotted plains and volcanic lakes to snow-capped mountain views—and witness the Big Five in their natural habitat.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi—Gateway to Adventure
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where a safari representative will welcome you. Transfer to your hotel for a short briefing about your upcoming adventure. Depending on your arrival time, explore Nairobi’s highlights, such as the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum. Rest overnight and prepare for the wild journey ahead.
Accommodation: Eka Hotel / Tamarind Tree Hotel (or similar)
Day 2: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park—Flamingos and Rhinos
Depart Nairobi after breakfast and drive through the scenic Great Rift Valley. Stop briefly at a viewpoint to capture panoramic photos before continuing to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its birdlife and rhino sanctuary.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive around the lake, spotting flamingos, pelicans, buffalos, zebras, and the rare Rothschild giraffe. With luck, you might spot both black and white rhinos grazing near the shores.
As the sun sets, return to your lodge for dinner with views over the park’s tranquil landscapes.
Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge / Sarova Lion Hill Lodge
Day 3: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha – Boat Ride and Nature Walk
After breakfast, drive to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake surrounded by acacia forests and rich wildlife. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, watching hippos wallow in the water and birds gliding above.
Later, take a guided nature walk on Crescent Island, where you can safely walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes—an experience that brings you closer to nature than any vehicle can.
Relax at your lakeside lodge as the evening breeze carries the sounds of the wild.
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort / Enashipai Resort & Spa
Day 4: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli National Park—Elephants and Kilimanjaro Views
After breakfast, travel south to Amboseli National Park, arriving in time for lunch. The drive offers changing scenery—from farmlands to Maasai plains.
In the afternoon, head out for a game drive. Amboseli is famous for its massive elephant herds and spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. The contrast between wildlife and the towering peak makes Amboseli one of Kenya’s most photogenic destinations.
Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay beneath the stars.
Accommodation: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge / AA Lodge Amboseli
Day 5: Amboseli to Masai Mara National Reserve—The Ultimate Safari
After an early breakfast, depart Amboseli for the Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s premier safari destination. The journey passes through Nairobi and the scenic highlands before descending into the vast plains of the Mara.
Arrive in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. The Mara is alive with wildlife—elephants grazing, lions resting in the shade, and giraffes moving gracefully across the plains. As the sun sets, return to your camp for dinner surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation: Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Basecamp Explorer / Mara Intrepids Camp
Day 6: Full-Day Game Drive in Masai Mara—Big Five Encounters
Spend the entire day exploring the Masai Mara. After breakfast, venture deep into the reserve for a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch. The Mara’s open savannah offers some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife sightings—cheetahs, lions, elephants, buffalos, zebras, and countless antelopes.
During the Great Migration (July–October), witness millions of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River in dramatic scenes of life and survival.
Optionally, visit a Maasai village to experience their traditional way of life—their songs, dances, and colorful attire.
Return to camp in the evening for dinner and relaxation around a bonfire.
Day 7: Morning in the Mara—Return to Nairobi
Enjoy a final morning game drive to catch any wildlife you might have missed. The early light paints the plains in warm gold, perfect for photography. After breakfast, bid farewell to the Mara and drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Your 7-day safari ends with drop-off at the airport or hotel, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary journey through Kenya’s wilderness.
Safari Highlights
- Explore four major parks: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha
- Chance to spot the Big Five and witness the Great Migration (seasonal)
- Boat ride on Lake Naivasha and walking safari on Crescent Island
- Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
- Cultural visit to a Maasai village
- Comfortable lodges and tented camps with exceptional hospitality
Best Time to Visit
Kenya offers rewarding safaris year-round. However, the dry seasons (June–October and December–March) provide the best wildlife viewing. The Great Migration peaks between July and October, making this the most popular time for visitors.
What to Pack
Light clothing for daytime, warm layers for cool mornings, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a good camera. Don’t forget binoculars for close-up wildlife viewing.
Why Choose GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS
At GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, we craft each safari with attention to detail—combining expert guiding, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics. Our experienced team ensures that every moment, from sunrise game drives to evening campfires, feels personal, safe, and memorable.
Conclusion
A 7-Day Classic Kenya Wildlife Safari captures the essence of Africa—wild beauty, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable encounters with nature. From flamingos on Rift Valley lakes to lions on the Masai Mara plains and elephants beneath Kilimanjaro’s shadow, every day brings new wonder.
This is not just a trip; it’s a journey into the soul of Kenya. For a well-planned and authentic safari experience, inquire and book your adventure with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, your trusted partner for Kenya’s most inspiring wildlife tours.