5-Day Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Budget Camping Safari

Begin your adventure early with pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by your friendly Pita Safaris driver-guide. Journey through the scenic Great Rift Valley, stopping at viewpoints for breathtaking photo opportunities before proceeding via Narok, Kenya’s vibrant Maasai town.

Arrive at your Camp in time for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in Masai Mara National Reserve — Kenya’s most famous wildlife haven. Spot herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and, with luck, the elusive big cats: lions, cheetahs, and leopards.

Return to camp for dinner and relaxation under the star-filled African sky.
Travel Tip: Sunset game drives in the Mara offer the best light for golden-hour photography.

Distance: ~280 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Accommodation Options:

Miti Mingi Eco Camp, Lenchada Tourist Camp (Budget Section), Manyatta Camp (Budget Camping Section), Rhino Tourist Camp (Budget Camping Section), Enchoro Wildlife Camp (Budget Camping Section)

After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day game drive across the vast Mara plains with a packed picnic lunch. Track the Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos — as well as gazelles, wildebeest, and abundant birdlife.

During the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October), witness one of the world’s most dramatic natural events as millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River.

Enjoy lunch amid the wild landscapes before continuing your exploration until late afternoon. Return to camp for dinner and storytelling around the campfire.
Photography Tip: Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife action and light.

Accommodation Options:

Same as Day 1

After breakfast, depart the Mara and drive north toward Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its rich wildlife and birdlife. Travel through scenic farmlands and rolling hills before arriving in Nakuru town for lunch.

Enter the park for an afternoon game drive — spot endangered black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and, when conditions allow, the park’s signature pink flamingos carpeting the lake’s edge.

Later, check in at your cozy budget hotel offering hot showers and private bathrooms.
Optional Extra: Visit a Maasai village before leaving the Mara to experience their vibrant culture, dances, and traditional lifestyle.

Distance: ~250 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Accommodation Options:

Hotel CityMax Nakuru, K.W.C guest House, Tumaini Budget Camp, Lanet Matfam Resort

Enjoy breakfast before driving to Lake Naivasha, a tranquil freshwater lake surrounded by acacia trees and volcanic landscapes.

Experience a boat safari across the lake’s calm waters to see hippos, pelicans, and fish eagles up close. Then take a guided walking safari on Crescent Island, where you can stroll safely among giraffes, zebras, and gazelles.

Relax in the afternoon at your budget-friendly lodge offering scenic lake views and freshly prepared meals.
Travel Tip: Crescent Island is one of Kenya’s few places where you can walk freely among wildlife — a magical experience.

Distance: ~80 km | Drive Time: ~2–3 hours

Accommodation Options:

Camp Carnelley’s Budget Section, Fisherman’s Camp (Budget Tents), Naivasha Crayfish Camp (Budget), Chambai Safari Resort (Budget Hotel)

After breakfast, head to Hell’s Gate National Park for an exciting cycling or hiking safari through its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and geothermal scenery. Spot zebras, giraffes, and antelopes roaming freely as you explore Kenya’s only park that allows walking and biking among wildlife.

After a picnic lunch, begin your return journey to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or the city center.
Unique Experience: Hell’s Gate inspired Disney’s The Lion King landscapes — a perfect finale to your Kenya adventure.

Distance: ~95 km | Drive Time: ~2–3 hours