Overview Highlights includes & Excludes FAQs Related Safaris
5 Days Savannah & Rhino Discovery Safari

5 Days Savannah & Rhino Discovery Safari

5
DAYS
1
DESTINATIONS
GUESTS
From the sweeping savannahs of the Masai Mara to the rhino-rich landscapes of Lake Nakuru, the 5 Days Savannah & Rhino Discovery Safari brings together two of Kenya's most remarkable wildlife destinations in one private budget journey. Designed for travelers seeking an authentic Kenya budget safari from Nairobi, this carefully crafted adventure combines Big Five game drives, outstanding rhino sightings, dramatic Great Rift Valley scenery, comfortable accommodation and genuine Kenyan hospitality with Pita Safaris. The journey takes you through the spectacular Great Rift Valley before reaching the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, where vast golden grasslands provide an exceptional setting for wildlife viewing. Private game drives offer opportunities to encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, hyenas and numerous other species. During the Great Wildebeest Migration, typically between July and October, the Mara may also host enormous herds of wildebeests and zebras as they move through the ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. Beyond the Mara's expansive savannahs, Lake Nakuru National Park offers a contrasting wildlife experience shaped by its scenic lake, acacia woodlands, grasslands and surrounding Rift Valley landscapes. The park is particularly renowned for its black and white rhinos, while Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes, lions, zebras, waterbucks, baboons and numerous bird species add to the diversity. Depending on seasonal conditions, flamingos and other waterbirds may gather around the lake, creating memorable opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Travel throughout the safari in a private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, accompanied by a professional English-speaking Kenyan safari guide. Carefully selected budget safari lodges and comfortable tented camps provide a practical and relaxing base between game drives, allowing you to focus your budget on the wildlife experience without sacrificing essential comfort. Ideal for couples, families, friends, first-time safari travelers, students, photographers and budget-conscious adventurers, the 5 Days Savannah & Rhino Discovery Safari offers an excellent combination of Kenya's iconic wildlife, spectacular landscapes, comfortable safari travel and authentic African experiences. With Pita Safaris, this private Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru budget safari from Nairobi turns five days into a memorable journey through Kenya's savannah and rhino country.

Masai Mara Big Five game drives

Lake Nakuru rhino safari

Great Rift Valley scenery

Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser

Two nights in the Masai Mara

Black and white rhino sightings

Seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration

Professional safari guide

Comfortable budget safari accommodation

Wildlife photography opportunities

Why This Journey

Why Choose This Safari

What makes this itinerary stand out for discerning East Africa travellers

01

Combines Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru in one short Kenya safari

02

Designed for travelers seeking excellent value without luxury pricing

03

Private safari vehicle and dedicated guide

04

Ideal for travelers with limited time in Kenya

05

Carefully selected budget accommodation

06

Balanced itinerary with wildlife, scenery and relaxation

07

Suitable for couples, families, friends and first-time safari travelers

08

Flexible options to upgrade accommodation or add experiences

09

Operated by a locally based Kenya safari company

10

Personalized planning through Pita Safaris

Itinerary

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Nairobi
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), you will be warmly welcomed by our Pita Safaris representative and transferred to your comfortable budget hotel in Nairobi. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your flight or, if time permits, enjoy optional excursions such as Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, or the Karen Blixen Museum before your unforgettable Kenya budget safari begins.

Ibis Styles Nairobi
Dinner
Masai Mara National Reserve
Day 2: Nairobi - Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, depart Nairobi in your private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser and journey through the spectacular Great Rift Valley to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views before continuing to your carefully selected budget safari lodge or comfortable tented camp for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy your first exciting game drive in search of lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, antelopes, and many other wildlife species across the endless plains of the Masai Mara.

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Full Day Masai Mara National Reserve

Spend a full day exploring the spectacular Masai Mara National Reserve on private game drives accompanied by your professional safari guide. Search for the legendary Big Five while discovering cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, and abundant birdlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the reserve before continuing your afternoon wildlife adventure. Optional experiences include an early morning Hot Air Balloon Safari with a champagne bush breakfast or a visit to a traditional Maasai cultural village before returning to your budget safari lodge or tented camp for dinner and relaxation.

Jambo Mara Safari Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lake Nakuru National Park
Day 4: Masai Mara - Lake Nakuru National Park

Enjoy an early morning game drive before breakfast as the African wilderness awakens. After checking out, travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley towards Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya's premier rhino conservation areas. Arrive at your comfortable budget lodge or hotel in time for lunch before enjoying an afternoon game drive in search of black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, lions, waterbucks, baboons, flamingos, and numerous bird species.

Lake Nakuru Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Day 5: Lake Nakuru National Park - Nairobi

After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its successful black and white rhino conservation programme. Search for rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, buffaloes, flamingos, pelicans, and numerous other bird species while exploring the park's beautiful acacia woodlands, grasslands, and lakeshore habitats. After the game drive, depart for Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon for drop-off at your hotel, residential location, Wilson Airport, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

None
Breakfast, Lunch
Wildlife

Wildlife Experience

Key reserves, habitats, and wildlife encounters on this safari route

Big Five: Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard & Black Rhino

Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year

Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October)

Black & White Rhino conservation experience

Cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas & gazelles

Hippos & crocodiles in suitable habitats

Rothschild's giraffes & seasonal flamingos

Abundant birdlife across the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru

Spectacular African sunrise and sunset photography

Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months for wildlife viewing and safari experiences in East Africa

Inclusions

Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser throughout the safari

Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide

Budget hotel accommodation in Nairobi

Budget safari lodges and comfortable tented camps

Full board meals during the safari

All scheduled private game drives as per the itinerary

Park entrance fees to Masai Mara National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park

Bottled drinking water during game drives

Airport transfers in Nairobi

Government taxes and statutory levies

Exclude

International and domestic flights

Kenya visa fees (where applicable)

Comprehensive travel insurance

Drinks, beverages, and personal expenses

Tips and gratuities for your safari guide and lodge staff

Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari

Optional Maasai cultural village visit

Optional Nairobi excursions

Optional activities not specified in the itinerary

Plan Ahead

Travel Tips

Practical advice to help you prepare for a smooth and rewarding safari

  • Best time: July–October for the Great Wildebeest Migration and excellent wildlife viewing
  • Budget advantage: Travel during April–June and November for potentially lower rates and fewer visitors
  • Book early during peak season to secure your preferred budget lodge, safari camp, and travel dates
  • Pack lightweight clothing, a warm jacket, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera, binoculars, and extra memory cards for wildlife photography
  • Carry some cash for gratuities, drinks, souvenirs, and optional experiences
  • Consider a Hot Air Balloon Safari or Maasai cultural village visit to enhance your Masai Mara experience
  • Choose comfortable practical accommodation while focusing your budget on the wildlife experience itself
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this safari itinerary and travelling with Pita Safaris

What is included in the 5 Day Nairobi, Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru Budget Safari?
Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser, budget accommodation, park fees, meals, scheduled game drives, airport transfers, bottled drinking water, and a professional safari guide.
Is this a private or shared Kenya budget safari?
This itinerary is designed as a private safari, giving you your own 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser and dedicated professional safari guide.
What wildlife can I expect to see during this safari?
You may encounter the Big Five, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and abundant birdlife.
When is the best time to visit the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru?
July–October is particularly popular because of the Great Wildebeest Migration, while Kenya offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout much of the year.
How long is the drive from Nairobi to the Masai Mara National Reserve?
The journey generally takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, stops, and the exact location of your accommodation.
Can I add a Hot Air Balloon Safari to this itinerary?
Yes. An optional sunrise Hot Air Balloon Safari with a champagne bush breakfast can be arranged at an additional cost, subject to availability.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya?
Yes. This is an excellent Kenya budget safari for first-time visitors who want to experience the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, the Big Five, rhinos, and Great Rift Valley scenery while keeping their safari costs affordable.
Is this budget safari suitable for families and couples?
Yes. The safari is suitable for couples, families, friends, solo travelers, students, photographers, and small private groups seeking an affordable Kenya wildlife adventure.
Can I upgrade my budget accommodation?
Yes. Depending on availability, you can request an accommodation upgrade to a higher category of lodge or tented camp when making your booking.

View all FAQs →

Gallery

Photo Gallery

Explore the beauty of our safari destinations through our photo gallery

Related Safaris

  • $ Per Person