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8 Days Savannah, Lakes & Giants Safari

8 Days Savannah, Lakes & Giants Safari

8
DAYS
1
DESTINATIONS
GUESTS
Kenya's savannahs, lakes and giant elephants come together on this 8 Day Kenya Midrange Safari from Nairobi, linking the wildlife-rich Masai Mara, rhino-filled Lake Nakuru, scenic Lake Naivasha, dramatic Hell's Gate, and elephant country of Amboseli. From Big Five encounters and Rift Valley scenery to outdoor adventure and spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro views, the 8 Days Savannah, Lakes & Giants Safari offers a diverse and comfortably paced private journey through some of Kenya's most celebrated landscapes. The wildlife adventure takes shape across the open plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Kenya's premier destinations for Big Five viewing. Private game drives offer opportunities to encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas and other wildlife. During the seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration, generally between July and October, the Mara may also provide opportunities to witness large herds moving across the ecosystem, with dramatic predator encounters and river crossings depending on seasonal conditions. At Lake Nakuru National Park, the scenery changes to a beautiful Rift Valley lake environment known for its important rhino population and diverse wildlife. Game drives can reveal black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras and abundant birdlife, creating a rewarding contrast to the vast savannahs of the Masai Mara. The journey then reaches Lake Naivasha, where freshwater scenery, hippos and numerous waterbirds provide a quieter side of the Kenya safari experience. Optional activities such as a boat ride or Crescent Island walking safari can add an intimate wildlife experience, allowing you to appreciate the lake and its surroundings from a different perspective. Adventure takes a more active turn at Hell's Gate National Park, celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, volcanic formations and geothermal landscapes. Depending on conditions and arrangements, you can explore selected areas on foot or by bicycle, adding an exciting outdoor dimension to this otherwise wildlife-focused Kenya safari. The final destination is Amboseli National Park, where open plains, seasonal wetlands and large elephant herds create one of Kenya's most memorable wildlife settings. Early morning and late afternoon game drives can provide exceptional opportunities to photograph elephants against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain. Throughout the journey, travel in a private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, accompanied by a professional English-speaking Kenyan safari driver-guide. Carefully selected midrange safari lodges, tented camps and hotels provide comfortable accommodation between game drives, while the private format allows greater flexibility throughout the itinerary. Ideal for couples, families, photographers, first-time visitors and small groups, the 8 Days Savannah, Lakes & Giants Safari brings together Kenya's wildlife, lakes, adventure landscapes and iconic elephants in one carefully crafted private Kenya safari with Pita Safaris.

Masai Mara Big Five game drives across Kenya's legendary savannah plains

Great Wildebeest Migration experience during the seasonal migration period

Black and white rhino sightings at Lake Nakuru National Park

Rothschild's giraffes and diverse birdlife around Lake Nakuru

Scenic Lake Naivasha landscapes with hippos and abundant waterbirds

Hell's Gate National Park adventure among dramatic cliffs, gorges and volcanic formations

Walking or cycling safari experience at Hell's Gate, subject to arrangements and conditions

Large elephant herds in Amboseli National Park across its open savannahs and wetlands

Iconic Mount Kilimanjaro views from the Amboseli plains

Scenic Great Rift Valley landscapes connecting Kenya's wildlife destinations

Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for comfortable game viewing

Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide throughout the journey

Comfortable budget safari lodges, camps and hotels offering excellent value

Excellent wildlife and landscape photography opportunities across five distinctive destinations

Optional Maasai cultural experiences in the Masai Mara or Amboseli area

A diverse 8-day Kenya wildlife and adventure journey from Nairobi

Why This Journey

Why Choose This Safari


What makes this itinerary stand out for discerning East Africa travellers

01

Five distinctive Kenyan destinations in one itinerary — combine the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate and Amboseli

02

More than a traditional game-drive safari — add lakes, volcanic landscapes, walking or cycling and cultural experiences to your wildlife adventure

03

Designed around excellent value — enjoy comfortable budget accommodation and diverse experiences without luxury safari pricing

04

A complete Kenya wildlife circuit — experience Big Five country, rhino conservation landscapes, freshwater scenery and Amboseli's elephant ecosystem

05

Mara to Kilimanjaro in one journey — travel from the famous Masai Mara plains through the Rift Valley to Amboseli

06

Private safari experience — travel with your own 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser and dedicated professional driver-guide

07

Convenient Nairobi start and finish — practical for travelers arriving in or departing from Kenya's capital

08

Wildlife, scenery and adventure combined — balance game drives with Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate and spectacular Rift Valley landscapes

09

Ideal for first-time Kenya visitors — experience several of the country's best-known destinations in one carefully planned safari

10

Suitable for couples, families, photographers and small groups — a flexible option for different travel styles

11

Optional experiences add variety — consider a Lake Naivasha boat ride, Crescent Island, Maasai cultural visit or Hell's Gate activity

12

Personalized private game drives — enjoy greater flexibility to focus on wildlife sightings and photography

13

Locally operated by Pita Safaris — benefit from personalized planning, professional guiding and local destination knowledge

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 your Pita Safaris representative and transferred to your comfortable midrange 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 Wildlife Trust, or the Karen Blixen Museum before your unforgettable Kenya midrange safari begins.

Your safari consultant will also provide a briefing about the upcoming journey, including the itinerary, wildlife viewing expectations, accommodation arrangements, and practical safari information.

Midrange Hotel in 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 towards the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views before continuing through Narok and the scenic Maasai countryside towards your carefully selected midrange safari lodge or comfortable tented camp.

Arrive in time for lunch before setting out on your first exciting afternoon game drive across the endless savannah plains of the Masai Mara. Search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, antelopes, and many other wildlife species.

Your professional English-speaking safari driver-guide will help you discover the remarkable wildlife, landscapes, and ecosystems that make the Masai Mara one of Africa's most celebrated safari destinations.

Midrange Safari Lodge or Tented Camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve
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 driver-guide. This is one of the major highlights of your Kenya midrange safari, offering excellent opportunities to search for the legendary Big Five while experiencing the extraordinary diversity of the Mara ecosystem.

Look for lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, ostriches, and abundant birdlife.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the reserve or return to your midrange safari accommodation for lunch before continuing your afternoon wildlife adventure.

Between July and October, the Masai Mara can become part of the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, when huge herds of wildebeests and zebras move through the ecosystem. Depending on seasonal movements, you may witness large herds, predator activity, and potentially dramatic river crossings.

Optional experiences include an early morning Hot Air Balloon Safari, a traditional Maasai cultural village visit, or other locally arranged cultural experiences before returning to your midrange safari lodge or tented camp for dinner and relaxation.

Midrange Safari Lodge or Tented Camp in the Masai Mara National Reserve
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. This is an excellent time to search for predators and other wildlife while enjoying the soft morning light across the Masai Mara plains.

After the game drive, return to your accommodation for breakfast and check-out before travelling through the scenic Great Rift Valley towards Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya's most rewarding wildlife destinations and an important sanctuary for black and white rhinos.

Watch the landscapes change from open Masai Mara savannah to rolling hills, agricultural areas, forests, and spectacular Rift Valley scenery.

Arrive at your comfortable midrange safari lodge in time for lunch before enjoying an afternoon game drive. Search for black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, waterbucks, baboons, flamingos, pelicans, and numerous other wildlife and bird species.

Lake Nakuru provides an excellent opportunity to combine wildlife viewing with beautiful lakeside and Great Rift Valley landscapes.

Midrange Safari Lodge or Tented Camp near Lake Nakuru National Park
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lake Naivasha
Day 5: Lake Nakuru - Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park. Explore the park's acacia woodlands, grasslands, rocky viewpoints, and lakeshore habitats while searching for black and white rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, waterbucks, baboons, and diverse birdlife.

After the game drive, depart Lake Nakuru and continue through the spectacular Great Rift Valley towards Lake Naivasha.

Arrive at your comfortable midrange accommodation near Lake Naivasha and enjoy lunch before relaxing around the lake. Depending on your arrival time and selected package, optional activities may include a boat ride on Lake Naivasha or a visit to Crescent Island, where available.

Lake Naivasha is particularly appealing for nature lovers and birdwatchers, with opportunities to see hippos, fish eagles, pelicans, flamingos, and other water-associated wildlife.

Midrange Hotel, Lodge or Tented Camp near Lake Naivasha
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hell's Gate National Park
Amboseli National Park
Day 6: Lake Naivasha - Hell's Gate National Park - Amboseli National Park

After breakfast, depart Lake Naivasha and travel to nearby Hell's Gate National Park, one of Kenya's most distinctive wildlife destinations. The park is famous for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and unique opportunity for guided walking or cycling experiences.

Enjoy a guided nature walk or optional bicycle safari through designated areas of Hell's Gate, where you may encounter zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, gazelles, baboons, and numerous bird species.

After exploring Hell's Gate, continue your journey south towards Amboseli National Park. The route takes you through changing Kenyan landscapes as you travel towards the famous Amboseli ecosystem.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an afternoon or early evening game drive in the Amboseli area. Search for elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, and other wildlife while watching for the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop on clear days.

Midrange Safari Lodge or Tented Camp in the Amboseli Area
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Full Day Amboseli National Park

Spend a full day exploring Amboseli National Park, one of Kenya's most iconic wildlife destinations and one of the best places in Africa to experience large elephant herds.

Begin with an early morning game drive when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is often more active. On clear mornings, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro rising dramatically above the Amboseli plains.

Continue with morning and afternoon game drives across the park's open savannahs, seasonal wetlands, woodland areas, and wildlife-rich habitats. Search for elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, and numerous bird species.

The park is especially famous for its elephant photography, with the opportunity to capture memorable images of elephants against the iconic Kilimanjaro landscape.

Enjoy lunch at your comfortable midrange safari accommodation before continuing your afternoon wildlife adventure.

Optional experiences include a visit to a traditional Maasai village or other locally arranged cultural experiences, providing an opportunity to learn about local traditions, lifestyles, music, and community heritage.

Midrange Safari Lodge or Tented Camp in the Amboseli Area
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Day 8: Amboseli - Nairobi / Departure

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Amboseli National Park, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures, active wildlife, and potential clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Search for elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, and other wildlife while enjoying your final safari experience.

Return to your accommodation for breakfast before checking out and beginning your journey back to Nairobi.

Travel through the changing landscapes of southern Kenya as you make your way towards the capital. Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon for drop-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for your onward flight, or at your Nairobi hotel if you are extending your stay.

Your 8 Day Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate & Amboseli Midrange Kenya Safari concludes with unforgettable memories of the Big Five, rhino encounters, Great Rift Valley scenery, Lake Naivasha's natural beauty, Hell's Gate's dramatic landscapes, Amboseli's magnificent elephant herds, and the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.

Optional Midrange Hotel in Nairobi
Breakfast, Lunch
Wildlife

Wildlife Experience


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

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

Excellent wildlife viewing in the Masai Mara National Reserve

Great Wildebeest Migration experience (seasonal)

Black & White Rhino viewing at Lake Nakuru

Rothschild's giraffes and diverse birdlife

Hippos and waterbirds around Lake Naivasha

Zebras, giraffes, buffaloes and gazelles at Hell's Gate

Large elephant herds in Amboseli National Park

Cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, zebras and wildebeests

Spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro views from Amboseli

Dramatic volcanic landscapes and gorges at Hell's Gate

Excellent African sunrise and sunset photography

Diverse wildlife across Kenya's savannah, lake, forest, and volcanic ecosystems

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

Midrange hotel accommodation in Nairobi

Midrange safari lodges and comfortable tented camps

Full board meals during the safari as specified in the itinerary

All scheduled private game drives as per the itinerary

Park entrance fees to Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell's Gate National Park, and Amboseli National Park

Bottled drinking water during game drives

Nairobi airport or hotel transfers

Scheduled Hell's Gate National Park visit as included in the itinerary

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 accommodation staff

Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Masai Mara

Optional Maasai cultural village visits

Optional Lake Naivasha boat ride

Optional Crescent Island visit

Optional Nairobi excursions

Optional guided activities or bicycle hire at Hell's Gate where applicable

Optional activities not specified in the itinerary

Accommodation upgrades

Personal shopping, souvenirs, laundry, and other incidental expenses

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
  • June–October generally offers excellent game viewing and comfortable safari conditions
  • January–March is another excellent period for wildlife viewing, with generally dry conditions
  • April–June can offer lush green scenery, fewer visitors, and potentially better accommodation value
  • Book early during the Great Migration and festive seasons to secure your preferred midrange safari lodges and tented camps
  • Pack lightweight clothing, a warm jacket, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring a camera, binoculars, extra memory cards, and spare batteries for wildlife photography
  • Carry some cash for tips, drinks, souvenirs, cultural visits, and optional experiences
  • Start early on game-drive days for the best wildlife activity and cooler temperatures
  • Consider a private safari if you prefer greater flexibility and personalized game drives
  • Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate provide excellent opportunities to add variety beyond traditional game drives
  • Early mornings in Amboseli often provide some of the best opportunities for Mount Kilimanjaro views
  • Choose a midrange safari when you want comfortable accommodation and quality service without the higher cost of luxury lodges
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions


Common questions about this safari itinerary and travelling with Pita Safaris

What is included in the 8 Day Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate & Amboseli Midrange Safari?
The safari includes a private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser, professional English-speaking safari guide, comfortable midrange accommodation, meals as specified, park entrance fees, scheduled game drives, bottled drinking water, the planned Hell's Gate visit, and Nairobi airport or hotel transfers.
Is this a private or shared Kenya midrange safari?
This itinerary is designed as a private safari with your own 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser and dedicated professional driver-guide. Shared safari options may also be available depending on your travel dates, group size, and preferred budget.
What wildlife can I expect to see during this Kenya midrange safari?
You may encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, gazelles, warthogs, baboons, and numerous bird species. Amboseli is particularly famous for its large elephant herds and spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro scenery.
Can I see the Great Wildebeest Migration during this safari?
Yes. If you travel during the main migration period, generally July–October, you may experience large wildebeest and zebra herds in the Masai Mara. Migration movements are seasonal and naturally unpredictable, so specific sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Can I see Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli?
Yes. Amboseli is famous for spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Early mornings frequently offer excellent opportunities for clear mountain views, although visibility depends on weather and atmospheric conditions.
What can I do at Lake Naivasha?
Depending on availability and your selected package, optional experiences may include a Lake Naivasha boat ride, wildlife and birdwatching experiences, or a visit to Crescent Island.
Can I visit Hell's Gate National Park on foot or by bicycle?
Yes. Hell's Gate is one of Kenya's unique national parks where guided walking and cycling experiences can be available in designated areas. Activities are subject to park regulations, local conditions, availability, and applicable additional charges.
How long is the drive from Nairobi to the Masai Mara National Reserve?
The journey generally takes approximately 5–6 hours by road, depending on traffic, road conditions, stops, and the exact location of your accommodation.
Is this Kenya midrange safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This itinerary is particularly suitable for first-time visitors because it combines the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate, and Amboseli while offering comfortable accommodation, professional guiding, diverse activities, and excellent value for money.
Can I upgrade or customize the midrange accommodation?
Yes. Accommodation upgrades can be arranged where available. You can retain the same itinerary while upgrading selected properties to luxury accommodation or adjusting the accommodation level according to your budget.
Is this safari suitable for families and couples?
Yes. The itinerary is suitable for couples, families, first-time safari travelers, photographers, friends, and small groups seeking a comfortable Kenya safari with diverse wildlife and outdoor experiences.

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  • $ Per Person