Overview
4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
This is a short but extremely rewarding safari as it allows visitors to gain a firsthand experience of the Great Rift Valley and the vast game-rich plains of the Masai Mara. The Rift Valley lakes are famous for their abundance of Flamingos and other Waterfowl, while Masai Mara is home to the country’s greatest concentration of wildlife.
The Great Rift Valley
Running north to south through the heart of Kenya, the Great Rift Valley is home to a series of lakes which are found at various intervals – Turkana in the north, followed by Baringo, Bogoria, Nakuru, Elmentaita, Naivasha in the far south, Natron, on the border with Tanzania.
The heavily alkaline lakes such as Bogoria, Nakuru, Elmentaita and Natron are rich in blue-green algae which attracts vast flocks of greater and lesser flamingos, whilst the predominantly freshwater lakes of Turkana, Baringo and Naivasha are home to populations of hippo, crocodile and a wide range of water birds. The two lakes most commonly visited are Nakuru and Naivasha.
Itinerary
Day 1 Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve
Clients to make own way to Eka Hotel in Nairobi by 0700hrs for the safari briefing.
Travel towards Kenya’s fertile highlands and head down the rift escarpment on the road built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. On the way spot the charming chapel built at the foot of the escarpment. Pass the impressive Longonot earth satellite station as you head across the valley to Narok; continue your travels across acres of wheat and barley, before reaching the Masai Mara in time for lunch. Following lunch set off on your first game drive, returning to the lodge as the sun sets.
Overnight At Keekorok Lodge On A Full Board Basis.
Day 2 Masai Mara National Reserve
Following an early breakfast, depart on a morning game drive, returning to the camp mid-morning. After lunch, and perhaps a siesta, set off on another game drive and visit to the Masai Village, returning to the lodge as the sunsets. (It is possible to pre-book an optional early morning Balloon Safari).
Overnight At Keekorok Lodge On A Full Board Basis.
Day 3 Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru
Leaving the Masai Mara after breakfast, travel across the ‘breadbasket’ of Kenya, where acres of wheat and barley litter the landscape as you head north to Narok, the district headquarters of this part of Maasai land. Now travel across the vast plains on the floor of the Rift Valley, keeping an eye out for herds of Giraffe and Gazelle as you head up the Mai-Mahiu, before arriving at Lake Nakuru around midday. Once in the park, view game en route to the lodge. Following lunch and a siesta, there is an afternoon game drive returning to the lodge as the sun sets. The national park, known for its birdlife, offers a possibility to view Flamingoes. It is also home to Black and White Rhinos as well as the endangered Rothschild Giraffe.
Overnight At Lake Nakuru Lodge On A Full Board Basis.
Day 4 Lake Nakuru – Nairobi
Following an early breakfast, continue to Lake Naivasha for a boat ride. Leaving the Rift Valley behind, proceed to Nairobi, arriving late morning. Once in the city, clients will be dropped off at the drop off point in the city center for ongoing travel arrangements.
What's Included
- All meals on safari
- Accommodation throughout your safari
- Unlimited supply of bottle water in safari vehicle
- All transfers as indicated in the itinerary
- All government taxes included
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
- Guaranteed window seat throughout safari
- All national park fees, conservancy fees and hotel taxes
Hotels & Lodges
Keekorok Lodge was opened in 1965 and lies at the southern end of Masai Mara National Reserve, approximately 280 kilometers from Nairobi. It is sited in the direct path of the annual migration and was the first lodge to be built in the Mara. At the height of the migration, Keekorok is surrounded by a swarming mass of animals and there is hardly need to go on a game drive. Keekorok’s charm lies in the liberal use of local building materials. Sand stone, cedar wood and other indigenous materials are used in all rooms and public areas. In front of the lodge there is a 300m elevated walkway that meanders through a small riverine forest to a small bar at one end. This overlooks a dam where resident hippo and other game are regularly seen. There are no fences around Keekorok and it is not uncommon to see Elephant and Buffalo on the perimeter of the grounds or even strolling in. Though there are watchmen on the constant look out!
Lake Nakuru Lodge is situated in the heart of one of Kenya’s most densely populated wetland National Parks, (Ramsar site) only two leisurely hours’ drive from Nairobi, through beautiful forested uplands and passing a series of lakes. On the outskirts of the bustling market town of Nakuru lies a truly remarkable national park which has achieved international fame. Both black and white Rhino are being given a new lease of life in this 188 sq km, fully-fenced park and they are carefully protected. The present rhino population is over 50 and continuing to multiply. The Rothschild Giraffe is another rarity and the park has its fair share of Buffalo, Leopard, Zebra, Eland, Waterbuck and Lion. Lake Nakuru Lodge is in the south-east ecological niche of the park, with commanding views of the lake and the Flamingos for which it is justly famous. Lush gardens surround the lodge and cottages. There is a good programme of activities and evening entertainment.