3 Day Masai Mara and Lake Naivasha Safari Hippos Birdlife and Big Game
When you join me for this 3-day Masai Mara and Lake Naivasha safari adventure, I will take you through three of Kenya’s most exciting destinations in four days. We begin with your arrival in Nairobi, giving you time to settle in before the safari. The journey then takes us to Lake Naivasha, where the calm waters are home to hippos, rich birdlife, and a sense of tranquility that welcomes you gently into the safari mood. From there we journey onward to the Masai Mara, one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, where the thrill of the Big Five and endless savannah landscapes will take your breath away.
This safari is designed for travelers who want a short but rewarding experience, one that blends the serenity of the Rift Valley lakes with the raw adventure of African game drives. Everything will be arranged for you so that you can relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, the rhythms of wildlife, and the culture that surrounds us along the way.
The safari is also about connection. You will meet local communities as we travel through the countryside, you will hear the stories of the people who live near these reserves, and you will sense how life and nature are deeply linked here. For me, guiding is more than showing animals. It is sharing the soul of the land, and on this journey I will do exactly that.
Day Zero: Arrival in Nairobi
Your adventure begins the moment you land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. I will personally be there to welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may choose to rest after your flight or, if you arrive earlier in the day, we can take a short orientation tour of Nairobi. This might include a visit to a local market, the Karen Blixen Museum, or simply enjoying a relaxed dinner in town. Overnight stay will be in Nairobi, where you can refresh and prepare for the safari ahead. Day Zero is all about settling in, adjusting to the rhythm of Kenya, and starting your journey on a calm and comfortable note.
Day One: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha
I will meet you in Nairobi early in the morning at your hotel. We begin our drive down into the Great Rift Valley, one of the most dramatic geological features in the world. The escarpment stretches far into the horizon and as we descend you will notice the climate changing, the air becoming warmer, and the landscapes opening into wide valleys dotted with acacia trees.
On the way I like to stop at a viewpoint so that you can take in the full majesty of the Rift Valley. From here, you see the patchwork of farmlands below, volcanic mountains rising in the distance, and the lakes glimmering under the sun. It is always a moment that sets the mood for the days to come.
By late morning we reach Lake Naivasha. This freshwater lake is famous for its hippos, which you will hear grunting in the shallows even before you spot them. More than four hundred bird species have been recorded here. You may see fish eagles diving for their catch, kingfishers darting over the water, and pelicans floating calmly. It is a place of life and color.
We will take a boat ride across the lake. As we move silently through the water you will notice hippos rising and sinking again, their eyes just above the surface. The boatman will point out the bird species, and often you will see giraffes walking along the shoreline or antelopes grazing near the reeds.
We may also step onto Crescent Island, a small sanctuary that feels like a secret world. Walking here is peaceful. Zebras and giraffes share the space with gazelles, and without predators you can safely experience wildlife on foot. It is an experience that leaves many of my guests in awe because it is different from the usual safari.
By afternoon we check into our lodge near the lake. You will have time to relax in the gardens or by the lake shore. The evenings at Naivasha are serene. As the sun sets, the acacia trees turn golden and the calls of the fish eagles echo across the waters. Dinner is served at the lodge and you can rest well for the journey ahead.
Day Two: Lake Naivasha to Masai Mara
After breakfast we set off towards the Masai Mara. The drive takes us across beautiful countryside. You will pass fields of maize, wheat, and sunflowers, and sometimes see herders moving their cattle. This is a chance to glimpse rural Kenyan life as it happens, far from the cities.
By midday we reach the entrance to the Masai Mara National Reserve. This moment is always exciting. The landscape suddenly changes into vast rolling plains, and often you will spot animals even before you officially enter the reserve. Wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes are commonly seen right at the gates.
We check into our lodge or camp, enjoy a short rest, and then head out for our first game drive in the Mara. The Masai Mara is known across the world as one of the best places to see wildlife in its natural environment. The Big Five roam freely here. Lions can often be found in prides, resting in the shade or preparing to hunt. Elephants move in herds across the plains, protecting their young. Leopards are elusive but with patience we may see one in a tree. Buffalo and rhinos also live here, adding to the list of unforgettable encounters.
Apart from the Big Five, the Mara is full of life. Cheetahs are fast and graceful, often seen perched on termite mounds as they scan for prey. Hyenas call out with their strange laughs, reminding you that the ecosystem here is as real as it gets. And everywhere you look, antelopes, gazelles, and birds add to the diversity.
In the evening we return to our lodge or camp. As night falls, the sky becomes filled with stars, and you hear the calls of wildlife in the distance. Sitting around a campfire and sharing stories of the day is always a highlight. Dinner is served and you can rest, ready for the final day of our adventure.
Day Three: Masai Mara to Nairobi
On this last day, we rise early. Dawn in the Mara is something I always encourage guests to experience. The air is cool, the light is golden, and the savannah feels alive. We set off for a sunrise game drive. At this time predators are still active from the night. You might see lions returning from a hunt, hyenas finishing a meal, or cheetahs taking advantage of the cool hours to stalk prey.
Herbivores also begin their day. Giraffes move slowly, feeding on the tops of the acacia trees. Elephants start grazing in family groups, their calves playing near them. The birdlife too is active, with calls echoing across the plains. It is a time when the Mara shows you its full energy.
After a few hours, we return to the lodge for breakfast. The atmosphere is always a little reflective because guests realize the adventure is coming to an end, but the memories they carry are priceless. We then prepare for our journey back to Nairobi. Driving again across the Rift Valley, you have time to think about the experiences of the last days. By afternoon we arrive in Nairobi, and I drop you off at your hotel or the airport.
Though the safari is short, it is full of wonder. In just four days you will have explored the waters of Lake Naivasha, seen hippos and an incredible variety of birds, walked among giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island, and experienced the Masai Mara with its Big Five and endless plains. It is an ideal safari for those who have limited time but want a rich and unforgettable experience.
What to Pack
Packing wisely ensures your safari is comfortable and enjoyable. Bring lightweight clothing for the warm daytime hours, but also pack a warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, as temperatures can drop. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for Crescent Island walks. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will protect you from the sun. Do not forget insect repellent for the evenings.
A good pair of binoculars will make your wildlife viewing more exciting. Bring a camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture special moments. A reusable water bottle is handy, as staying hydrated is important in the safari climate.
Travel Tips
Carry some Kenyan shillings in small denominations for tips or small purchases. While most lodges accept cards, cash is useful in rural areas. Internet is available in Nairobi and most lodges, but connection inside the reserves can be limited. A portable power bank is helpful for keeping your devices charged.
Respect local culture, especially when we pass through villages or towns. Ask before taking photographs of people. Be open to trying local food, but also remember that your lodges will provide familiar dishes if you prefer.
Wildlife Precautions
For your safety and the protection of wildlife, always follow my instructions during the safari. Do not attempt to feed or touch the animals, even if they seem calm. Keep a safe distance, as even herbivores can be dangerous if they feel threatened. Remain inside the vehicle at all times unless I confirm it is safe to alight, such as during guided walks.
Remember that this is the animals’ home, and we are visitors. Keeping noise low and respecting their space ensures the best experience for everyone. Dress in layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly, while midday becomes hot quickly.
Contact for Booking
This safari is perfect for anyone who wants to combine the calm beauty of Lake Naivasha with the thrilling game drives of the Masai Mara. It is a short adventure, but it gives you a deep and authentic experience of Kenya’s wilderness. You will not only see animals, you will feel the rhythm of nature, hear the stories of the land, and carry home memories that stay with you forever.
I handle all the details, from transport to accommodation, so you can simply focus on enjoying yourself. Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends, this safari can be personalized to fit your style. If you are celebrating something special like a honeymoon or an anniversary, we can make it even more memorable with little touches along the way.
If you are ready to join me on this journey, I would love to hear from you. Reach out directly on WhatsApp or send me an email. I will answer all your questions, guide you through the options, and make sure everything is planned perfectly. Let me help you turn your dream safari into reality.
