What you’ll do on this 4-day Naivasha + Masai Mara safari (2026–2028):
-
Day 1: Nairobi → Lake Naivasha (boat ride + hippos, birds) + Crescent Island walking safari
-
Day 2: Naivasha → Masai Mara (game drive en-route)
-
Day 3: Full-day Masai Mara game drives (Big Five + big cats)
-
Day 4: Sunrise game drive → return to Nairobi
Welcome to the 4 Days Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara Safari 2026/2027/2028—a perfectly balanced Kenya safari from Nairobi combining relaxing lake moments with world-class wildlife action. Start at Lake Naivasha for a scenic boat ride among hippos and birdlife, then enjoy a guided Crescent Island walking safari (a rare chance to explore on foot safely with a local guide). Next, head to the legendary Masai Mara safari for 2 nights and multiple Masai Mara game drives, targeting the Big Five, big cats, and—seasonally—the Great Migration (typically July–October).
This tour is ideal for couples, friends, families, and photographers who want a short safari that feels “complete,” with flexible budget, mid-range, and luxury options plus private or small-group travel. You’ll be hosted by In Africa Tour local experts (Kenya-based driver-guides who know animal behavior, the best sunrise routes, and ethical viewing distances). See our related Kenya trips: 6 Day Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara Safari Tour, 5 Days Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara Safari Tour and 3 Days Tsavo East Tour. For reference planning, Kenya Wildlife Service details parks like Hell’s Gate here.
For Fast booking
Click BOOK NOW
What this tour offers
You get:
-
Naivasha boat safari + Crescent Island walk (lake + on-foot experience)
-
2 nights in Masai Mara (more time in the #1 wildlife area vs rushed itineraries)
-
Multiple game drives including a full-day Mara safari
-
Local professional driver-guide + wildlife tracking
-
Eco-green approach: refillable water, no wildlife harassment, “leave no trace,” support local communities (Maasai cultural visit optional)
4-Day itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi → Lake Naivasha (Boat ride + Crescent Island walk)
Depart Nairobi early for the Great Rift Valley—stopping at a viewpoint for photos—then continue to Lake Naivasha. After check-in and lunch, enjoy a boat ride across the calm waters where hippos surface near papyrus edges and fish eagles often call overhead. Later, visit Crescent Island for a guided nature walk among grazing zebra, giraffe, and antelope (an unforgettable “no vehicle” safari moment). Optional: add Hell’s Gate National Park cycling or gorge walk for active travelers (fees/activities are managed under KWS guidance). Overnight around Naivasha—perfect for a relaxed evening and early rest before the Mara drive.
Day 2: Lake Naivasha → Masai Mara (Game drive en-route)
After breakfast, drive toward the Masai Mara National Reserve, passing small towns and open highland landscapes. Arrive in time for lunch, then head out for your first Masai Mara game drive—a strong introduction to the Mara’s big skies, acacia-dotted plains, and predator territory. Your guide will prioritize lion prides, elephants, buffalo, and cheetahs while keeping wildlife viewing ethical (no crowding, no chasing). As sunset nears, watch the savannah shift into golden light—one of the most photogenic moments in Kenya. Return to camp/lodge for dinner, storytelling, and a quiet night in nature.
Day 3: Full-Day Masai Mara Safari (Big Five + Great Migration season)
Today is dedicated to a full-day Masai Mara safari with extended game viewing. Start early for peak predator activity, then explore varied habitats—from riverine areas to open plains—following wildlife movements. If you’re traveling in the migration season (typically July–October), your guide will time routes to maximize chances of seeing vast wildebeest herds and dramatic crossings (conditions vary daily). Expect a strong mix of species: lions, leopards (with luck), cheetahs, hyenas, elephants, giraffes, and abundant plains game. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush (in designated safe areas) and continue tracking until late afternoon. This “one full day” structure is what makes a 2-night Mara stay outperform rushed 1-night itineraries.
Day 4: Sunrise game drive → Return to Nairobi
Wake up before dawn for a final sunrise game drive—often the best light for photos and the best time to find lions returning from a hunt or cheetahs scanning the grassland. After breakfast, begin the drive back to Nairobi with comfort stops along the way. Arrive in the afternoon for hotel drop-off or airport transfer (optional). Want to extend? Many travelers add a Masai village visit (cultural, community-supporting) or upgrade to a balloon safari (seasonal) for a bucket-list finish.
Price comparison table
| Package level (In Africa Tour) | What’s included (typical) | Our target price position | Typical “big marketplace” range* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (shared / value camps) | Shared 4×4/van, clean tented camps, core game drives | From ~US$690–990 pp | ~US$420–900 pp |
| Mid-range (better camps/lodges) | More comfort, often Land Cruiser, better locations | From ~US$990–1,490 pp | ~US$850–1,500 pp |
| Luxury (premium lodges / upgrades) | Top lodges, private guiding options, prime areas | From ~US$1,490–2,450+ pp | ~US$1,000+ pp |
(price vary with seasons, Vehicle type (shared vs private), number of people and and camp/lodge level.)
Includes
-
Nairobi pick-up & drop-off
-
Transport in safari vehicle (private or shared option)
-
Professional Kenya driver-guide (local expert)
-
Park/reserve game drives as per itinerary
-
Accommodation (1 night Naivasha, 2 nights Masai Mara)
-
Meals as per package (usually full board on safari)
-
Naivasha boat ride + Crescent Island walk (package-dependent)
Excludes
-
International flights & visas
-
Tips/gratuities
-
Personal travel insurance
-
Drinks and personal expenses
-
Optional activities (e.g., balloon safari, Maasai village visit)
-
Park fees if not bundled (you can show as “included” or “separate” depending on your pricing model)
FAQs
Is 4 days enough for Naivasha and Masai Mara?
Yes—because you get Naivasha x1 for lake + walking safari and Masai Mara x2 for multiple game drives, including a full day.
What animals can I expect to see?
Common sightings include zebra, giraffe, elephants, buffalo, lions, cheetahs, and many bird species; sightings vary naturally day to day.
When is the best time to go (2026/2027/2028)?
Year-round wildlife is excellent. The Great Migration is most likely July–October, but the Mara is strong in all months.
Is this safari available as private or group joining?
Yes—offer both options on the page (this widens your buyer intent coverage).
CTA
Ready to book your 4 Days Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari 2026/2027/2028?
WhatsApp In Africa Tour now: Book Now
WhatsApp number +254 746 267618
email: info@inafricatour.com
Previously Travel Reviews – 4 Days Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sarah M. – United Kingdom
“Perfect mix of lake and big-game safari.”
Starting at Lake Naivasha was peaceful and beautiful. The boat ride was full of hippos and birds, and the Crescent Island walking safari was something I had never done before. The two nights in Masai Mara made a huge difference—we saw lions, elephants, giraffes, and even a cheetah. In Africa Tour’s guide was extremely knowledgeable and patient. This 4-day safari felt much longer because of how well it was planned.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ David K. – United States
“Exceptional Masai Mara game drives.”
The highlight was the full-day Masai Mara game drive. Our local guide knew exactly where to go and explained animal behavior in detail. We saw a lion pride hunting and huge herds of wildebeest. The safari vehicle was comfortable, and everything ran on time. If you want a short Kenya safari that truly delivers, this 4 Days Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara Safari is perfect.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amina R. – UAE
“Eco-friendly, professional, and unforgettable.”
I loved that In Africa Tour focuses on responsible tourism. We used refillable water bottles, respected wildlife distance, and visited local areas without disturbing communities. Lake Naivasha was relaxing, and Masai Mara was thrilling. This safari is ideal if you want an eco-friendly Kenya safari without sacrificing comfort or wildlife sightings.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ James O. – Kenya
“Great value and very well organized.”
As someone who has traveled within Kenya before, I was impressed by the quality. The Naivasha boat ride, the smooth transfer to the Mara, and the quality of game drives were excellent. Two nights in Masai Mara is the right choice—you don’t feel rushed. In Africa Tour handled everything professionally. I highly recommend this safari for both locals and international visitors.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lina P. – Germany
“Best short safari itinerary in Kenya.”
We had limited time, and this itinerary was perfect. Lake Naivasha gave us a soft start, then Masai Mara completely amazed us. We saw the Big Five except rhino. The sunrise game drive on the last day was magical. Our guide was born and raised in Kenya, and his wildlife knowledge was incredible. I would book with In Africa Tour again without hesitation.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Michael T. – Australia
“Exceeded expectations.”
From the first WhatsApp contact to the last drop-off in Nairobi, everything was smooth. The balance between scenery and wildlife is what makes this safari special. If you’re planning a Kenya safari 2026/2027/2028, this package gives real value, strong game viewing, and authentic local guiding.
Is 4 days enough for Naivasha and Masai Mara?
