Safari Overview

The 9 Day Serengeti, Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha Safari is a beautifully balanced East African safari combining two of the world’s most famous wildlife ecosystems with one of Kenya’s most scenic Rift Valley freshwater destinations.

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want a mix of high-intensity game viewing and relaxed scenic experiences. It combines the predator-rich plains of Serengeti National Park, the iconic Big Five landscapes of Maasai Mara, and the tranquil birding and lake scenery of Lake Naivasha.

Unlike purely migration-focused safaris, this route introduces a third dimension: relaxation and scenery. Lake Naivasha offers a slower-paced contrast to the dramatic wildlife action of Serengeti and Maasai Mara, making it ideal for travelers who want variety in their safari experience.

This safari is especially popular among couples, photographers, first-time Africa visitors, and travelers looking for a well-paced itinerary with both action and relaxation.

Why Choose This Safari?

This itinerary combines three distinct safari experiences in one seamless journey:

Key advantages include:

• Serengeti predator and migration ecosystem
• Maasai Mara Big Five wildlife density
• Lake Naivasha scenic relaxation stop
• Rift Valley landscapes and boat safari options
• Excellent birdwatching opportunities
• Balanced safari pace (wildlife + leisure)
• Great photography diversity
• Reduced safari fatigue compared to full-drive itineraries
• Unique freshwater ecosystem experience
• Strong variety of habitats in one route

This is one of the best “balanced safari” circuits in East Africa.

Safari Highlights

• Explore Serengeti National Park
• Experience Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Enjoy Lake Naivasha boat safari
• Visit Crescent Island walking safari
• Search for the Big Five
• Witness predator-rich ecosystems
• Explore Rift Valley landscapes
• Spot hippos and water birds
• Enjoy scenic photography opportunities
• Relaxed final safari leg before Nairobi

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Depart Arusha and travel into Serengeti National Park through scenic highlands.

Arrive in time for an introductory afternoon game drive.

Wildlife sightings may include:

• Lions
• Elephants
• Zebras
• Giraffes
• Wildebeests

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 2: Full Day Serengeti Safari

Spend a full day exploring Serengeti’s vast plains.

The park is famous for:

• Predator density
• Seasonal migration herds
• Endless savannah landscapes
• Big Five encounters

Wildlife includes:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• Hyenas
• Buffalo

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 3: Serengeti Wildlife Exploration

Continue exploring different regions of Serengeti.

This day increases chances of:

• Predator tracking
• Migration herds (seasonal)
• River crossings (seasonal)
• Rare wildlife sightings

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 4: Serengeti to Maasai Mara via Isebania Border

Depart Serengeti after breakfast and travel toward the Isebania border crossing.

After immigration clearance, continue into Maasai Mara ecosystem.

Evening game drive introduces you to Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 5: Full Day Maasai Mara Safari

Explore Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Known globally for:

• Big Five wildlife
• Big cat population
• Open savannah landscapes
• Migration corridor activity

Wildlife includes:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Elephants
• Cheetahs
• Buffalo

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 6: Maasai Mara Wildlife Experience

Spend another full day exploring deeper regions of Maasai Mara.

Activities include:

• Predator tracking
• River ecosystem exploration
• Photography-focused game drives
• Optional balloon safari

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 7: Maasai Mara to Lake Naivasha

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and travel to Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley.

Arrive in time for a relaxing afternoon.

Optional activities:

• Boat safari among hippos
• Birdwatching excursions
• Nature walks

Overnight in Lake Naivasha.

Day 8: Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island Experience

Enjoy a full day of relaxation and exploration.

Lake Naivasha is known for:

• Hippo populations
• Birdlife diversity
• Scenic freshwater landscapes

Visit Crescent Island for a walking safari among:

• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Antelopes

Overnight in Lake Naivasha.

Day 9: Lake Naivasha to Nairobi

After breakfast, depart for Nairobi.

Arrive in the afternoon marking the end of your safari.

Wildlife You May Encounter

Big Five

• Lion
• Leopard
• Elephant
• Rhino
• Buffalo

Predators

• Cheetah
• Hyena
• Jackal
• Serval

Plains Wildlife

• Wildebeest
• Zebra
• Giraffe
• Eland
• Impala

Lake Naivasha Wildlife

• Hippos
• Fish eagles
• Flamingos (seasonal)
• Waterbucks
• Herons

Best Time to Travel

June – October

Best wildlife viewing and dry conditions.

July – October

Migration season in Serengeti and Maasai Mara.

January – March

Excellent predator sightings and photography light.

November – December

Green landscapes and fewer crowds.

Estimated Safari Price Range

What’s Included

• Safari guide
• 4×4 safari vehicle
• Park fees
• Accommodation
• Meals as specified
• Game drives
• Boat safari (where applicable)
• Bottled water
• Border assistance

What’s Excluded

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Why include Lake Naivasha in a safari?

It offers a peaceful contrast to wildlife-heavy parks and adds birdlife, boating, and scenic relaxation.

Is this safari too long?

No, it is well-paced with a balance of game drives and rest days.

Can I see the Big Five?

Yes, Serengeti and Maasai Mara offer strong Big Five viewing opportunities.

Is this safari good for photographers?

Yes, it offers diverse landscapes from savannah to lake environments.