Overview
This itinerary combines Kenya’s two most photogenic parks. Begin in Amboseli, where relaxed elephant families wander across the plains with Mount Kilimanjaro towering behind them — best photographed at sunrise. Then fly to the Maasai Mara, avoiding a long road journey, for three nights exploring the grasslands.
With three nights in the Mara you have time for a full-day river excursion, and during migration season the chance to witness a crossing. Flying back to Nairobi at the end maximises your time in the bush.
Route
Highlights
- Elephants and Kilimanjaro views in Amboseli
- Observation Hill panorama
- Scenic light-aircraft flight to the Mara
- Three nights among the Mara's big cats
- Full-day Mara River excursion
Activities
- Game drives
- Observation Hill walk
- Maasai cultural visit
- Morning, afternoon and full-day game drives
- Hot-air balloon safari
- Picnic lunch at the Mara River
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day 1:
Amboseli & Kilimanjaro
AmboseliYour guide collects you from your hotel in Nairobi in the morning for the drive to Amboseli (4–5 hours). Arrive in Amboseli, check in and enjoy lunch before an afternoon game drive among the swamps, where elephant families wade through the reeds to feed. As the clouds lift in the late afternoon, watch for the summit of Kilimanjaro appearing above the plains.
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Day 2:
Elephants of Amboseli
AmboseliSet off at dawn for the best chance of clear views of Kilimanjaro, then spend the morning with Amboseli's famous elephant families. Climb Observation Hill for a panorama over the swamps and plains, and return to the lodge for lunch before a final afternoon drive.
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Day 3:
Into the Maasai Mara
Maasai MaraAfter breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight from Amboseli to Maasai Mara. After a rest, set out on your first afternoon game drive across the open plains, looking for lion prides, grazing herds of topi and zebra, and elephant families moving towards the river as the light turns golden.
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Day 4:
Full Day in the Maasai Mara
Maasai MaraLeave early, when the predators are most active, with a packed breakfast in the vehicle. Your guide will follow the latest news on the radio — perhaps a cheetah hunting on the short-grass plains or a leopard in the riverine forest. Return to camp for lunch and a rest before an afternoon drive into a different area of the reserve.
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Day 5:
Mara River Day
Maasai MaraSpend a full day exploring towards the Mara River with a picnic lunch. In migration season you may wait near a crossing point as herds of wildebeest gather on the banks; at other times of year the river is a reliable place for hippos, huge Nile crocodiles and big herds of buffalo.
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Day 6:
Maasai Mara to Nairobi
Maasai MaraEnjoy a final early-morning activity and breakfast, then transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Nairobi. You will be met on arrival and transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey, or to a day room on request.
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner.
Accommodation
This itinerary is priced with mid-range accommodation. Every property is chosen for its location, guiding and service; final properties are confirmed at booking and we can upgrade or adjust any night.
- AmboseliLodge set in gardens inside Amboseli National Park2 nights
- Maasai MaraPermanent tented camp with en-suite tents near the Talek River3 nights
Meals: Full board on safari; breakfast and dinner in cities and at the beach
What's included
Included
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and a professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Accommodation as listed (or similar, subject to availability)
- Meals as listed in the day-by-day itinerary
- All national park, reserve and conservation fees
- Arrival and departure airport transfers
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
- All government taxes and levies
- 24-hour in-country support from our Nairobi office
- Domestic and light-aircraft flights as described in the itinerary
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Comprehensive travel insurance (required)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Drinks other than drinking water, unless stated
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls and souvenirs
- Optional hot-air balloon flight (currently from around USD 450–600 per person)
Travel information
Best time to travel
July to October for the Great Migration and river crossings; January to March for dry, quieter game viewing with good predator action. April and May are wetter but green, peaceful and good value.
What to pack
- Neutral-coloured, lightweight clothing (khaki, olive, beige)
- A warm fleece or jacket for early mornings and evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- Binoculars and a camera with spare batteries and memory cards
- Insect repellent and personal medication
- Soft-sided duffel bag — light aircraft allow around 15 kg per person
Experiences on this safari
Frequently asked questions
Is this a private safari?
Yes. This itinerary runs privately for your own group, with your own vehicle and guide. It can start on any date, and we can adjust the route, pace and accommodation to suit you.
What does the price include?
The guide price from USD 1,850 per person is based on two people sharing mid-range accommodation in the low season. It includes accommodation, the meals and activities listed, park fees and transfers. Prices vary by season and group size; we confirm an exact quote when you enquire.
Is there a luggage limit on the flights?
Yes. Light aircraft and some domestic flights allow around 15 kg per person including hand luggage, packed in soft-sided bags. We can store extra luggage for you.
When can I see a river crossing?
Crossings most often happen between late July and early October, but the herds move with the rain, so no date can be guaranteed. Spending at least three nights in the Mara gives you the best chance.
Gallery
Enquire about this safari
Every date is available on request. Tell us when you would like to travel and we will send a tailored quote — adjustments welcome.
