7-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide (2025-2026)
A 7-day Kenya safari is the perfect way to explore the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, encounter the Big Five, and witness the Great Migration in Masai Mara. Whether you’re looking for a luxury safari, a private guided tour, or a budget-friendly adventure, this itinerary covers Kenya’s top wildlife destinations.
Overview – 7-Day Kenya Safari Itinerary
| Day | Destination | Main Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nairobi | Giraffe Center, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage |
| Day 2 | Amboseli National Park | Elephants & Kilimanjaro views |
| Day 3 | Amboseli → Lake Naivasha | Boat safari & Crescent Island walk |
| Day 4 | Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru | Flamingos, rhinos & scenic beauty |
| Day 5 | Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara | Game drives & Big Five spotting |
| Day 6 | Masai Mara | Full-day safari & Great Migration (seasonal) |
| Day 7 | Masai Mara → Nairobi | Sunrise game drive & return to Nairobi |
Travel between July – and October for the Great Migration in Maasai Mara!
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – City Tour & Wildlife Encounters
Highlights:
Visit the Giraffe Center – Hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes.
Explore the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage – Meet rescued baby elephants.
Optional: Visit the Karen Blixen Museum or Nairobi National Park.
Where to Stay in Nairobi:
Luxury: Giraffe Manor, Hemingways Nairobi
Mid-Range: Eka Hotel Nairobi, Sarova Panafric
Budget: Wildebeest Eco Camp
Day 2: Nairobi → Amboseli National Park – Elephants & Kilimanjaro Views
Highlights:
Game drive in Amboseli National Park – Famous for massive elephant herds. Spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Visit a Maasai village to experience authentic Kenyan culture.
Travel: 4-5 hours drive from Nairobi.
Where to Stay in Amboseli: Luxury: Ol Tukai Lodge, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Mid-Range: Kibo Safari Camp, Satao Elerai Camp Budget: AA Lodge Amboseli
Amboseli → Lake Naivasha – Boat Safari & Wildlife Walk
Highlights: Boat safari on Lake Naivasha – Spot hippos & exotic birdlife. Walking safari on Crescent Island – Walk among giraffes, zebras & antelopes. Relax at a lakefront lodge with stunning sunset views.
Travel: 5-6 hours drive from Amboseli.
Where to Stay in Lake Naivasha: Luxury: Loldia House, Chui Lodge Mid-Range: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge, Enashipai Resort Budget: Fish Eagle Inn
Day 4: Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru – Flamingos & Rhinos
Highlights: Game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park – Home to rhinos, flamingos & lions. Visit Makalia Falls – A beautiful hidden gem inside the park. Sunset views over Lake Nakuru.
Travel: 2-3 hours drive from Lake Naivasha.
Where to Stay in Lake Nakuru: Luxury: The Cliff Nakuru, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge Mid-Range: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Mbweha Camp Budget: Ziwa Bush Lodge
Day 5: Lake Nakuru → Maasai Mara – Enter Big Five Country
Highlights: Scenic drive through Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Afternoon game drive in Maasai Mara – Home to lions, cheetahs & elephants. Stay in a luxury tented camp or safari lodge.
Travel: 5-6 hours drive from Lake Nakuru.
Where to Stay in Maasai Mara: Luxury: Angama Mara, Mara Plains Camp Mid-Range: Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge Budget: Enkorok Mara Camp
Masai Mara Lodges and Tented Camps
Day 6: Maasai Mara – Full-Day Game Drives & Great Migration
Highlights: Full-day safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve. Witness the Great Migration (July – October). Optional: Hot air balloon safari at sunrise, and Maasai village
Stay near the Mara River during migration season for the best wildlife action.
Day 7: Maasai Mara → Nairobi – Sunrise Safari & Departure
Highlights: Morning breakfast. Scenic drive back to Nairobi (or fly back for a faster journey). Optional: Relax at a spa or hotel in Nairobi before your flight.
Travel: 5-6 hours drive / 45-minute flight to Nairobi.
Cost of a 7-Day Kenya Safari
| Safari Type | Price Per Person (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Budget Safari | $1,900 – $2,800 |
| Mid-Range Safari | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Luxury Safari | $6,000 – $10,000 |
Pro Tip: Book at least 6 months in advance for the best lodges & prices.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About a 7-Day Kenya Safari
July – October for the Great Migration. January – March for excellent game viewing & fewer crowds.
Budget: $1,500+ Mid-range: $3,000 – $5,000 Luxury: $6,000+
Yes! You can add Zanzibar, Diani Beach, or Serengeti to extend your trip.
Request a Custom Safari
