5-Day Kenya Great Migration Safari 2027–2028: Masai Mara & Lake Nakuru

Explore the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru on a 5-day private Kenya safari, featuring three nights in the Masai Mara, two full-day game drives and a visit to Lake Nakuru for rhino viewing.

Safari duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Destinations: Masai Mara (3 nights) and Lake Nakuru (1 night)
Transport: Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with professional driver-guide
Accommodation: Budget, mid-range and luxury options
Starting prices: Budget USD 950 | Mid-range USD 1,350 | Luxury USD 2,200 per person
Park entry fees: Included in the quoted package

Starting prices are subject to travel dates, group size, accommodation availability and the confirmed seasonal quotation. July–October migration-season prices may be higher.

Experience Kenya's incredible wildlife on our 5-Day Kenya Great Migration Safari, featuring three nights in the Masai Mara and one night in Lake Nakuru. Enjoy private 4×4 Land Cruiser game drives, Big Five encounters, rhino sightings and the chance to witness the Great Migration and Mara River crossings from July to October, subject to wildlife movements.

Choose from budget, mid-range or luxury accommodation, with flexible private departures and an experienced English-speaking safari guide.

5-Day Kenya Great Migration Safari Prices — 2027–2028

All packages include: Private 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser, professional driver-guide, game drives and park fees.

Prices are indicative per person sharing and vary by season, group size and accommodation. July–October rates may be higher. Final prices and inclusions are confirmed before booking.

Request Your Personalised 2027–2028 Safari Quote

Prices are indicative starting rates per person. Final rates depend on travel dates, group size, accommodation category and room occupancy.

Explore the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru on a private 5-day Kenya safari, with budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options. All packages include a private 4×4 Land Cruiser and professional driver-guide.

Safari Starting Prices

Price Validity: 2027–2028. Rates vary by travel season, group size, room occupancy and accommodation availability. July–October migration-season prices may be higher.

What Affects Your Safari Price?

• Season: Park fees and accommodation rates vary.

• Group size: Larger groups may enjoy lower per-person rates.

• Accommodation: Choose budget, mid-range or luxury.

• Optional activities: Balloon safaris and cultural visits cost extra unless included.

Request Your Safari Quote

Share your travel dates, number of travellers and preferred accommodation for a personalised quotation covering accommodation, park fees, game drives and private transport.

Request a Free Safari Quote →

Big Cat Encounters: Explore the Masai Mara's predator-rich grasslands, where lions, cheetahs and elusive leopards roam.

• Seasonal Migration Viewing: Search for wildebeest and zebra herds during their seasonal movements through the Mara ecosystem. River crossings are not guaranteed.

• Diverse Wildlife Habitats: Discover open savannah, riverine vegetation, woodland and lakeshore ecosystems.

• Rhino-Viewing Opportunities: Visit Lake Nakuru, an important sanctuary for both white and black rhinos.

• Wildlife Photography: Capture opportunities to photograph elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes and birdlife across contrasting landscapes.

The Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru offer contrasting habitats and complementary wildlife experiences.

Combining both parks creates a varied Kenya safari, balancing predator viewing with rhino conservation and scenic landscapes.

Our itinerary balances scenic road transfers with dedicated wildlife-viewing time in the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru.

Driving times are approximate and exclude extended stops, game-drive time and unexpected delays. Road conditions, weather, camp location and park-entry procedures may affect the schedule.

Your 5-day Kenya Migration Safari offers opportunities to observe big cats, elephants, rhinos, giraffes and seasonal wildebeest herds across two of Kenya's most rewarding wildlife destinations.

Wildlife Viewing Note: All sightings depend on natural animal movements, weather and park conditions. Great Migration river crossings cannot be predicted or guaranteed.

• Private transport in a customised 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• 4 nights’ accommodation
• Meals as per itinerary

• Park Entry Fees: The safari includes park entry fees for the scheduled game drives specified in the confirmed itinerary. Masai Mara entry arrangements depend on the travel season, accommodation location and applicable park regulations. Any additional park entry required for optional activities or itinerary changes will be confirmed before booking.

• Game drives as mentioned
• Bottled drinking water during safari
• Pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Balloon safari
• Maasai village visit
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal drinks
• Laundry and personal expenses
• Optional activities not mentioned as included

Travelers can easily extend this 5 Days Kenya Migration Tour with additional safari destinations or relaxing beach holidays to create a longer and more diverse East Africa experience.

Popular Safari Add-Ons

• See elephants beneath Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy a Lake Naivasha boat ride on our 6-Day Amboseli, Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara Safari
• Combine with Samburu National Reserve to see the rare Samburu Special Five
• Combine rhino conservation with the Masai Mara on our 6-Day Ol Pejeta and Masai Mara Fly-In Safari. 
• Continue to Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park for classic red-elephant safaris

Beach Holiday Extensions

After the safari, travelers can unwind along Kenya’s beautiful Indian Ocean coastline:

• Continue to Kenya’s coast with our 7-Day Masai Mara and Diani Beach Safari
• Watamu – marine parks and snorkeling
• Mombasa – cultural sites and beach relaxation

Tanzania Add-On Option

For guests wanting a longer migration adventure, this safari can also connect with northern Tanzania destinations including:

• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Tarangire National Park

The 5-Day Kenya Migration Tour can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the experience varies depending on the season and your wildlife interests. The most popular time to visit is between July and October, when the Great Wildebeest Migration reaches the Masai Mara National Reserve. During these months, visitors have the best opportunity to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebras, dramatic predator-prey interactions and, with some luck, the famous Mara River crossings.

For detailed seasonal comparisons, rainfall patterns and destination advice, see our  Best Time to Visit Kenya and Tanzania for a Safari.

Outside the migration season, the Masai Mara continues to offer exceptional year-round wildlife viewing, including excellent opportunities to see the Big Five, while Lake Nakuru National Park remains one of Kenya's top destinations for rhino conservation and birdwatching.

Best Time to Visit by Season

This five-day migration safari is ideal for travellers who want substantial time in the Masai Mara while also experiencing Lake Nakuru’s rhinos and Rift Valley scenery.

• First-time safari travellers: Visit two of Kenya’s most rewarding wildlife destinations in one practical itinerary.
• Couples and honeymooners: Enjoy private game drives, memorable sunsets and optional luxury accommodation.
• Families: Private departures allow flexible game-drive times, meal arrangements and comfort stops.
• Wildlife photographers: Two full days in the Masai Mara provide more opportunities to follow wildlife activity and photograph predators.
• Solo travellers and small groups: Enjoy an exclusive vehicle and an itinerary adjusted to your interests, travel pace and accommodation preferences.

This tour involves two substantial road journeys: Nairobi to the Masai Mara and Masai Mara to Nakuru. Travellers who prefer less driving can request scheduled flights or an adjusted itinerary.

Choose accommodation based on your comfort preferences, location and budget.

Why Camp Location Matters

Mara Olodare Camp is located outside the Masai Mara reserve near Oloolaimutia Gate. Guests enter the reserve for their scheduled game drives.

Accommodation location affects travel time to wildlife-viewing areas. We recommend properties based on comfort, park access and the planned safari route.

Accommodation is subject to availability. Final lodge names, room categories, meal plans and prices will be confirmed before booking.

Practical Advice From Our Kenya Safari Team

• Start game drives early: Cooler morning conditions can provide rewarding wildlife encounters, particularly with predators.

• Allow time for wildlife sightings: Animals move naturally, so a productive game drive requires patience and flexibility.

• Plan realistic transfers: The Masai Mara–Nakuru journey can take approximately 5–6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

• Prepare for changing weather: Carry layered clothing, sun protection and a light waterproof jacket.

• Plan international flights carefully: Allow sufficient time for the final game drive and road transfer to Nairobi.

Expert Tip: Prioritise time spent observing wildlife rather than rushing between sightings or destinations.

Your 5-day Kenya Great Migration safari begins with a scheduled pickup from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), according to your confirmed booking arrangements.

Private Safari Transfers

Travel throughout the safari in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a professional English-speaking driver-guide. The vehicle is used for inter-park transfers and scheduled wildlife game drives, providing flexibility and comfort.

Optional Domestic Flights

For travellers who prefer to reduce road travel, domestic flights between Nairobi's Wilson Airport and Masai Mara airstrips may be arranged at an additional cost, subject to availability. Any changes to the standard road itinerary, including onward transfers to Lake Nakuru, will be confirmed in your personalised quotation.

Airport Drop-Off and Departure Arrangements

On the final day, return to Nairobi after your Lake Nakuru wildlife experience. Drop-off at your Nairobi hotel or airport can be arranged according to your confirmed itinerary and onward travel schedule.

Important: The standard package follows the road itinerary described above. Optional flights, special airport transfers and itinerary adjustments must be confirmed before booking.

Packing properly for your 5 Days Kenya Migration Tour will help you stay comfortable during game drives, cool mornings, warm afternoons, and occasional evening chills in the safari parks.

Essential Safari Clothing

• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts
• Comfortable safari trousers or shorts
• Warm fleece or light jacket for early morning game drives
• Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, green, beige, brown)
• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Sunglasses

Safari Essentials

• Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medications
• Travel documents and passport copies

Optional Items

• Rain jacket during the green season (April–May & November)
• Power bank and universal travel adapter
• Small backpack for daily use
• Swimwear for lodges with swimming pools
• Lightweight scarf or buff for dusty roads

Luggage Recommendation

Soft-sided bags are highly recommended, especially for travelers using domestic safari flights. A medium-sized suitcase or duffel bag plus a small daypack is usually ideal for this Kenya safari tour.

Private 4×4 Land Cruiser: Exclusive safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver-guide.

• Flexible Departures: Choose travel dates that suit your schedule.

• Local Safari Specialists: Personalised planning and support from our Nairobi-based team.

• Tailored Safari Experience: Choose budget, mid-range or luxury accommodation according to your preferences.

★★★★★ “An unforgettable Great Migration safari”

“Witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara was the highlight of our Kenya trip. We saw thousands of wildebeest, lions, elephants and even a leopard. The safari was well organised, and our guide was exceptional.”

Guest: Sarah & Daniel
Travel period: August 2025
Country: United Kingdom
Group type: Couple
Accommodation level: Budget
Safari highlights: Great Migration, wildebeest herds, lions, elephants and leopard sighting
Verification: Verified East Africa Jungle guests

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★★★★★ “Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru were a perfect combination”

“This five-day safari gave us everything we hoped to experience in Kenya. The Masai Mara was breathtaking, and Lake Nakuru surprised us with its rhinos and beautiful scenery. Our accommodation was comfortable, and the game drives were unforgettable.”

Guest: Maria & Carlos
Travel period: September 2024
Country: Spain
Group type: Couple
Accommodation level: Budget 
Safari highlights: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, rhinos, scenery and game drives
Verification: Verified East Africa Jungle guests

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★★★★★ “A safe and memorable family safari”

“Travelling during the migration season was absolutely worth it. Our children loved seeing zebras, giraffes and elephants in their natural environment. The safari felt safe, well planned and family-friendly from beginning to end.”

Guest: James Family
Travel period: July 2025
Country: Australia
Group type: Family with children
Accommodation level: Budget
Safari highlights: Great Migration season, zebras, giraffes, elephants and family game drives
Verification: Verified East Africa Jungle guests

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★★★★★ “Excellent wildlife viewing without the peak-season crowds”

“January was an excellent time to visit. We experienced fewer crowds, pleasant weather and memorable predator sightings in the Masai Mara. Lake Nakuru was peaceful and offered wonderful birdlife and rhino viewing.”

Guest: Sophie
Travel period: January 2023
Country: France
Accommodation level: budget
Safari highlights: Predator sightings, uncrowded game drives, Lake Nakuru birdlife and rhinos
Verification: Verified East Africa Jungle guest.

1. When is the Great Migration in the Masai Mara?

The main wildebeest herds are usually present in the Masai Mara between July and October. Their exact arrival and departure dates vary according to rainfall, grazing conditions and natural herd movements.

2. Are Mara River crossings guaranteed?

No. River crossings are natural, unpredictable events and cannot be scheduled or guaranteed. Spending three nights in the Masai Mara gives your guide more flexibility to follow recent sightings and explore areas where the migration herds are active.

3. Is this a private or group-joining safari?

This itinerary is offered as a private safari, giving you an exclusive vehicle and greater flexibility with game-drive times, accommodation and daily activities. Group-joining departures may be available separately on selected dates.

4. Where will we stay?

The budget package typically uses Mara Olodare Camp or a comparable camp for three nights and Citymax Hotel or a similar property in Nakuru for one night. Mid-range and luxury upgrades are available. All accommodation is subject to availability and confirmed before payment.

5. How long are the road transfers?

Nairobi to the Masai Mara normally takes approximately five to six hours. The Masai Mara to Nakuru journey also takes around five to six hours, while Nakuru to Nairobi takes approximately three to four hours. Travel times vary with traffic, weather, road conditions and accommodation location.

6. Is a private 4×4 Land Cruiser included in the safari price?

Yes. All budget, mid-range and luxury packages include a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof and a professional English-speaking driver-guide. No separate vehicle upgrade is required.

7. Is this safari suitable for children?

Yes. A private safari is particularly suitable for families because game-drive duration, meal arrangements and comfort stops can be adjusted to suit the children’s ages. Parents should consider the longer road journeys when planning with very young children.

8. Can I add a hot-air balloon safari?

Yes. A sunrise balloon safari over the Masai Mara can be arranged on Day 2 or Day 3, subject to availability and weather conditions. The experience normally includes approximately one hour in the air followed by breakfast. It is charged separately and should be reserved in advance.

9. What happens if I travel outside migration season?

The Masai Mara remains an excellent year-round wildlife destination. Outside July–October, you can still see resident lions, elephants, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and other plains game. Lake Nakuru also offers year-round opportunities to see rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes and diverse birdlife.

About the Author – John Peter

John Peter | Safari Specialist, East Africa Jungle

John Peter is a Kenya-based safari specialist and tour operator with experience planning private wildlife safaris across Kenya and Tanzania. His expertise includes Masai Mara migration itineraries, safari accommodation selection, wildlife-viewing routes and personalised travel planning.

This itinerary is prepared using local destination knowledge and practical safari operations experience to help travellers plan their Kenya safari with confidence.

Editorial Review

Written and reviewed by: John Peter
Position: Senior East Africa Safari Specialist and Operations Manager
Experience: 16+ years of safari planning and operational experience
Last reviewed: 7 September 2026