Big Five Safari in 5 Days: Aberdare, Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day private safari through Kenya's diverse landscapes and rich wildlife reserves with Jossec Safaris. Starting from Nairobi, you’ll venture to the cool highlands of Aberdare, descend into the flamingo-fringed shores of Lake Nakuru, and wrap up in the world-famous Masai Mara. This tour is fully guided in a 4x4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing, and it includes all park fees, full-board accommodation, airport transfers, and personalized attention.

Whether it’s elephants at a forest waterhole, rhinos on the savannah, or lions in the Mara grasslands, this safari offers a perfect blend of Kenya’s wildlife wonders.

Day 1: – Nairobi to Aberdare National Park

Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or the airport by the Jossec Safaris team. After a short briefing, you’ll head north through the central highlands to the Aberdare ranges. Enjoy lunch at the Aberdare Country Club before being transferred to The Ark Lodge, uniquely built above a floodlit waterhole and salt lick that attracts elephants, buffaloes, and other nocturnal animals. Spend the afternoon and evening observing wildlife from the lodge’s viewing decks.

Accommodation: The Ark Lodge

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2:– Aberdare to Lake Nakuru National Park

After breakfast, check out and begin your drive south to Lake Nakuru National Park, arriving in time for lunch at Ziwa Bush Lodge. In the afternoon, head out for a thrilling game drive through the park, known for its flocks of flamingos, white and black rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and big cats like lions and leopards. Enjoy sunset views over the lake before heading back to the lodge.

Accommodation: Ziwa Bush Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: – Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, drive through the Rift Valley to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, arriving at Enkorok Mara Camp in time for lunch. After settling in, embark on your first afternoon game drive across the Mara plains, home to the Big Five and many other animals. Keep your camera ready for elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, and hyenas. Return to the camp in the evening.

Accommodation: Enkorok Mara Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4:– Full Day in Masai Mara

Today is a full day dedicated to exploring the vast and wildlife-rich Masai Mara. Begin with a sunrise game drive to catch the predators in action. After breakfast, continue with either full-day exploration with packed lunch or morning and afternoon drives with a break at the camp. You’ll visit popular spots like the Mara River, where, during this season, you might witness dramatic wildebeest crossings. An optional hot air balloon safari is available at $450 per person.

Accommodation: Enkorok Mara Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5:– Masai Mara to Nairobi

Enjoy an early morning game drive followed by breakfast at the camp. Then check out and begin your return drive to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport for your onward flight, bringing your safari with Jossec Safaris to a close.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Pricing depends on the month of travel—August is peak season, which means high demand and limited availability at lodges. Rates also vary depending on accommodation category (budget, mid-range, luxury) and the number of travelers. Since this is a private safari, the cost includes more personalized service and flexibility.

Inclusions:

✓ Pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi (Airport/Hotel)

✓ Private 4x4 safari jeep with pop-up roof

✓ Professional English-speaking driver-guide

✓ 4 nights’ accommodation (The Ark Lodge, Ziwa Bush Lodge, Enkorok Mara Camp)

✓ Full-board meals as per itinerary

✓ Park entrance fees for all parks mentioned

✓ Unlimited game drives in all locations

✓ Bottled water during game drives

✓ Airport transfers (both arrival and departure)

✓ Emergency evacuation cover by Flying Doctors

Exclusions:

✘ International flights & Kenya visa fees

✘ Optional hot air balloon safari ($450 per person)

✘ Tips for driver-guide and lodge staff

✘ Personal items such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs

✘ Travel insurance

Travel confidently with Jossec Safaris, a trusted and experienced tour operator in Kenya. Our well-maintained 4x4 vehicles, knowledgeable guides, and personalized attention ensure your safari is comfortable, safe, and unforgettable.