How the itinerary works
You link the Nairobi area, the Rift Valley, the Masai Mara and the beach. With ten days you avoid rushing: each stop lasts at least one night, except the two days in Nairobi. Before you leave, check the visa and eTA and the vaccines and malaria.
Days 1 and 2: Nairobi
On day 1, arrive and settle in; the Giraffe Centre is an easy first outing. On day 2, the Sheldrick elephant orphanage and the National Museum complete the visit; see also Nairobi.
Day 3: Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate
Drive to the Rift Valley, about 90 km away. In the morning, cycle Hell's Gate; in the afternoon, take a boat trip on Lake Naivasha for the hippos. Night in Naivasha.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru
About 1.5 hours by road to Lake Nakuru National Park for rhinos and, depending on the year, flamingos. Night in Nakuru.
Days 5 to 7: Masai Mara
Day 5 is a long transfer (allow 5 to 6 hours, to be confirmed with your operator) to the Masai Mara reserve. Day 6 is a full safari. On day 7, a last morning safari then back to Nairobi; see flying or driving for a safari to choose between road and plane.
Days 8 to 10: the beach at Diani
Fly Nairobi–Mombasa (or Ukunda) then transfer to Diani Beach: two days of rest. On day 10, return to the airport for departure. For overall cost see the budget for a trip to Kenya and, to choose accommodation, where to stay in Kenya.
Summary
| Days | Stop | Night |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Nairobi | Nairobi |
| 3 | Naivasha and Hell's Gate | Naivasha |
| 4 | Lake Nakuru | Nakuru |
| 5-6 | Masai Mara | Masai Mara |
| 7 | Back to Nairobi | Nairobi |
| 8-9 | Diani beach | Diani |
| 10 | Departure | - |
Variations
To swap the Rift Valley for the north, the Samburu reserve needs two more days; Mount Kenya can be fitted in on the way. For a single big park, compare Masai Mara or Amboseli.
