“Why is it that you can never hope to describe the emotion Africa creates? You are lifted. Out of whatever pit, unbound from whatever tie, released from whatever fear. You are lifted and you see it all from above.” 

Kenya with its abundant wildlife was always a hot favorite destination for wildlife and photography fanatics but when Karan Johar questioned Alia Bhatt on “Koffee With Karan” about the moment Ranbir Kapoor proposed to her in Maasai Mara, where the two had gone on vacation, overnight Kenya became the most searched about destination for vacations on Google and since then this country has seen a huge surge in Indian Tourists visiting every year. 

If you have been blessed with a zest of exploring the unusual and have a wildlife bug, few places can match the sheer magnitude of the East African plains and the magnificence of the wild, where the giants of our imaginations roam free and unhindered and nature is played out in all its splendor. Masai Mara in Kenya is one such place. While it will satisfy your desire to be in the wild, one with the real owners of that land, the Masai and the wild animals, it is also a trip which comparatively is not too expensive, so it can keep your wallet happy as well. 

Sometimes people ask me “What has been your favorite trip?” It’s a tough question because each place is unique and different. But after traveling to Kenya for an unforgettable safari, I finally have my answer! This safari was truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will forever be one of my favorite memories of traveling. In under two weeks, we got to see so many incredible animals, stay in beautiful places, and learn about the local culture. 

On top of abundant wildlife, Kenya offers a variety of landscapes, beaches, hiking trails, culture, and historical attractions. It’s one of the few destinations in Africa where you can go on a safari, climb a snow-capped mountain, explore a desert, and relax on a magnificent beach all in one trip. 

So, if you’re interested in the big five, hiking, birdwatching, beach vacations, watersports, or authentic cultural experiences, this Kenya itinerary has you covered. 

Many people planning a visit to Kenya wonder how they should spend a couple of days to a couple of weeks in the country. There’s no simple answer because Kenya is so diverse, and everyone has different interests. 

I personally loved exploring this beautiful country and the call to adventure has taken me to Amboseli, Nairobi National Park, Watamu Beach, Aberdares, Hell’s Gate, and Laikipia, among other places. 

Kenya Itinerary Quick Rundown 

It’s possible to explore most of Kenya in a short period. However, you’ll have to know what and where to prioritize to best manage your time. 

This Kenya itinerary is based on destinations that I have personally visited or I have personally curated travel experiences for others. If you’re planning to visit Kenya, here’s a quick summary of how to spend 5 days in this magical country combining a bit of wildlife, some history, and a lot of adventure. It covers the Nairobi circuit

and the South Rift circuit, which includes Hell’s Gate National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve. It’s perfect for visitors who want to see the highlights of Kenya in less than a week. 

You’ll explore Nairobi, ride a bike in the wild or hike Mount Longonot, take a boat ride, and track the big five.

Day 1 (Nairobi Wildlife Circuit) 

Spend your first-day exploring wildlife spots in Nairobi. You can join a full-day tour of Nairobi National Park, Elephant Sanctuary (open from 11 am to 12 pm), and Giraffe Center. Stop at Karen Blixen Museum and finish off your day by visiting Bomas of Kenya. 

Day 2 (Hell’s Gate/Mount Longonot & Lake Naivasha) 

On the morning of your second day, drive northwest to Naivasha. From here, you’ve two options for an epic adventure. You can visit Hell’s Gate National Park and Olkaria Geothermal Spa or hike Mount Longonot. 

Whichever option you choose, finish the day with a boat ride on Lake Naivasha and return to Nairobi. Trips on Lake Naivasha are usually included in a day trip to Hell’s Gate or Mount Longonot. However, you can drive to the lake yourself and book the tour. 

You can spend the night in a boutique relaxing hotel which has a nice restaurant for dinner. 

Day 3 (Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve) 

After breakfast in Nairobi, fly out of Wilson Airport to your selected safari lodge in the world-renowned Masai Mara Game Reserve. Enjoy a game drive tracking the big five and possibly even experience the great wildebeest migration. 

I stayed at the Masai Mara’s famous Mahali Mzuri Camp and it was no less than spectacular. 

Day 4 (Explore Masai Mara National Reserve) 

Wake before dawn for an opportunity to witness the glorious Masai Mara sunrise. After breakfast, head out into the plains for more game drives. Alternatively, you can do other activities like a hot-air balloon safari or a horseback tour. Finish your day by visiting a Maasai village. 

Day 5 (Nairobi on Foot Experience) 

After breakfast, wave Masai Mara goodbye and fly back to Nairobi. Spend some time sightseeing the capital on foot, visiting a gift market, and taking in the city’s important landmarks and monuments.

You’ll then fly out of Kenya, (perhaps wishing you had more time to explore the Kenyan coast). 

Join an Organized Tour in Kenya with Travel LYKKE

If you’re a solo traveler looking for a group of like minded travelers to travel to Kenya, or you are looking for a family vacation with safari experience on a budget, or looking for that luxurious camping in the heart of national park, Guided tours by Travel LYKKE are run by experienced guides/drivers & highly recommended. They are affordable and cover the most exciting sights in Kenya. 

You can hire a driver/guide, a 4×4 car from them in Kenya or request to arrange accommodation for your stay or to arrange an end to end tour planning and execution. 

You’ll feel much safer traveling around with a local and exploring the country from a local’s perspective. Kenyans are hospitable, and they are always ready to share their knowledge and stories and answer any questions you may have. Use my code TMV2000 to get a flat discount INR 2000 on your next travel destination booking with Travel LYKKE.

For any further queries, please reach out to holidays@lykke.travel

Credits:

Blog post is written by: Mohana Gupta