South Rift & Mara
The world-famous Maasai Mara • Great Migration • Big Five • Rift Valley lakes
The world-famous Maasai Mara • Great Migration • Big Five • Rift Valley lakes
The South Rift Circuit is Kenya's most celebrated safari region, combining the legendary Maasai Mara – stage of the Great Wildebeest Migration – with the stunning Rift Valley lakes of Naivasha, Nakuru, and Elementaita. Experience the Big Five, millions of flamingos, cycling through Hell's Gate, and encounters with Maasai culture. This is the quintessential African safari.
Route: Nairobi → Lake Naivasha → Lake Nakuru → Maasai Mara → Nairobi
Morning: Depart Nairobi, drive through the Rift Valley escarpment
Afternoon: Boat ride on Lake Naivasha – hippos, fish eagles, birdlife
Optional: Cycling in Hell's Gate National Park or Crescent Island walking safari
Overnight: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge / Kongoni Lodge / Fisherman's Camp
Morning: Drive to Lake Nakuru NP, game drive en route
Afternoon: Full game drive – rhinos, flamingos, lions, baboon cliff viewpoint
Overnight: Lake Nakuru Lodge / Sarova Lion Hill / Mbweha Camp
Morning: Scenic drive to Maasai Mara (5-6 hours)
Afternoon: Game drive in search of the Big Five
Optional: Visit a Maasai village ($20-30)
Overnight: Mara Serena / Keekorok / Sopa / or budget camp
Early morning: Sunrise game drive (optional balloon safari $450)
Late morning: Depart for Nairobi, arrive late afternoon
$450-1,500 pp
$1,500-3,500 pp
Big Five, Great Migration, hot air balloons
Rhino sanctuary, flamingos, baboon cliff
Hippos, boat rides, Crescent Island
Cycling, hiking, cliffs, geothermal
Volcano hiking, crater views
Soda lake, birding, flamingos
Experience the Maasai Mara from the sky at sunrise. Float silently over the savanna as wildlife awakens below. Followed by champagne breakfast in the bush.
$450-500 per person
| Vehicle | Best for | Cost/Day |
|---|---|---|
| 4x4 Land Cruiser (pop-up) | Premium game viewing, rough terrain | $200-350 |
| Safari Minivan | Budget safaris, groups | $120-180 |
| Tourist Coaster | 20-30 pax groups | $400-600 |
| Domestic Flight | Nairobi → Mara (optional) | $200-300 one way |
From the Great Migration to intimate lake encounters – your African dream awaits.