5-Day Masai Mara, Nakuru and Amboseli Family Safari

Masai Mara, Amboseli & Nakuru

Rates From $1,260

About This Tour

This family journey travels through the diverse landscapes of southern and central Kenya. It moves onward from the elephant-dotted plains of Amboseli to the alkaline shores of Lake Nakuru. The rhythm of the safari settles in the Masai Mara, where vast savannahs host high wildlife concentrations.

Designed for families, the trip maintains a steady pace with multi-night stays in the Mara. Movement between parks is by road, allowing for a grounded view of the Great Rift Valley. The atmosphere is calm and supportive, focusing on shared discovery in the wild.

Comfort remains a priority throughout the circuit. Lodges provide family-oriented accommodation, including deluxe tents and spacious rooms. The journey feels balanced, blending active game drives with restful evenings in camp.

Our Community Impact

JohnBow prioritizes lodges that employ staff from local communities. This safari supports the livelihoods of people living adjacent to the parks. We choose partners who contribute to local education and health projects.

Our Sustainability Promise

We use professional guides who follow strict park regulations to protect wildlife. Our partner camps focus on waste reduction and energy efficiency. We advocate for responsible viewing practices that respect the natural environment.

Why This Safari Works

The routing builds naturally, starting with the iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli. It then transitions to the birdlife and rhino sanctuary of Lake Nakuru before reaching the Mara. This order manages energy levels well, saving the most intense wildlife viewing for the final days.

Spaced travel segments and a two-night stay in the Masai Mara prevent fatigue. Using a private 4×4 Jeep ensures comfort and flexibility for families with children. This itinerary works best for families seeking a classic road safari that covers Kenya’s most famous ecosystems at a manageable rhythm.

Your Trip at a Glance

A snapshot of your entire experience, from key highlights to where you'll stay and what to expect each day.

  • 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Big Five Experience
  • Couple
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Full Board
  • Game Drives
  • Group Travel
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Private Safari
  • Rhino Tracking
  • Solo Traveller

Trip Summary

  • Day 1:Nairobi to Amboseli National Park by road
  • Day 2:Amboseli to Lake Nakuru National Park by road
  • Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve by road
  • Day 4: Extensive Game Drive, Masai Mara National Reserve
  • Day 5: Masai Mara National Reserve to Nairobi by road

Destinations

  • Amboseli National Park
  • Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Masai Mara National Reserve

Where You Stay

  • Amboseli (1 Night): Kibo Safari Camp
  • Lake Nakuru (1 Night): Sopa Lodge Lake Nakuru
  • Masai Mara (2 Nights): Mara Maisha Camp

Safari Highlights

  • Elephant herds under Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Dusty plains of Amboseli
  • Rift Valley escarpment views
  • Rhino sightings in Lake Nakuru
  • Pink hues of lakeside birdlife
  • Acacia-dotted Masai Mara savannah
  • High concentrations of plains game
  • Evenings around the camp fire

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Road journey south from Nairobi
  • Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
  • Afternoon game drive

Itinerary information

The journey begins with a drive from the capital toward the southern border. The landscape shifts into the open plains of Amboseli National Park. This area is known for large elephant herds moving against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak. The afternoon is spent observing wildlife as the light softens over the marshes.

  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Kibo Safari Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Travel across the Rift Valley floor
  • Lakeside scenery and birdlife
  • Black and white rhino tracking

Itinerary information

The safari moves north, passing through varied terrain toward the Great Rift Valley. Lake Nakuru National Park features a distinct ecosystem centered on the alkaline lake and surrounding woodlands. The park is a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos. The day offers a chance to see diverse bird species and rare Rothschild’s giraffes.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Sopa Lodge Lake Nakuru

Itinerary Highlights

  • Descent into the Mara ecosystem
  • Vast golden savannah plains
  • Introduction to the big cats

Itinerary information

The route leads to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. The landscape opens into iconic rolling grasslands that stretch to the horizon. This is the heart of the safari experience, where predator-prey interactions are frequent. The rhythm slows as the group enters the reserve for an initial exploration.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Mara Maisha Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day in the reserve
  • Deep exploration of the Mara
  • Picnic lunch in the wild

Itinerary information

A full day is dedicated to uncovering the different corners of the Masai Mara. Without the need to travel between parks, the pace is unhurried and focused on wildlife behavior. The day follows the herds’ movements across the plains. It is a time for patience and observation in one of Africa’s most productive wildlife areas.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Mara Maisha Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Final morning game drive
  • Return journey to the capital
  • Last views of the Great Rift Valley

Itinerary information

The safari concludes with a final game drive as the sun rises over the Mara. After breakfast, the journey back to Nairobi continues by road. The drive provides a last opportunity to see the dramatic walls of the Rift Valley before reaching the city. The trip ends with a transfer to the airport or a central hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Not Included

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ We designed this road safari to give families a grounded and steady introduction to Kenya’s most diverse wildlife parks without the rush of daily travel." ❞

~Johnbow Director

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

SeasonDate Range2 GuestsChild (4 -12)
SeasonDate Range2 GuestsChild (4 -12years)
Shoulder Season1 Oct – 31 Oct, 2026$ 2,210$ 1,260
Green Season1 Nov – 22 Dec, 2026$ 2,730$ 1,560

Important Rate Notes

  • Rates vary based on seasonal availability and room types.
  • Single room supplements apply for solo travelers.
  • Child policies and age limits vary by lodge and need confirmation.
  • Lodge substitutions of a similar standard may be offered if needed.

What's Included

  • All accommodation listed
  • Private 4x4 Jeep transport
  • Game drives as per itinerary
  • All meals during the safari
  • National park and reserve entry fees
  • Professional driver/guide
  • Mineral water in the vehicle

Optional Addons

  • Hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara
  • Guided nature walks
  • Maasai village cultural visit
  • Bush breakfast or dinner

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Kenya entry visas
  • Personal items and laundry
  • Drinks and beverages not included in the meals

Ready to start planning your Safari? Tell us your travel dates, who you are traveling with, and what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Extra nights can be added to any destination to allow for a slower pace or more activities.
Both Kibo Safari Camp and Mara Maisha Camp offer family deluxe tents designed for group comfort.
Road transfers typically take between four and six hours depending on the route and traffic conditions.
A private 4×4 Jeep is provided for better comfort on the road segments and superior visibility during game drives.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

Posted on Google Google
Dorcas Munga profile picture
Dorcas Munga
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great planning and communication. My trips have been smooth. All expectations met 💯
Posted on Google Google
Mike Bourassa profile picture
Mike Bourassa
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our driver, Patrick, made the experience even more special with his outgoing personality and his knowledge of each park. He always made certain that he positioned his vehicle just right so we could get a perfect photo. He shared a lot about African culture an answered our questions. His keen eye spotted a cheetah from a long distance and we experienced the animal stalk and catch his prey (only to have a hyena steal it from him at the end). The accommodations were excellent at Massai Mara but were a bit too primitive at Amboseli. The large openings between the sleeping area and the bathroom brought way too many bugs into the tent. Wonderful memories of the entire experience!! We hope to come back next year and Patrick will be our choice of guide.
Posted on Google Google
Kate Mandere profile picture
Kate Mandere
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Wonderful team, very warm, helpful and well coordinated!
Posted on Google Google
Emmy Chepkoech profile picture
Emmy Chepkoech
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I recently booked my 1st trip with Johnbow Tours and Travel and it was an outstanding experience from the start to finish. The team was professional, well-organised, helpful and incredibly friendly. Transfer to my hotel room and back was handled smoothly allowing us to relax and enjoy our journey. The fact that they allow lipa mdogo mdogo was not overwhelming paying for the package...I can't wait to book again with Johnbow 😊
Posted on Google Google
Gloria Kikete profile picture
Gloria Kikete
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jonbow has offers seamless travel service with a personal touch.
Posted on Google Google
Lolo Chgn profile picture
Lolo Chgn
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Safaris de 5 jours depart Nairobi et arrivée à Diani beach Visite des parcs d’amboseli, tsavo ouest et est , t.hills Découverte d une faune magnifique Notre chauffeur Chombo a tout fait pour rechercher les animaux et il était à notre écoute ! Dépaysement total garanti Les hôtels étaient tout confort avec des conditions d’alimentation en eau et électricité précaire ! Nous remercions vraiment Morris et Chombo pour ce magnifique Safari
Posted on Google Google
Irene Nduku profile picture
Irene Nduku
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent services, the team was friendly, efficient and went above and beyond to meet my need.Their service was prompt and effective. I highly recommend
Posted on Google Google
Cheyenne van den B profile picture
Cheyenne van den B
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a two day tour with Johnbow Tours & Travel to Tsavo West. The park itself is not that good to be honest, but we stayed at Salt Lick lodge and that was amazing. The animals are coming so close to the lodge, it is really beautiful to see. The driver Pius was also really nice and he had a lot of knowledge about the animals. I have been in contact with Morris and that was also really pleasant because of the arrangement we had.
Posted on Google Google
virginia mumo profile picture
virginia mumo
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
As a team of 12pax..we had an exceptional good experience with the Johnbow team. Well informed and humble team who contributed a lot to an enjoyable trip and creating memories.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Stay06810033473 profile picture
Stay06810033473
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Customer Servive Customer service was great!Communication was timely and effective especially as there were some flight changes.Either way the bookings were perfect, customer service was exceptional and we even got a treat for our anniversary, at no extra costElijah and Sam were very helpful.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Annette M profile picture
Annette M
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Exceptional Experience with Johnbow Tours and Travel! I had an unforgettable trip to Bali and Thailand, the guides were amazing, the places beautiful and the itinerary on point. Bali has very many temples and beautiful rice terraces, the swings and sunset views unforgettable. thank you Johnbow for the tour.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
KSP profile picture
KSP
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Memorable Safari with a Great Team and Guide We had a really good experience with Johnbow Tours during our Kenya safari. Morris, our main point of contact, was communicative and professional throughout. He stayed in touch via WhatsApp both before and during the trip, answering all our questions quickly and clearly, which gave us a lot of confidence going in.The pricing felt fair for what we received, and the Land Cruiser was comfortable, especially considering the long drives. They also provided snacks at the start of the trip upon request, which was thoughtful.Our guide, Paul, was very knowledgeable. He had a sharp eye for spotting animals and shared interesting facts about everything we saw. We had plenty of game drives and were lucky to spot a wide variety of wildlife.The only small issue was around water. We had been told water would be included throughout, but at a couple of the lodges, we were charged for drinking water, tea, or coffee during meals. It wasn’t a big deal, but having clarity on that from the start would’ve been helpful.Overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable safari. The team was dependable, the schedule was well planned, and we felt taken care of from start to finish. I’d absolutely recommend Johnbow to anyone planning a private safari in Kenya.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Alain V profile picture
Alain V
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A great experience, a must for everyone who reads this Jonbow, our driver who has the same name as the agency, took very good care of us. He was on time for the appointment. Once on the road he was super attentive. In the park he was always the first to spot the game. He gave us very good explanations about all the animals we saw. No effort was too much to make us spot all the game. Super friendly and helpful guy. He operates from Mombasa/Diani Beach. He made sure that our safari will remain unforgettable.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
winnie a profile picture
winnie a
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Dubai tour 2024 was a birthday gift to my son who turned lucky number seven. I writing to thank you for coordinating our trip to UAE, dubai. Everything was perfect; the flight, the hotel was clean and all staff were friendly and professional. Special thanks to Mary Gathua as she was the one who coordinated everything for us.The tour guides were excellent! They made things as easy for us as possible. I really appreciate these and that indicate the quality services that they provide.We had dubai town tour and our guide, Mr. Albert did exceptionally well. We learnt about the origin of UAE and the important features in dubai. We had dhow cruise with dinner, and the dessert safari with dinner.Desert safari was the best of the trip (the driver , Mr . Zaheer was very professional, and the overall experience was thrilling and amazing). The desert safari remains in my priority to do list when I visit dubai next.I would certainly recommend Johnbow Tours and travel to anyone wanting to visit Dubai. Thank you again and look forward to plan our next vacation with you.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
maryanne o profile picture
maryanne o
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome Best tour company ..travelled to Dubai in Emirates .Booked the best hotel in Dubai..Johnbow staff are friendly and accommodatve I rate them10/10 they're affordable too .
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
M A profile picture
M A
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Superb service Happy New Year! Eunice managed our travel plans superbly, and I’m grateful. Our stay at Pride Inn was delightful; the staff’s service, food, attention, and entertainment made our holiday special and memorable. Thanks again for your excellent services.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
gladys n profile picture
gladys n
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Efficient Eunice of John Bow ,was pretty helpful from getting us a hotel to SGR tickets, and transfers to the hotel.She also called to ensure we arrived safely.I loved the seamless process and especially because we chat on whatsapp mostly. Johnbow tours keep their word! I would choose them again.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Christine N profile picture
Christine N
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome experience This travel company was very efficient. I engaged them on whatsapp in the morning and by afternoon they had finalised everything including the sgr tickets. Their staff Eunice was readily available even at night because we did night travel. And early morning at 4 am, she called to find out if the driver had picked us. I would recommend them anytime
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sabina M profile picture
Sabina M
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
It was a time of relaxation and fun. The trip was well planned from Nairobi to Maasai Mara. We had so much fun and took so many photos. We saw lions, cheetahs, elephants and other animals. If we could do it again, we would still chose Johnbow tours and travel.
info@johnbowtoursandtravel.com
Kenya Cinema Plaza, 3rd Floor Room 3-8. Moi Avenue, Nairobi