A 5 day Kenya safari is the sweet spot for many travellers. It is long enough to visit two destinations, short enough to fit in a working-holiday schedule, and flexible enough to match different budgets. Here is a clear plan with an alternative.
Plan A: Amboseli and the Maasai Mara
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli. Drive or fly to Amboseli. Afternoon game drive with elephants and the first look at Kilimanjaro. See how to get there.
Day 2: Amboseli. A sunrise drive, rest, and a second game drive. Add a village visit if it fits.
Day 3: Amboseli to the Mara. Return to Wilson Airport by road or flight, then continue to the Mara. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive.
Day 4: The Maasai Mara. A full day in the park, with early and late drives. Add a balloon ride if possible. The Masai Mara guide helps you plan.
Day 5: Fly to Nairobi. A final morning game drive and return flight for departure that evening.
Plan B: Lake Nakuru and the Mara
Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru by road, around three hours. Afternoon game drive for flamingos, rhinos and buffalo.
Day 2: Morning in Nakuru, then continue to the Mara via Narok. See the Nakuru guide.
Days 3 and 4: The Mara, with game drives, and optionally a conservancy day; see reserve versus conservancy.
Day 5: Drive or fly back to Nairobi.
How to choose
- Pick Plan A for elephants, mountain views and contrasting scenery.
- Choose Plan B for rhinos, birds and a lower cost, since it uses fewer flights.
Planning tips
Spend at least two nights in the Mara; one is rarely enough. Aim to fly if your budget allows, since road transfers can eat a day. Check the best time to visit Kenya to match your dates with the weather and wildlife. If you only have three days, see our 3 day plan, and for a longer holiday, our 10 day itinerary.
Make it yours
Tell us how you like to travel, and we will adjust accommodations, pace and activities. We can also add a beach extension; see safari and beach holiday.
Quick answers
What parks can I see in 5 days?
Typically two: for example Amboseli and the Mara, or Lake Nakuru and the Mara.
How many nights should I spend in the Mara?
At least two, ideally three, for time with big cats and possible river crossings.
Can I add a beach extension?
Yes. A few days at Diani or Watamu fits well after a five-day safari.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 7 Days Budget Kenya Safari: Maasai Mara, Lakes & Hell’s Gate Adventure
- 3 Days Amboseli Bush Safari Adventure
- 3 Days Amboseli Safari Adventure: Majestic Wildlife & Mount Kilimanjaro Views
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Plan it with people who live here
We are a Nairobi-based team and every trip starts from our own doorstep. If you would like help turning these ideas into a real itinerary, message us on WhatsApp (+254 794 588 242), write to info@cherishafricasafaris.com, or use our contact form. We usually reply the same day.
5 day Kenya safari: Key Takeaways
The main points on 5 day Kenya safari are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on 5 day Kenya safari, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
