Lakes & Mara Safari
This is a low cost “budget safari” by road with travel in a minibus to offer a lower-priced option to our air safaris or our 4×4 road safaris. This 3 night / 4 day low-cost road safari visits the popular Lake Nakuru National Park and the world-renowned Masai Mara National Park. It is operated with a private vehicle just for your group (minimum 2 people) and with an expert driver-guide. Flexible departures (any day).
Starting from Nairobi, the tour first visits the Lakeland interior of Kenya and Lake Nakuru National Park which is famed for the spectacular wildlife found on the shores of its lakes. This includes black rhino, white rhino, hippo, leopard, lion and the rare Rothschild giraffe. After visiting Lake Nakuru National Park and staying overnight on the shores of Lake Elementaita the tour then continues for two nights in the Masai Mara which is one of the best places to see Africa’s big cats.
- 1 night at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge on Full Board basis.
- 2 nights at Keekorok Lodge on Full Board basis.
Budget Friendly Safari
- Experience a cost-effective safari adventure, traveling by minibus to Lake Nakuru National Park and the iconic Masai Mara, offering an affordable alternative to air and 4×4 safaris.
Lake Nakuru National Park Exploration
- Explore Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its rich birdlife, including flamingos, as well as diverse wildlife such as rhino, giraffe, and other plains game.
Classic Maasai Mara Game Drives
- Experience the world-renowned Maasai Mara with game drives from Keekorok Lodge, where you may encounter the Big Five and a wealth of other iconic African wildlife.
Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari
- Enhance your safari with an optional hot air balloon flight over the Maasai Mara, followed by a champagne breakfast in the heart of the wilderness.
Extend to Kenya’s Coastal Beaches or Return to Nairobi
- Conclude your safari with the option to return to Nairobi or extend your journey with a relaxing beach stay along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast.
Price Includes
- Accommodation & board basis as stated.
- All park fees.
- Transport in minivan safari vehicle with qualified silver level Kenya professional safari driver guide.
- Emergency Flying Doctors medical evacuation cover.
Price Excludes
- Hot air ballooning
- Tips & gratuities
- Visa
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Safari Pricing Guide (PDF)
For a detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details, see our safari pricing guide pdf
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
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Tour Experiences




Day 1
An early pick up from Nairobi to drive through the stunning scenery of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley to explore Lake Nakuru National Park. The woodland and grassland surrounding the lake are home to an abundance of animals. All meals and overnight at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge.
Day 2
After an early breakfast we continue our safari by heading to the world-famous Maasai Mara Reserve, arriving for lunch at Keekorok Lodge where we will stay for 2 nights (Full Board). Keekorok has wonderful areas to observe wildlife – including the Elephant Deck and Hippo Bar which overlooks a waterhole. The lodge also features a swimming pool and offers optional activities (payable locally) such as the spa or nature walks. We will take an afternoon game drive and return for dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge.
Day 3
*Optional Balloon Safari and Champagne Breakfast.
In the early morning we head into the Maasai Mara Reserve for game-viewing. We will look for a wide variety of Kenya’s animals – great and small – such as elephants, buffalo, giraffe and plains game and we will go in search of the big cats for which the Mara is famous. Return to the lodge late morning. In the afternoon we take another game drive, later returning for dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge.
Day 4
After breakfast we transfer back to Nairobi. Drop off at the international airport for your flight home. Alternatively, fly direct from the Masai Mara to the Kenya coast to relax on the beach for a few days before flying back to Nairobi (optional and at a supplement). (B).
Tour Experiences




Day 1
An early pick up from Nairobi to drive through the stunning scenery of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley to explore Lake Nakuru National Park. The woodland and grassland surrounding the lake are home to an abundance of animals. All meals and overnight at Sarova Lion Hill Lodge.
Day 2
After an early breakfast we continue our safari by heading to the world-famous Maasai Mara Reserve, arriving for lunch at Keekorok Lodge where we will stay for 2 nights (Full Board). Keekorok has wonderful areas to observe wildlife – including the Elephant Deck and Hippo Bar which overlooks a waterhole. The lodge also features a swimming pool and offers optional activities (payable locally) such as the spa or nature walks. We will take an afternoon game drive and return for dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge.
Day 3
*Optional Balloon Safari and Champagne Breakfast.
In the early morning we head into the Maasai Mara Reserve for game-viewing. We will look for a wide variety of Kenya’s animals – great and small – such as elephants, buffalo, giraffe and plains game and we will go in search of the big cats for which the Mara is famous. Return to the lodge late morning. In the afternoon we take another game drive, later returning for dinner and overnight at Keekorok Lodge.
Day 4
After breakfast we transfer back to Nairobi. Drop off at the international airport for your flight home. Alternatively, fly direct from the Masai Mara to the Kenya coast to relax on the beach for a few days before flying back to Nairobi (optional and at a supplement). (B).
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Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari.
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can contact our Nairobi team at info@gamewatchers.com or call at +254-722-509-200.

Rick Mcintyre
Hello, I’m Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I’ve journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of a “once in a lifetime” vacation or you’re a seasoned safari traveler, I’m here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.

Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!.
You can reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com

Julie Roggow
Greetings, I’m Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I’m here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let’s embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.

Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com

Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com

Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.

Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.

Looking to unwind after your safari?
A stay at one of Kenya’s beach resorts is the ideal add-on to your wildlife safari.
Discover our recommended beach hotels and complete your journey with the perfect coastal escape.