7 Days Luxury Kenya Birdwatching Safari from Maasai Mara to Amboseli

Join a 7-Day Luxury Kenya Birdwatching Safari from Maasai Mara to Amboseli with raptors, waterbirds, rhinos, hippos and private birding drives.

7-Day savannah, lake, freshwater and wetland birding expedition.

Explore four contrasting Kenyan bird habitats on this 7-Day Luxury Kenya Birdwatching Safari from Maasai Mara to Amboseli. Two complete Maasai Mara days provide time for secretary birds, vultures, eagles, rollers, bustards, ground hornbills, larks, weavers and riverine species alongside large mammals. Lake Nakuru introduces pelicans, cormorants, herons, African fish eagles, woodland birds and flamingos when conditions are favourable, while Lake Naivasha offers kingfishers, fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants and hippos around a freshwater environment. Amboseli completes the journey with wetland birds, ostriches, raptors, egrets, herons and possible Mount Kilimanjaro scenery. Private guiding ensures birds receive proper attention rather than being treated as a secondary safari interest.

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Nairobi to Maasai Mara – Introductory Savannah Birding
Day 2
Full-Day Maasai Mara Grassland and Raptor Birding
Day 3
Full-Day Maasai Mara River and Woodland Birding
Day 4
Maasai Mara to Lake Nakuru – Roadside Birding Transfer
Day 5
Lake Nakuru Birding – Lake Naivasha
Day 6
Lake Naivasha Birding – Transfer to Amboseli
Day 7
Amboseli Wetland Birding – Nairobi

Tour Features

Duration 7 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus Big 5 Safari
Tour Type Private Safari
🌟
Special For Birdwatching
Destination/Accommodation
Start/End
Nairobi
Tour Starting & Ending Point
1
Day 1
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
2
Day 2
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
3
Day 3
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: Basecamp Maasai Mara
4
Day 4
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight: The lake nakuru flamingo lodge
5
Day 5
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: Sawela Lodge
6
Day 6
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: kibo safari camp
7
Day 7
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Overnight: AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Use two fingers to move the map

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara – Introductory Savannah Birding

Nairobi to Maasai Mara – Introductory Savannah Birding

Your guide will collect you from Nairobi in the early morning and begin the journey through highland farms and Great Rift Valley landscapes. Roadside observations may include storks, raptors, doves, weavers and farmland species. After arrival, check-in and lunch, you will begin an afternoon birding drive through grassland and acacia habitats. Possible species include secretary birds, rollers, bustards, hornbills, vultures and eagles, while giraffes, elephants and predators may also be encountered.

Distance: Approximately 260–280 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Birding Time: Approximately 2½–3 hours plus roadside observations
Main Attractions: Secretary birds, rollers, hornbills, vultures and savannah mammals
Scenery & Habitat: Farmland, Rift Valley escarpment, grassland and acacia woodland

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 2: Full-Day Maasai Mara Grassland and Raptor Birding

 Full-Day Maasai Mara Grassland and Raptor Birding

After breakfast, you will leave with a picnic lunch for a full birding day. The guide will listen for calls, scan exposed branches and stop for both large and small species. Possible observations include martial eagles, tawny eagles, bateleurs, vultures, secretary birds, kori bustards, larks, pipits, weavers and starlings. Lions, elephants, buffaloes and wildebeest may also appear during the same activity.

Distance: Approximately 50–90 km inside the reserve
Driving Time: Birding throughout the day
Birding Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Main Attractions: Eagles, vultures, secretary birds, bustards, larks and mammals
Scenery & Habitat: Open plains, seasonal marshes, grassland and woodland

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 3: Full-Day Maasai Mara River and Woodland Birding

Full-Day Maasai Mara River and Woodland Birding

The second full birding day concentrates on riverine and woodland habitats. Possible observations include kingfishers, bee-eaters, herons, storks, ground hornbills, raptors and smaller passerines. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants and predators may also be encountered. The guide will explain how vegetation, water availability and season influence bird distribution.

Distance: Approximately 50–90 km inside the reserve
Driving Time: Birding throughout the day
Birding Time: Approximately 7–9 hours
Main Attractions: Kingfishers, bee-eaters, herons, storks and river wildlife
Scenery & Habitat: Riverbanks, woodland, drainage lines and open plains

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
Basecamp Maasai Mara
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Basecamp Maasai Mara (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 4: Maasai Mara to Lake Nakuru – Roadside Birding Transfer

Maasai Mara to Lake Nakuru – Roadside Birding Transfer

After breakfast and check-out, you will travel toward Lake Nakuru through farms, towns and Rift Valley landscapes. Roadside birding may provide raptors, storks, swallows, weavers and agricultural species. After lodge check-in, you may enjoy relaxed birding around the property grounds and update your checklist.

Distance: Approximately 230–250 km
Driving Time: Approximately 4½–6 hours
Birding Time: Opportunistic roadside and lodge-ground birding
Main Attractions: Storks, raptors, weavers, sunbirds and garden birds
Scenery & Habitat: Agricultural highlands, escarpments, gardens and woodland

Destination:
MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE
Overnight:
The lake nakuru flamingo lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
The Lake Nakuru flamingo lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 5: Lake Nakuru Birding – Lake Naivasha

Lake Nakuru Birding – Lake Naivasha

Following an early breakfast, you will begin a three-to-four-hour Lake Nakuru birding drive. Possible species include pelicans, cormorants, herons, African fish eagles, storks, flamingos and woodland birds. Rhinos, giraffes and buffaloes may also be observed. After lunch, you will travel to Lake Naivasha, where late-afternoon lodge-ground birding or a short boat activity may be possible.

Distance: Lake Nakuru drive approximately 25–50 km; Nakuru–Naivasha approximately 90–110 km
Driving Time: Transfer approximately 2–2½ hours
Birding Time: Approximately 3–4 hours plus optional Naivasha birding
Main Attractions: Pelicans, fish eagles, flamingos, woodland birds and rhinos
Scenery & Habitat: Woodland, lakeshore, grassland and freshwater shoreline

Destination:
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
Sawela Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)
Sawela Lodge (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 6: Lake Naivasha Birding – Transfer to Amboseli

Lake Naivasha Birding – Transfer to Amboseli

The morning may include a boat safari for African fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, cormorants, herons and hippos. After the activity, you will travel toward Amboseli through agricultural landscapes and open southern Kenya. Roadside observations may include raptors, storks and dry-country species. On arrival, you may enjoy relaxed lodge-ground birding depending on timing.

Distance: Approximately 300–340 km
Driving Time: Approximately 5½–7 hours
Birding Time: Boat activity approximately 1–1½ hours plus roadside observations
Main Attractions: Fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, raptors and hippos
Scenery & Habitat: Freshwater lake, agricultural country, dry plains and acacia woodland

Destination:
LAKE NAIVASHA NATIONAL PARK
Overnight:
kibo safari camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)
kibo safari camp (Luxury 4 star lodge)

Day 7: Amboseli Wetland Birding – Nairobi

Amboseli Wetland Birding – Nairobi

After an early breakfast, you may enjoy a final birding drive when included in the programme. Possible species include egrets, herons, pelicans, spoonbills, lapwings, ostriches, raptors and other wetland or savannah birds. Elephant families and possible Mount Kilimanjaro views may accompany the birding experience. You will then return to Nairobi.

Distance: Amboseli activity approximately 20–40 km; Amboseli–Nairobi approximately 215–240 km
Driving Time: Transfer approximately 4–5 hours
Birding Time: Approximately 2–3 hours when included
Main Attractions: Wetland birds, ostriches, raptors, elephants and possible mountain views
Scenery & Habitat: Seasonal wetlands, open plains, acacia woodland and mountain landscapes

Destination:
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Gamedrive Cost

    No of pax Adult Price Child Price
    1 Pax From $3,100 pp From $2,325 pp
    2 Pax From $2,225 pp From $1,669 pp
    3 Pax From $1,933 pp From $1,450 pp
    4 Pax From $1,788 pp From $1,341 pp
    5 Pax From $1,700 pp From $1,275 pp
    6 Pax From $1,642 pp From $1,231 pp
    7+ Pax From $1,600 pp From $1,200 pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 7 Days Luxury Kenya Birdwatching Safari from Maasai Mara to Amboseli

    1. Is the safari suitable for beginner birdwatchers?

    Yes. Beginners can learn how to use habitat, shape, movement, colour and calls for identification. The guide can help explain common species and birding techniques. Guests should bring curiosity and patience rather than worrying about recognising every species immediately.

    2. Should guests bring their own binoculars?

    Yes. Personal binoculars are strongly recommended because they are used frequently throughout the safari. A comfortable pair with good light performance is more useful than depending on shared equipment. Guests who wear glasses should test binoculars before travelling.

    3. Will the safari also include large mammals?

    Yes. The route passes major wildlife destinations where lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, buffaloes and hippos may be encountered. The main emphasis remains birdwatching, but mammal sightings will not be ignored. The private vehicle makes it easier to balance both interests.

    4. Are flamingos guaranteed at Lake Nakuru?

    No. Flamingo numbers vary according to water level, food availability and movement between Rift Valley lakes. Other waterbirds, woodland species and rhinos remain important attractions. Marketing should not promise a large flamingo concentration.

    5. Can birdwatching receive priority during the Maasai Mara days?

    Yes. The guide can stop for raptors, smaller birds and mixed feeding groups rather than concentrating only on big cats. The private itinerary means you will not need to follow unrelated passengers who may have no interest in birds.

    6. Is the Lake Naivasha boat safari useful for birding?

    Yes. A boat provides a different perspective on fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, cormorants and herons. Weather, wind and water conditions may influence the route. Approved life jackets and local safety instructions must be followed.

    7. Is the safari suitable for bird photography?

    Yes. A telephoto lens is useful for smaller or distant species. Photographers should also bring spare batteries and memory cards. The guide can assist with responsible vehicle positioning but cannot control bird movement or guarantee close photographs.

    8. Can a specialist ornithological guide be arranged?

    Yes, subject to availability and additional cost. A specialist guide may be valuable for experienced birders seeking detailed identification and a larger species list. The request should be made before confirming the safari.

    9. Are migratory birds present throughout the year?

    No. Migratory species are seasonal, while many resident birds can be observed throughout the year. The expected species mix depends on travel dates, rainfall and local conditions. A final checklist cannot be guaranteed.

    10. Can the safari be extended for more birding?

    Yes. Additional nights can be added in Lake Naivasha, Amboseli or the Maasai Mara. Other birding destinations such as Samburu or coastal habitats can also be included. The extension should follow the guest’s target species and total available time.

    REVIEWS FOR 7-Day savannah, lake, freshwater and wetland birding expedition.

    Write a Review

    Knowledgeable and Patient Bird Guide

    5/5

    Our guide identified birds by call and habitat and gave smaller species proper attention. He never abandoned a productive birding area simply because another vehicle reported a lion. This made the safari feel genuinely bird-focused.

    By: François Mercier
    From: Flag FR

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    Outstanding Maasai Mara Raptors

    5/5

    The two full Mara days gave us excellent observations of eagles, vultures and secretary birds. We also compared grassland and river species. The guide explained behaviour rather than only naming birds.

    By: Greta Hoffmann
    From: Flag DE

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    Lake Nakuru Added Wonderful Variety

    5/5

    Pelicans, herons, fish eagles and woodland birds created a productive morning. The rhino sightings were an excellent additional experience. We appreciated that the guide balanced birds and mammals naturally.

    By: Chinedu Eze
    From: Flag NG

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    Lake Naivasha Boat Birding Was Excellent

    5/5

    The boat activity provided close but respectful views of fish eagles, kingfishers and pelicans. Hippos added excitement without distracting from the birding. The freshwater environment was peaceful and highly productive.

    By: Margaret Wilson
    From: Flag CA

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    Amboseli Wetlands Completed the Journey

    5/5

    Amboseli added wetland birds, ostriches and raptors to our list. Elephant families moved through the same landscape, creating remarkable natural-history scenes. Mount Kilimanjaro was partly visible during the morning.

    By: Takashi Mori
    From: Flag JP

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    Birds and Mammals in Excellent Balance

    5/5

    I travelled mainly for birds while my partner preferred large mammals. The private guide balanced both interests without making either of us feel overlooked. This flexibility was one of the strongest feature

    By: Thandi Maseko
    From: Flag ZA

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    Luxury Comfort after Long Birding Days

    5/5

    The lodges provided comfortable rooms and quiet places for reviewing photographs and updating our checklist. Early breakfasts and packed lunches were organised efficiently. The accommodation supported the active birding schedule well.

    By: Miguel Pereira
    From: Flag PT

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    A Wonderful Introduction to Kenyan Birds

    5/5

    I joined as a beginner and learned how habitat and behaviour support identification. The guide was patient when I asked basic questions and encouraged me to keep my own checklist. I finished the safari with much more confidence.

    By: Rehema Massawe
    From: Flag TZ

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    Highly Recommended Luxury Birding Safari

    5/5

    The itinerary was private, varied and genuinely organised around birds. It also included excellent mammals and landscapes. Experienced birders and enthusiastic beginners would both gain value from this route.

    By: Ingrid de Boer
    From: Flag NL

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    Four Excellent Birding Environments

    5/5

    The journey moved from Maasai Mara grasslands to Lake Nakuru woodland, Lake Naivasha freshwater habitats and Amboseli wetlands. Every destination expanded our checklist in a different way. The route felt diverse and carefully planned for birders.

    By: Penelope Grant
    From: Flag GB

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