5-Day Kenya Birding & Wildlife Safari: 2025 Birdwatching Top Pick

East Africa’s diverse wildlife and vibrant birdlife on this exclusive 5-Day Kenya Birding & Wildlife Safari. Visit iconic destinations like the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha and enjoy exceptional birdwatching experiences, perfect for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike

Experience the magic of East African wildlife and birdlife on this exclusive 5-Day Kenya Birding & Wildlife Safari with Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations. Masai Mara, renowned for its ‘Big Five’ and over 400 bird species. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of flamingos at Lake Nakuru and explore the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha.

This expertly crafted itinerary caters to both avid birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to spot a diverse array of species, from majestic lions and elephants to elusive hamerkops and vibrant sandgrouse. Enjoy comfortable lodging and expert guidance as you delve into Kenya’s diverse ecosystems, from the vast savannahs to the dramatic escarpments.

Create unforgettable memories, capture stunning photos, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, and discover the wonders of Kenya with Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations. Book your affordable and unforgettable adventure today!

Day 1: Nairobi-Masai Mara National Reserve

Your journey begins with a morning departure from Nairobi at 8:00 am. Enjoy a scenic drive with a stopover at the breathtaking Great Rift Valley viewpoint, where you can take photos of this natural wonder. Continue to Narok Town for a brief break before heading to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve.

Upon arrival at your lodge, relax and enjoy lunch before setting off on an exciting afternoon game drive. Known for its spectacular Great Migration, the Masai Mara is home to the Big Five [lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino]. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in spotting species like the hamerkop, guinea fowl, and sandgrouse among the park’s rich birdlife.

  • Accommodation: Amani Mara Camp: A tented camp outside the Masai Mara
  • Meals Plan: Full board
  • Highlights for Day 1:
  • Stunning views of the Great Rift Valley.
  • Afternoon game drive in Masai Mara.
  • Introduction to bird species unique to the Savannah.

Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara

Wake up early for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a full-day exploration of the Masai Mara. With over 400 recorded bird species and an impressive diversity of mammals, this is one of Kenya’s top birding and wildlife destinations. Traverse the vast plains in search of herbivores like zebras and gazelles, while keeping an eye out for cheetahs, leopards, and lions.

For birding, the Mara offers exceptional opportunities to spot bustards, pelicans, cuckoos, and more. Midday brings a special stop at the Mara River, where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch while observing hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife near the riverbanks. Return to your lodge in the evening, filled with memories of an action-packed day.

  • Accommodation: Amani Mara Camp: A tented camp outside the Masai Mara
  • Meals Plan: Full board
  • Highlights for Day 2:
  • Full-day game drive with wildlife and birding opportunities.
  • Scenic picnic lunch at the Mara River.
  • Spot iconic African birds like flamingos and raptors.

Day 3: Masai Mara-Lake Nakuru National Park

Begin the day with a pre-breakfast game drive, a chance to witness predators like lions or leopards in action. After a hearty breakfast back at the lodge, you have the option to visit a Maasai cultural village (at an additional cost) to learn about the vibrant traditions of the local community.

Later, journey to Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned as a UNESCO bird sanctuary and home to over 400 bird species. In the afternoon, explore the park’s wooded grasslands and the picturesque Lake Nakuru, where you’ll marvel at flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. The park is also home to black and white rhinos, giraffes, and antelopes, making it a perfect blend of birding and wildlife.

  • Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge
  • Meals Plan: Full board
  • Highlights for Day 3:
  • Morning game drive in Masai Mara.
  • Afternoon birdwatching at Lake Nakuru.
  • Opportunities to spot flamingos and rhinos.
5-Day Kenya Birding & Wildlife Safari_Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations
Lake Nakuru Flamingos: 8-Day Budget Birdwatching Photography Tour Itinerary_Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations
8-Day Budget Birdwatching Photography Tour Itinerary_Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations

Day 4: Lake Nakuru-Lake Naivasha

Start your day with an early breakfast before returning to Lake Nakuru National Park for an in-depth exploration of its birdlife. Watch as flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds feed along the shores of the lake. For birders, this is a chance to learn more about the habits and habitats of Kenya’s stunning bird species.

In the afternoon, drive to Lake Naivasha, known for its serene beauty and rich birdlife. Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the area or opt for a boat ride along the lake to see hippos and fish eagles up close.

  • Accommodation: Enashipai Resort & Spa
  • Meals Plan: Full board
  • Highlights for Day 4:
  • Extended birdwatching at Lake Nakuru.
  • Arrive at Lake Naivasha for a tranquil evening.
  • Optional boat ride to observe aquatic birds.

Day 5: Lake Naivasha-Hell’s Gate National Park-Nairobi

After an early breakfast, set out for Hell’s Gate National Park, a unique destination that allows you to explore on foot or by bike. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs, gorges, and geothermal activity as you spot various bird species, including raptors and kingfishers. You can also visit the Ol Karia Geothermal Power Plant and nearby hot springs for a fascinating insight into sustainable energy production.

Optionally, take a boat ride at Crescent Island, a peaceful haven where hippos, giraffes, and bird species like cormorants and herons can be observed. Afterwards, depart for Nairobi, arriving in the evening to mark the end of this unforgettable Kenya birding safari with Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations.

  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch included
  • Highlights for Day 5:
  • Walking or cycling safari at Hell’s Gate.
  • Optional boat ride at Crescent Island.
  • Transfer back to Nairobi for drop-off.

Why Choose Mtembezi African Safaris for Your Birding Adventure?

  • Expert-guided safaris tailored for bird enthusiasts.
  • Visits to the best birding destinations in Kenya, including Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha.
  • A perfect blend of birdwatching and wildlife experiences.
  • Affordable and beginner-friendly Kenya birding tours.
  • Opportunities to spot a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitats.

Discover Kenya’s avian wonders and create lasting memories with Mtembezi African Safaris & Vacations.