9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari

9 Days

Experience the perfect blend of adventure and wildlife on this unforgettable 9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari across the heart of Kenya. This carefully crafted journey begins with an exhilarating 4-day trek on the majestic Mount Kenya, where breathtaking alpine scenery, diverse ecosystems, and rewarding summit views create a truly immersive mountain experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

After conquering the heights, your safari adventure unfolds in the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned for its rich wildlife and sweeping savannahs. Here, you’ll enjoy thrilling game drives in search of the Big Five, engage in a cultural visit to an authentic Maasai village, and have the opportunity to elevate your experience with an optional hot air balloon safari over the golden plains at sunrise.

The journey continues to Lake Nakuru National Park, a bird lover’s paradise famous for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary, offering scenic game drives set against a backdrop of shimmering waters. You’ll then explore the dramatic landscapes of Hell's Gate National Park on an exciting bike riding safari, bringing you closer to nature in a uniquely active way. Finally, unwind with a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Naivasha, where hippos and abundant birdlife complete your East African adventure.

This well-balanced itinerary seamlessly combines mountain trekking, wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and scenic relaxation—making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both adrenaline and authentic safari experiences in one remarkable journey. As you conclude this 9-day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari, you'll have nailed Kenya's top highlights – Mount Kenya's peaks, Mara's Big Five, Nakuru's pink birds, and lakeside vibes.

Cost per person:

Starting from: $2965 (Budget Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$3785$2965$2765$2665$2565$2465
May-August$3985$3165$2965$2865$2765$2665
Sept-Dec$3885$3065$2865$2765$2665$2565

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
  • Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Why This Tour?

9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari

Get ready for Kenya's ultimate adventure combo – high-altitude trekking and wildlife safari! Our 9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari kicks off with a 4-day Mount Kenya hike via scenic routes. Then head to Masai Mara for village visits, game drives spotting the Big Five (optional hot air balloon), and more. Hit Lake Nakuru's flamingos, bike Hell's Gate's wild trails, and cruise Lake Naivasha. Experience Kenya's peaks, wildlife, and lakes in this epic tour!

Kenya Tours

You will visit Mount Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, Hell's Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha National Park.

Your 9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari adventure begins with your arrival in the vibrant landscapes of Kenya, where you are warmly welcomed and transferred to the foothills of the magnificent Mount Kenya. As the journey unfolds, the next four days are dedicated to an immersive trekking experience on this iconic mountain.

You ascend steadily through lush montane forests alive with birds and colobus monkeys, into bamboo zones and moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and senecios. Each day reveals a new ecological zone, with breathtaking scenery and crisp mountain air accompanying your hike. Evenings are spent at scenic camps, where the silence of the wilderness and star-lit skies create a magical atmosphere. The trek offers both challenge and reward, culminating in spectacular views of rugged peaks and glaciers that leave a lasting impression.

Descending from the mountain, the adventure transitions seamlessly into a classic safari experience as you journey դեպի the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The change in landscape is dramatic—from alpine heights to endless golden savannahs teeming with wildlife. Here, you embark on thrilling game drives across the vast plains, tracking lions, elephants, buffaloes, and other iconic species in their natural habitat.

A cultural highlight awaits with a visit to a traditional Maasai village, where you gain insight into the rich heritage, customs, and daily life of the Maasai people. For those seeking an extraordinary perspective, an optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise offers a breathtaking aerial view of the Mara’s wildlife and landscapes, followed by a memorable bush breakfast.

The journey continues towards the scenic Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park, a compact yet diverse park known for its shimmering alkaline lake and vibrant birdlife. During your game drive, you encounter flocks of flamingos painting the shoreline pink, along with white and black rhinos, giraffes, and elusive leopards within acacia woodlands.

From here, you proceed to the dramatic terrain of Hell's Gate National Park, one of the few parks in Africa where you can explore on two wheels. Cycling through towering cliffs, volcanic gorges, and geothermal features, you ride alongside zebras, gazelles, and giraffes in a truly exhilarating and intimate wildlife encounter.

Your 9-Day Budget Mt Kenya Trekking And Thrilling Safari adventure concludes at the serene shores of Lake Naivasha, where a relaxing boat cruise provides a peaceful finale to your journey. Glide across calm waters as hippos surface nearby and a variety of bird species fill the air with life and color. This final experience offers a perfect moment to unwind and reflect on the incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences encountered throughout the safari.

This thoughtfully designed itinerary flows effortlessly from high-altitude trekking to thrilling wildlife safaris and tranquil lakeside moments, delivering a rich, well-rounded exploration of Kenya’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Mountain Climbing
  • Balloon Safari
  • Maasai Cultural Interaction
  • Wildebeest Migration
  • Guided Game Drives
  • Boat Cruise
  • Birding
  • Biking

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrive In Kenya | Travel To Nanyuki (Old Moses)

    On arrival in Kenya, you will be welcomed and picked up by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and be transferred to Nanyuki.

    We arrive at Sirimon gate and be transferred to your lodge where you will check in and rest.

    Meals and overnight at Judmaier Campsite.

  • Day
    02

    Hike To Shipton's Camp

    After breakfast, you will hike to Shipton’s Camp (4,200m) through Liki and Makinders Valley for an overnight stay (a hike of 6 to 8 hours).

    Here, mountain climbers can sleep in bunkers within the mountain hut. Visitors can enjoy mountain climbing, camping and caving with the mountain's rugged glacier-clad peaks providing the perfect backdrop.

    Meals and overnight Shipton Campsite.

  • Day
    03

    Hike To Point Lenana | Hike To Judmaier Camp (Old Moses Camp)

    At 3 am, you will hike up a steep, stony quarry that cuts through a cliff, clearing visible parts toward Lower Hall Tarns. We arrive at Point Lenana at 6:30 am after about 3 hours.

    After the sunrise, descend down to Shipton's Camp (2 hours) for breakfast. Continue down to Old Moses Camp (4 hours).

    Meals and overnight at Judmaier Campsite.

  • Day
    04

    Hike To Sirimon | Transfer To Nairobi

    After breakfast, we walk down through the rainforest with over 80 species of mammals including 39 lions, 90 rhinos, 450 bird species, 40 different amphibians and reptiles, and 500 tree species can be seen. After 2 hours, connect with your transport vehicle back to Nairobi.

    Meals and overnight at Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands Hotel/ Sislink Hotel/ Red Buffalo House Hotel.

  • Day
    05

    Transfer To Masai Mara National Reserve | Maasai Cultural Interaction | Evening Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Masai Mara National Reserve.

    You will pass through the floor of the rift valley.

    On arrival, you will visit the local Maasai village for a Maasai cultural tour. Learn about the Maasai community and interact with the local Maasai people.

    Hexagon Thrilling Kenya Safari

    An overnight stay at the Maasai village can be organized upon request.

    You will have an evening game drive afterwards.

    Going on an evening game drive is one of the highlights of any safari. This is when temperatures cool, the light becomes softer and the wildlife begins to get active. Not only will you be out when the light is best for taking photos, but it's also one of the best times of day for seeing the animals.

    There's a very good chance you'll also see giraffes, buffaloes, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, hyenas, and, of course, impalas. And bring your binoculars, because more than 500 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve. It's a place of beautiful savannah
    landscapes as well, with lots of acacia trees.

    Meals and overnight at Tayari Luxury Tented Camp/ Rhino Tourist Camp/ Dusty Roads.

  • Day
    06

    Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari At 485 USD Per Person | Full-Day Game Drive

    After breakfast, in case you would like to go for a balloon safari, you can have it in the morning before heading out for a full day game drive with packed lunches in search of the park's well-known predators and their opponents, like zebras, wildebeests, giraffes,
    lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalos and other animal species.

    14 Day East Africa Budget Safari

    Optional Activity at a Fee: A balloon safari at USD 485 per person can be organized early in the in the morning on this day, then proceed with the normal program.

    It is in the Masai Mara National Reserve that perhaps the most spectacular event of the natural world takes place. This is the annual migration of millions of wildebeest and zebra from the Serengeti (Tanzania) in search of water and pasture.

    Meals and overnight at Tayari Luxury Tented Camp/ Rhino Tourist Camp/ Dusty Roads.

  • Day
    07

    Transfer To Lake Nakuru National Park | Evening Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lake Nakuru National Park.

    Upon arrival you will have an evening game drive. Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s renowned soda lakes and is world-famous for attracting millions of flamingos to its alkaline shores.

    The Best 8 Rift Valley Lakes In Kenya, Budget Safaris in Lake Nakuru

    Witnessing these legions of fuchsia-pink flamingos feed on the abundant algae that grows in the warm and shallow waters is a sight to behold.

    It's not surprising that some of the aerial scenes from Out of Africa were shot here in Lake Nakuru National Park, with its fabulous views of the escarpment, lake and acacia forest.

    Meals and overnight at Punda Milias Nakuru Camp/ Kivu Resort Nakuru/ WCK Guest House Nakuru.

  • Day
    08

    Travel To Hell's Gate National Park | Bike Riding Safari | Travel To Naivasha | Boat Cruise

    After breakfast, you will to Hell’s Gate National Park to enjoy a bike riding safari which will take about 2 hours.

    There are over 100 species of birds in the park, including vultures, Verreaux's eagles, augur buzzards and swifts. African buffalo, zebra, eland, hartebeest, Thomson's gazelle and baboons are also common. The park is also home to klipspringer antelope and Chanler's mountain reedbuck.

    The park also has attractions like Olkaria and Hobley, 2 extinct volcanoes and the obsidian forms from the cool molten lava. Within Hell's Gate is the Hell's Gate Gorge, lined with red cliffs which contain 2 volcanic plugs.

    After the bike riding, you will be transferred to Lake Naivasha. On arrival, you will head out for an evening boat ride. Naivasha is a gateway to a variety of wildlife.

    7-Day Kenya Magnificent Budget Tour

    Taking a boat excursion with your family will give you spectacular views of flamingoes, hippos, and fish eagles.

    Meals and overnight at Burch Resort/ Dreamsworld Guest House/ Crayfish Camp Naivasha.

  • Day
    09

    The Last Day With Us | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be driven to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

Inclusions

  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

Please see below for more information on the safari lodges in Masai Mara National Reserve.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Transfer from and to the airport is included. Kubwa Five Safaris will pick you up from airport. 

Kubwa Five Safaris will cater for your Airport/Hotel transfers i.e pick-ups and drop-offs provided they are to happen within your safari days with us.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, Maasai Cultural Interaction, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. What should I pack for this 9-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, this safari is suitable for families with children.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable budget lodges and campsites. They offer private rooms or tents with en-suite or shared bathroom facilities, depending on the location.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

Although most of the safari involves vehicle-based game drives and scenic travel, mountain hiking is physically demanding hence requiring moderate to good fitness.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

The safari operates in small groups of 2 to 6 travelers to ensure a personalized and immersive experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

11. Why You Should Visit Kenya

  • Kenya

Kenya safari tours and holidays offer some of the finest scenery and one of Africa’s greatest wildlife and bird watching destinations.

Kenya is the historical home of the East African safari. The country’s vast savannah grasslands are teeming with charismatic mega-fauna like Big Cats and the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino).

Other than that, the landscapes here are truly breathtaking, ranging from deserts in the north to dense forests in the west to the Rift Valley lakes in the center to a tropical coast in the east.

As a result, there is a well-established safari industry in the region, ready to show you one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of exotic wildlife.

12. Frequently Asked Question about Kenya

  1. When is the best time of year to visit Kenya?

The months of June through October are perfect for visiting Kenya. Trails are more accessible and the weather is more reliable during this time. This is also in sync with the annual Maasai Mara wildebeest and zebra migration. Animals are congregating in large numbers around the remaining water sources as the dry season continues.

Unfortunately, high-season prices are in effect all year long, with the exception of June It’s also more crowded,. The crowds are also larger – in some parks, the queue of safari vehicles can take away something from your experience, and some areas of the Maasai Mara can be completely overwhelmed with vehicles during the migration. 

However, many travelers prefer the months of November through February because that is when the majority of migratory birds arrive, travel is rarely interrupted by rain, and the country is transformed into a lovely shade of green. Heavy rains are possible during this time of year, turning safari trails into muddy bogs, so most tourists avoid it. During these months, costs are reduced.

2. How are the wildlife viewing opportunities in Kenya?

Kenya’s parks offer a wide range of experiences for wildlife viewers. Many of the most visited National Parks in Kenya, including Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Samburu, and Lake Nakuru, offer excellent chances to see exotic and endangered species on safari. All of these parks have dense animal populations, making them excellent all-around safari destinations where you can see a wide variety of animals in a short amount of time.

The Big Five are commonly seen on safaris. One of the best places in Africa to see big cats is the Maasai Mara, and white rhinos are common at Kenya’s Lake Nakuru National Park. Thousands upon thousands of flamingos flock to the shallow waters of the Rift Valley lakes, particularly Lake Bogoria, each year in search of food.

3. Is Kenya safe for tourists?

A trip to Kenya for a safari is in most cases risk-free, but there are a few things travelers should keep in mind. There is a widespread perception that Nairobi and other major cities in Kenya are plagued by high rates of violent crime.

Kubwa Five Safaris has a good reputation when it comes to safety, and if you pay attention to the safety briefings and do as your guides instruct, you should have no problems.