Elephants crossing open grassland with Mount Kilimanjaro beyond

Bush and Beach Budget Kenyan Safari: 5 Days

A 5-day safari itinerary focused on Masai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi, Diani Beach, with a structured daily route, package details and practical questions.
Masai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi, Diani Beach
5 days

Indicative price USD 1,100 / per person sharing

Safari overview

This journey connects the open savannahs of the Masai Mara with the white sands of the Diani coastline. It is designed for travellers seeking a balanced pace that moves from the rhythm of wildlife viewing to the steady calm of the Indian Ocean. The trip suits first-time guests and couples who value a simple, well-structured path through kenya’s most iconic landscapes.

The safari begins with a road journey into the Great Rift Valley, leading to the Masai Mara for two nights of wildlife observation. The transition continues as the journey moves back to Nairobi to board the train toward the coast. The final days are spent along the shores of Diani, offering a soft landing and time to unwind.

The flow of this trip ensures a blend of movement and rest. Guests experience the energy of the bush followed by the restorative atmosphere of the beach. The travel style is grounded and practical, focusing on reliable transitions and comfortable mid-range accommodation.

Journey at a glance

Masai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi, Diani Beach
5 days

Indicative price USD 1,100 / per person sharing

Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara

    The journey leaves the capital and travels toward the wide horizons of the Masai Mara. The landscape changes from urban bustle to the open grasslands of the reserve. After settling into the camp, an afternoon drive offers a first look at the resident wildlife as the light softens over the plains.

    • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Mara Chui Resort
  2. Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara

    The day is dedicated to moving through the diverse habitats of the Masai Mara. The search for wildlife continues across the plains, focusing on the natural behavior of predators and plains game. The rhythm is steady, allowing for quiet observation and a deep connection to the wilderness.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Mara Chui Resort
  3. Day 3: Masai Mara to Diani

    The journey moves back toward Nairobi to catch the afternoon train. The rail journey offers a unique perspective of the landscape as it transitions toward the coast. Upon arrival in Mombasa, a transfer leads to the palm-fringed shores of Diani for a change of pace.

    • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Papillon Lagoon
  4. Day 4: Full Day in Diani

    The day is spent entirely at the coast, where the focus shifts to relaxation. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, allowing for walks along the beach or quiet time by the ocean. The coastal environment provides a restorative contrast to the earlier days of safari.

    • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Papillon Lagoon
  5. Day 5: Diani to Nairobi

    The morning offers a final chance to enjoy the coastal breeze before transferring to the station. The train journey returns to Nairobi, marking the conclusion of the bush and beach circuit. The trip ends with a transfer to the airport or your Nairobi hotel.

    • Meals: Breakfast
    • Accommodation: None (End of safari)

What is included

  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary
  • Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • SGR train tickets
  • SGR Transfers
  • Game drives
  • Driver guide
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Tea, coffee & filtered water
  • Park Entry Fees

What is not included

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Gratuities to staff & guides
  • Late departure fees
  • International Flights (available upon request)
  • Travel and medical insurance

Safari questions

Most lodges cater for dietary requirements with advance notice provided at the time of booking.

Children are welcome on this itinerary, though suitability depends on the family’s travel style and lodge policies.

A private 4×4 Land Cruiser is provided for all wildlife viewing in the Masai Mara.

Continue planning this safari