5-Day Big 5 & Rhino Sanctuary Expedition
Overview of 5-Day Big 5 & Rhino Sanctuary Expedition
5-Day Big 5 & Rhino Sanctuary Expedition safari focuses on Kenya’s most important conservation areas and predator-rich ecosystems. Combining the wildlife diversity of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy on the Laikipia Plateau with the iconic plains of the Masai Mara, this itinerary offers exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five, endangered rhinos, and Africa’s top predators while supporting conservation driven tourism.
Highlights of this Tour
Itinerary and Where to Stay
Day 1: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive north through central Kenya, crossing the equator en route to the Laikipia Plateau. Arrive at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in time for lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive. This conservancy is renowned for its strong conservation efforts and exceptional wildlife density. During the game drive, you will encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, and rhinos. A visit to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary (optional, subject to time) offers insight into ongoing wildlife protection initiatives.
Meals Day 1: Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Where you sleep
Sweetwaters Serena Tented Camp
LuxuryDay 2: Ol Pejeta to Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, depart Ol Pejeta and travel south towards the Great Rift Valley, descending to the floor of the valley en route to Lake Nakuru National Park. Arrive around midday for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. Lake Nakuru is famous for its rhino sanctuary, Rothschild giraffes, and excellent chances of spotting leopards among the acacia woodlands. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Meals Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park
Where you sleep
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Mid-RangeDay 3: Nakuru to Masai Mara
Enjoy breakfast before departing Lake Nakuru for the Masai Mara National Reserve. The journey passes through scenic countryside and rural villages before opening into expansive savannah plains. Arrive in the Mara in time for lunch at your camp or lodge. In the late afternoon, enjoy an evening game drive, your first introduction to the Mara’s incredible wildlife. Expect sightings of elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and possibly large predators as the day cools.
Meals Day 3: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve
Where you sleep
Mara Maisha Camp
Mid-RangeDay 4: Full Day Mara safari and animal tracking
Spend the entire day exploring the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s richest wildlife ecosystems. After breakfast, set out for a full day of game viewing, tracking the Big Five across the vast plains. Your experienced guide will follow wildlife movements to maximize sightings of lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. Enjoy lunch at the camp or as a picnic in the bush, followed by further exploration in the afternoon before returning to camp at sunset.
Meals Day 4: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve
Where you sleep
Mara Maisha Camp
Mid-RangeDay 5: Return to Capital
After a leisurely breakfast, check out and begin the return journey to Nairobi. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley, arriving in the afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, marking the end of your safari.
Meals Day 5: Breakfast
Destination: Masai Mara National Reserve
What's Included
- Accommodation on full board basis
- Private safari in a 4x4 Land Cruiser
- Services of a professional
- English-speaking safari guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- All government taxes and levies
What's Not Included
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal travel insurance
- Premium spirits and luxury beverages
- Optional activities not specified
Places You will Visit
Book This Package
Quick Info
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starts: Nairobi
- Ends: Nairobi
This conservation focused safari offers a rare opportunity to explore two of Kenya’s most important wildlife regions in a single journey. Beginning on the Laikipia Plateau, guests experience Ol Pejeta Conservancy ,home to the last remaining Northern White Rhinos. Ol Pejeta provides an intimate and educational safari experience that goes beyond traditional game viewing.
The journey then transitions to the legendary Masai Mara, where vast open plains support one of Africa’s highest concentrations of predators. By combining conservation, education, and classic safari adventure, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking meaningful wildlife experiences without compromising comfort. This safari also offers Guided by experienced professionals and supported by responsible tourism practices, Sun Summit and Safaris delivers an unforgettable expedition that celebrates Kenya’s wildlife heritage.