The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for a First-Time Visitor to Kenya

Discover the magic of Kenya with a perfectly planned 7-day itinerary made for first-time travellers. Explore breathtaking landscapes filled with wildlife, immerse yourself in local culture, and unwind by the warm coastal waters—all packed into one unforgettable week. To make your journey seamless, apply for Kenya eTA online before you travel.

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Begin your Kenyan adventure by arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Depending on your arrival time, settle into your resort and take it easy or dive into the city’s rich wildlife attractions. A visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a must—here you can see orphaned baby elephants being cared for and even adopt one.

Your next stop is the Giraffe Centre, where you can get close to the gentle Rothschild’s giraffes and feed them by hand. If time allows, visit the Nairobi National Museum to explore Kenya’s vibrant heritage. Finish the day with a satisfying and generous dinner.

Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve

Start your day early with a filling breakfast the visit the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve—one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. You can either enjoy a scenic flight or settle in for a picturesque four- to five-hour drive across the Kenyan plains. Upon arrival, check into tented camp or stylish safari lodge, then get ready for your first thrilling game drive that afternoon.

In the heart of the Masai Mara, wildlife thrives—majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and fierce lions call this place home. With a bit of luck, you could see all of the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. Make sure your camera is ready for some truly unforgettable shots!

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Masai Mara

Spend a full day immersed in the beauty of the Masai Mara. Begin with an early morning game drive when animals are most active. If you’re visiting between July and October, this is the best time to witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross from the Serengeti into the Mara. Soar above the savannah at sunrise on a hot air balloon safari, then celebrate your landing with a champagne breakfast amidst stunning wilderness. Spend the afternoon in a Maasai village, where warm hospitality, fascinating traditions, and colourful clothing and jewellery await you.

Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha

Check out and travel to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, famed for its serene waters and incredible birdlife. Take gentle boat safari, drifting past hippos and spotting countless birds in their element. Later, visit Crescent Island where walking safaris bring you face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, and antelope—no predators here, only tranquillity and stunning scenery.

Day 5: Lake Naivasha to Amboseli National Park

This day, visit the Amboseli National Park, located in southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border. Amboseli is famous for its views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and it’s one of the best places in Africa to see large herds of elephants up close. Once you arrive and settle in, head out for an evening game drive and explore the unique landscape, which includes swamps, acacia forests, and open plains. Savanna grassland, acacia forest, rocky thorn bush, swamps, and marshland are the five primary wildlife habitats found in the park, which also includes a portion of a Pleistocene lake basin.

Day 6: Amboseli to Diani Beach

Start the morning with a final game drive in Amboseli, capturing your last glimpses of Mount Kilimanjaro rising over the plains. After breakfast, travel to the Diani Beach located on Kenya’s southern coast. Upon arrival, let the unhurried pace take over—sink into a lounger under whispering palms, stroll along soft white sands, or savour a chilled drink while admiring the Indian Ocean’s sparkling shades of blue.

Day 7: Full Day at Diani Beach

On your last day in Kenya, let the beauty of Diani Beach wash over you. Sink your toes into the fine white sand and take in the turquoise sea after your safari. Dive into optional activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, or dolphin watching, or hop on a boat to Wasini Island and Kisite Marine Park for a unique cultural and marine experience. Relax, treat yourself to a massage, stroll through local markets, and end the day with a romantic sunset dinner by the water.

Final Words:

This 7-day Kenya itinerary is the starting point of adventure; picture exhilarating safaris, a vibrant culture, and tranquil beach getaways. Every day offers something fresh, from parks teeming with wildlife to exciting local events. By the end, you'll have incredible memories and a strong desire to return—perhaps for a 14-Day Adventure Kenya to explore.

FAQs

1. What’s the best time of year to follow this 7-day Kenya itinerary? The ideal time is between July and October and witness the spectacular Great Migration in the Masai Mara. However, Kenya is a year-round destination—each season offers its own charm, from lush landscapes after the rains to warm, sunny days on the coast.

2. Is this itinerary suitable for first-time visitors to Kenya? Yes! This itinerary is crafted especially for first-timers, blending classic safari adventures, cultural highlights, and relaxing beach time. It covers Kenya’s top destinations—Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Amboseli, and Diani Beach—for a well-rounded experience.

3. What types of accommodation should I choose in Kenya? The suggested stops offer a mix of comfortable hotels, luxury safari lodges, tented camps, and beachfront resorts. You can choose from budget-friendly options to high-end stays, depending on your preference and budget.

4. Are there family-friendly or solo traveller options in this itinerary? Definitely! Many lodges and hotels welcome families, and there are plenty of solo traveller-friendly hostels and group tours. Activities like game drives, village visits, and beach excursions are suitable for all ages and travel styles.