5 day itinerary for Kenya

Itinerary

Kenya is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here’s a relaxed 5-day itinerary that balances adventure with downtime, perfect for a family getaway. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Morning:

• Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. After clearing customs, take a leisurely drive to your hotel in Nairobi. I recommend staying at a family-friendly hotel like the Sarova Panafric or the Nairobi Safari Club, which have great amenities for kids.

Afternoon:

• After settling in, head to the Giraffe Centre. It’s a delightful place where you can feed and learn about the endangered Rothschild giraffes. The kids will love getting up close and personal with these gentle giants!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The Carnivore Restaurant, famous for its variety of meats and a fun dining experience. They have a great selection for kids too, including chicken and vegetarian options.

## Day 2: Nairobi National Park & David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to Nairobi National Park. It’s just a short drive from the city and offers a unique chance to see wildlife against the backdrop of the city skyline. Look out for lions, giraffes, and rhinos! A guided tour can make it even more engaging for the kids.

Afternoon:

• After your safari, head to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. This elephant orphanage is a must-visit! You can learn about elephant conservation and even adopt an elephant if you’re feeling generous. The baby elephants are adorable and will surely capture your hearts!

Evening:

• Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. You might want to enjoy a family movie night or a swim in the hotel pool.

## Day 3: Lake Naivasha & Hell's Gate National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Lake Naivasha (about 1.5 hours from Nairobi). Once you arrive, take a boat ride on the lake. Keep an eye out for hippos and a variety of bird species!

Afternoon:

• After the boat ride, head to Hell's Gate National Park. It’s a fantastic place for a family-friendly hike or bike ride. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, and you can even spot wildlife like zebras and giraffes. There are also geothermal hot springs nearby if you want to take a dip!

Evening:

• Enjoy a picnic dinner by the lake or dine at a local restaurant in Naivasha. The Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort has a lovely family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 4: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive or a short flight to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. If you choose to fly, it’s a quick 45-minute flight, which can be exciting for the kids!

Afternoon:

• Check into a family-friendly lodge or tented camp, such as Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp. After lunch, head out for your first game drive in the Mara. The kids will be thrilled to see the “Big Five” in their natural habitat!

Evening:

• Return to your lodge for dinner. Many lodges offer evening entertainment, such as traditional Maasai dance performances, which can be a fun experience for the whole family.

## Day 5: Maasai Mara & Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy an early morning game drive to catch the wildlife at its most active. This is a great time for photography and spotting animals.

Afternoon:

• After your morning adventure, return to the lodge for brunch. Spend some time relaxing by the pool or exploring the lodge’s grounds. If you have time, consider visiting a nearby Maasai village to learn about their culture and traditions.

Evening:

• Depending on your flight schedule, you can either take a flight back to Nairobi or drive back. If you have time, you might squeeze in a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum or the Bomas of Kenya for a cultural experience before heading to the airport.

Tips for a Relaxed Pace:

• Make sure to schedule plenty of downtime between activities.
• Keep snacks and water handy for the kids during outings.
• Be flexible with your plans; sometimes the best memories come from spontaneous moments!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful family memories in Kenya! If you have any specific interests or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌍✈️🦒