Nairobi in 5 Days for Couples - Amboseli — iconic Kilimanjaro backdrop & elephant herds
In Collaboration with Easy Tour Safari. Updated on February 1, 2026.
A 5-day guided lodge safari from Nairobi to Amboseli, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara with lodge stays, game drives and romantic sundowner moments — optimized for couples seeking intimate wildlife encounters and memorable golden-hour views.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Easy Tour Safari, inspired by the tour 5-Day Amboseli, Nakuru, Mara Kenya Lodge Safari Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Amboseli — iconic Kilimanjaro backdrop & elephant herds
- Lake Nakuru — flamingos, rhinos and dramatic Baboon Cliff views
- Masai Mara — Big Five game drives and private sundowner moments
- Luxury lodge stays (Serena lodges & Sopa Lodge)
- Carefully timed golden-hour game drives for photography and romance
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup in Nairobi and transfer to Amboseli. Afternoon game drive with Kilimanjaro views, dinner and overnight at Amboseli lodge.
Meet & pickup — Kencom (Nairobi)
Meet your driver/guide outside Kencom House (central Nairobi). Quick introduction, luggage stow, and departure to Amboseli.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a front-row seat in the safari vehicle if you prefer unobstructed views — great for couple photos.
- Carry your passport and a light warm layer — early mornings in August are cool around Nairobi.
- Keep charging cables accessible; your guide can suggest the best time/spot for a short photo stop en route.
Scenic transfer: Nairobi → Amboseli National Park
Drive south-east to Amboseli National Park with an en-route lunch stop. Expect scenic plains and occasional roadside photo opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- The drive is long (~6 hours). Bring a small daypack with snacks, sunscreen and a travel blanket for comfort.
- Ask your driver to stop at a scenic spot for a private photo with Kilimanjaro in the distance if visibility is good.
- August is dry season (excellent visibility) — windows generally down for photos, but mornings can be chilly so layer up.
Lodge check-in and lunch — Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Arrive, check in and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the lodge before a short rest ahead of the afternoon game drive.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with a view facing the Kilimanjaro plain for an unforgettable sunrise view.
- Ask the lodge to prepare a quiet table for two during lunch — a lovely way to begin your romantic safari.
- Keep binoculars and camera ready on the lunch terrace; wildlife sightings often begin close to the lodge.
Afternoon game drive in Amboseli (golden hour)
2-hour guided game drive timed for late afternoon light — excellent for photographing elephants and the Kilimanjaro silhouette.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the side of the vehicle facing Mount Kilimanjaro for dramatic sunset photos together.
- Bring a light jacket — temperatures drop in the golden hour, and a shared blanket makes for a cozy moment.
- Ask your guide for a quiet spot to enjoy a short private moment while the sun sets (safely off-road, where permitted).
Dinner & overnight — Amboseli Serena
Return to the lodge for dinner. Relax under the lodge's hotel stars and enjoy an intimate meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quiet table on the terrace for an intimate dinner under the stars.
- Ask the chef for a lighter or romantic set menu if you prefer a private dining vibe.
- Confirm wake-up time for the next morning's early game drive before you turn in.
Day 2
Morning Amboseli wildlife viewing; after breakfast transfer to Lake Nakuru with afternoon arrival, flamingo viewpoint and lodge overnight.
Early morning Amboseli game drive (sunrise)
Witness wildlife activity at first light — a serene and intimate viewing of elephants, giraffes and plains game.
Tips from local experts:
- Sunrise is often the most active time for animals — bring a thermos and a scarf to stay warm together.
- Use a 200mm+ lens if possible for portrait shots of animals and couple photos with the landscape.
- If you want an early private moment, let the guide know — they can pause briefly at safe, scenic spots.
Breakfast & pack at lodge
Return to lodge for breakfast, freshen up and check out for the drive to Lake Nakuru.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a breakfast table overlooking the plains for a slow, romantic start.
- Confirm luggage handling with reception so transfer is smooth — this frees you to relax before departure.
- Carry motion-sickness tablets if either of you is sensitive — the road can be bumpy in places.
Transfer: Amboseli → Lake Nakuru (lunch en route)
Drive north-west towards Lake Nakuru with a scenic lunch stop; arrive mid-late afternoon and check in.
Tips from local experts:
- The route offers changing landscapes — ask to stop for landscape photos or short stretches to stretch and reconnect.
- Carry a small snack and water in your daypack to stay comfortable between stops.
- August's dry air means dust — keep a lightweight scarf handy to share if it gets breezy.
Check-in & Baboon Cliff flamingo viewpoint (late afternoon)
Check into Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, then head to Baboon Cliff viewpoint for spectacular flamingo and lake views at sunset.
Tips from local experts:
- Aim to arrive at Baboon Cliff for golden-hour — the light is magical for couples' photos with the flamingo flocks.
- Bring binoculars and a picnic blanket for a cozy moment while you watch the birds (confirm with guide where permitted).
- Baboon Cliff can be breezy in August — pack a windproof layer and protect cameras from spray and dust.
Dinner & overnight — Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Buffet dinner at the lodge. Enjoy a relaxed evening and stargazing if skies are clear.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quiet corner table for a private dinner experience.
- Try local specialties — ask the chef to recommend dishes that travel well and feel special.
- Confirm an early wake-up call with reception if you want to catch the next morning's road to Masai Mara at a relaxed time.
Day 3
Depart Lake Nakuru for Masai Mara. Arrive, check in, enjoy an introductory afternoon game drive and evening cultural performance.
Breakfast & check-out — Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Leisurely breakfast, final wildlife viewing from the lodge, then depart for Masai Mara.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the lodge to prepare a packed lunch if you prefer a picnic in the Mara.
- Check binoculars and camera batteries before departure; charging opportunities are limited during long transfers.
- Share a quiet breakfast moment on the terrace to savor the last of the lake views together.
Transfer: Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara National Reserve
Drive southwest to Masai Mara; the landscape opens into classic Mara savanna as you approach the reserve.
Tips from local experts:
- The drive crosses varied countryside — the changing scenery makes for intimate conversation and photography stops.
- Plan for restroom stops in Narok; keep small change for local refreshments.
- August traffic near towns can be busy — allow extra time so your afternoon schedule remains relaxed.
Check-in & lunch — Mara Serena Safari Lodge
Arrive at the Mara lodge, check into your room and enjoy a leisurely lunch before your first Mara drive.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with a private verandah for early-morning coffee and wildlife-watching together.
- Book a private table for dinner if you want a more intimate dining experience.
- Take a short rest after arrival — the Mara afternoons are best enjoyed refreshed for game drives.
Introductory afternoon game drive — Masai Mara (2 hours)
First guided game drive in the Mara to acclimatize and maximize late-afternoon sightings.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the side of the vehicle facing the open plains for sweeping couple shots.
- Have your guide position the vehicle for sunset light for silhouette photos of acacia trees.
- Carry a light wrap; evenings in the Mara can be cool even after warm afternoons in August.
Evening Maasai Moran dance at the lodge (local cultural show)
Enjoy traditional Maasai performances at the lodge — a rhythmic, intimate cultural experience over dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask to sit close to the performers for a more immersive experience and better photos.
- Bring a small gift if you’d like to show appreciation (ask your guide which items are appropriate).
- If you prefer a quieter evening, request a private performance or an early seating before the main show.
Day 4
Full day in Masai Mara — optional early balloon, morning and afternoon game drives, sundowner and optional Maasai village visit.
Optional: Pre-dawn hot-air balloon (meet at lodge)
Optional romantic balloon flight over the Mara at sunrise (extra cost). Meet at the lodge before dawn if booked.
Tips from local experts:
- If you book the balloon, request a private photo moment after landing — operators often stage a bubbly toast.
- Bring a warm layer — the balloon flight is chilly before sunrise even in August.
- Confirm general luggage rules with the lodge — only small bags allowed in the balloon chase vehicle.
Morning game drive — Masai Mara (4 hours)
Extended morning game drive to seek predators and early wildlife activity. Ideal time for intimate wildlife encounters.
Tips from local experts:
- Request the guide plan the route to maximize quiet, private sightings — a more intimate experience for couples.
- Bring long lenses for candid wildlife portraits and a small notebook to capture memories from the day.
- Stop for a mid-drive coffee break in a scenic spot for a shared, private moment.
Leisure lunch at the lodge (or picnic option)
Return to the lodge for lunch or enjoy a picnic lunch in the park if you prefer a full-day bush experience.
Tips from local experts:
- For a romantic picnic, request a secluded grassy spot arranged by your guide — perfect for a couple's meal.
- If returning to the lodge, ask for a late-lunch table on the verandah for quiet time together.
- Confirm dietary needs in advance; lodges are usually flexible and can prepare a special romantic menu.
Optional Maasai village visit (light cultural visit)
Short visit to a nearby Maasai community (optional, extra cost) to learn about traditional life and crafts.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a respectful, community-run visit that shares income with residents — ask your guide which is ethical.
- Bring small gifts like soap or stationery if you wish to give something — ask beforehand what’s appropriate.
- Keep visits short and quiet to preserve authenticity and ensure your visit feels intimate rather than touristy.
Sundowner — private viewpoint in the Mara
A classic romantic sundowner in the bush with drinks and snacks as the sun sets over the plains.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide to arrange a slightly elevated spot for unobstructed views and a private atmosphere.
- Bring a small torch and a warm wrap to share after sunset — nights cool quickly even in August.
- Request non-alcoholic options if preferred; many lodges can serve a personalized sundowner setup.
Dinner & overnight — Mara lodge
Enjoy dinner back at your lodge with optional private dining arrangements upon request.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a private dining experience in advance for a special anniversary or romantic celebration.
- Ask the lodge for a table with a view or a candlelit option to enhance the evening.
- Confirm wake-up arrangements for the next morning's early transfer; staff can help with gentle wake calls.
Day 5
Early morning drive, final game drive, return to Nairobi with lunch en route and drop-off at hotel or Jomo Kenyatta Airport.
Early morning game drive — final wildlife watching
Last pre-breakfast game drive to catch wildlife activity in the cool morning air.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this quiet drive for intimate wildlife photography — try silhouette shots of you both with acacia trees.
- Carry a small warm drink in a thermos to share during the drive for a cozy moment.
- Ask your guide to pause briefly at a scenic spot for a last couple portrait in the Mara.
Breakfast, check-out and depart — Mara lodge
Breakfast at the lodge, final packing and check-out for the road back to Nairobi.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your preferred drop-off point in Nairobi (airport or hotel) with the guide the night before.
- Collect a small keepsake from the lodge shop — many have local crafts perfect for remembering the trip.
- Ask the lodge to prepare a light packed lunch if you prefer to eat on the way back together privately.
Transfer: Masai Mara → Nairobi (lunch en route)
Long scenic drive back to Nairobi with a relaxed lunch stop in Narok or at a rest stop en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the opportunity to relax together — the drive provides time to reflect and go through photos from the safari.
- Plan a stop in Narok for stretch and refreshments; pick a café with a shaded patio for comfort.
- Keep small local currency handy for restroom stops and small purchases on the road.
Lunch stop (en route / Narok)
Mid-route lunch and short break — a chance for a relaxed meal before continuing to Nairobi.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a shaded outdoor table if available to enjoy countryside views and a relaxed pace.
- Order simple, familiar dishes if you prefer comfort food after several days on safari.
- Keep the meal light if you plan to arrive in Nairobi by late afternoon and head straight to your next destination.
Drop-off — Nairobi (hotel or Jomo Kenyatta Intl Airport)
Arrive back in Nairobi late afternoon and be dropped at your hotel or at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as requested.
Tips from local experts:
- If flying home, plan to arrive at the airport with at least 2.5–3 hours before international departure.
- If staying in Nairobi, ask the driver for a quiet hotel drop-off away from busy entrances for a calm arrival.
- Confirm luggage handling and gratuity arrangements with your guide before parting — gratuities are appreciated for excellent service.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 5 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | 8 |
| Total Activities | 20 |
| Total Places | 20 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Experience, Meal, Attraction, Culture |
