3-Day Maasai Mara Safari from Nairobi with Big Five Game Drives

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Discover the legendary Big Five during guided game drives across the Maasai Mara
• 02 Enjoy an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride followed by a champagne breakfast
• 03 Experience authentic Maasai culture through a guided village visit and community interaction
• 04 Admire stunning views from the Great Rift Valley viewpoint en route to the reserve

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this 3-day Maasai Mara safari from Nairobi. Travel through scenic landscapes to Kenya's premier game reserve, enjoy thrilling Big Five game drives, and witness wildlife from above on an optional hot air balloon ride. Immerse yourself in Maasai culture with a guided village visit, and relax at the comfortable Mara Sopa Lodge. Perfect for travellers seeking an authentic, action-packed safari experience in just a few days.

Embark on your first evening game drive around 4 PM and spot the Big Five - lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino - along with other iconic African wildlife.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Nairobi to Maasai Mara via the Great Rift Valley

• Begin your Maasai Mara safari early with pickup from Nairobi, either from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or your hotel.
• Travel comfortably in a 4x4 vehicle for around five to six hours.
• Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint to admire the stunning scenery and capture photographs.
• Arrive at Mara Sopa Lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the expansive savannah.
• Embark on your first evening game drive around 4 PM and spot the Big Five - lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino - along with other iconic African wildlife.
• Return to the lodge for dinner and unwind amid the tranquil surroundings of the Maasai Mara.

2

Day 02

Optional Balloon Safari and Full-Day Maasai Mara Game Drive

• Start the day early with an optional hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara at an additional cost of $420.
• Float above the plains at sunrise and witness the breathtaking landscape and wildlife from a unique perspective.
• After landing, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush before continuing your adventure.
• Set out on a full-day game drive through the reserve, exploring riverine forests and open grasslands.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild while observing animals such as wildebeest, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and elephants.
• Return to the lodge in the late afternoon and relax with dinner under the starlit sky.

3

Day 03

Maasai Village Visit and Return to Nairobi

• After breakfast, visit a nearby Maasai village for an authentic cultural experience.
• Learn about the community's customs, traditions, and dances, and support local development projects.
• Journey back to Nairobi after the visit, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport.
• Conclude your safari with lasting memories of the Maasai Mara's wildlife and vibrant culture.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• All airport transfers and ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
• Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Park entrance fees to all listed national parks and reserves
• Full-board accommodation including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Daily game drives and sightseeing as per the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during game drives
• Government taxes and levies

What's Not Included

• International and domestic flights
• Visa fees and travel insurance
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, beverages, and tips
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary, such as balloon safaris or additional village visits
• Meals or drinks outside the safari plan
• Gratuities to the driver-guide and lodge staff

What to bring

• Light and comfortable clothing in neutral colours
• A warm jacket or sweater for early morning and evening drives
• A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun
• Comfortable walking shoes or safari boots
• Personal toiletries and required medication
• Insect repellent
• Travel documents including passport, visa, and travel insurance

Know before you go

• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Bring your passport or ID for park registration.
• Some lodges may have limited Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage.
• Carry cash for tips and personal purchases.
• Inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or health conditions.
• Pickup times may vary depending on your location and traffic conditions.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Nairobi, Kenya

Tour start

Nairobi, Kenya

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.