Kenya · Safari

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

3 Days Round trip from Nairobi Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife crossing the Mara River
02 Spot the Big Five - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino - in their natural habitat
03 Traverse the vast savannahs of the Masai Mara, known for breathtaking landscapes
04 Enjoy game drives during the most active times of day for optimal wildlife sightings
05 Engage with the Maasai people and learn about their rich culture and traditions
06 Stay in safari lodges or tented camps that blend adventure with comfort
07 Capture stunning photographs of wildlife and landscapes throughout your journey

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day safari adventure in the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve, a wildlife paradise in Kenya. This immersive experience offers the chance to witness breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the renowned Great Migration, as wildebeest, zebras, and other animals cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, spot the Big Five and an array of other fascinating species while enjoying the comfort of safari lodges or tented camps. With sunrise and sunset game drives, cultural interactions with the Maasai people, and plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs, this journey promises a memorable safari experience.

This immersive experience offers the chance to witness breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the renowned Great Migration, as wildebeest, zebras, and other animals cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara

Languages Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Nairobi to Masai Mara via the Great Rift Valley

Pick up from your agreed location in Nairobi.
Enjoy a scenic drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve via the Great Rift Valley.
Stop at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint for breathtaking scenery.
Arrive at Maasai Mara and check in at your camp or lodge.
Enjoy lunch followed by time to relax.
Set out on an evening game drive in the reserve to observe wildlife activity.

Dinner and overnight stay at the camp or lodge.

Day 02

Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Masai Mara

Breakfast at the camp or lodge.
Optional balloon safari experience (optional $500 per person).
Explore the reserve, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants.
Enjoy a picnic lunch near the Mara or Talek Rivers, home to hippos and crocodiles.
Continue with an afternoon game drive until sunset.
Return to the camp or lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03

Masai Mara to Nairobi with Optional Maasai Village Visit

Early breakfast and check-out from your camp or lodge.
Optional visit to a Maasai village to experience Maasai culture and traditions (optional $30 per person).
Depart for Nairobi on a smooth drive.
Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon.
Drop off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or your Nairobi hotel.

Where this trip takes you

Masai Mara savannah, Mara River crossings, Great Rift Valley viewpoint

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Nairobi 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private transport
Transport and game drives
Safari Land Cruiser
English-speaking driver tour guide
Park entrance fees
Accommodation and meals
Drinking water
Pick-up and drop-off services

What's Not Included

Tips
Visas and flight fares
Alcoholic beverages
Optional activities

What to bring

Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours (khaki, beige, brown) to blend in with the environment.
Long-sleeve shirts and trousers to protect against the sun and insects.
Comfortable walking shoes or boots.
Warm layers, such as a jacket or fleece, for early mornings and evenings.
Hat or cap for sun protection.

Know before you go

The Masai Mara has a warm climate, with cooler temperatures in the early mornings and evenings, so pack accordingly.
The rainy seasons are typically April to May and November, so if you travel during these times, expect occasional showers and possibly muddy terrain.
Respect wildlife: always keep a safe distance from animals and follow the guide's instructions during game drives.
Stay inside the vehicle: never exit the safari vehicle unless your guide instructs you to, as wild animals are unpredictable.
No feeding: do not feed any wildlife, as it disrupts their natural behaviour.
Respect local customs: the Maasai people have deep cultural traditions. When visiting a Maasai village, ask for permission before taking photographs and respect their customs.
Dress modestly: while on cultural visits, dress modestly to show respect for the local culture.
Noise levels: keep noise to a minimum during game drives to avoid disturbing the animals and to enhance your chances of seeing more wildlife.
Littering: take all your litter with you and dispose of it properly to help preserve the environment.
Limited signal: mobile phone reception may be weak or unavailable in some areas of the Masai Mara. Some lodges may offer Wi-Fi, but do not rely on constant connectivity.
Emergency contacts: keep a list of emergency contacts, including your embassy, safari company, and insurance provider.