3-Day Maasai Mara Great Wildebeest Migration Safari with Mara River

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Explore the iconic Maasai Mara with daily game drives led by experienced guides
• 02 Spot Africa's Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards
• 03 Enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley on the journey from Nairobi
• 04 Visit the Mara River to observe thrilling predator-prey encounters
• 05 Capture stunning wildlife photography against the backdrop of open savannahs

Experience the thrill of a 3-day Maasai Mara safari during the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Journey through the scenic Great Rift Valley, explore the vast plains of Maasai Mara on guided game drives, and witness thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and predators as they cross the Mara River. Spot Africa's Big Five, enjoy comfortable lodge or camp accommodation, and immerse yourself in one of the world's most spectacular wildlife events.

Experience the thrill of a 3-day Maasai Mara safari during the peak of the Great Wildebeest Migration.

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 Yes

Cities Nairobi, Masai Mara

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Nairobi to Maasai Mara via the Great Rift Valley

• Depart from Nairobi early in the morning.
• Drive through the Great Rift Valley and stop for scenic photos.
• Arrive at Maasai Mara in time for lunch at your lodge or tented camp.
• Rest briefly before heading out for an afternoon game drive.
• Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and early herds of the wildebeest migration.
• Return to the lodge or camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

2

Day 02

Full-Day Game Drives in Maasai Mara

• Start with a morning game drive to catch predators in action.
• Return for breakfast or carry a picnic lunch to explore deeper areas.
• Witness thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River.
• Visit major wildlife hotspots and scenic viewpoints.
• Learn about the ecosystem from your experienced guide.
• Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and a second night in the wild.

3

Day 03

Sunrise Safari and Return to Nairobi

• Begin the day with a short sunrise game drive.
• Have breakfast at the lodge or camp.
• Check out and begin the drive back to Nairobi.
• Stop for souvenirs or cultural visits en route if time allows.
• Arrive in Nairobi in the afternoon and end your safari adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Transport to and from Nairobi: Comfortable transport from Nairobi to Maasai Mara and back
• Park entry fees: All entrance fees for Maasai Mara National Reserve are covered.
• Full-board accommodation: Includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at your lodge or tented camp.
• 4x4 Land Cruiser jeep with pop-up roof: Ideal for safari game drives, offering unobstructed views of wildlife.
• Professional driver-guide: Expert guidance and support throughout the safari for a personalised experience.
• Drinking water for the safari: Daily supply of bottled water to keep you hydrated throughout the journey.

What's Not Included

• Guide tips and gratitude: Tips for your driver-guide are not included and are at your discretion.
• Drinks at the lodge/camp: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at the lodge or camp are not included.
• Laundry fee: Any laundry services provided at the lodge or camp are extra.
• Anything not mentioned above: Any additional services or activities not specifically listed are not included in the price.

What to bring

• Valid passport/ID and any necessary travel documents
• Comfortable clothing in neutral colours (avoid bright colours for game drives)
• Warm layers for early morning and evening game drives, as it gets chilly
• Sun hat or cap and sunglasses for sun protection
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent, preferably with DEET
• Sturdy walking shoes or boots
• Camera or smartphone with extra batteries/memory cards
• Binoculars for wildlife spotting
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Small backpack or daypack for daily excursions
• Cash in Kenyan Shillings for tips, souvenirs, and optional activities

Know before you go

• The best time to visit Maasai Mara is between July and October, when the wildebeest migration usually takes place. However, the timing may vary each year based on rainfall patterns.
• Park entry fees are typically included in most safari packages, but always confirm, as rates differ for residents, non-residents, and East African citizens.
• Accommodation options vary, with safari packages offering budget, mid-range, and luxury choices. Confirm what's included in the package, such as meals, en-suite bathrooms, and hot showers.
• Most safaris use 4x4 Land Cruisers or tour vans, which are ideal for rough terrain and provide better comfort during long drives.
• Group safaris are more affordable and offer a social experience, while private safaris provide more flexibility and privacy.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for some travellers. It's also advisable to take malaria prophylaxis before travelling.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended for your protection.
• The journey from Nairobi to Maasai Mara takes about 5-6 hours by road or 45 minutes by flight. Flights are optional and cost extra.
• Soft-sided bags are preferred for those flying into the Mara, with a 15kg luggage limit for most bush planes.
• Many lodges welcome children, but age restrictions may apply for certain game drives or camps.
• Check the tour operator's terms for deposits, cancellations, and rescheduling, especially during peak season.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Nairobi, Kenya

Tour start

Nairobi, Kenya

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.