Overview

If you have not enough time in Africa, this Safari is best done by air. You will explore Masai Mara for all 4 days in this itinerary. We can modify this safari by visiting some of the private conservancies around Mara, allowing for activities such as hikes and night safaris which are not permitted in Masai Mara Game reserve. This is also a perfect safari to combine with Gorillas and Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda or Rwanda which can be accessed by air straight from Masai Mara.

Trip Highlights

Masai Mara Game Reserve: The Masai Mara is world-renowned for its spectacular wildlife viewing, particularly the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains, crossing the Mara River in dramatic fashion, attracting predators such as lions, leopards, and crocodiles. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives to witness the abundance of wildlife and the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard).
Private Conservancies: For an enhanced experience, you may visit private conservancies around the Mara, where activities like night safaris, hiking, and cultural experiences with local Maasai communities are available. These activities offer a more exclusive and less crowded experience than the main reserve.
Game Drives & Wildlife Viewing: Enjoy extensive game drives with unlimited mileage, offering opportunities to see not just the Big Five, but also cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, hippos, and various bird species.
Aerial Transfers: Skip long road transfers and fly directly to Masai Mara in comfort. This reduces travel time and maximizes your time in the reserve for unforgettable safari experiences.

Day 01 :

Nairobi to Masai Mara

Your tour starts with pick up at 7:30 AM from your Nairobi hotel or Airport and drive to Masai Mara. This drive will take about 5 to 6.5 hours with a scenic stopover at Great Rift Valley. Arrive in Masai Mara shortly after noon and check into your lodge/camp, have hot lunch and then depart for an afternoon game drive.

After the game drive, we head back to lodge/camp to reach by around 5:30 or 6:00 PM, freshen up and enjoy a freshly prepared Dinner. Overnight at your lodge.

Note: The last 1-hour drive to Masai Mara is on the corrugated and bumpy road and may not be comfortable for clients with back problems. Clients with back problems can consider flying directly to (and out of) Masai Mara. Flying take 45 minutes and plane lands near your lodge/camp

Overnight at a Midrange or a Luxury lodge/camp

Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast

Day 2 & Day 3 :

Masai Mara

Today’s itinerary is flexible, and you can discuss with your guide on the previous evening and plan for today’s schedule.

You can either have a relaxed breakfast and depart for full day game drives around 9:00 AM with packed lunch and return to lodge late afternoon around 6:00 PM. Or you can depart at 6:00 AM on an early morning game drive (This is the best time to see the animals and a good chance to witness hunt/kill). Later return to accommodation for breakfast and relax for a bit and depart on an afternoon game drive with packed lunch. you will stop at a picnic spot for having packed lunch and later depart on a game drive till the park is closed. Around 6:00 PM return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight at a Midrange or a Luxury lodge/camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04 :

Masai Mara to Nairobi

Wake up early in the morning and after breakfast, proceed to Mara for game drives around 7:00 AM. Continue with game drives till around 11:00 AM and then head back to Nairobi to reach by about 5:00 PM. On reaching Nairobi in the evening, you will be dropped of at the airport or your hotel.

No accommodation pre-booked for you on this day

Meal Plan: Breakfast and farewell lunch in Nairobi time permitting

FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go on this safari?
- The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the Great Migration (from July to October), when you can witness the mass movement of wildebeest and zebras across the Mara River. However, the Masai Mara offers great wildlife viewing year-round.
How do I travel between Nairobi and Masai Mara?
- This safari includes scheduled flights between Nairobi and Masai Mara, which minimizes travel time and allows you to focus on the safari experience. Air transfers are typically included in the package.
Do I need a visa to enter Kenya?
- Yes, most travelers will require a visa to enter Kenya. You can apply for an eVisa online before traveling.
How physically demanding is this safari?
- The safari is not physically demanding, as it primarily involves game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle. Optional hiking and night safaris in the conservancies are available for those interested.
Can I see the Great Migration?
- Yes, if you visit between July and October, you will have the chance to see the Great Migration, a spectacular event when wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores cross the Mara River, often with dramatic predator-prey interactions.
What should I pack for the safari?
- Pack comfortable clothing in neutral colors (khaki, brown), a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, hats for sun protection, sturdy shoes for any walking or hiking, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and camera equipment. Don’t forget insect repellent and sunscreen.
Can I extend my safari or combine it with another trip?
- Yes, this safari can be customized to extend your stay in the Masai Mara or combine it with other experiences, such as gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, which can be accessed by air.
Are there any age restrictions for children?
- Some lodges or camps may have age restrictions for activities, particularly walking safaris or hiking. It’s recommended that children be at least 6 years old to enjoy the game drives.
What makes private conservancies special?
- Private conservancies around the Mara offer exclusive wildlife experiences such as night safaris, guided hikes, and cultural interactions with the Maasai. These areas are less crowded and provide more intimate wildlife viewing.
What is the group size for this safari?

Group sizes typically range from 4 to 12 people for a more personalized experience. Private safari options are available for those who prefer a tailored experience.