The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the top safari destinations not just in Kenya but in Africa at large. Home to a stunning kaleidoscope of sprawling savannahs, undulating hills, mighty Maasai Warriors, dramatic river crossings, and, of course, the unmistakable roars of the iconic “Big Cat Diary” lions – Masai Mara is more adventurous than any movie could ever portray.
Of significance is that the Masai Mara hosts over 1.5 million wildebeests each year from July through October, a phenomenon that has come to be known as the “Great Migration”. With all that, and plenty more, it’s hardly a surprise that the Masai Mara is Kenya’s flagship conservation area and one of the world’s most sought-after safari destinations.
Enjoy an epic Masai Mara Safari package starting and ending in Nairobi. This 3 days, 2 nights Masai Mara safari travel package includes private game drives, accommodations, and meals. Check out the full Safari itinerary below.
Day 1: Departure from Nairobi
At 7:30-8 am, your driver-guide arrives at your hotel in a customized pop-up roof 4×4 Land Cruiser Jeep for the start of your Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi. For a memorable safari experience, your private safari vehicle will include a portable fridge/cooler box (packed with refreshments), AC 230V power outlets, 4G/LTE broadband WIFI connectivity, binoculars, sandbags, long-range high-frequency radio, and multilingual safari guide books. Baby seats are available on request.
As you proceed with the journey, the landscape gradually transforms from the bustling cityscape of Nairobi into the vast expanse of the Great Rift Valley. Stop for a moment at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, said to be visible from space, to enjoy the picturesque views of the largest valley in the world. Keep your camera ready to snap amazing pictures of the Great Rift Valley.
Traversing the scenic terrain, the vehicle passes through local villages, offering glimpses of daily life and traditional Maasai homesteads. The vibrant colors of traditional Maasai clothing and the lively atmosphere of the markets provide a cultural immersion along the way.
Around midday (5-6 hour drive), arrive at the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Complete the entry formalities. Take lunch at your preferred lodge or camp. At around 3:30 pm, the afternoon game drive starts, and your guide leads you deeper into the reserve, navigating through the savannah, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests.
The afternoon game drive presents the perfect opportunity to spot the magnificent wildlife in the park, ranging from graceful gazelles to the majestic Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino, and Elephant). The landscape teems with potential wildlife sightings. So, once again, keep your camera ready to take captivating shots of the diverse flora and fauna the Masai Mara has to offer.
At 6:30 pm, as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, return to the camp or lodge, where a delectable dinner, served under the starlit African sky, awaits. Savor the meals as you share stories of the day’s encounters with fellow travelers and revel in the sounds of the nocturnal symphony that envelops the Masai Mara.
Day 2: Enjoy Full Day at the Mara
Game drives are the order of the day on Day 2 at the Masai Mara. This package will consist of two game drives. The first one will take place in the morning from 6:15 am to 9 am. Then breakfast will follow. The other one will happen after lunch from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. This is when the Mara wildlife is active, and the chances of spotting the Big Five are very high.
Your driver-guide will take you through all corners of the Mara, said to be the densest of any park in East Africa. There is so much to see in this park that even a full day may not be enough to cover it all.
In addition to the iconic Big Five, the Masai Mara offers a wealth of diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes that make each game drive a unique and enriching experience. As you explore the corners of this remarkable reserve, keep your eyes peeled for:
The Great Migration
Depending on the time of year, witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrating in search of greener pastures. The Mara is a key stage for this natural phenomenon, and the sheer numbers and coordinated movements are a sight to behold.
Maasai Giraffes
Unique from other giraffe species, the Maasai giraffe roams the Mara with its jagged and irregular spot patterns. Capture their elegance as they gracefully move through the acacia-dotted landscape.
Hippo Pools
Visit the Mara River’s hippo pools, where you can observe these massive creatures wallowing in the water. The pools are a haven for hippos as well as a variety of birdlife.
Cheetahs in Action
The open grasslands of the Mara provide an ideal habitat for cheetahs. Witness their lightning-fast sprints and agile hunting techniques as they navigate the expansive plains.
Birdwatching Extravaganza
The Mara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 450 bird species. Look out for vultures, eagles, storks, and a myriad of other avian species, adding vibrant colors to the savannah’s canvas.
Maasai Culture
Engage with the local Maasai communities and learn about their traditional customs and way of life. Some lodges and camps offer cultural experiences, providing insight into the rich heritage of the Maasai people.
Balloon Safaris (Optional)
Consider an early morning hot air balloon safari for a truly unique perspective. Soar above the plains and witness the sunrise, casting a golden glow over the landscape, while wildlife roams freely below.
Day 3: Return to Nairobi
The 3rd day marks the end of your tour of Masai Mara. On this day, get up at 6am and make the most of the morning with an early game drive. Take advantage of the cool, crisp air and the heightened activity of the wildlife. Your guide, familiar with the habits of the animals, will lead you to hidden gems and lesser-explored corners of the reserve. Capture the sunrise as it bathes the savannah in warm hues, casting a magical glow over the awakening landscape.
After the exhilarating morning game drive, return to your accommodation for a hearty breakfast. Take this time to savor your last moments in the Mara, perhaps reflecting on the incredible wildlife encounters and the natural beauty that has surrounded you.
Following breakfast, if time allows, take a short nature walk or visit a local Maasai village for a more immersive cultural experience. Engage with the Maasai people to gain final insights into their daily lives, traditions, and the delicate balance they maintain with nature.
As midday approaches, bid farewell to the Masai Mara and embark on your journey back to Nairobi. The drive back provides another chance to admire the changing landscapes and revisit the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Stop for lunch at a scenic spot and relish the memories of your safari adventure. Your driver-guide will ensure a timely arrival in Nairobi, dropping you off at your hotel or the airport, depending on your travel plans. For guests dropped at the hotel, they get free transfer the following day using luxury vehicles such as BMW X1,, or Audi Q7, Mazda CX-3 and others similar vehicles.