masai mara tour from nairobi

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Masai Mara National Reserve Tours & Trips from Nairobi

An adventure starting in Nairobi is a great way to see Masai Mara National Reserve. We have 135 tours that range from 3 days up to 63 days. The most popular time for tours from Nairobi is October, which has the most tour departures.

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135 masai mara national reserve tours from nairobi with 115 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Masai Mara Camping Safari

Our guide was great and interacted well with the group. He had lots of animal knowledge and found us some great animals. Our transport was a van but it made it there and back and wasn't too bad for game viewing. Plenty of space for the 6 of us. Accommodation is a basic tent with bed and mossie net but was all we really needed. Meals were good and there was always plenty. While the trip is advertised as 4 days, it's only 3. I would have enjoyed having an extra day to spend in the Mara.

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari From Nairobi with Complimentary Airport Pickup.

Overall the tour was good. There was a lot of waiting and switching cars on the first day for myself and others on the tour and was a bit chaotic. Otherwise, we did see plenty of animals and accomodation and food was good.

Gorillas & Game Parks

The Masai Heartlands

• Flying Safari

3 Days Masai Mara flying Safari - Nairobi

The Mara is incredible! Unique experience. Highly recommended!!!

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium Kenya

Premium Kenya & Tanzania (11 destinations)

3 Days Kenya Budget Safari to Masai Mara

Great organization with great drivers and guides.If you want experience for a hole life I recommended this travel agency. Best regards Goran

• Great Migration

3 Days Masai Mara Wildlife Safari

Lovely services in deed,keep it up

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

3 Days, 2 Nights Masai Mara Group Joining Safari from Nairobi

Sammi the driver and guide shepherded us superbly. He was caring, informative and was earnest in locating best views of the animals. Meals and accommodation were spot on although the picnic ended a little dry after being in the van for 24 hours.

03 Days Kenya Migration Safari - Fly-in Tour

Great experience in Masai Mara! Thanks to our guide we succeed to meet all the animals from The Big Five! Accommodation at Keekorok Lodge was nice with cosy room and good friendly service.

3 Days Classic Masai Mara Safari Offer- Loyk

Don’t go with anyone else. They do not disappoint. We felt safe the whole time and had the best experience. It was more than we could have hoped for.

Four Day Maasai Mara Wildebeest Migration Safari 2024/2025

An enthralling and delightful tour. A perfect experience that gives one a chance to connect with wildlife, create beautiful memories, and have fun together with family and friends. Watching herds of up to a million wildebeests, hundreds of thousands of gazelles and elands makes it satisfying and leaves one fascinated.

Small Group Masai Mara Safari (with Land Cruiser JEEP)

George was extremely helpful and responsive after we booked the tour. Evans was a fantastic guide throughout the drives!

Kenya AND Tanzania Classic Safari – Two Birds with One Stone **Sustainable Approach to Travel

We have just completed the 9 day Two Birds one Stone eco tour of Maasai Mara and Serengeti. It has been the most amazing experience for all the right reasons. Of course it's all about the animals we have seen, but we had the most awesome guides in both Kenya and Tanzania. The staff at all the wild camps and lodges we stayed at where so friendly and helpful. Knowing we could enjoy all of this with as small an impact on the environment as possible was comforting.

What people love about Masai Mara National Reserve Tours from Nairobi

Everything went great from the pickup to the campsite to the dedicated safari driver. Bryan, the tour operator, is fantastic and always available to answer questions and help out with any issue that comes up - even helping with other parts of the trip besides the safari.

Our driver was zack. He was great, very patient and very understanding. He reached us a lot about the animals and the culture of masai people. He was always there, when we needed him. I definitely recommend zack. Albert was also the main reason the safari happened, he helped us very much.

Tours starting from Nairobi

• Nairobi to Nairobi tours (122)
• Family from Nairobi (116)
• Safari from Nairobi (97)
• Private from Nairobi (44)
• Active from Nairobi (38)
• Explorer from Nairobi (16)
• Masai Mara Facts: 8 Things Not To Miss Before Visiting
• Masai Mara Animals: Check what Animals to Spot on Safari
• Best Time to Visit Masai Mara: Month by Month Infographic
• Masai Mara Fees: Check Park Fees, Excursion & Safari Cost
• Masai Mara Maps: Location, Migration & Road Map
• Masai Mara Weather & Climate: All You Need to Know
• Masai Mara Location: How to get there by Road or Plane
• Masai Mara - Activities

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3 Days Masai Mara Tour from Nairobi

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African Safari Holiday in Kenya. Kenya Safari Package.

Itinerary for masai mara tour from nairobi.

Day 1:  Nairobi – Masai Mara

Pick up from airport of place of residence in Nairobi at 7:00am. Your safari tour takes you to the Maasai Mara Reserve and into the domain of the Maasai, Kenya’s cattle-herding nomads determined to preserve their traditions. The Mara is magnificent, home to Kenya’s richest concentration of wildlife, and regarded by many travelers as an essential stop on any tour of Africa. When westerners think of Africa and safari, this is place they imagine – golden grassland plains pocked with acacia, wildebeests, zebras, lions, and jackals bound by together by the cycle of life and death. Three days here will only scratch at the surface of the wonders of the Mara. Arrival in Masai Mara in time for lunch, after lunch embark on an evening safari game drive until late evening when you settle for dinner. Accommodation overnight at your lodge or camp. Meal Plan L & D Game drives from 3:00PM to 6:00PM

Day 2: Masai Mara

Spend the day in Masai Mara, Kenya’s most popular game reserve where you will have the best opportunity of spotting the Big Five – lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant, Game drives are flexible, with the option of going out with picnic lunch boxes to spend entire day in the park, or you can choose to have early morning and late afternoon game drives. You will also have the option of visiting a local Masai village (at a cost of US$40 per person). All meals and overnight at your Lodge or Camp. Meal Plan: B, L & D Game drives from 8:00AM to 6:00PM

Day 3: Masai Mara National Reserve – Nairobi

Early Morning breakfast at your camp check out of the camp and park and drive to Nairobi arriving in time for lunch. Lunch at carnivore afterwards drop off at your respective hotel or airport at 3:30 PM. Meal Plan: B, L & D Game drives from 6:00AM to 8:00AM

$641.00/ Adult

Accomodtion Options

Option 1: 5 Star Luxury Accommodations USD 999.00 per person -Mara Sarova Luxury Tented Camp

• Ashnil Luxury Tented Camp
• Mara Serena Lodge

Option 2: Standard (Mid-range) Accommodations USD 791.00 per person AA Lodge

• Mara Sopa Lodge
• Mara Leisure Camp
• Azure Mara camp

Option 3: Standard (Mid-range) Accommodations USD 641.00 per person

• Manyatta Tented Camp
• Enchoro Tented Camp

Safari price includes:-

• Full board accommodation whilst on safari.
• Meal plan as described, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner.
• Accommodation in double room sharing.
• All park entrance fees to include government taxes and service of an
• English speaking professional driver/guide.
• Game drives as detailed in the itinerary.
• Bottled drinking water whilst on safari
• Exclusive transport in a safari 4 x 4 Landcruiser Jeep with pop up roof UHF radio.

Safari price does not include:-

• Masai village tour visit USD 40.00 per person
• Hot air balloon ride USD 450.00 per person
• Items of a personal nature.

Where and when does the tour start?

• Nairobi, Kenya. Best time for this migration tour is between June and October.

Is it a private or group tour?

• This is a private tour.

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Date of travel

Masai Mara Tour from Nairobi Kenya Safari Photos

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2 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi

Mara discovery safari, adventure to kenya’s most popular park on a masai mara safari, starting from/returning to nairobi area hotels, airport, or location of your choice., we’ll pick you up in style – your own private 4 x 4 land cruiser jeep..

If you are looking for one of the very best Masai Mara safari packages from Nairobi, book our 2 day Masai Mara safari from Nairobi today.

Throughout the world, the words Masai Mara mean wildlife adventure on the broad plains of this golden park. Here you’ll find a density of lion, wildebeest, and zebra in an unparalleled display. Any trip to the Mara is a treat and this short discovery tour will take you into the heart of a busy eco-system filled with large and small game – giraffe, elephant, rhino, hippos, and crocodiles.

We’re going to pack a lot into your safari, so we’ll leave early for a quick start on our game drives through the sprawling Mara lands. You’ll travel in safari-style in your own private 4 x 4 Jeep, taking in the African sunrise over Rift Valley towers and immense horizons.

What’s Cool about a Masai Mara Safari?

Your 2-day adventure will be a series of game drives over the rolling hills of the Masai Mara searching for the big cats and the herds – in the thousands – of roaming wildlife. We’ll travel down to the Mara River, site of the annual crossing where wildebeests and crocodiles often meet in a dramatic display of survival.

The Mara is also home to the Maasai people where you can experience a village encounter, learn about their lifestyle, visit their homes, and sample their crafts.

And, if you have any special requests please let our friendly booking team know. At Africa Kenya Safaris , our only wish is to create your best safari experience.

Fast & Flexible

At AKS you write the rules. Travel and explore at your own pace in you own way. We’re fast, flexible, and always ready to respond to your requests. Book in advance or even the day before. We’ll get you out on safari – pronto!

Depending on your choice of accommodation you can enjoy extras like a bush breakfast, lunch or dinner, traditional dances around the boma, massage, aromatherapy, Ayurveda, special dietary menus, dinner at a Maasai homestead, game walks, and more.

Stay Connected or Not. Your Choice.

We realize you’re on safari to get away from the usual. Still, there are times you may want to go online… perhaps to share your photos and adventures with friends. Our safari vehicles connect with Wi-Fi , about 75% of the time so you can usually connect when you want.

The Details

No one is more important to the success of your safari than your guide . At Africa Kenya Safaris , we have the friendliest, most experienced driver/guides. They will guide, host, inform, and look after you like the special guest you are. That’s our guarantee.

You’ll safari in style out to the parks in your own private 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep – the best way to experience Africa with its higher seating for better views and its rugged all-wheel drive.

We give you more at AKS – customization, flexibility, and lots of choices. Your safari includes park entrance fees, game drives, accommodations, and meals. Plus, we always offer economy, comfort, superior comfort, or luxury safari lodges or tented camps.

Please give us a shout at Africa Kenya Safaris to set up your personalized safari adventure for yourself, your family, and your friends.

Check Out Your Ride

Experience your Africa Kenya Safari in a customized pop-top roof 4x4x Safari Jeep that features: Portable fridge/Cooler Box, 4 Binoculars, long-range high-frequency radio, 4G/LTE broadband WIFI connectivity, AC 230 V Power Outlets, First Aid Kit, Safari Guide Books, Baby Seats (on request), Side steps (on request) and most importantly an expert multi-lingual safari guide who will ensure you have an incredible safari experience.

Masai Mara National Park

5-6 hour drive.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

5:00 am. Your driver/guide will pick you up at the location of your choice for the drive to the park.

Take in the African dawn as the surrounding fields come alive. We’ll pause in our travels for a breakfast break in the town of Narok.

Moving on, we’ll pass homesteads and perhaps some Maasai herdsmen along the way, wrapped in their bright-colored shukas. Expect to arrive at the park around 10:30 am.

Now you’ll come to the park’s vast expanse, with its rolling hills and savannahs. This is one of the richest eco-systems in the world, holding an amazing variety of wildlife.

Your days here will be filled with game drives, tracking the big cats plus elephant, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, and plenty more – over 95 mammals make their home here.

Lunch will be picnic style down at the Mara River. This is where innumerable herds cross during the season of the Great Migration (July – October).

After more afternoon game drives, you’ll freshen up at your Safari lodge or tented camp, then enjoy dinner and the evening’s activities.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

We’re on safari time and that means an early rise to see the wildlife as it enters the awakening day. You may want to take photos of the golden morning light playing upon the hills of the park.

Breakfast follows as we fuel up for another very full safari day.

If there is any particular area you’d like to revisit just let your guide know.

You can also enjoy some optional activities here at the Mara. Ask your guide about a cultural visit with the local Maasai people. You can travel to their village, meet the people, and learn about their herding lifestyle and culture.

For an unforgettable high-flying safari adventure, try hot air ballooning over the park. You’ll get a perspective few experience, and the ride is beautiful and thrilling. Just ask your guide for details.

We will round out our 2-day journey with a final game drive as we exit the park.

On our way back to Nairobi, we’ll take some breaks to refresh and admire the towering escarpments of the Great Rift Valley along our route.

We’ll arrive back in Nairobi in the early evening and bring you to the destination of your choice.

We at Africa Kenya Safaris , appreciate your choice of spending your safari holiday with us. Please consider us for your next visit to the natural world of Africa. Thank you!

Tour Highlights

• Incredible density of wildlife viewing including Africa’s Big Five
• Sprawling savannah dotted with distinctive acacia trees and numerous large and small wild animal species
• Unlimited game viewing drives with exclusive use of pop-top safari vehicle
• Maasai people
• Unique Accommodation options in safari lodges / tented camps
• Optional Masai village – Please arrange with your driver/guide – $20 per person
• Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride – please ask us about this unique opportunity – $460 per person

Accommodations

Ashnil Mara Camp, Mara Eden Safari Camp, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Mara Engai Lodge, Ilkeliani Camp, Mara River Camp, Tipilikwani Mara Camp, Matira Camp, Wilderness Camp, Keekorok Lodge

Zebra Plains Mara Camp, Osero Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge, Losokwan Luxury Camp, Enkorok Mara Camp, Elangata Olerai Camp,  Jambo Mara Safari Lodge

Mara Chui Camp,Orng’atuny Mara King Camp

ALL SAFARI PRICES ARE LISTED BY SEASON, NUMBER OF PERSONS, AND COMFORT TIER

Please check out our prices for these private safaris – you’ll see they are the most reasonable anywhere for each tour. There are no hidden fees, plus you’ll travel in safari-style in a 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep.

Prices are in USD per person for a double/twin en-suite room.

Please view our tour prices for the 3 Safari Seasons and Acomodation Levels

High Season   (3rd Jan-31st Mar)  &  (16th Oct-22nd Dec)

Peak Season   (1st Jul-15th Oct.)  &  (23rd Dec-2nd Jan) Xmas Supplement to apply on 24th -26th Dec & 31st Dec-1st Jan

Low Season   (1st Apr – 30th June  Excluding Easter Weekend )

*Christmas /Easter Supplement: USD 100 (Rate is Per Person Per Night).

Child Rates: * Children below 3 years: Free * Children 3-11 years: 75% of Adult rate. * Children 12 years and above are treated as adults

NOTE: Masai Mara Reserve & Conservancies

• Visitors staying in safari lodges and tented camps within the Mara Triangle, Mara Conservancy and Masai Mara Game Reserve shall pay an extra USD 100 per person per day From 1st July – 31st December.

Your Tour Includes

• Nairobi hotel / residence pick-up & drop-off.
• Transport in a customized 4×4 pop up top Land Cruiser jeep
• Services of a experienced English/other language speaking safari tour guide/driver
• Stay in economy, comfort or luxury lodge/tented camps (your choice)
• Private game viewing drives in a 4×4 pop up top land Cruiser jeep
• Park entrance fees
• All meals on safari
• Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle
• The flying doctors medical, emergency and rescue cover
• Pick up/drop off at Nairobi airport, Nairobi hotel or residence
• Government taxes and local levies

Lots of Ways To Stay

Safari Lodge or Tented Camp? Economy, Comfort, or Luxury?

We offer lots of ways to settle into your safari evening. Some people like the familiar four walls of a traditional lodge. Others go for the outdoors feel of a tented camp. Either way, both lodge or tented camp come in economy, comfort, and lux editions. Choose the accommodation style that suits your needs. And then, which level of service works for you.

Our clients

Driving technology for leading brands, our accreditations and booking security.

Africa Kenya Safaris Ltd is licensed under the Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority ( TRA ) . It is Bonded member No. AS/720 of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators ( KATO ) , Ecotourism Kenya , East African Wildlife Society, and the African Travel and Tourism Association ( ATTA )

3 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi - 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Itinerary, Price, & Guide

Welcome to our 3 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi !  When the Lord declared what he had created as beautiful, He indeed had to be looking at Masai Mara. Don’t believe it? Book our 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi and witness it yourself.

Masai Mara National Reserve is Africa’s leading safari destination. It is the arena for the largest land migration on earth, the great wildebeest migration . Book your Nairobi to Masai Mara Safari for 3 days between July and October if you have your eyes on witnessing the Mara river crossing.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) estimates that Masai Mara is home to over 835 lions. It hosts all members of the Big 5 (buffalos, elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos). And Masai Mara ecosystem boasts the highest wildlife density in Africa, including over 96 species of mammals and over 450 recorded bird species.

Book Your 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi Now

We invite you to contact us on the phone or WhatsApp or phone via +254-748-258-880, and we will happily tailor-make the best Masai Mara safari from Nairobi for you.

Alternatively, please email us via [email protected] or [email protected] .  We are the local experts of Nairobi to Masai Mara travel, and there is nothing we would love more than to show you the beauty of our country.

The Summarized 3 Days  Masai Mara Tours from Nairobi Itinerary

The detailed 3 days masai mara safari itinerary – nairobi to masai mara safari.

Throughout the reserve stands scattered patches of thorny shrubs, and around the bushes, tribes of hungry antelopes nibbling the morning sun away. Meters away from the tribe lies an even more starved leopard, body on the ground, eyes set on the prize.

Hundreds of zebras, elephants, gazelles, and rhinos pass by, but Mr. is not one to be dissuaded; he knows what he wants. In a split second, the chase is on! That, ladies and gentlemen, is a typical day out in the Mara. And our 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Itinerary ensures you are all in on the fun.

Day 1: Pickup from Nairobi, Transfer to Masai Mara, & Evening Game Drive

The proficiency of our Masai Mara tour guides is only matched by our respect for time. That is why we are always at the airport an hour before the touchdown. After formally welcoming you, the safari guide will start the 6-hr drive to Masai Mara.

The road trip is full of interesting sightings, and you will make stopovers along the way. You will stop for about 20 minutes at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint. Here you will take photos and then continue driving to Masai Mara.

The next stop is made at Narok town. This is the ideal time to visit the bathroom, stretch your legs, and even do some final shopping. You still have about 3-hrs of the road trip to cover from this town, meaning you will arrive at Mara by noon.

On arrival, the guide will check you into the hotel, leaving you to yourself for some 3-4 hours of well-deserved rest. Masai Mara has something for everyone. There are excellent budget Masai Mara safari camps and even luxury ones you can stay in. You can bet we offer both luxury and cheap Masai Mara Safari packages to meet everyone’s needs.

Some of the superb places to visit during the Masai Mara safari from Nairobi include Mara Serena Camp, Basecamp Explorer, Mara Sopa Lodge, and Ashnil Mara Camp .

Evening Game Drives at Masai Mara – 3 PM

The Mara terrain changes like the wind. The next try to outdo the previous one by doubling its magnificence and wildlife variety. Our knowledgeable, Kenyan-bred Masai Mara safari guide will guide you through this expansive terrain.

The goal is to take you to the park’s wildlife hotspots, bettering your chances of wildlife spotting and great photography. Your game drive is, in this case, deliberately slowed to allow you enough time to explore and fall in love with each terrain. Remember to bring your camera with you.

Some of the animals you will likely see on your evening game drive include the big five, giraffes, antelopes, impalas, hyenas, and many big cats, including the lions.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive at Masai Mara with Packed Lunch

Morning game drives in Masai Mara are a window to her soul and the primary reason it remains Kenya’s leading tourist destination. You set out for the game drive at 6:00 AM after breakfast but with your packed lunch.

Morning game drives are quieter, more intimate, and the best shot you have at spotting the elusive Mara cats. You will, on your path, trod on hundreds of grazers nipping on the dewy morning grass. If you look closely, you will likely see a bush-camouflaged prey readying itself for a kill.

You move at the speed of the jungle, careful not to scare away the herds of grazing impalas and wildebeests. Please leave it to our highly trained Kenyan-bred guide to guide you to the best locations for the best game viewing and photography opportunities.

Staying Inside The Mara Triangle

If you stay inside the Mara Triangle, you are in for a treat. The triangle is the least visited by tourists and the most crowded by wildlife. To the southwest lies the Serengeti border, to the northwest the Siria Escarpments, and east the Mara River.

On day 2 of your 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi , the guide concentrate on the north of the triangle, best known for the Kichwa pride. The pride is a group of 60 adult lions divided among four prides.

Masai Mara National Reserve Migration

How many days in Masai Mara are enough for the wildebeest migration? Those who book this 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi between July and October get to be on the best viewing side of the Great Wildebeest Migration .

The event involves over a million wildebeests, 200,000 impalas, and nearly 500,000 zebras crossing from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara through the Mara River. What are the odds of crossing a river filled with crocodiles and hippos and making it past the banks dotted with the even more dangerous lions, cheetahs, and leopards? Book this 3 Day Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi and find out.

Before heading to the evening game drives, you stop to sample a packed lunch of your best delicacy. The drive branches further north towards the Tanzanian border. You explore the rich scenery and diverse vegetation for about three hours before returning to our lodge or camp.

Day 3: Optional Morning Game Drive, Visit a Maasai Village, & Transfer to Nairobi

Masai Mara’s morning game drives never get old. They are the perfect way to start your day. Today, you will take breakfast, check out, and then head for this game drive (WHEN STAYING INSIDE THE RESERVE ONLY). You will enjoy the morning drive to around 9 am, the ideal time to head to a Maasai village.

Visit The Maasai Village

The guide will drive out of the park and head for the Maasai village. The Maasais’ are colorful people rich in culture and traditions. Your Maasai village visit gives you a better understanding of their world-famous cultural practices.

It opens you up to their outside-the-rest-of-the-world and lets you in on their mutually beneficial friendship with the Mara wild. The visit lasts about 1-hr, and then you start the drive back to Nairobi. You will arrive at JKIA in the evening.

Items Included in the 3 Days Masai Mara Tours from Nairobi Price

• Airport pick-ups and drop-offs
• A private, well-versed tour guide, Kenyan and multilingual
• Round-trip transport to all attractions and destinations as per the itinerary (4×4 Jeep)
• Budget (economy), comfort, superior comfort, or luxury hotels , lodges, or tented camps
• Meals on safari (full-board depending on the budget)
• Masai Mara game reserve entrance fees
• Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
• Evening game drive at Masai Mara on day 1
• Full-day game drive at Masai Mara with packed lunch on day 2
• Morning game drive at Masai Mara on day 3 if you are staying inside the reserve
• Visit a Maasai village on day 3

Items Excluded from the 3 Days Masai Mara Safari Package Price

• Pre-travel expenses (e.g., passports and visas)
• Travel insurance
• Easter Weekend and Christmas supplements of USD 100 Per Person Per Night
• Costs such as baggage fee, laundry charges, luxury drinks such as champagne, etc.
• Tips and gratuities
• Money transfer fee
• Hot air balloon safari

Total Safari Price Per Person Sharing of  Masai Mara Safari for 3 Days – 2024

Children pays 50% of the adult price.

3 Days Masai Mara Safari Tour Guide, Expert Tips, and FAQs

Going on a Kenya safari is pretty exciting, especially if it is your first time. Flying from your home country to Nairobi and into the Masai Mara might cause some anxiety, and we fully understand that. For this reason, our Masai Mara experts have come up with expert tips and additional information that might be useful as you prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

 1. Can You Walk in a Safari?

The Mara looks even more surreal by foot; the grass greener, the wildlife more real. Our highly trained Masai Mara Maasai guides will guide you through this surreality. They will ensure you get close but at a safe-distance-encounter with the reputable flora and fauna.

Masai Mara walking safaris are serene and twice as exciting as the rides. They take you through the rich and rough Mara terrain and allow you an intimate interaction with its wildlife. They also allow you a quiet time of reflection and are the best time to take those Kenya Safari souvenir pics.

 2. How Much is Hot Air Balloon in Kenya? Is Hot Air Balloon in Masai Mara Worth It?

The view from up there is magical enough to make you a believer. It is captivating and unique, making the USD 450 in balloon safari charges seem like pocket change. The ride begins at the first light of sunrise and floats you through the life-worth Mara plains.

It goes lower to allow you a better view of the wildlife and higher to allow a bird’s eye view of the show-stopping scenery. A Masai Mara hot air balloon safari glides you through the spectacular forests, riverine habitats, and forested escarpments. The ride ends with a champagne bush breakfast.

 3. How Much Does a Masai Mara Safari Cost?

There is no one size fits all price for a Masai Mara safari . For this reason, we have designed several Masai Mara packages that you can choose from depending on your budget. These include budget, mid-luxury, and luxury packages.

Each of these packages is designed to show you the splendor of the Mara regardless of how much you spend. We trust you will return with extraordinary memories that will last a lifetime.

 4. How Do You Get from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

There are two main ways to get from Nairobi to Masai Mara. The first way, which is the fastest, is to fly. Masai Mara flights leave daily from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. A flight takes about 45 minutes.

The second way is to go via road. A road transfer from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours in a custom-made safari vehicle.

 5. What Airport is in Masai Mara?

Masai Mara Game Reserve does not have one major airport but various airstrips located in different areas of the park. We will arrange for your flight to land at the airstrip nearest your hotel or camp.

Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to take you to the hotel. Depending on the distance, you will have your first game drive en route.

 6. Can You Drive from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

Yes. You can drive from Nairobi to Masai Mara. The distance is about 260KM, and the drive takes roughly 5-6 hours. The distance might increase slightly depending on the location of your hotel.

Driving to Masai Mara is exciting as it lets you see Kenya’s countryside up close. One of the best moments of the drive is the mandatory stop at the breathtaking Great Rift Valley Viewpoint.

 7. How Many Days in Masai Mara for a Great Safari?

The length of your stay at the Masai Mara will mainly depend on your budget and itinerary. In our experience, we recommend that you need a 2-night safari from Nairobi to enjoy the Masai Mara fully. 

If you are going by road, the first and last half-day will be taken up traveling. That gives you time for four game drives. 

 8. How Far is Amboseli from Masai Mara?

Amboseli National Park is about 462.7KM from Masai Mara. It is on the floor of Mt. Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenya-Tanzania border . Driving from Masai Mara to Amboseli takes slightly over 8.5 hours. A safari from Masai Mara to Amboseli will see you spend a night at Lake Nakuru , Lake Naivasha , or Nairobi . A flight takes about 1.5-hr.

Amboseli National Park is famous for its large herds of elephants and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro .

 9. How Do You Get to the Serengeti?

Depending on where you are coming from, you can fly directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha, Tanzania, where most Serengeti tours start. From Arusha, you can take a domestic flight into the Serengeti. 

If you are going by road, a transfer from Arusha to Serengeti will take 8 hours in a custom-made safari vehicle . If you are in Nairobi, you can take a connecting flight to Arusha and then Serengeti.

 10. What is the Best Time to Visit Masai Mara from Nairobi?

The best time to visit the Masai Mara is between July and October when the wildebeest migration occurs. During these months, millions of wildebeest move from the Serengeti, crossing the dangerous Mara River into the Masai Mara Reserve. 

If you cannot travel between these months, do not worry, you can visit the Masai Mara at any time of year and still have a fantastic adventure

 11. How Much Does Kenya Safari Cost?

A Kenya safari can cost as much or as little as you would like. International flights will take a large chunk of your budget, which cannot be escaped. We will advise you on all available budget options considering the length of the safari, the number of places you wish to visit, and the means of transport. 

The price of this 3-Day Nairobi to Masai Mara Safari starts from as low as USD 925 per person based on two adults. 

 12. What Month is the Wildebeest Migration?

The wildebeest migration takes place between July and October every year. This migration is one of the most exciting natural phenomena in the world, earning its place as one of the world’s wonders.

Every year millions of wildebeest make the treacherous trip from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. As they cross the Mara River, they will find hungry crocodiles waiting, and the battle for survival is won only by the strongest.

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2 day Masai Mara Safari Tour

Maasai Mara is one of the most famous and important wildlife conservation and wilderness areas in Africa, world-renowned for its exceptional populations of lion, leopard, cheetah and African bush elephant.

Masai Mara hosts large prides of lions and is rated as one of the best places to see cheetahs in the wild and a 2 day safari in the Mara will bring you up close with over two million wildebeest, zebras and antelopes that make up the famous Great Migration. 

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The best 2 day Masai Mara Tours 

Price of a 2 day masai mara safari.

Budget tours start at $250 per person whilst mid-range tours start at $350 per person, while luxury tours start at approximately $500 per person.

Safari packages to the Masai Mara span a wide price range, influenced by several variables. The biggest factor determining the price of a safari is the level of accommodation. This will ultimately categorize tours as being budget, mid-range or luxury. Shared tours are usually cheaper than private tours. 

This is especially the case for single travelers. On a 2 day trip you might want to consider a fly-in safari, but these are considerably more expensive than road safaris. Check out the seasons too; low-season prices can be favorable and while you’ll probably get some rain at this time, it’s when the scenery is at its best.

Tour breakdown for a typical 2 days Masai Mara

Safari tour highlights.

• See the Big Five including the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo in an iconic world-famous game park
• All-inclusive tours including lodging, entrance fees, meals, and transport
• Private tour guide in English and other languages
• Game drives in comfortable, open top safari vehicles
• Unforgettable savannah vistas
• Experience the Maasai people and culture
• Unique accommodation including safari lodges and tented camps
• Optional activity add-ons including hot air balloon safaris

Tour inclusions

The following details typical tour inclusions and exclusions on the best 2 days Masai Mara safari package:

Itinerary example for a 2 day Masai Mara tour

The typical itinerary that safari visitors can expect on a 2 day Masai Mara tour includes:  

Day 1 – Start your safari from Nairobi

Meal plan: Lunch, Dinner

A tour driver guide reports to your hotel for the start of the safari, with a 8am – 8.30am departure for a scenic drive down into the Rift Valley, to Masai Mara. You will be in your own private safari vehicle and stop briefly en route at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for stunning views of what is the world’s largest valley. 

Arrive at Masai Mara for lunch. The afternoon game drive at 3.30pm allows for spotting some of the most incredible wildlife in the park. Return to your camp by 6.30pm. Dinner and overnight at Basecamp which could be Keekorok Lodge, Mara Sopa Lodge or similar, depending on availability.

Day 2 – Return to Nairobi

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch

At the break of dawn you embark on your concluding game drive in the Mara followed by a relaxed breakfast and onward departure for Nairobi. Arrive into Nairobi by early afternoon, typically at approximately 2.30pm. Optional add-ons activities can be included also.

Drop off at your hotel, or free onward transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Safari essentials and information

Is a 2 day safari in masai mara sufficient.

2 days is just enough to experience the stunning Masai Mara. With two game drives a day, one an early morning game drive and one in the late afternoon, you’ll have ample time to see lions, rhinos, wildebeest, elephants, buffaloes and incredible scenery. 

There’s no denying that a longer timeframe would be better however shorter periods such as 2 days safaris here can indeed be done. If 2 days is all you can spare, a safari in the Masai Mara is still worthwhile. 

Whether you’re looking to squeeze in a short safari on a stopover in Nairobi between flights, you’re adding a few days to a business trip, or you’re in need of a weekend escape from the capital, a 2-day Masai Mara safari is a great option. 

On a 2 days trip you can even break up the drive to or from the Masai Mara with an overnight stay in Lake Nakuru or Lake Naivasha , with the option to visit nearby Hell’s Gate NP . 

Alternatively you can spend all of your time in Maasai Mara . With full days at the reserve, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore this iconic safari destination including a full-day dusk-to-dawn game drive that will include lunch at one of the picnic spots. 

Accommodation offered on a 2 days Masai Mara safari?

After a long day surveying the incredible wildlife on offer, guests can look forward to the very best safari accommodation Kenya has to offer. The accommodation here is excellent with numerous options from tented camps, luxury lodges to camping grounds. 

There is no shortage of accommodation in the Masai Mara. There are lodges and camps to suit everybody. There is a big range of prices too. To keep costs down, you could choose to stay just outside the reserve where camps are usually a bit cheaper. 

As the reserve is unfenced, you might still see wildlife at your accommodation. It will probably take a bit longer to get to where the best wildlife viewing is than if you stay inside the reserve. Therefore, budget permitting, it might be more time-efficient to stay inside the reserve on a very short trip. 

Styles vary but chalets and old-school tented camps are popular options for the smaller, more intimate camps. The level of luxury is more in the details; the exclusivity, service, food and guiding offered is superb. In contrast with these boutique lodges are the bigger hotels. While they might lack character, they offer a more conventional level of luxury in regular rooms that have air-conditioning and, in some cases, even TV.

Animals on a Masai Mara safari?

The reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo) and has the highest concentration of Big Cats not just in East Africa but worldwide making the location a perfect research center for hyenas and Big Cats. 

World famous for hosting the epic Great Migration, the Masai Mara welcomes 1.5 million wildebeests onto its sprawling savannahs each July through October. Other wildlife that visitors can expect to find include abundant elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions and cheetah alongside the migratory animals and zebra. 

With over 450 animal species, visitors can also have a clear view of animals catching them in action when on a hot-air balloon African safari early in the morning. Leopards are frequently encountered, endangered black rhino hide in the dense thickets and large rafts of hippo and enormous crocodiles are found in the Mara River crossings. 

Best time to go on a 2 days Masai Mara safari?

To avoid crowds, the low-season months of April to May and November to December see fewer visitors than the rest of the year. While this isn’t the best time for wildlife viewing, there are always animals around. April and May are the wettest months, but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery and an abundance of baby animals. 

Midsummer can get busy though, so come at the beginning or end of that period with its full on wildlife without crazy crowds. Even during the high season, some areas of the Mara are busier than others, but for a really exclusive safari experience you can book into one of the private conservancies bordering the Masai Mara.

Fly or drive to Masai Mara?

On a 2 days safari, flying and driving to the Masai Mara are both viable options, with flying bringing obvious time savings (50 minutes from Nairobi) and incredible views of the wildlife and landscape. Flying also comes with a higher price tag. The drive to the Mara takes almost 6 hours, with the last 100km/62mi of the road quite poor. Fly-in safaris usually include top-end accommodation and all your activities. 

On a 2 days tour of the Mara, you can easily break up the drive with a stopover. Lake Nakuru NP is the most popular option. This Rift Valley lake teems with birdlife, and this is the best place in Kenya to see rhinos, which are very difficult to spot in the Masai Mara, as well as the hustle and bustle of African countryside life.  

Another great option is to spend a night at Hell’s Gate NP. The dramatic scenery is the main attraction and, as there are few dangerous animals, cycling and hiking are permitted in the park. 

How much spending money do I need for a 2 day Masai Mara safari?

Visitors should budget for approximately $300 for a Kenya safari per person per day, including food and accommodation. Kenyan safaris can be more expensive than their continental counterparts due to the higher costs of accommodation and food.

What animals will I see on a 2 day Masai Mara safari tour?

Visitors on a 2 day Masai Mara safari will see the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo), hyenas, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetah, zebras, endangered black rhinos, hippos, crocodiles and much more.

What is the best part of Masai Mara?

The best part of Masai Mara is the renowned and remote western section of the reserve, known as the Mara Triangle. It is managed as a non-profit conservancy run by the local Maasai and is considered one of the best areas for game-viewing in the area.

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1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari

Adding item to wishlist requires an account, already a member, don't have an account create one., 1 day trip masai mara national reserve (5 hours game drive - see the big 5).

1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari is perfect for budget travelers and families who want a Big Five safari adventure. It’s a short and easy Kenya safari, with Masai Mara lying a 4.5-hour drive from Nairobi . This is an action-packed day safari in Masai Mara National Reserve , starting and ending in Nairobi. On safari in the Masai Mara, you can expect to see the Big 5, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and more. There are thousands of antelope from tiny dik-diks to gazelles and eland intermingle with zebra, wildebeest, and other large herbivores like giraffes, buffalo, and elephants.

For bird watchers, the Masai Mara is home to around 450 resident species including large species like ostriches and kori bustards, almost 60 species of raptors including the impressive bateleur, long-crested eagle, and vultures as well as a plethora of smaller colorful and diverse species like lilac breasted rollers and violet-backed starlings. Please sit back and relax while your experienced guide takes you on exciting game drives in search of the Big Five and more, sharing his or her knowledge as you explore. A  lunch stop is also included in your Full-day Masai Mara Safari. 

1 Day Maasai Mara National Reserve Safari is a wildlife adventure for those pressed for time and spontaneous. Maasai Mara is one of the best wildlife safari destinations in Kenya to do a day trip. It has been said that even an hour in paradise is a rewarding experience and this can also be said to be true of Africa’s greatest wildlife park, the Maasai Mara.

An hour is rewarding, but a whole day is a life-changing experience. Game viewing from open safari vehicles in the Maasai Mara has to be one of the ultimate safari experiences in Africa and being able to do this in a day is ideal for those with limited time available. Maasai Mara National Reserve is a 5-hour drive from Nairobi.

Please note: our 1 Day Maasai Mara National Reserve Safari includes 6 hours of game-viewing in the park, a lunch break at a scenic spot, and round-trip road transportation from Nairobi (each way takes about 5 hours).

1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari Highlights

*  Picnic lunch in scenic spots by the Mara River *  You will be in the company of a knowledgeable local guide *  Encounters with amazing wildlife, and natural beauty of the Maasai Mara *  Best chance of seeing all the members of the Big 5 – Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo on a single safari

1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari Itinerary

0400 Hours: Depart your hotel/ residence in Nairobi (with picnic lunch box) by road to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve .

0900 Hours:  Arrive in Maasai Mara. The driving time from Nairobi is about 5 hours (270 km ) . Game drives start from the   Sekenani gate. The Maasai Mara is well-known for its boundless opportunities to spot the famous African Big Five – Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino, and of course Lion. The famous wildebeest migration also takes place at the Mara.

The Mara is also home to the richest concentration of wildlife, including zebras, antelope, gnus, Oribis, hyenas, giraffes, warthogs, gazelles, hartebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and others. The park has the largest concentration of African lions, including the black-maned lion. For bird lovers, the Mara birds come in every color and size.

More than  400 bird species have already been recorded, including birds of prey. You can enjoy a colorful view of birds such as vultures, ostriches, long-crested eagles, pygmy falcons, secretary birds, marabous, owls, bustards, and many others.

With so much on offer, our 1 full-day Maasai Mara National Reserve Safari is the best way to experience the Mara if you have limited time and want to learn more about the park from a knowledgeable guide.

1300 Hours : You will enjoy your packed lunch at the picnic site before proceeding with your game drive

1600 Hours:  Depart the reserve for your return journey back to Nairobi

2100 Hours: Arrive back in Nairobi and transfer to your hotel/ residence

1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari Prices

1-day masai mara national reserve safari prices include:.

Picnic Lunch box (choices of protein, vegetable, fruit, etc) + Relevant Government Taxes + Park entrance fees (worth 80 US Dollars per person) + Drinking bottled water in the safari vehicle + Services of our English-speaking safari driver/ guide + Round trip transportation from Nairobi to Maasai Mara and back to Nairobi & 6 Hours game-drive in the Masai Mara Game Reserve (+ visit to the Mara River) & Safari departs at 0500 Hours and returns at 2000 hours)

* Additional information confirmation will be received at the time of booking * You will have an opportunity to visit an authentic Masai village (at an extra cost of 20 US Dollars per person payable to the chief in the village) * You could also opt for our flying-in 1-Day Maasai Mara Flying Safari Package from Nairobi: at 0915 Hours Depart Nairobi in the morning by air to the Maasai Mara. Meet your driver guide, enjoy a 6-hour game drive + picnic lunch, and later at 1615 Hours  board the evening flight for Nairobi to arrive at  1745 Hours.  Click Here for Full Details

1-Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari Prices Exclude:

* Visa Fees * International flight * Personal Insurance * Expenses of a personal nature such as; drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, cigarettes, accommodation & meals not indicated in the itinerary, and optional activities

Important Safari Information

A 1 Day Masai Mara National Reserve Safari is indeed short, but it can be done and you will get to see the Big 5. If you’re coming from Nairobi, taking an internal flight direct to Masai Mara would be ideal, as this takes just 50 minutes if your budget allows for it.

If you travel by road, you’ll have a long drive, however, you will arrive in time for two game drives and enough time to have your lunch and more. In summary, it is possible and indeed worth it, however, if you can commit more time, two or three days would be even better.

With one full day in Masai Mara, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore this iconic safari destination with a dusk-to-dawn game drive that will include lunch at one of the incredible picnic spots overlooking a wildlife watering hole.

Animals on a Masai Mara safari?

The reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo) and has the highest concentration of Big Cats not just in East Africa but worldwide making the location a perfect research center for hyenas and Big Cats. 

World famous for hosting the epic Great Migration, the Masai Mara welcomes 1.5 million wildebeests onto its sprawling savannahs each July through October. Other wildlife that visitors can expect to find include abundant elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs alongside the migratory animals and zebra. 

With over 450 animal species, visitors can also have a clear view of animals catching them in action when on a hot-air balloon African safari early in the morning. Leopards are frequently encountered, endangered black rhinos hide in the dense thickets and large rafts of hippos and enormous crocodiles are found in the Mara River crossings. 

Best time to go on a Masai Mara safari?

To avoid crowds, the low-season months of April to May and November to December see fewer visitors than the rest of the year. While this isn’t the best time for wildlife viewing, there are always animals around. April and May are the wettest months, but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery and an abundance of baby animals. 

Midsummer can get busy though, so come at the beginning or end of that period with its full-on wildlife without crazy crowds. Even during the high season, some areas of the Mara are busier than others, but for a really exclusive safari experience, you can book into one of the private conservancies bordering the Masai Mara.

Fly or drive to Masai Mara?

On a day trip safari, flying and driving to the Masai Mara are both viable options, with flying bringing obvious time savings (50 minutes from Nairobi) and incredible views of the wildlife and landscape. Flying also comes with a higher price tag. The drive to the Mara takes almost 6 hours, with the last 100km/62 miles of the road quite poor. Fly-in safaris usually include top-end accommodation and all your activities.

On a day trip tour of the Mara, you can easily break up the drive with a stopover. Lake Nakuru NP is the most popular option. This Rift Valley lake teems with birdlife, and this is the best place in Kenya to see rhinos, which are very difficult to spot in the Masai Mara, as well as the hustle and bustle of African countryside life.

Another great option is to spend a night at Hell’s Gate NP. The dramatic scenery is the main attraction and, as there are few dangerous animals, cycling and hiking are permitted in the park.

Will I get to meet the Maasai people?

Yes, meeting the wonderful Maasai people and getting to know all about their lives is a highlight of any visit here. Many lodges and safari companies employ Maasai as guides and drivers, and also as employees in their lodges and tented camps. 

Most can also arrange visits to local Maasai communities if this is possible before booking your Kenya safari. It can be difficult to interact meaningfully with the Maasai on such occasions, although you can learn a great deal if you take the time to talk with those guiding you, serving your food, or cleaning your rooms. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. what is the best part of masai mara.

The best part of Masai Mara is the renowned and remote western section of the reserve, known as the Mara Triangle. It is managed as a non-profit conservancy run by the local Maasai and is considered one of the best areas for game viewing in the area.

2. What animals will I see on a day trip to Masai Mara?

Visitors on a 1 day Masai Mara safari will see the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo), hyenas, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetah, zebras, endangered black rhinos, hippos, crocodiles and much more.

3. How much spending money do I need for a 1 day Masai Mara safari?

Visitors should budget for approximately $300 for a Kenya safari per person per day, including food and accommodation. Kenyan safaris can be more expensive than their continental counterparts due to the higher costs of accommodation and food.

Booking & Reservations 1 Day Maasai Mara Safari From Nairobi Contact

Mobile: +254-721-242-711 WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711 Reservations: +254 718-179-967 Email: [email protected] Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com

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How to plan the best safari in Masai Mara in Kenya

Itineraries, transportation, accommodation, safari prices, and best time to go. This is the best guide on how to plan the perfect safari in Masai Mara in Kenya.

Think about a perfect safari experience and you will probably end up imagining a safari in Masai Mara in Kenya. This world-renowned national reserve is not only Kenya’s biggest pride, but is also one of the most beautiful places in the world. Expect to see vast grasslands where more than 1 million zebras and wildebeest roam freely, herds of elephants drinking water next to water buffalos and if you are patient enough, lions, cheetahs and leopards quietly searching for a hunt.

Visiting Kenya without exploring Masai Mara is missing something special, and with so many wild experiences to look for, options to move around the park and prices that go from just a couple of hundreds of dollars to even thousands per day. Even so, it is important to understand what makes Masai Mara so special and how to make the most of your time and money. This is how you plan the best safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

Understanding Masai Mara

Known as “the greater Masai Mara ecosystem” , this large ecosystem consists of two natural reservoirs ( Mara Triangle and Masai Mara National Reserve ), several smaller private conservancies and some Masai villages around the parks. They are located 255km south-west from Nairobi (about 5-6 hours’ drive) and right next to the border between Tanzania and Kenya. In fact, Masai Mara limits the Serengeti National Park and you can even say they belong to the same ecosystem, just in a different country.

Before you visit Masai Mara, take into consideration how many days you want to spend inside the national reserve, where would you like to stay and what kind of activities are you planning to do. These decisions will significantly have an effect on how expensive your trip to Masai Mara will be.

Still, no matter if you are going on a group tour, a private safari or as an independent self-driving traveler, it is nice to understand the options you have.

Read more: Tsavo, Amboseli or Masai Mara – Which safari park in Kenya should you visit?

Masai Mara National Reserve

This is the largest section of the Masai Mara and home for the largest concentration of animals in the park. It is basically an obligatory stop if you want to explore the best of Masai Mara and no matter at what time of the year you go, it will never get boring.

Expect to see large concentrations of wildebeest, zebras, elephants and lions.

Mara Triangle

Located in the west side of the Masai Mara and isolated from the rest of the park by the Mara river, the Mara Triangle is considered by many safari experts as the most beautiful spot in the whole Masai Mara. “The Mara Triangle is what makes Africa the most beautiful continent on earth”, said my tour guide Chris, after I asked him what makes the Mara Triangle so special.

Here is the perfect spots to see less crowds of tourists, but also thousands of wildebeest taking a rest and waiting for the right moment to continue their migration.

Private conservancies

Private conservancies are usually owned by private luxury lodges. These are unfortunately not places you can simply get in and out, as you would have to pre-book a visit to any of the conservancies or stay at the lodges.

A visit to a private conservancy can be on one side very rewarding – they usually know better where to find big cats – but also way more expensive. It is the perfect option for those who want to splurge themselves on a holiday.

Take into consideration, visiting a conservancy does not mean you will see more wildlife than in the national reserve.

Keep in mind

Just like in most national parks in Africa, entrance fees will be the highest cost when planning a trip. While the 24 hour day pass to the Masai Mara National Reserve cost 70 USD per day, visiting the Mara Triangle conservation area will cost additionally 40 USD and visit a private conservancy can start at around 100 USD per day.

Check all prices at the official sites of the Mara Triangle , the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Mara Conservancies.

NOTE: Travelers with limited time and higher budget can also get a private charter from Nairobi airport to Masai Mara. Flights can be schedule regularly during the day from Wilson Airport in central Nairobi and it can take you from Nairobi to Masai Mara in just 30-45 minutes for around 200 USD.  Before booking a private flight , consult with your tour operator or lodge the fly-in safari tours they might offer.

Best places to stay in Masai Mara

With entrance fees to Masai Mara being your highest expense, and transportation costs being quite fix from the beginning, accommodation will determine if you are getting a more luxurious or budget experience in your safari.

It is true that if you check on hotel booking platforms, you will probably see lodges inside Masai Mara starting at hundreds of dollars. But don’t worry.  Most of these accommodation options include some kind of activity that you can also get on a private tour or organize yourself.

Masai Mara is one of the best national parks in Africa, when it comes to finding accommodation under your desired budget. Options are plenty and no matter if you go on a budget or stay in a villa with a private pool,  the quality of the safari experience will be almost the same.  

Read more: How to plan a visit to Amboseli National Park

With only three options available, public campsites are only located on the Mara Triangle side of the park with prices starting at 30 USD a night. Furthermore, 5 private campsites are also located inside the Mara triangle. Prices for these camps tend to be more expensive, but facilities and services are way better. From private campsites you can also schedule walking safaris or drives around the national park

Camping options and prices are available at the official website of Mara Bookings

Lodging outside the national park

An excellent option for keeping that budget under control is staying outside the national park. Don’t worry, sleeping outside the park does not mean staying out of the action. The towns of Talek, Keekorok or Kawai are located right next to the gates of Masai Mara and  here you can find accommodation for more than 1/3 of the price as inside the national reserve.  

What are the disadvantages? There is nothing more exciting and simultaneously scary as hearing lions roar in the middle of the night – something that is only possible if you stay inside the gates of the national reserve.

Lodging inside the national park

With most world-renowned lodge companies and luxury companies having accommodation options inside Masai Mara, here you can also have plenty of choice and pricing. Unfortunately, due to its outstanding location, expect prices to be way higher – a price to pay for a more rewarding experience. Lodges inside the Masai Mara National Reserve start at 150-200 USD a night per person.

Staying inside Masai Mara is an experience like no other. Hear baboons grunt in the early morning or lions roar in the middle of the night. If camping is not your cup of tea and you want to make the most of your experience in Masai Mara, this can be the right option for you.

Lodging in a private conservancy

With private airstrips and facilities that exceed the imagination, lodging in a private conservancy is an experience of a lifetime. Four seasons, Fairmont and &Beyond are some of the companies that have turn safari experiences into playgrounds for adults.  

Expect to be welcome with cocktails and smoothies, or simply getting woke up with a glass of ice coffee. At the same time, be prepared to spend at least a couple of thousand of dollars just for a few days.

NOTE: If you are planning to stay on a mid-range or a luxurious lodge, it is way better to plan your trip with a private local tour operator. Tour operators get better rates than private clients when booking accommodation and even though you have to book a full package including a driver and game drives, it will end up being way cheaper than planning it independently.

Other activities in Masai Mara

Doing 3-4 full days of safari in Masai Mara is not an activity for everyone. After hours of driving around the natural areas, landscapes can become monotonous and the excitement of seeing an elephant or a lion is not there anymore. I’m not saying it happens all the time, but anyone who has done a safari before knows what I’m talking about.

Fortunately there are lots of additional activities to do in Masai Mara. One of the most popular and recommended ones is a tour to a Masai village.

Read more: Everything You Need To Know About The Wildebeest Migration

These villages are located outside the natural reserve. Here, local Masai will tell you more about their culture, their traditions and how they used to live decades before globalization. You can also see some of the craft that the local families make, as well ask them questions about life as a Masai in the current age and their villages.

Some people complaint that most of these Masai do these activities for the money it provides and the experience is not “real”. However, everyone benefits from these cultural tours. We, by having more awareness about the disappearing Masai and them by earning the money they need to offer their families a better future.

Other options are walking safaris organized by the lodges (around 20-30 USD), as well balloon rides early in the morning (around 350 USD).

Read more: How ethical is to do cultural tourism in Africa?

Best time to visit Masai Mara

What is the best time to visit the Masai Mara? Well, this question can be quite open, as most of us plan a trip based on the budget and the experience we want to get.

Masai Mara is known for having excellent wildlife experiences all year round. However, most wildlife lovers agree that the best time to visit Masai Mara is during the wildebeest migration (mid-June to October). During this time, millions of wildebeest move from Kenya to Tanzania crossing the Mara river. This gives a great opportunity for encountering some of the wildest safari experiences in the world. At the same time, expect prices to almost double for safari tours and lodging to be booked months in advanced.

Additionally, November to February is still considered high season. Prices are not as high as during the migration, but still you can see plenty of wildlife.

March til May are on the other hand a low season. Grass is high due to the heavy rain and visibility is limited. Predators do not have difficulty to hunt and they can easily hide. Still, prices are way lower during this season and the chances to see all big five in a single trip is still there.  

Read more: What are the top safari experiences in Africa

Group tour, private tour or self-drive safaris

Any type of safari in Masai Mara is already a big expense. Safaris in Masai Mara are considered one of the most expensive experiences worldwide and considering which option is the one with most value is a very valid question when planning a visit to Masai Mara.

While group tours offer a very budget friendly option for travelers who want to focus on saving money, take into consideration that you will be traveling with lots of people (around 6-8 on a van). This will significantly affect how personal your experience in Masai Mara will be, as well the flexibility of the whole trip itself.

On the other hand independently driving to Masai Mara will give you all the flexibility you want, but zero knowledge of where you are going. Self-driving in Masai Mara means driving in very difficult conditions and budget wise, it won’t be cheaper than traveling with a tour.

Insurance costs, rental costs and park fees will be quite high if you travel to Masai Mara as a self-driver and unless you have a good understanding of wildlife and the Masai Mara itself, the chances of seeing big cats, will be quite small.

I personally found going on a private company the best option for visiting Masai Mara. Private operators adapt very easily to your budget conditions and offer the flexibility you simply can’t get on a group tour. It is definitely more expensive than going on a group, but I think it gave me way more value, than if I visited Masai Mara in a van full of people, or if I rented a vehicle and drove myself.

I booked my trip with Africa Kenya Safaris , a local company based in Nairobi. Before our trip, we discussed exactly what I wanted to explore and in what budget I was traveling. Since they also know all the lodges and camping sites, they could also analyze for me which ones would be the best according what I wanted and offered a good price. After comparing the prices of planning a trip independently or separately, this was the best value I could find.

NOTE: While foreign tour operators seem on their online presence to be most trustful than local companies in Kenya, getting in contact with a Kenyan company is the best way to get the best knowledge and value out of your tour.

Read more: How to prepare for your first safari trip

How much a safari in Masai Mara costs?

With so many variables and options, it is really difficult to fully calculate how expensive a safari to Masai Mara can be. Still, if you are planning to travel to Masai Mara on a budget, expect to spend around 600-700 USD for a four day tour in low season.

Furthermore, if you are staying in a mid-range lodge with all meals and private games drives included, plan anything between 800-1000 USD per person for a 2 person private safari.  

Read more: How to plan a trip to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

What type of safari in Masai Mara should I book?

A budget safari can be fun, but you have to keep in mind that you will have to share vehicle, have less privacy and end up having less time.

Still, if the budget is a big concern for you. These are the best Masai Mara Tours under 400 USD in SafariBookings

If you are looking for a more private mid-range experience, you can also find private tours for a higher budget, but offering a more memorable trip. A mid range tour cost anything between 700 to 1200 USD and in these tours you will get a private safari vehicle, better lodging (4-star) and better guidance.

Finally, if budget is not a question and you want to experience Africa like the rich and famous, luxury tours start around 1500 USD per person for 3 days at Masai Mara and can go up to thousands more.

In SafariBookings , you can get in touch with operators from all over Kenya and create personalized tours directly with the top tour operators in the region

How would I plan my next trip to Masai Mara?

After getting a good glimpse of Masai Mara and try different activities, lodges and traveling options, I would plan my next trip mid-October or beginning November. It is a time when conditions are excellent for wildlife viewing and additionally, there are still large chances of seeing thousands of wildebeest crossing.

At these months, you would not encounter as many visitors as in other times like Summer or Christmas and because the peak season is almost ending, prices are lower and offers can be easily found.

Read more: How to cross overland from Kenya to Tanzania

How to book the best safari online?

When it comes to planning a safari, SafariBookings is by far the best platform to book safaris online

They have the largest database of tour operators in Africa and you can simply send a request and negotiate a tour and a price directly with the operator. You don’t have to pay any additional fees and you can send as many requests as you want.

I’ve used SafariBookings when traveling to Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Kenya. They made a huge difference for me in understanding prices, activities and local operators in the area. I was also able to find tours for as little as 300 USD when I traveled to Amboseli National Park in 2021.

These are some of the most popular tours in Masai Mara at SafariBookings

How do I find cheap flights to Kenya?

Finding a cheap flight anywhere around the world is not always easy. It’s about comparing platforms, selecting the right routes and booking at the right time. Fortunately, platforms like Skyscanner became known as an all-in-one tool for booking flights at the lowest cost possible.

They analyse every potential company and sub-contractor in order to find the lowest price available for you. Not only that, but you can also select the option “Travel Anywhere” and let Skyscanner find the cheapest place to travel at any selected date.

I check all my flights first at Skyscanner , and in 90% of the cases, I find the best option for me to book.

Also, by booking here using Skyscanner , you will support my blog and help me create more amazing and useful content.

MY FAVORITE NATIONAL PARKS

Saxon switzerland national park, masai mara natural reserve, bwindi impenetrable forest, white desert protected area, victoria falls national park.

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Kentau Safaris

4-Day Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Adventure

4.9 /5 – 26 Reviews

Embark on an exhilarating 4-day safari adventure, beginning at Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate, then venturing into the renowned Masai Mara Game Reserve. Our exclusive private tour guarantees an immersive exploration of Africa's cherished wildlife sanctuary. Departing and concluding in Nairobi, enjoy the comfort and prime wildlife observation from our 4×4 Safari Jeep.

Tour Features

Budget tour.

This budget tour uses tented camps and hotels.

Private tour

This tour will be organized exclusively for you and won't be shared with others.

Can start any day

If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.

Can be customized

You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.

Suitable for solo travelers

Solo travelers can book this private tour.

Minimum age of 5 years

The minimum age for this tour is 5 years.

Activities & Transportation

Accommodation & meals.

• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
• Day Accommodation Meals

• 2-3 Mara Olodare Camp Budget tented camp just outside Masai Mara NR – All Meals Included All Meals Included
• 4 End of tour (No accommodation) – Breakfast Included Breakfast Included

Best price guarantee

Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

• This tour is offered by Kentau Safaris , not SafariBookings.
• This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
• If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
• The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
• If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.

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Comparable tours.

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6 days masai mara nakuru amboseli budget safari

Nairobi Kenya

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How To Spend 3 Days In Masai Mara, The Safari Park From The Lion King

This Kenyan national park is one of the best places in the world to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the wild.

When it comes to planning an African safari , TikTok can agree on one thing: Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya needs to be on your itinerary.

“The Land of the Big Cats” has a reputation as one of the best places on the continent to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the wild; it was one of the main filming locations of the live-action Lion King movie .

Masai Mara’s location in the Great Rift Valley gives it a leg up on wildlife diversity compared to other reserves. Its 580 miles of lush savannah is home to almost 90 different mammal species, and safari-goers have a good chance of spotting all of the African “Big Five” — lions, leopards, elephants, African buffalo, and the elusive black rhinos — as well as members of the slightly lesser-known (but equally ‘Gram-worthy) so-called “Ugly Five,” hyenas and warthogs included. If you visit in late summer, you might even see the Great Migration of over 2 million wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores crossing the Mara River from the neighboring Serengeti Desert.

This February, I spent 10 days visiting Kenya’s national parks and game reserves on an itinerary curated by EF Ultimate Break , a Gen Z and millennial tour company. After a week of bush glamping in sparsely vegetated and dusty parks throughout Kenya, Masai Mara was comparatively lush, and my safari Jeep was constantly stumbling upon families of elephants, giraffes, and lions.

If you’re heading to Kenya on safari soon or scrolling TikTok for future inspiration , here’s what’s worth doing at Masai Mara and how to spend three days at the reserve.

What To Do At Masai Mara

Day 1: hang out with baby elephants & meet the maasai tribe.

After a 20-plus-hour journey from Chicago, I stretched my legs at one of Nairobi’s most popular attractions. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Orphans Project houses baby elephants and rhinos who are currently unable to survive in the wild for whatever reason, and it’s just as cute as you’d expect. There was a collective “aw” as the tiniest baby black rhino stumbled out to meet the crowd, and we got introduced to all the baby elephants as they clumsily ran to the keepers for their bottles of milk.

The experience was more crowded and touristy than I expected, but I enjoyed learning the story behind each baby animal, seeing their personalities, and petting them. You’re also able to sponsor one of the baby elephants or rhinos until they’re ready to go back into the wild.

After hanging out with the animals, get into your safari Jeep to drive the five hours to Masai Mara. I stayed at PrideInn Mara Camp, which had glamping tents and cottages just steps from the park and Lake Talek, but there are plenty of accommodations around Masai Mara’s perimeter (including regular hotels like a JW Marriott Masai Mara if sleeping in a tent without air conditioning isn’t your vibe).

The best part of the PrideInn Mara Camp (and others in the area) is the presence of the Maasai tribe , which welcomed us with a traditional song and dance. There were also a number of warriors who worked in the hotel and who would walk us to and from our rooms if it was late at night.

Day 2: Take A Hot Air Balloon & A Drive

The park is huge, so soaring over the savannah to see the landscape and animals from above is an efficient and bucket list-worthy way to start off your safari experience.

We had to wake up at 4 a.m. to head over to the hot air balloon launch site, but I quickly stopped complaining about the early call time when we were in the balloon and the sun was rising over Masai Mara.

We got to take in bird's eye views of the Mara River (including a rare sighting of an adorable baby hippo that was splashing through it), check out a family of grazing giraffes from above, and get eye-level with the vultures in the trees. Afterward, we enjoyed an English-style brunch with unlimited mimosas in the middle of the bush, then headed back to the camp to nap it all off.

In the early afternoon, we headed on our second safari and stayed until twilight. After spending almost two weeks in Kenya, I realized it’s 100% worth doing two safari drives a day — one in the morning as the sun rises and one at dusk right before the predators are about to start hunting — to get the fullest picture of how the animals act in their natural habitat.

Depending on the time of day, you’ll also see different personalities from the lions. When I went in the morning, the lions weren’t the apex predators I’d anticipated. Instead, the pride was almost playful, with a young male lion with a dandelion mane nuzzling his father and the female lions, and cuddling with them in the sun. The only hint of their agility and quick reflexes were shown in how they quickly flipped from side to side and how alert they seemed at all times, with their heads suddenly popping above the grass when they’d been lazily napping in the sun just moments earlier.

Another day, as the sun went down, I saw a group of lionesses who’d been napping and were barely camouflaged in the long grass start to oh-so-casually make their move. They inched toward a grazing herd of wildebeests, their eyes locked on their next meal. I wouldn’t have experienced these different personalities if I hadn’t seen both in action.

Day 3: Go On A Morning Game Drive & Visit The Maasai Tribe

After going on a sunrise game drive, take an afternoon tour of the Maasai tribe’s village. Dressed in signature bright red robes, the warriors greeted us at the entrance of their village. They taught us some of their chants and performed a 10-minute celebratory song and dance that we were encouraged to take part in, which included mimicking the roaring of lions, shaking our shoulders, and competing to see who could jump the highest.

Then, they sectioned us off into groups to tour the family huts and learn about their pastoral lifestyle. Many of the Maasai people have gone into tourism and are employed by hotels and other hospitality businesses in the area, but they’re one of the few tribes where many members still practice their traditional way of life.

After the tour, we got to shop the tribe’s gorgeous beadwork, carved wooden products, and other souvenirs. I picked up a blue bracelet, a beaded choker, and some wooden coasters painted with safari animals to bring back home with me.

Ultimately, I came back to Chicago feeling relaxed, inspired, and fully ready to take advantage of my apartment’s air conditioning. I gained a deep appreciation for my proximity to wildlife during my bush glamping adventure (yes, even for the crickets and lizards in my tent).

Going on safari was life-changing for so many reasons. I was awestruck by seeing a 3-day-old hippo hanging out with his mom, and a pack of elephants racing across the savannah. I was surprised that the lions and giraffes seemed to barely take notice of our Jeep.

The safari also taught me a lesson in patience. Unlike in a zoo, you’re not able to control when or where you’ll see cheetahs, hippos, or prides of lions — which ends up making it so much more fulfilling when you do.

It’s not a question of if, but when, I’ll go back to Masai Mara on safari. And who knows — maybe this time I’ll spend more than a few days exploring Kenya’s most famous game reserve.