3-Day Maasai Mara Safari
3-Day Maasai Mara Safari
Experience Africa's most legendary safari destination on this 3-day Maasai Mara safari. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya's most celebrated wildlife area — a vast golden savannah teeming with Big Five animals and famous as the scene of the world's greatest wildlife spectacle, the annual Great Wildebeest Migration.
Over three unforgettable days, you'll enjoy morning and afternoon game drives across the Mara's sweeping plains, encountering lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, and the enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra that define this iconic landscape.
Ideal for: First-time Kenya safari visitors, wildlife photographers, and anyone seeking the classic East African safari experience.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi → Maasai Mara (Afternoon Game Drive)
Depart Nairobi early morning and drive southwest towards the Maasai Mara, passing through the scenic Great Rift Valley with optional photo stops. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive across the Mara's plains.
- Scenic drive through the Rift Valley escarpment
- Afternoon game drive upon arrival
- First Big Five sightings possible on day one
- Luxury: andBeyond Bateleur Camp, Angama Mara
- Mid-range: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Governors' Camp
- Budget: Mara Sopa Lodge, Maasai Mara camps
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in the Maasai Mara
A full day of game drives through the Mara's varied habitats — open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and the banks of the Mara River. Your expert Maasai guide will track lions, cheetahs, and leopards while watching for the massive elephant herds that characterise the reserve.
- Morning and afternoon game drives
- Mara River crossing viewpoints (migration season: July–October)
- Optional Maasai village cultural visit (afternoon)
- Optional hot air balloon safari at sunrise (additional cost)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Final Game Drive & Return to Nairobi
Enjoy a final early morning game drive before breakfast — the Mara at sunrise is magical. Check out of your lodge and begin the drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of Safari
✅ Trip Includes:
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
- 4x4 Safari vehicle with fuel
- Professional Maasai safari guide
- Round trip transfers from Nairobi
- All park and conservancy entrance fees
- Drinking water throughout the trip
❌ Trip Excludes:
- International and domestic flights
- Kenya visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Hot air balloon safari (optional, additional cost)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the best time to visit the Maasai Mara?
The Maasai Mara is excellent year-round, but the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October) is the most spectacular time to visit. The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) offer the best overall wildlife viewing and road conditions.
2. Will I see the Big Five?
The Maasai Mara offers excellent Big Five sightings. Lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards are regularly seen. Black rhinos are less common but present in the reserve. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the Mara consistently delivers outstanding safari experiences.
3. Is a Kenya e-visa required?
Yes, most visitors require a Kenya e-visa, which can be obtained online before travel. Your booking confirmation will include visa guidance. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your departure.
4. What should I pack for the Mara?
Pack lightweight neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, or brown), a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera with a good zoom lens, and a hat. Avoid bright colours and white.
5. Can this itinerary be customised?
Absolutely. We can extend the safari to include additional nights, combine it with Amboseli National Park or a Nairobi city day tour, or arrange luxury upgrades. Contact us to create your perfect Kenya itinerary.
On this tour