
3 Days Maasai Mara National Reserve
fromEmbark on a day trip from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara National Park. Enjoy a game drive, see the Big Five, and visit a traditional Maasai village.
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Reviews 2 Reviews5/5
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Jungle
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Mountain
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Rural
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Activity Level Moderate
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Group Size Small Group
Discover the wildlife and heritage of Kenya on a day trip to the Masai Mara National Reserve from Nairobi. Embark on a game drive to spot the Big Five, enjoy a picnic lunch, and visit a traditional Masai village.
Start your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Nairobi and head to the Masai Mara National Reserve. Upon arrival, embark on an exciting game drive with an experienced guide. Spot the Big Five—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo—as well as a wide variety of other animals, including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and wildebeest.
During the drive, the Mara’s vast plains offer numerous opportunities for wildlife photography and close encounters with the animals in their natural habitat. Depending on the season, you might witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures.
After the thrilling game drive, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the stunning views of the wilderness. Afterward, continue with a visit to a nearby Masai village. The Masai people are one of the most iconic indigenous tribes of Kenya, known for their distinct customs, vibrant attire, and semi-nomadic lifestyle.
Experience a traditional welcome dance by the villagers, where the rhythmic jumping (called “adumu”) by the Masai men is a highlight. Learn about the Masai’s way of life, their cattle-based economy, and their deep connection with nature. Take a tour of the village, including traditional mud huts (manyattas) and a demonstration of how they make fire.
The opportunity to interact with the villagers, ask questions, and even purchase handmade Masai crafts like beaded jewelry and intricate carvings as souvenirs. After a memorable day exploring the park and immersing yourself in Masai culture, start your journey back to Nairobi. Depending on the time of departure, you may witness a beautiful African sunset over the plains.
Best Time to Visit
• July–October: For the Great Migration (most spectacular but busiest).
• December–March: Warm & good for predator sightings, fewer tourists.
• April–June: Low season, greener landscape, some lodges offer discounts (but muddy roads).
Photo stop, Visit, Lunch, Picnic, Shopping, Sightseeing, Sunset, Game drive, Balloon flight, Meal onboard, Off-road adventure, Hotel or resort activities, Scenic drive, Scenic views on the way, Sunrise, Arts & crafts market visit, Traditional dance show, Wildlife viewing
- Transport 4×4 Land Cruiser or safari van with pop‑up roof
- Accommodation 2 nights, full board at mid-range to luxury lodge/camp
- Park Fees & Drives Entry fees plus multiple daily game drives
- Guide English-speaking professional safari guide
- Meals & Water All meals included and bottled drinking water.
Photo stop, Visit, Lunch, Picnic, Shopping, Sightseeing, Sunset, Game drive, Balloon flight, Meal onboard, Off-road adventure, Hotel or resort activities, Scenic drive, Scenic views on the way, Sunrise, Arts & crafts market visit, Traditional dance show, Wildlife viewing
- Travel insurance and other emergencies
- Tips to driver/guide
- Hot air balloon safari (~$450–500)
- Flights to/from Masai Mara
- Maasai village visit (~$20–30)
Important information
What to bring
Comfortable shoes
Hat
Camera
Snacks
Sunscreen
Water
Binoculars
Not allowed
Smoking
Alcohol and drugs
Know before you go
Early morning departure is required to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
A visit to the Masai village is optional and can be excluded upon request.
The journey to Masai Mara takes approximately 5-6 hours by road from Nairobi.
Seasonal variations may affect wildlife sightings and migration patterns.