Embark on an unforgettable journey from the bustling capital of Nairobi to the iconic Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. This adventure seamlessly blends urban excitement with the raw beauty of the Kenyan wilderness, offering a perfect introduction to the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Your expedition begins in Nairobi, a vibrant metropolis where modernity meets tradition. Before departing for the Mara, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the city’s highlights, such as the Giraffe Centre or the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, providing a taste of Kenya’s conservation efforts.
As you leave the city behind, watch the landscape transform dramatically. The journey takes you through the Great Rift Valley, offering breathtaking views of vast escarpments and rolling hills. Traditional Maasai villages dot the countryside, offering glimpses into the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
Arriving at the Masai Mara, you’ll be immediately immersed in one of the world’s most spectacular natural theaters. This vast savanna, teeming with diverse wildlife, stretches as far as the eye can see. Here, witness the circle of life play out in real-time as you encounter majestic lions, graceful giraffes, and enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra.
Expert guides lead you on exhilarating game drives, sharing their deep knowledge of the ecosystem and tracking skills to bring you face-to-face with the Mara’s incredible inhabitants. If your timing aligns, you might witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, where millions of animals traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing.
As daylight fades, retire to your comfortable camp or lodge, where the sounds of the African night serve as a gentle reminder of the wild world just beyond. Enjoy traditional Maasai performances, savor delicious meals prepared with local ingredients, and share stories around the campfire under a canopy of stars.
This Nairobi to Masai Mara journey offers more than just a change in scenery; it’s a transformative experience that connects you with the heartbeat of Kenya. From the energy of urban life to the serenity of the savanna, this adventure promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the diverse beauty of East Africa and memories that will last a lifetime.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Pick up from your hotel/airport at 7:30 am and head straight to the Mara. You will be met by a representative from the office, who will give you a briefing on your safari. Immediately after the briefing you will embark on your safari to Masai Mara National Reserve which is a 6 hour drive from Nairobi. On your way from Nairobi you will enjoy the scenic biews of the Nairobi surburbs, beautiful savannah grasslands and the plains of the great rift valley. You will make a short stop at the Great Rift Valley for a bathroom break and photography. Your expected time of arrival should be in time for lunch. Check in at Zebra Plains Mara and after a warm meal, refreshment and slight relaxation, you will go out for the first game drive of the day. Masai Mara is well known for it’s vast wildlife range including elephants, lions, cheetahs, hippos and many more. After the evening game drive, you will head back to Zebra Plains Mara for overnight stay.
Early in the morning after breakfast, you will leave Zebra Plains Mara with packed lunch i.e food in take away boxes. This is because you will spend the whole day in the park in search of animals like lions, gazelles, zebras, giraffes, and many more. Depending on your time of visit (July-September) you should witness the Great Wildebeest Migration which is a natural movement of over 3 million grazers from Tanzanias Serengeti National Park to the Masai Mara through the Mara river. This is also the sole reason why most tourists prefer visiting through this time of the year.
Optional side note: We have the cultural visit which is a visit to the Masai community within the park, this visit includes interaction with the local community, learning about the Masai culture, customs, norms and also get to experience their cultural dance. Also note that is done at an extra fee. After an amazing full day game drive, head back to Zebra Plains Mara for an overnight stay.
Early in the morning after breakfast, check out of Zebra Plains Mara and head to Nakuru. This is a 5 hour hour drive and your estimated time of arrival in Nakuru should be in time for lunch. Check in at Ziwa Bush Lodge and after a warm meal head out for an evening game drive. Lake Nakuru national park is known for it’s huge numbers of flamingoes, pelicans rhinos, zebras buffaloes and many more. After the game drive head back to Ziwa Bush Lodge for an overnight stay.
After breakfast check out of the lodge and head back to Nairobi. You will have one stop for lunch before your drop off in Nairobi hotel or airport.
