2-day Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day safari to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal), where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. Encounter the iconic Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes) and a plethora of other wildlife against the backdrop of stunning savannah landscapes. This tour promises thrilling game drives, incredible wildlife encounters, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara
Day 2: Maasai Mara to Nairobi
Activities:
* Multiple game drives to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
* Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration (if travelling during the season).
* Enjoy stunning views of the Maasai Mara's landscapes.
Optional activities: Hot air balloon safari, visit a Maasai village, or nature walk (additional cost).
Optional Travel Upgrade:
Travel Between Parks with Light Aircraft: For a seamless and time-efficient experience, consider upgrading your transportation with a scenic light aircraft flight. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Kenyan landscape and significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximize your time on safari.
Wildlife & Scenic Highlights:
Maasai Mara: The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes), cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species, including ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
The Great Wildebeest Migration: Witness the annual spectacle of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores crossing the Mara River in search of fresh grazing lands. (Seasonal, typically July-October)
Scenic Landscapes: The vast plains, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted savannahs of the Maasai Mara provide a stunning backdrop for your safari adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)
- Morning (6:00 AM - 7:00 AM): Departure from Nairobi: Your professional driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel/residence in Nairobi. It's crucial to depart early to maximize your time in the Mara. Ensure you have had breakfast or grab a quick takeaway. A brief welcome and safari briefing will be conducted during the initial part of the drive.
- Mid-morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Scenic Drive to Narok: The drive takes you southwest through scenic landscapes, including the floor of the Great Rift Valley. The road can be bumpy in sections, especially closer to the Mara.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch in Narok Town: You will stop for lunch in Narok Town, a bustling Maasai trading centre. This is a good opportunity for a quick break and to experience a local town.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Drive to Maasai Mara and Park Entry: Continue the drive to the Maasai Mara and enter the reserve through one of the gates (usually Sekenani or Ololaimutia).
- Late Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Afternoon Game Drive: Immediately upon entering the Mara, you'll begin your first game drive. This is your first taste of the incredible wildlife concentrations the Mara is famous for. Your guide will use their expertise to locate wildlife.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 6:30 PM): Check-in and Freshen-Up: Check in to your chosen accommodation in or near the Maasai Mara. Allow time to freshen up after the game drive.
- Evening (7:00 PM Onwards): Dinner and Overnight: Enjoy dinner at your lodge/camp.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Inside the Reserve (More immersive experience, but generally more expensive):
- Luxury: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Angama Mara, Mahali Mzuri, &Beyond Bateleur Camp
- Mid-Range: Mara Intrepids Camp, Ashnil Mara Camp, Keekorok Lodge
- Outside the Reserve (More budget-friendly options): Many tented camps and smaller lodges are available just outside the reserve boundaries.
Day 2: Maasai Mara to Nairobi (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)
- Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Early Morning Game Drive: Enjoy a final early morning game drive in the Maasai Mara. This is a prime time for wildlife viewing, as predators are often still active from the night.
- Breakfast (9:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Breakfast and Check-out: Return to your lodge/camp for breakfast and check-out.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM): Drive back to Nairobi: Begin the drive back to Nairobi. The drive is long, so be prepared. A brief stop for lunch can be arranged en route if needed.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Arrival in Nairobi and Drop-off: Arrive back in Nairobi and your driver/guide will drop you off at your hotel/residence or at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your onward flight.
Important Notes:
- This is a sample itinerary and can be customized.
- Driving times are estimates and depend on road conditions. The road to the Mara can be rough in sections.
- It is highly recommended to book your safari well in advance, especially during peak season (July-October for the Great Migration).
- Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather, including warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.